I surrender! This is one battle I don't have to fight. My latest bowed HL-T5676S is going back to BB and a Sony KDSxxA2020 will be coming soon.
The white flag went up after talking with a local tech (the same company that serviced the 1st set). They don't have a clue what were talking about, so I e-mailed a photo to him (see attachment below) and also this websites' address. All I got was the usual questions like; "Did you place something heavy on top of the set? Is the set on a flat surface?" Somehow they don't get it; Samsung screwed up, not us! My final impression is there is no hope that Samsung will get it right.
Like I said; This is one battle I don't have to fight.

WOW, mine looks nothing like that. Can there be a difference with Dish and Direct?

I surrender! This is one battle I don't have to fight. My latest bowed HL-T5676S is going back to BB and a Sony KDSxxA2020 will be coming soon.
The white flag went up after talking with a local tech (the same company that serviced the 1st set). They don't have a clue what were talking about, so I e-mailed a photo to him (see attachment below) and also this websites' address. All I got was the usual questions like; "Did you place something heavy on top of the set? Is the set on a flat surface?" Somehow they don't get it; Samsung screwed up, not us! My final impression is there is no hope that Samsung will get it right.
Like I said; This is one battle I don't have to fight.

Good picture. It looks like a screen issue. the ends aren't that far off...but the middle is. It looked like there was a little tilt too, but on my monitor the "Samsung" looked tilted also meaning the camera wasn't perfectly level. Still not something to put up with for how much these cost. I have a replacement HL-T6189 coming to replace my dead HL-S6188 and if it's bad, I'm going to start fighting for a refund. Weird how CNET just rated the HL-T5687 and said it had no geometry issues. Also, the majority of reviews on Amazon for the HLTs is great. I think the fix is that Samsung find and manufacture a stiffer screen that is cut to the right size. A a stronger plastic bezel would work too, although I don't believe it will come out as nice and shiny as the current one.

Good picture. It looks like a screen issue. the ends aren't that far off...but the middle is. It looked like there was a little tilt too, but on my monitor the "Samsung" looked tilted also meaning the camera wasn't perfectly level. Still not something to put up with for how much these cost. I have a replacement HL-T6189 coming to replace my dead HL-S6188 and if it's bad, I'm going to start fighting for a refund. Weird how CNET just rated the HL-T5687 and said it had no geometry issues. Also, the majority of reviews on Amazon for the HLTs is great. I think the fix is that Samsung find and manufacture a stiffer screen that is cut to the right size. A a stronger plastic bezel would work too, although I don't believe it will come out as nice and shiny as the current one.


Actually here is a quote from CNET. "Although we couldn't quite ignore its uneven screen uniformity....."

You are totally correct on the other stuff. They also should manufacturer a new screen and replace it for us. I rarely believe people take the time and write amazing reviews for a TV with no incentive. Some I am sure are bull.

http://yah-evolution.net/pics/P7180758.JPG
http://yah-evolution.net/pics/P7180760.JPG
http://yah-evolution.net/pics/P7180761.JPG

sorry if the images are slightly blurry.

I emailed CNET yesterday in regards to them not reviewing the HL-TXX76S's. Recommending them to so in an appropriate way, and asking them to test the 3D content. Here is their reply.


Hello Steven,

That RPTV is on our list of reviews, although the LED-based version had priority so we did it first (http://reviews.cnet.com/projection-tvs/samsung-hl-t5687s/4505-6484_7-32
313063.html). Its geometry, for what it's worth, wasn't bad, but its cabinet is a good 3 inches deeper. We expect to review the non-LED version in the next couple of weeks, although as far as I know, there isn't any 3D content to test it with. I'll see if Samsung has an update on that at review time.

Thanks for reading,

sorry if the images are slightly blurry.

OniMirage,

Well I see tilt in the pic, but on the bright side I didn't notice much pincushion on the vertical lines.

OniMirage,

Well I see tilt in the pic, but on the bright side I didn't notice much pincushion on the vertical lines.

That's nothing compared to other people's screens. I do not believe that the bottom part is fixable. It kind of curves downward and then comes back up. If you try and fix this with tilt adjustments it won't do the trick...it's the screen...but like I said, not as bad as most peoples. Pretty good actually.

The buzzing noise refers tot he light engine. this seems to be a problem with a lot of these.

OniMirage,

Well I see tilt in the pic, but on the bright side I didn't notice much pincushion on the vertical lines.
yeah it is very slight, i am going to get another but i fear this may be as close to perfect as I will get

I feel your pain. The tech said he would call me this week after he talks to some people on how to fix the problem. I called him Tuesday and he said he hadn't forgot about me and he will call me on Wednesday. Wednesday goes by as well as Thursday and still no call.

This crap TV is going back. Again...it's a shame considering on good the picture looks besides the geometry.

Do we know if the A3000 will be the same price as the current A2020 once it hits stores?? If so, or even if it is a $100 more. Waiting a month might be worth it, unless the new slim A3000 also has geometry problems like the other slim rear projections.

Yep. Lots of pain!
This forum has a no price talk policy but you can check the retail price of the KDS50A3000 here:
http://www.sonystyle.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10551&storeId=10151&langId=-1&productId=8198552921665153953
Being a new model I don't think the discounts will be very deep for awhile; maybe Xmas. Feature wise, it matches up more closely to the HL-txx76S Samsungs than the xxA2020s.
Good luck.

Yep. Lots of pain!
This forum has a no price talk policy but you can check the retail price of the KDS50A3000 here:
http://www.sonystyle.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10551&storeId=10151&langId=-1&productId=8198552921665153953
Being a new model I don't think the discounts will be very deep for awhile; maybe Xmas. Feature wise, it matches up more closely to the HL-txx76S Samsungs than the xxA2020s.
Good luck.

Understood, but look at the 55A2020 on that page. It is well over priced compared to BB and CC, or anywhere. So maybe the A3000 will be cheaper at those stores as well, no??

That's nothing compared to other people's screens. I do not believe that the bottom part is fixable. It kind of curves downward and then comes back up. If you try and fix this with tilt adjustments it won't do the trick...it's the screen...but like I said, not as bad as most peoples. Pretty good actually.

The buzzing noise refers tot he light engine. this seems to be a problem with a lot of these.

You're right. The top part of the bicture has some bowing, but it is equal on both sides. The bottom isn't. Normally, for tilt, the tech just goes in and adjusts some of the screws that mount the projector portion of the light engine. That won't work here. It looks like the screen is warped. Also, for someone that has a TV that looks like it has "tilt" check the bezel. He can try wiggling and massaging the bezel as well to see if it makes the screen fall into place better. It might not be seated properly and could help the geometry. That was one fix with the HLS. Also on the HLS's some werent square in the corners and so while the picture was fine, the bezel made it look tilted. The buzzing can also be the power supply. I definitely wouldn't keep a TV if it had horizontal lines like that.

They dont call me back for 3 weeks , so I call them , they claim the Tech said th e "smile" was within limits , it wasnt ,its almost an inch at the end, so now I have to get the digital camera out and send him a photo.tards.

They dont call me back for 3 weeks , so I call them , they claim the Tech said th e "smile" was within limits , it wasnt ,its almost an inch at the end, so now I have to get the digital camera out and send him a photo.tards.

Thats ********. Samsung should be boycotted. To TV should have smiley face lines and pincushion that isn't adjustable...what is this "lets build HD TV's with poor geometry so we can look at bent tennis court lines in high detail, or sportscenter bars curving upwards in high detail???" Within specs??? This statement basically means "stuff we don't feel like getting right. Well guess what. It's a $2000 dollar TV!


Would you buy a $300 dog with a crooked leg? How about a crooked ruler for $1? Or a nose job for $2000 thats crooked? And then have them tell us it's within spec. Within spec is where it is not noticeable. You get my point. This a HD TV we are talking about. TV's are meant to spit out images that we can relate to and would see if we were actually there.

Samsung gets an F from me and another TV sent back. I'm waiting ofr the A3000 and see what that delivers...maybe a whole bunch of other problems.

They dont call me back for 3 weeks , so I call them , they claim the Tech said th e "smile" was within limits , it wasnt ,its almost an inch at the end, so now I have to get the digital camera out and send him a photo.tards.

They dont call me back for 3 weeks , so I call them , they claim the Tech said th e "smile" was within limits , it wasnt ,its almost an inch at the end, so now I have to get the digital camera out and send him a photo.tards.Did they, by chance, tell you what the spec is for the "smile" and how it is to be measured?

they said if its within 5mm its considered "normal". I put a yardstick on it and measured from the middle over.

btw, he was not happy with me, He kept treating this like I was a newbie,he got angry because I kept cutting him off.I kne wall the crap he was spewing already.

Thats ********. Samsung should be boycotted. To TV should have smiley face lines and pincushion that isn't adjustable...what is this "lets build HD TV's with poor geometry so we can look at bent tennis court lines in high detail, or sportscenter bars curving upwards in high detail???" Within specs??? This statement basically means "stuff we don't feel like getting right. Well guess what. It's a $2000 dollar TV!


Would you buy a $300 dog with a crooked leg? How about a crooked ruler for $1? Or a nose job for $2000 thats crooked? And then have them tell us it's within spec. Within spec is where it is not noticeable. You get my point. This a HD TV we are talking about. TV's are meant to spit out images that we can relate to and would see if we were actually there.

Samsung gets an F from me and another TV sent back. I'm waiting ofr the A3000 and see what that delivers...maybe a whole bunch of other problems.


Take a look at CNET's review of the JVC slim TV (the slimmest yet)...it got hit on bad geometry. That adds to the argument that it is the reduced depth of these new TVs that's messing things up. Is the Sony A3000 supposed to be a slim TV also? I noticed it went with the small bezel. We'll have to see. I'm thinking that if you want a thin TV you're going to have to stick with LCD or Plasma.

Hello All,

I have a HL-S56878W, after two light engine changes and many phone calls, Samsung has offered to replace it with HL-T5676S. I thought my problems were over until I read your negative comments about HL-TXX76 models. I am now very hesitant to accept their offer.
What other options do I have? Can I ask for a refund? Has anyone tried it? Any advise would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance for your help.

amm
I got a replacement from SS for a troubled LE on an HLR. My 5676 was hand delivered and has virtually no geometry problems within the first four weeks. Hope it stays that way.

I got a replacement from SS for a troubled LE on an HLR. My 5676 was hand delivered and has virtually no geometry problems within the first four weeks. Hope it stays that way.

I suppose thats good news....afraid only for you though.

Shame...I keep checking this thread in hopes of good news.....never hear any.

Agreed, the price will adjust to A2020 levels; maybe even lower. Maybe the place you bought it from will cut you a better deal in light of all you've been through!

Well I just stopped by Best Buy on my way home from running some errands. I took a look at all their rear projection sets, looking for geometry issues. They had a HL-T5076 and 6176. Neither one of them had any horizontal bowing when displaying a widescreen (black bars) trailer for Transformers. The cabinet on the 50 was a lot more sturdy than the 61 though. For the HL-T6187 there was a little tilt, but again, the horizontal black bars were straight. In fact, the only TV I saw there that had geometry issues was a 65" Mitsubishi 65733. Both the left and right sides of the bars curved upwards slightly. They didn't have any new JVCs to look at though for comparison.

Agreed, the price will adjust to A2020 levels; maybe even lower. Maybe the place you bought it from will cut you a better deal in light of all you've been through!

Not sure if the 3000's will get to the 2020 levels since from the articles I have read the 2020 will still be around. They will have three Models the 2020 the entry level. the 3000 the mid level, and the XBR5 the high end models. Hard to think the mid levels will ever be the same prise as the entry levels at that point the 2020 will be even cheaper.



http://crave.cnet.com/8301-1_105-9727046-1.html?tag=blog

Well I just stopped by Best Buy on my way home from running some errands. I took a look at all their rear projection sets, looking for geometry issues. They had a HL-T5076 and 6176. Neither one of them had any horizontal bowing when displaying a widescreen (black bars) trailer for Transformers. The cabinet on the 50 was a lot more sturdy than the 61 though. For the HL-T6187 there was a little tilt, but again, the horizontal black bars were straight. In fact, the only TV I saw there that had geometry issues was a 65" Mitsubishi 65733. Both the left and right sides of the bars curved upwards slightly. They didn't have any new JVCs to look at though for comparison.

mikeynavy1,
You won't see much of a bow near the top, bottom or l & r sides of the screen, so, a 2.35:1 letterbox movie would have little if any bow because the letterbox is close to the top & bottom. Away from the edges to the center is where the screen is slightly parabolic outward, causing the bow appearance.

ozcot,
I'm aware the A2020 is entry level & the A3000 will be mid level. I just meant, in time (perhaps the Xmax selling season) the A3000 price will drop to where A2020 levels are now, which in turn the A2020 would drop even lower to prices where the older 720P DLPs currently are. The A2020s have been around since spring & the prices was cut several hundred $$$s a short time ago.

ozcot,
I'm aware the A2020 is entry level & the A3000 will be mid level. I just meant, in time (perhaps the Xmax selling season) the A3000 price will drop to where A2020 levels are now, which in turn the A2020 would drop even lower to prices where the older 720P DLPs currently are. The A2020s have been around since spring & the prices was cut several hundred $$$s a short time ago.

The starting price of the 3000 was $3000 no way no how by Xmas will these babies be 1/2 price or less. Grabed my 2020 for a rock bottom price of $1350. Would say by Xmas we will be seeing $2000 or so for the 3000 time will tell.

I have zero geometry issues.

Just wanted to chime in for those folks who think there is something wrong with EVERY set. My HL-T5076 looks great :)

I'm glad for anyone that can say that. Can I ask when you purchased it? Is, perhaps, the problem getting better with new shipments.

Every HLT I have found in a store, and I've been to a lot of them now, have these geometry problems.

I doubt the new shipments are the fix...or else Samsung engineers would't act puzzled and have a fix out to the techs for those that have older builds. I'd love for that to be the case though...haha. I'm thinking shipping may play a part. Just curious, for the owners that have had theirs a while...do the geometry issues get any better after the TV's been set up a while? Maybe the screens and cabinet will settle somewhat.

I have had two of the hlt5076's. I picked it up because the price was so good and I wanted to upgrade to a 1080P set. Both had geometry problems caused by the screen seeming to bulge in the middle. The first was so bad I thought it was shipping damage and had a replacement tv sent. The second one is bad when it is first turned on but after a couple of hours it is hardly noticable. Maybe the cabinet expands a bit from the heat and lessens the bulge in the middle of the screen. Otherwise, I love the picture on this tv.

I have had two of the hlt5076's. I picked it up because the price was so good and I wanted to upgrade to a 1080P set. Both had geometry problems caused by the screen seeming to bulge in the middle. The first was so bad I thought it was shipping damage and had a replacement tv sent. The second one is bad when it is first turned on but after a couple of hours it is hardly noticable. Maybe the cabinet expands a bit from the heat and lessens the bulge in the middle of the screen. Otherwise, I love the picture on this tv.

Just curious, have you tried massaging the bezel a bit (pushing/pulling) to see if maybe the screen isn't seated all the way in? That worked for some people with the HL-S to reduce pincushioning. It might work with these TVs.

Just curious, have you tried massaging the bezel a bit (pushing/pulling) to see if maybe the screen isn't seated all the way in? That worked for some people with the HL-S to reduce pincushioning. It might work with these TVs.

Tried it....it doesn't work. I spent about 2 hours fussing with it for 5 days straight. I unscrewed all the screws, massaged the bezel, pushed the bezel, pulled the bezel, held the bezel in a constant position. Nothing worked.

Not only does the bezel flex, the whole back of the TV and top of the TV flex. If you grab the top left corner with your left hand and the bottom right corner with your right hand, pull wih your left and push with your right....you will see the picture difference and see what i am talking about.

I have a positive review on the HT-L5076S!!!!!

My 2001 Toshiba 57" CRT rear projection HD screen stopped working last Sunday. I decided to by a new tv and Ordered a HT-L5076S on Tuesday and it was delivered Saturday via Eagle Logistics. I read all positive reviews (15 of 15) on CC.com's website and my dad owns the HL-S5687. So I ordered the TV and then read a day after I ordered it I read all the bad reviews on AVSForums regarding bowing and geometry. I was very nervous to get this set. When I set it up, I ran some simple tests and did not notice any bowing or any other issue with the geometry. The TV was manufactured May 2007. PQ is AWESOME!! The only complaint I have is with the TV speakers. they are a joke, but I dont know who would own a TV like this without having 5.1 or better sound. The only other question I have is for over the air broadcasts, I am getting noticible delay through the digital out on the TV into my Onkyo TX-DS787 receiver. I only use over the air for FOX as they are the only station not to allow Time Warner Cable to carry their signal. The TV speakers seem to be right on but through the receiver has a delay. I can tell this by when the sound is on both thorough the TV and the Receiver. Any thoughts???

Thanks!!

Hello
Long time reader, first time post.
Have any of you checked out the HL-TXX56W
It seems like the old case with the new light engine.
There is no info on that tv's thread yet.

I surrender! This is one battle I don't have to fight. My latest bowed HL-T5676S is going back to BB and a Sony KDSxxA2020 will be coming soon.
The white flag went up after talking with a local tech (the same company that serviced the 1st set). They don't have a clue what were talking about, so I e-mailed a photo to him (see attachment below) and also this websites' address. All I got was the usual questions like; "Did you place something heavy on top of the set? Is the set on a flat surface?" Somehow they don't get it; Samsung screwed up, not us! My final impression is there is no hope that Samsung will get it right.
Like I said; This is one battle I don't have to fight.
That's probably one of the best pics I've seen in this thread that visually describes the smiley face effect. When a TV smiles at you, it makes you frown! Good thing you don't have to deal w/ it anymore. I'm really scared to get a Samsung TV, but I'll wait until Aug. to see if they've resolved these issues. I don't want to get a Sony, so that's out. Maybe I'll take a look at JVC ...

I have zero geometry issues.

Just wanted to chime in for those folks who think there is something wrong with EVERY set. My HL-T5076 looks great :)

That's great; & maybe a first. Have you tried any straight line graphics on the screen; like a TV guide?

They dont call me back for 3 weeks , so I call them , they claim the Tech said th e "smile" was within limits , it wasnt ,its almost an inch at the end, so now I have to get the digital camera out and send him a photo.tards.
We read it the first time at 4:41 p.m. :rolleyes:

I have a positive review on the HT-L5076S!!!!!

My 2001 Toshiba 57" CRT rear projection HD screen stopped working last Sunday. I decided to by a new tv and Ordered a HT-L5076S on Tuesday and it was delivered Saturday via Eagle Logistics. I read all positive reviews (15 of 15) on CC.com's website and my dad owns the HL-S5687. So I ordered the TV and then read a day after I ordered it I read all the bad reviews on AVSForums regarding bowing and geometry. I was very nervous to get this set. When I set it up, I ran some simple tests and did not notice any bowing or any other issue with the geometry. The TV was manufactured May 2007. PQ is AWESOME!! The only complaint I have is with the TV speakers. they are a joke, but I dont know who would own a TV like this without having 5.1 or better sound. The only other question I have is for over the air broadcasts, I am getting noticible delay through the digital out on the TV into my Onkyo TX-DS787 receiver. I only use over the air for FOX as they are the only station not to allow Time Warner Cable to carry their signal. The TV speakers seem to be right on but through the receiver has a delay. I can tell this by when the sound is on both thorough the TV and the Receiver. Any thoughts???

Thanks!!

That is something you'll notice on just about any TV (well most anyway). You either have to have the sound from the TV on, or the sound from your receiver on...but not both. Otherwise you'll get the "echo."

Tried it....it doesn't work. I spent about 2 hours fussing with it for 5 days straight. I unscrewed all the screws, massaged the bezel, pushed the bezel, pulled the bezel, held the bezel in a constant position. Nothing worked.

Not only does the bezel flex, the whole back of the TV and top of the TV flex. If you grab the top left corner with your left hand and the bottom right corner with your right hand, pull wih your left and push with your right....you will see the picture difference and see what i am talking about.

Oh...I know. The HL-Ss do the same thing.

Originally Posted by ammamm
Hello All,

I have a HL-S56878W, after two light engine changes and many phone calls, Samsung has offered to replace it with HL-T5676S. I thought my problems were over until I read your negative comments about HL-TXX76 models. I am now very hesitant to accept their offer.
What other options do I have? Can I ask for a refund? Has anyone tried it? Any advise would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance for your help.

amm


I got a replacement from SS for a troubled LE on an HLR. My 5676 was hand delivered and has virtually no geometry problems within the first four weeks. Hope it stays that way.


Thanks ccouper and others who have responded. I called Samsung and agreed to exchange, I learned that there is a 90 days warranty for the new HL-T and I can refuse to accept it if not satisfied.

In the meanwhile went to Circuit City to check for myself the new Sumsung's masterpiece. I was amazed how flimsy it is. I tried channel guide menu and you could see some image distortion on horizontal lines. I Then pocked the TV at various places (top, sides, screen, tried to lift one side, etc, and inadvertently all resulted in very obvious image distortion. Did the same with Sony and several other rear projection TV's and none showed the same level of distortion, some showed no distortion at all. Obviously the fact that they have moved the mirror to the top of TV has made the situation worse but in general its structure is very flexible, You can pull up the top of the bezel with a single finger!!! I am not sure what they were thinking when they designed this new TV. Having tested this myself, I am not very hopeful to receive a good working TV from Samsung. One has to be very lucky to get a perfect TV when only a single finger pressure can case the image to distort so badly.

Sorry for the long email. I hope you guys don't hear from me again, then you know things turned out OK.

Thanks again.

amm

Is this bad, its 10 mm.

I have a positive review on the HT-L5076S!!!!!

My 2001 Toshiba 57" CRT rear projection HD screen stopped working last Sunday. I decided to by a new tv and Ordered a HT-L5076S on Tuesday and it was delivered Saturday via Eagle Logistics. I read all positive reviews (15 of 15) on CC.com's website and my dad owns the HL-S5687. So I ordered the TV and then read a day after I ordered it I read all the bad reviews on AVSForums regarding bowing and geometry. I was very nervous to get this set. When I set it up, I ran some simple tests and did not notice any bowing or any other issue with the geometry. The TV was manufactured May 2007. PQ is AWESOME!! The only complaint I have is with the TV speakers. they are a joke, but I dont know who would own a TV like this without having 5.1 or better sound. The only other question I have is for over the air broadcasts, I am getting noticible delay through the digital out on the TV into my Onkyo TX-DS787 receiver. I only use over the air for FOX as they are the only station not to allow Time Warner Cable to carry their signal. The TV speakers seem to be right on but through the receiver has a delay. I can tell this by when the sound is on both thorough the TV and the Receiver. Any thoughts???

Thanks!!

If you are running an external source (like a sat or cable feed or DVD) you will get an echo. If you are running a OTA source and are watching TV and you use the digital out from the TV set you will not get an echo. The TV will sync the audio with the OTA feed.

The problem is that its takes some processing time to do the video that the audio does not need. So when the TV cannot control both, you get the echo.

People were hoping that HDMI would solve this problem but so far none of the sets seem to utilize the sepearate parts and delay the audio. Your option is to get an audio delay box or adjust your receiver if it has a delay for the inputs.

Is this bad, its 10 mm.

Evil, I know I can speak for all of us when I say I can fee lyour pain. Maybe not 10mm's worth but 5-8mm's worth of your pain, plsu sending 2 of the sammy's back to the store already.

I am actually getting a tech to come out with one of Samsung's engineers this week. I told them if it is not fixed this week the TV is going back and I am getting a Sony....it's up to Samsung on this one. No more blowing me off, and waiting until my 30 day time has no time left to return.

My 30 days are up August 4th, and I just got my cable TV set up. I have gone without cable or any other form of broadcast for 2 full months, due to Comcast coming to my house 4 times to replace the bad, no signal wire in my house. Each time they sent a side contractor that doesn't do wire replacement. Everytime I called them up, they would say sorry and we will make sure that next time they can do that. Well 3 different days of taking off of work and 3 times the wrong guy.
4th guy came on Saturday and told me the past 3 different guys were checking old satellite cable that was coming out of the wall, and that there is a RJ-6 line right next to it that works fine!!!......What MORONS. If I didn't buy this house 2 months ago, I would of know this, but 3 guys come and only try and check 1 lines and then tell me I need new wire ran through the house!!!??

Sorry I had to post my frustration. Bewtween this and the Samsung crap I am on the wall of just opening the door the next time a tech comes to my house and punching him in the face.

evilknown...your picture never posted.

I know, Bummer, but its 10mm on the sides,just emailed Tier 2 my photos.

Is it pincushion or upward upward "smiling"

I know, Bummer, but its 10mm on the sides,just emailed Tier 2 my photos.

What'd they have to say after looking at the photos????

new issue with the sammy the hdmi ports are ... popping???? not in the sense of electricity flying everywhere but when the resolution changes I hear a POP from the speakers on the tv and after that I get snow every so often when watching something that is using the hdmi ports. I wanna stick with samsung cus well their image quality is top notch when things work as they should be damn you know. is there an alternative tv to match the 120hz of this tv?

update: going to pack up the tv today and get an exchange from circuit city ... we will see what happens

he has yet to get back to me, 4 hours and waiting...I used a jpg from the other thread to show the horiz. line curving, he wanted a copy of the jpg! I showed the curve and put a ruler up to the screen shoing it at 10mm.we'll see.

he has yet to get back to me, 4 hours and waiting...I used a jpg from the other thread to show the horiz. line curving, he wanted a copy of the jpg! I showed the curve and put a ruler up to the screen shoing it at 10mm.we'll see.
which jpeg is this?

new issue with the sammy the hdmi ports are ... popping???? not in the sense of electricity flying everywhere but when the resolution changes I hear a POP from the speakers on the tv and after that I get snow every so often when watching something that is using the hdmi ports. I wanna stick with samsung cus well their image quality is top notch when things work as they should be damn you know. is there an alternative tv to match the 120hz of this tv?

update: going to pack up the tv today and get an exchange from circuit city ... we will see what happens

I have been asking that question a lot lately....and after visiting the local CCs and BBs and brandsmarts and reading reviews...

I would say that the samsung LCDs should be your next choice. If you really like the beautiful colors and PQ of the samsung tvs....then a LCD might be smart.

Honestly thats the only other tv that compared to the sammy DLP in PQ in my eyes. People say that the sony a2020 looks the same or better....I firmly believe that its just denial because they don't want the geometry issues.

Samsung has the better PQ hands down.

Right, it couldn't be that they actually DO like that TV better. After all, we all know the Sony didn't sell at all until Samsung developed this problem. ;)

Right, it couldn't be that they actually DO like that TV better. After all, we all know the Sony didn't sell at all until Samsung developed this problem. ;)

To Sony's credit. Their PQ looks pretty good, but not so good out of the box. At least from my experience with the A2020's.

Also, for any of you who are going to the BB's and CC's, doing comparisons, you have to take a different approach. You are comparing a brand new bulb and a TV that and sammy tv that has contrast and brightness turned up all the way. The sony A2020's have been up there for many more months, constantly turned on. Their setting also aren't as high.

I like the Samsung better, personally, simply because I think it is the better overall set. But his statement deserved a heavy dose of sarcasm as it is pretty clearly not true and perhaps even judgemental.

I like the Samsung better, personally, simply because I think it is the better overall set. But his statement deserved a heavy dose of sarcasm as it is pretty clearly not true and perhaps even judgemental.

Well, I have experienced it first hand many times....there are many that like samsung better that have sonys.....note I never mentioned anyone in this thread. Talking generally.

And I know what a sony looks like when its pro calibrated and all....its very nice...but honestly...to me...the PQ looks....normal....nothing fantastic or extraordinary. Just a nice picture....and I prefer extraordinary. As many in this thread do aswell. I'm pretty sure I will go with a sammy LCD if the problem isnt fixed...but im sure it will be...and the first tv I buy will be a sammy DLP.

I just dont wanna lose faith in samsung cus over the years their products have come so far and comparing them to other tv's is like the old comparison of looking out of a window vs stepping into the scene and samsung really does deliver on the promise of superior PQ if only geometry issues didn't exist.

Just my .02, I have had my HL-T6176S for about 3 weeks now with no problems. I kinda wish I hadnt read this thread though. It seems as though only 3 or 4 people are consitantly posting in here about this bowing problem, heck, I just went in and picked out a TV, what are the odds I would have gotten one without this problem if it was so bad. I did however notice and comment on how delicate the frame and screen seem to be.

Anyway I love it. My Xboxs looks great, my HD broadcasts look better then ever, and my HD DVD player upconverts picture to it that blows me away, even with standard def. I have yet to be blown away with HD DVD yet because I have only seen Miami Vice ( ;) ). The picture is very very bright, almost too bright at times but I kinda dig it. I am also happy I went with the proven light engine rather than the unproven LED engine, hopefully that technology pans out though as LED seems to be the future for every type of lighting.

Honestly thats the only other tv that compared to the sammy DLP in PQ in my eyes. People say that the sony a2020 looks the same or better....I firmly believe that its just denial because they don't want the geometry issues. Samsung has the better PQ hands down.


As I stated many times before I was all set to buy a Samsung then the Geometry issues poped up. Went to BB and looked at both with the same feed and I could not tell that much of a diffrence between the two. I can assure you I was not in denial when viewing the two sets (LOL).. If there was an oh my God type diffrence I would have just waited till the problem had been resolved. IMHO if you looked at the sets with no labels you would be stretched to be able to tell them apart they are both high quality HD TV's. I could not justify rolling the dice on a $2000 investment after reading post after post of tech visit after tech visit exchange after exchange to still have the same problem. Got a KDS 50A2020 and could not be happier with the picture. Not a hicup or geometry issue since purchase.. Plus I got one heck of a deal one of the few that got the 1350 deal.

well my 2nd hlt5076 from samsung is coming tomorrow..i am hoping for some better luck..i will post asap once i receive the tv to let you all know if the geometry is bad

In an effort to discern
1) how prominent the bowing problem is on HLT sets
2) the odds of getting an acceptable set

I did some comparisons after work yesterday. I visited four different stores and compared eight different sets from five different models. The sets were HLT6187S, HLT6176S, HLS6187W, HLT5x76S, and HLS6767W. I measured bowing by pulling up the menu and measuring from the bottom of the screen to the bottom point on the menu bar. I did not record all of my results individually, but here is a summary.

-Worst set was a HLT6176S at Circuit City. The ESPN HD bar at the bottom "smiled" so significantly that I didn't bother trying to locate a CSR and a tape measure. It was the only set I looked at that was obviously flawed so badly anyone could see it.

-Next to worst set was a HLT6187S at Best Buy. It's difference between left and right side was .5 centimeters. Still didn't look too bad, IMO.

-Most sets were flawed, but so insignificantly that I couldn't have noticed without a tape measure. Average difference between left side/center/right side was about .3 centimeters.

-Best set was a HLT6187s at HHGregg that differed by only .15 centimeters on each side and about .2 centimeters in the center.

-The 67" set at Costco differed by about .5 centimeters from left to right. Wasn't very noticeable on such a large set, though.

-All sets that I looked at could be slightly rectified through use of a tilt adjustment if one exists in the service menu. I did not find a tilt adjustment in the regular menu. For instance, the average TV measured something like this
Left: 4.5cm
Center: 4.3cm
Right: 4.6cm
By using tilt one could theoretically at least get the left and right level.

Conclusions:

1) There is a huge variance out there from almost perfect to really bad. Only sure way to avoid a lemon is to turn it on in store before taking home.

2) Geometry issues are magnified at larger screen sizes, but also more difficult to discern.

3) Most sets were very acceptable to me. I wasn't bothered by the average difference of .3 centimeters (less than 1/8").

You may not be as susceptible as others. Personally, I can tell a set is off by far less than an 1/8th of an inch. It's a curse, and makes buying TV's a real PITA.

I've notcied very little issues with geometry with the 87 series set's I've seen at a few differnet stores. The three different 76 series set's I've seen all had a very noticable issue.

I'm sure there are a few sets out there that have minimal issues but I see problems with the 76 series being very prevalent.

When I called Samsung the day after I got my set they said it was probably do to shipping and the alignment of the mirror being pushed out of whack. After a few people on this site have had techs come out to adjust the mirror and it not working I told them not to bother sending anyone out. Now I'm shopping for a new TV.

Maybe try the 6156 or 6756 from sams/costco? It has the more rigid cabinet frame of last year so maybe it wont be such a huge problem. Only difference is they lack 1 HDMI port. Its not a problem for me as I only need one that comes off my receiver for hookup.

well i just got my replacement hlt5076 and i have some good news...the geometry on the set is great....it is not perfect but there is no smiley effect and very little bowing effect on the vertical lines...overall i am pleased with the tv...let me know if you all have any questions...

Nice Report Jeff! I did not measure the sets I looked at but with my naked eye, I could not see issues at my local Best Buy and Circuit City on the HLTXX76 sets

well i just got my replacement hlt5076 and i have some good news...the geometry on the set is great....it is not perfect but there is no smiley effect and very little bowing effect on the vertical lines...overall i am pleased with the tv...let me know if you all have any questions...


You have no upward slope on the edges, at all? ??? Send a picture with a grid up....I can't believe it.

You have no upward slope on the edges, at all? ??? Send a picture with a grid up....I can't believe it.

I understand your skepticism, but if the guy thinks his set is perfect, let him think it's perfect (and it very well may be). One thing I learned through my test above is that "OMG this TV is so screwed up" is all in the eye of the beholder, and if you never know something's wrong, you'll never care.

i dont have a camera....but believe me...there is no bowing on any horizontal lines....i am truly satisfied with the set now...i wonder if samsung has changed something with the design...

i dont have a camera....but believe me...there is no bowing on any horizontal lines....i am truly satisfied with the set now...i wonder if samsung has changed something with the design...

bigkev4123,
I hope they did. The set is terrific otherwise.
Please don't take this question wrong but it is very important for all of us as this could be a turning point if Sammy has resolved this. Did you use the channel guide for a straight reference or just in watching regular program material?
Sorry to press you & hope you understand.
Thanks

for reference i am using the the test patterns that are in the service menu....i can 100 percent say there is no smile effect and i definitely know what it looks like since my old 5076 had it really bad...with the geometry fixed i now feel like i can truly enjoy how nice the picture is....if you have any more questions let me know

bigkev4123,
Thanks

for reference i am using the the test patterns that are in the service menu....i can 100 percent say there is no smile effect and i definitely know what it looks like since my old 5076 had it really bad...with the geometry fixed i now feel like i can truly enjoy how nice the picture is....if you have any more questions let me know

Is date of manufacture printed anywhere? Where did it come from?

I'm skeptical they've changed anything, but you never know. My thought is that if they did change something other people that were waiting for a fix, or confused techs waiting for word, would've heard that a new build with a fix was out. Noone has posted on here of that happening, or being offered an exchange because a revised TV is available. Samsung has manufacturered many of these TVs and some people are unlucky and get ones with massive bowing, and others like bigkev get lucky and get ones with 0 geometry issues.

I got my 2nd HLT5076s on Monday and it has what appears to be slightly better focus but worse geometry. The best way to see the issues I have is to put up the overscan and resolution test patterns in Avia. The resolution pattern has letters A-G on the top and bottom of each side of the pattern. On the left side my set looks like this (sorry no pictures):

\BCDEFG





ABCDEFG

Most of the top A is missing showing a distinct tilt. I may try a tech or just send it back for the Sony A2020. It is definitely something with the screen/frame being flimsy because any slight manipulation of the frame/cabinet will correct the problem or make it worse.

Alvin

I'm skeptical they've changed anything, but you never know.Working from memory only, so details might be off a bit, but the basics are correct... With one of last years HL-S models (the second tier lamp model), there was a problem wherein a particular change in the service menu (Overscan Off, I believe) would not hold through an On/Off cycle. Owners of displays with a manufacture date after the November/December time frame of last year reported that the problem was fixed, but Samsung never offered a general fix to all owners or announced that a fix existed. There was speculation that if you had the set serviced for another problem, the tech could update the firmware to fix the issue. However, I quit following the HL-S thread and do not know if this was ever done for a user. FWIW.

has anyone here had their HLT ISF calibrated? was there a big improvement?

I know the HLS got very good results with prof. calibration

so i went back to circuit city and returned my original tv ... got a new one installed and turned it off after seeing the worst smiley face I had ever seen. It was horrible. I took it back and they didn't wanna believe me. we walked back to the tv area and they plugged it in and were like oh uh yeah thats bad. So they brought another one out to test and the left side of the screen was disgusting. That was their last one in the store.

After I mulled over the thought of getting what appeared to be an inferior sony I noticed their 61" demo display was up so I went to see if it had the same issue. well I was happy to see that it had a smaller issue than my first one with the tilt, like it was barely barely barely noticable, I had to get up to the screen to see it. I thought well they may have had it for a while. I opened to service menu and looked at the lamp hours and it was only 347 which was only about 100 more than the one I had brought in originally so I was like I will take this demo unit minus 300 dollars. They discussed it among their manager and he agreed plus they reset my warrenties so now I have the new set installed, i have the picture quality I want and a 300 dollar refund ... life my friends is good. I will try and get some pics later tonight

I wish HHGregg carried the 61" model...I'd be all over it versus the 56".

I'm glad you are happy.

push on the screen and tell me what you think then.
I went to Best Buy yesterday and they had on display the Samsung 6176 and 5676 TVs (at nosebleed prices, of course). I was horrified that the slightest push on the screen so dramatically screws up the picture. Granted, one shouldn't be pushing the screen. But still, it was shocking. I asked the salesman to pull up something with a grid. He was flipping channels and finally came to a local weather channel, that had a couple lines. I think I saw a slight smiley face effect, but it was hard to notice without grids and without comparing it to a straight edge. In watching regular TV, I couldn't notice bowing, smiley face, etc. (I know they're not the same thing.)

The salesman said he thinks Sony makes the best DLP in terms of picture but that the Samsung is a better value. He said he wasn't aware of any problems with Samsung (bowing, etc.).

In an effort to discern
1) how prominent the bowing problem is on HLT sets
2) the odds of getting an acceptable set

I did some comparisons after work yesterday. I visited four different stores and compared eight different sets from five different models. The sets were HLT6187S, HLT6176S, HLS6187W, HLT5x76S, and HLS6767W. I measured bowing by pulling up the menu and measuring from the bottom of the screen to the bottom point on the menu bar. I did not record all of my results individually, but here is a summary.

...

Conclusions:

1) There is a huge variance out there from almost perfect to really bad. Only sure way to avoid a lemon is to turn it on in store before taking home.

2) Geometry issues are magnified at larger screen sizes, but also more difficult to discern.

3) Most sets were very acceptable to me. I wasn't bothered by the average difference of .3 centimeters (less than 1/8").
Thanks for that great summary; it's a good contribution to this thread. :)

So it seems like that more than one model being better than another (in terms of the smiley face effect) is the batch it came from and perhaps how it was shipped/handled.

Can everyone please post the build date of their unit and if it has a geometry problem or not. Just grasping at straws...

I am on my 2nd HLT5076S both build dates June 07...I think made in Mexico

Alvin

Can everyone please post the build date of their unit and if it has a geometry problem or not. Just grasping at straws...

I am on my 2nd HLT5076S both build dates June 07...I think made in Mexico

Alvin

I had May, May, and now June. All problems. All from Mayheko. I think it is more on how it is shipped. Think for a second. If it is shipped from
Mexico to wherever, and then to wherever #2, and so on and so forth, there will be a certain percentage of HL-T's that were on top of all the rest of the TV's, and stayed that way to the end user. This percentage comes across as the ones that don't have problems.....just an assumption

Working from memory only, so details might be off a bit, but the basics are correct... With one of last years HL-S models (the second tier lamp model), there was a problem wherein a particular change in the service menu (Overscan Off, I believe) would not hold through an On/Off cycle. Owners of displays with a manufacture date after the November/December time frame of last year reported that the problem was fixed, but Samsung never offered a general fix to all owners or announced that a fix existed. There was speculation that if you had the set serviced for another problem, the tech could update the firmware to fix the issue. However, I quit following the HL-S thread and do not know if this was ever done for a user. FWIW.


You are partially correct about the HL-Ss. Part of the reason I bought the HL-S6188 instead of a 6187 was the overscan sticking issue. In the December firmware (no mechanical or exterior changes) update, supposedly some people got their overscan to stick in the 87s, but it only changed the horizontal overscan. I believe. the vertical overscan never changed. I may have it backward but only one direction was fixed...not both. A lot of people who had hope were bummed. That and the people who got ahold of the firmware and tried to install it themselves, ended up with a dead TV.

... That and the people who got ahold of the firmware and tried to install it themselves, ended up with a dead TV. :eek: That's adding insult to injury!

Well, I finally got to running my calibration DVD and I figured I'd share what was most to my liking:

Mode: Movie
Contrast: 100
Brightness: 20
Sharpness: 100
Color: 55
Tint: G51 R49
Color Tone: Normal

An interesting side note I found was that it that the set stores the setting based on what source you are using when making the adjustments, so I had to reapply this setting when switching back to the TV from the DVD player.

Remember, this is just a starting point as this is what looked best to me based on the test on the calibration DVD. You may find different setting to your liking. Also, I've now had my set since July 1st and no geometry issues thus far. I had it delivered from BB.

Let us know if you find any better settings.

Well, I finally got to running my calibration DVD and I figured I'd share what was most to my liking:

Mode: Movie
Contrast: 100
Brightness: 20
Sharpness: 100
Color: 55
Tint: G51 R49
Color Tone: Normal

An interesting side note I found was that it that the set stores the setting based on what source you are using when making the adjustments, so I had to reapply this setting when switching back to the TV from the DVD player.

Remember, this is just a starting point as this is what looked best to me based on the test on the calibration DVD. You may find different setting to your liking. Also, I've now had my set since July 1st and no geometry issues thus far. I had it delivered from BB.

Let us know if you find any better settings.

What disc did you use? Those values seem WAY off to me. Sharpness of 100 would be introducing way too many artifacts into the picture and 100 contrast would give you picture bleeding like crazy. If you tone down the contrast and bump up the brightness you can get the same effect(affect?) your going for and get a much better PQ.

I think most will agree those numbers are not the best situation even if they "seem" to appear better.

What disc did you use? Those values seem WAY off to me. Sharpness of 100 would be introducing way too many artifacts into the picture and 100 contrast would give you picture bleeding like crazy. If you tone down the contrast and bump up the brightness you can get the same effect(affect?) your going for and get a much better PQ.

I think most will agree those numbers are not the best situation even if they "seem" to appear better.

that kind of depends on the dvd player in question, the source material and the connection type he is using such as hdmi or component. Also if using HDMI is the normal HDMI black level being used? this would seriously increase overall brightness which would call for a lower brightness level for his settings.

For my game mode I am currently using

100 contrast
50 brightness
80 sharpness
60 color
50 tint

cool number 1, dniE on, normal color tone.

on hdmi using hdmi low black level.

now for my hd cable with component I am running...

80 contrast
60 brightness
40 sharpness
50 color
50 tint

standard, dniE on, normal color tone

The DVD is the Vikuiti Calibration disc from 3M. I'm using a Philips Up-Conversion DVD Player (DVP5982/37) over HDMI. As far as bleeding goes, Having the brightness set to 20 seems to keep it down. If anyone else has a different config, please post... I'm always willing to try something new.

Also, What is meant by the normal black level over HDMI? Do you mean the Color Tone Setting being set to normal while using an HDMI setting?

Well, I just received my HL-T5076 as a replacement for the HL-S5086 that they couldn't get a tech here to work on.

First off, I have to applaud Circuit City on their handling of the situation. I was without the set for over a month, and when I went to the store to request a refund, I was granted a new set on the next business day. By all means, buy from Circuit City and buy the extended warranty. My $190 has been well and fully utilized by upgrading from 720P to 1080P.

Sad to report, though, I do very clearly see the geometric distortion that everyone is speaking of. I have both the bowing at the midpoint on the edges, and also a bit of trapezoid distortion (narrower at the bottom).

But thus far, I'm going to keep the set as-is. I cannot see the distortion, even with SportsCenter in HD on the display right now. I found that viewing angle made a HUGE impact on the perceived geometry with my 5086, and even with the slight distortion, it's not enough to warrant a replacement, especially figuring that I just received what amounts to a $500-800 upgrade. I have checked it both with SD programming (side bars are parallel and straight enough that no one would notice if I didn't point it out), and with anamorphic widescreen (top bars are as straight as the side bars in SD). Neither is bothersome enough to warrant requesting a replacement. I was just hoping for service, not an upgrade, so this was a welcome surprise.

And what an upgrade it is! The out of the box picture is significantly improved over the 5086. With the recommended settings (movie, warm1, 50 bright and contrast), the black detail, even in SD, is significantly better than what I saw with the 5086. I decided not to mess with the service menu after I thought I almost factory reset the TV!! Didn't have that problem on the 5086, but with the gamma dialed down in the user menu, it looks great. Gran Tourismo HD on the PS3 is simply stunning! If I had known there was this much a difference in picture quality between the 10k:1 contrast ratio 1080P and the 2.5k:1 720P, I never would have heistated to spend the extra money.

But that said, I didn't have to. For someone who spent the $2k on a new set, I'd say you're ENTIRELY justified to request a replacement. I'll be watching here to see if a permanent fix is found. I wasn't planning to make the jump to 1080P until a few years down the road (so I'd still have a significant upgrade to enjoy). But now that I've got this deep, shiny black beauty on my stand, I'm a happy dude.

Good luck to all with resolution on your issues, I hope they are quickly and permanently resolved.

To those prespective buyers, watch some real-world programming before you write off this set. The picture quality is almost impossible to beat at this price-point, and even with obvious and measureble distortion, if you are coming from a direct-view CRT, you probably won't even notice.

Mike

The DVD is the Vikuiti Calibration disc from 3M. I'm using a Philips Up-Conversion DVD Player (DVP5982/37) over HDMI. As far as bleeding goes, Having the brightness set to 20 seems to keep it down. If anyone else has a different config, please post... I'm always willing to try something new.

Also, What is meant by the normal black level over HDMI? Do you mean the Color Tone Setting being set to normal while using an HDMI setting?

in the setup option there is an ability to use hdmi black level normal or low which dramatically affects the overall brightness of the image.

there will be a certain percentage of HL-T's that were on top of all the rest of the TV's, and stayed that way to the end user. This percentage comes across as the ones that don't have problems.....just an assumption

I bet you are right. I must have one of the top ones?

on a side note. does anybody know where I can get some ambient lighting that I can control with a harmony 890 remote? I searched all over and can't find anything. Also posted a thread in the theater builder and got nothing


Thanks,

in the setup option there is an ability to use hdmi black level normal or low which dramatically affects the overall brightness of the image.

The HDMI black level option is not selectable (grayed out) when I use HDMI. Is anyone here able to select? :cool:

OK I just spent 2 hours reading this whole thread.
I decided to go with the DLP to get the benefit of 1080p, and only being able to afford a 40 inch LN-T4065 or -61, I'd have to be pretty close for it to make a difference... and the HLTxx76s are darn cheap at Amazon right now.
I've been reading that LCD thread for a while now and the problems there were eventually solved by upgraded boards and firmware. Amazon's stock seems to rotate MUCH faster than your local BB or CC (not to mention lower prices and NO TAX) and the lingering problems on those sets were nearly all who took from the stock in their local "are you finding everything ok?" store. I know the problems with these sets are not necessarily technical, but seem to be more of a tradeoff with the Ultraslim depth. Just my thoughts on the issue.

OH yeah, this is directly copied from Samsung's site FAQ:

"Which Samsung DLP TVs Have HDMI Version 1.3?


The following 2007 Samsung HL-T series DLP TVs have HDMI version 1.3:

HL-T7288W
HL-T6189S
HL-T5689S
HL-T5089S"

Now which to get... 50, 56, or 61...

The HDMI black level option is not selectable (grayed out) when I use HDMI. Is anyone here able to select? :cool:
thats weird I had it on when using the ps3 in full rgb mode. You can even select it when not using HDMI ... thats strange I wonder if it has something to do with your settings try using my settings and see if it turns on.

I am new to this forum. I got a HL-T5676S 2 days ago and it seems to be OK. Image is great.

I have an issue. I connected my LG DVD player to the T V via HDMI. The DVD player upconverts to 1080i. I set the DVD and watch a movie. It looks great, but when I turn the TV on again later and switch to HDMI 1, I get a "Not Supported Mode" message on the TV. I then have to switch the DVD to 480p or 720p to get the TV to work with it. Shouldn't this TV accept the 1080 setting on the DVD?

Please help!!! :confused:

is the message from the tv or is the dvd player telling you this?

Amazon's stock seems to rotate MUCH faster than your local BB or CC (not to mention lower prices and NO TAX) and the lingering problems on those sets were nearly all who took from the stock in their local "are you finding everything ok?" store. I know the problems with these sets are not necessarily technical, but seem to be more of a tradeoff with the Ultraslim depth. Just my thoughts on the issue.


Just an FYI - I purchased my set from Amazon on 7/17/07. It has a MAY 2007 date on the TV.

Also my set seems to be great! I dont have any issues (except for the sound being crappy which is true for most TV's which is why I rely on my Onkyo) but Picture quality is awesome on this set and bowing does not seem to be an issue with the TV I got from Amazon. I am very pleased with it! My previous TV was a 2001 57" CRT Rear projectionToshiba HD Cinema series (which no longer powers on) so I had a pretty good TV to begin with.

This bowing/geometry issue is pretty interesting. I was an original adopter of the Samsung DLP sets. In fact I still own my HLM507W which overall has been a pretty good set.

Within a year of having the 507W, it developed a "bowing" issue as well. More along the vertical axis than horizontal, but noticable in both aspects. The issue was that the screen stack itself does slowly warp over time from its own weight. The second issue is that it is mounted internally with a hold-down bracket on each side of the bezel. These brackets simply act as clamps. The screen stack can in fact shift slightly and DOES end up being allowed to "rest" in spots and in effect warp over time.

On my 507W the screen ended up bowing INWARDS, towards the inside of the set. I disassembled the front bezel and pulled the screen stack out to evaluate everything and found that the screen stack itself had taken a "set" to this bowed arrangement over time. Even when laying flat on the ground it was no longer flat itself.

So, what I ended up doing was putting the screen stack under tension within the bezel itself. There are several ways to do this:

1) Apply double-stick tape to the inside of the mounting brackets. Flatten the screen as it is re-inserted and clamped down. This method requires some trimming of the tape and careful placement of the screen stack.

2) Drill holes through the bezel and into the screen stack and back through the brackets. The holes in the bezel should be about 1mm farther out than the ones in the screen stack when the stack is not in tension (in its bowed state). Use dowel pins through the holes. When the whole setup is put back together, the screen will have to be pushed to get the dowels through the holes. This will put the screen under some tension which prevents bowing.

Naturally, (1) above is easier and less permanent. I used method (1) above and it did in fact fix 95% of the issue I was experiencing.

Just food for thought. Naturally the newer sets with the thin bezels will most likely have a slightly different setup, but some sort of fix like this should be very possible.

Two techs came out on Friday night. Their purpose was to fix the buzzing sound that the TV makes, more so when there is a bright scene. There were to also fix the horizontal bowing.

They ordered a new light engine for me, and installed it. Then they figured out it was the wrong light engine. The one they ordered was for a 50", and it was suppose to be a 56" version. So they then had to take that out of the TV and reinstall my old one. Now my geometry was worse than it was before. The 2 tried to make mirror adjustments to get it back the way I had it, but it wasn't precise enough to mirror what I had before. Mind you....I had bad horizontal bowing, but now the vertical lines were a lot more messed up, along with the tilt.

They were also unable to fix the horizontal bowing, and blamed it on the screen. They gave me the option of doing an exchange, where they will order me a new one and when they deliver it I can check it out and if I feel it is better, I can except it and they take my old one.

If I decide to do this my 30 day warranty will be gone. I will be stuck with this TV. I do love the picture, and the bowing doesn't bother me unless I have horizontal lines running through the middle 3rd of the screen. I'm figuring I can just hope the replacement will be better, and if not they send another one that is.

What would you do??

I am not going to get the Sony SXRD A2020 and have problems where the blacks have a slight blue color, or the whites have another slight color tint to them, and uneven color on the screen, long with uneven brightness. These would bother me as well. I have none of those problems with the Sammy, but I am thinking that maybe the Sony A3000 that comes out at the end of August will be a better choice. But if that's $500 more than the current 5676S, it will be too much, and in the mean time I will have no HD TV. Or I can bring the 5676S I have now, back to the store, replace it with a new 5676S, and then have my 30 days extended to where I would be able to see if the A3000 is a good buy.....

Please any suggestions....

Muff, Why continue to torture yourself with the Sammy and increase your risk by losing the 30-day exchange? Go Sony or Mits. I followed a similar path as you trying hard to stay with Sammy but the issues could simply not be fixed.

Personally I'm planning on the a3000 regardless of price but may end up a2020.

Muffdiever,
Here's a PM quote from an ISF Calibrator & AVS Forum Member:
"I have not done any of the Sammy sets that have the problem that you have observed...From what I understand the problem only occurs with the newer sets that have the thinner case, which means that there is a shorter optical path, resulting in compromises with geometry. I would not expect that there would be any sort of corrections for that in the service menu. I am also concerned (but have know knowledge) that the new Sony A3000 sets may well have similar problems - as they are claiming a 20% or so thinner case."

This bow issue could be a problem with all slim fit models. I will stress "issue could be". JVC & Samsungs for sure have an issue & we'll be hearing from owners of the A3000s soon. I checked the Sony website & it's true, the 50A3000 is 2-3" narrower than the 50A2020 model.
I know you're worried about losing the 30-day exchange. That's where I'm at, too, so here's my plan. BB has said that they are extending my 30 day period because of service issues. So far I've tried the HL-T5076S & HL-T5676S. The 5676S was far worse than the 5076S. Tomorrow I get the 50A2020. I'm concerned with green blobs, uneven grayscale & mis-alined LCOS chips causing convergence bleeding. But, if any of those are present I'm going back to the HL-T5076S bow or not. Like you said, without the bow the set is great.
I'll post when the A2020 arrives & give a comparison.
HTH

I need to buy a new 56" set in the next couple of weeks. I spent several hours today visiting BB and CC in the Bridgwater, NJ area. In both stores, they had the Sony A2020 and HLTs next to each other. In virtually every case, one could observe bowing on all of the Samsung sets, from 50" right on up to 61". However, the bowing was not that bad and in some cases, hard to see unless you were looking for it. Still, right next to it, the Sony displayed none of this problem.

Right now I will probably go with the Sony, but, without a doubt, the Sammy has a MUCH better picture. Its a real tough choice.

Muffdiever,
Here's a PM quote from an ISF Calibrator & AVS Forum Member:
"I have not done any of the Sammy sets that have the problem that you have observed...From what I understand the problem only occurs with the newer sets that have the thinner case, which means that there is a shorter optical path, resulting in compromises with geometry. I would not expect that there would be any sort of corrections for that in the service menu. I am also concerned (but have know knowledge) that the new Sony A3000 sets may well have similar problems - as they are claiming a 20% or so thinner case."

This bow issue could be a problem with all slim fit models. I will stress "issue could be". JVC & Samsungs for sure have an issue & we'll be hearing from owners of the A3000s soon. I checked the Sony website & it's true, the 50A3000 is 2-3" narrower than the 50A2020 model.
I know you're worried about losing the 30-day exchange. That's where I'm at, too, so here's my plan. BB has said that they are extending my 30 day period because of service issues. So far I've tried the HL-T5076S & HL-T5676S. The 5676S was far worse than the 5076S. Tomorrow I get the 50A2020. I'm concerned with green blobs, uneven grayscale & mis-alined LCOS chips causing convergence bleeding. But, if any of those are present I'm going back to the HL-T5076S bow or not. Like you said, without the bow the set is great.
I'll post when the A2020 arrives & give a comparison.
HTH

I'll be interested to see your comparo. I like the Sammy a lot. I am practically a professional at adjusting the mirrors and working the service menu. Once I get a Sammy with a flat screen we will not have these problems with the horizontal bowing.

The A3000 is not is not suppose to be that much skinnier when compared to the drastic change of the Sammy's. Also, there have been rumors that Sony uses a hard screen on the A3000. That's good news for people concerned with horizontal bowing.

I feel there is no way the A3000 will be as cheap as the 5676S, at least for quuite some time longer than I am willing to wait. Maybe I am mistaken and it will be the same price.....and I WILL be pissed.....

is the message from the tv or is the dvd player telling you this?

No,

It is an error message on the TV

Regarding the depth of the TV and the bowing....

I think it's safe to say that the JVC is mirror related, per cnet, and Samsung is build quality related based on my personal experience with Samsung.

The new Sony 60a3000, IMO, will not have a bowing issue due to depth of the case or mirrors. It's 16.75 inches deep. Last year's Samsung 61 HL-s was just over 17 inches deep and it had no bowing issue. So I am a believer that the new Sony will not exhibit the issues that Samsung does because I believe the mirror in the Sony will placed on the back of the set in the traditional location.

Just my opinion

BB arrived at 11AM; right on time. I demonstrated the Samsungs' bubble screen that causes the bow problem before unplugging & asked the delivery guys to pass on what they saw to BBs video department manager.
Once we powered up the A2020, I put "D"s channel guide up on the screen & found no bow issues what so ever. Perfect geometry, how refreshing! No green blob, no convergence issue & no uneven grayscale either.
As far as who wins the battle for best picture, all I can say at this point is they are very close. Lets face it, LCOS looks different than DLP. DLP has more POP, but, also has a silvery appearance where colors are solid; like blue skys. The LCOS picture is very consistent. I'll need to watch it more, but, at this time I'll call them even in picture quality.
Keep in mind that the A2020 doesn't do other things that the HL-T does, like full 1080 PC input; you'll need the A3000 to match that.
The caution I posted earlier about it being possible the A3000s might have the bow problem was stated by a calibrator who noted that the slim models seemed to have similar issues. But, I'd have to agree with hdspringer98 that the A3000s will not have a bow problem. Sony is too smart to goof like that. And, I do believe Samsung will come up with a real fix; eventually.
1st impression is the A2020 looks like a keeper.

Glad you like the A2020. It would be my replacement for my 5676 but it's too deep and I figured why not wait for the A3000 with a few extra features.

I'm glad you think the PQ is comparable to the Samsung because that was my biggest worry.

Glad you like the A2020. It would be my replacement for my 5676 but it's too deep and I figured why not wait for the A3000 with a few extra features.

I'm glad you think the PQ is comparable to the Samsung because that was my biggest worry.

Thats true about the silvery appearance. I've knocked a lot of that off by doing some minor adjustments though.

I decided on Samsung sending a replacement. I called them this morning and the tech that came out said that he discussed it with the product manager and he blamed it on a good possibility of a bad batch of mirrors. He said if the mirrors were how they were supposed to be, the screen not being flat wouldn't effect the picture like it does. I will see when they send the replacement. For the mean time I will try and enjoy.

I would have gotten the A2020, but I want the third input and 1080P PC. Good luck.

I am new to HD and have had a Sammy HL-T5676S for the last month or so.

I notice that on scenes (HD_DVD or Cable HD) with straighlines, like a tall book shelf with books filling it, will tend to flicker. Or a neck tie with lines in it. Now the image of these things only flicker when the camera is panning or moving. If it is a still picture of it, it will not flicker. I have not noticed this with 1 straight line, but if multiple straight lines are close together, this will occur.

Now by flicker I mean the lines in these objects will have a kind of shake to them. It's almost like each individual lines has many angles to it, and light is hitting every angle has the camera pans over it. Wish I could show a picture of it.

Any help will be much appreciated.

I am new to HD and have had a Sammy HL-T5676S for the last month or so.

I notice that on scenes (HD_DVD or Cable HD) with straighlines, like a tall book shelf with books filling it, will tend to flicker. Or a neck tie with lines in it. Now the image of these things only flicker when the camera is panning or moving. If it is a still picture of it, it will not flicker. I have not noticed this with 1 straight line, but if multiple straight lines are close together, this will occur.

Now by flicker I mean the lines in these objects will have a kind of shake to them. It's almost like each individual lines has many angles to it, and light is hitting every angle has the camera pans over it. Wish I could show a picture of it.

Any help will be much appreciated.

I've noticed the same thing on my HLT5676. I didn't have that problem on the HLS5687.

Why is Samsung exchanging your TV, poor picture quality?

Thats true about the silvery appearance. I've knocked a lot of that off by doing some minor adjustments though.

I decided on Samsung sending a replacement. I called them this morning and the tech that came out said that he discussed it with the product manager and he blamed it on a good possibility of a bad batch of mirrors. He said if the mirrors were how they were supposed to be, the screen not being flat wouldn't effect the picture like it does. I will see when they send the replacement. For the mean time I will try and enjoy.

I would have gotten the A2020, but I want the third input and 1080P PC. Good luck.

Well I hope you get a good set this time around. My problem is the Samsung is my 3rd set. My first two sets were Mitsubishi 734 series sets which had issues with a loud humming noise coming from the back of them.

I don't want to have to return another set, and neither does HH Gregg.

This is why I'm trying to be super picky on what I get next.

I've noticed the same thing on my HLT5676. I didn't have that problem on the HLS5687.

Why is Samsung exchanging your TV, poor picture quality?

Hmmm. You have the same issue? I wished we knew more of what it is exactly called and what the reason for it is.

Samsung is replacing due to my horizontal bowing issue and a light engine buzzing noise. They came to fix the light engine noise but ordered the wrong light engine. I have had them at my house 4 time already in the past 2 months and they tech felt for my situation. So at least I have a chance at a better Sammy w/o having to lug this tv back down stairs and maybe get another TV i am not happy with from Sammy or whoever.

Hello All,

I received a new HL-T5676S as an exchange from Samsung. The TV suffers from bowing problem as others have noted. I decided to live with the problem and accepted the TV. However, for the second time when I tried to check the TV yesterday, I noticed that horizontal test pattern lines go out of focus as they get closer to to bottom of the screen, i.e. their widths almost doubles. Has any any one noticed this before?? Of course, the bowing issue becomes more noticeable around the bottom half of the screen, I think this is common.


Thanks

Hello All,

I received a new HL-T5676S as an exchange from Samsung. The TV suffers from bowing problem as others have noted. I decided to live with the problem and accepted the TV. However, for the second time when I tried to check the TV yesterday, I noticed that horizontal test pattern lines go out of focus as they get closer to to bottom of the screen, i.e. their widths almost doubles. Has any any one noticed this before?? Of course, the bowing issue becomes more noticeable around the bottom half of the screen, I think this is common.


Thanks

How long ago did you receive the replacement?

I'd say the middle 1/3rd, horizontally, is the worst for this issue. At least for the past 3 TV's I've had. I have never noticed an "out of focus", in the service menu or out of the service menu.

has anyone attempted to even ask if they can give you a new screen along with the new light engine????????????????????????????

it seems to me like everyone that gets the tech guys to order new light engines just rollover and have the guy scratch their belly

it seems to me like everyone that gets the tech guys to order new light engines just rollover and have the guy scratch their belly

Not the case in this situation, but I agree with you. I was not going to wait for them to come again and waste another day of work and/or personal time. They brought the wrong light engine.......now bring me another TV.

If the next TV comes with the same problem, I will request them to install another screen. Take in mind there are a couple of things you need to consider.

#1.

The techs are not even close to being perfectionists, and are not very familiar with the procedures they perfrom on our televisions until they actually perform them. I'm a stickler on patience for adjusting, and making sure everything is as straight as one possibly could make it. I have not seen this from any of the techs, and I am sure it goes way beyond just the geometry. I know there are GREAT, experienced techs out there, but I haven't seen them.

#2.

One thing might get fixed and another thing screwed up. Or like I experienced, your TV gets taken apart and then put back together with the same pieces, with nothing being cured.

#3

If I was retired....or worked from home, I would demand a screen replacement. But I am neither.

...

OH yeah, this is directly copied from Samsung's site FAQ:

"Which Samsung DLP TVs Have HDMI Version 1.3?


The following 2007 Samsung HL-T series DLP TVs have HDMI version 1.3:

HL-T7288W
HL-T6189S
HL-T5689S
HL-T5089S"

Now which to get... 50, 56, or 61...
Thanks, I went through Samsung's FAQ (http://www.samsung.com/us/support/faqs/supportFaqList.do?group=televisions&group_cd=&type=televisions&type_cd=02010000&subtype=dlptv&subtype_cd=02010300&model_nm=HL-T5676S&dType=&vType=R&mType=&model_cd=&menu=faqs) and saw that as well. That's contrary to what some people said earlier in this thread about HDMI 1.3 and these 76S-series TVs. If Samsung's FAQ is accurate, only the 89S-series TVs have HDMI 1.3. :(

How long ago did you receive the replacement?

I'd say the middle 1/3rd, horizontally, is the worst for this issue. At least for the past 3 TV's I've had. I have never noticed an "out of focus", in the service menu or out of the service menu.


I got it 4 days ago. Manufacturing date is July 07. After looking carefully, maybe the bowing issue is worst in the middle. Also I am attaching couple of pictures related to the focus problem. Top right corner is in focus. Bottom right corner is out of focus. This is also true for the left side. Sorry for the large files.

Thanks

I got it 4 days ago. Manufacturing date is July 07. After looking carefully, maybe the bowing issue is worst in the middle. Also I am attaching couple of pictures related to the focus problem. Top right corner is in focus. Bottom right corner is out of focus. This is also true for the left side. Sorry for the large files.

Thanks


Sorry, The jpg files were too large. Hope it works this time.

Not the case in this situation, but I agree with you. I was not going to wait for them to come again and waste another day of work and/or personal time. They brought the wrong light engine.......now bring me another TV.

If the next TV comes with the same problem, I will request them to install another screen. Take in mind there are a couple of things you need to consider.

#1.

The techs are not even close to being perfectionists, and are not very familiar with the procedures they perfrom on our televisions until they actually perform them. I'm a stickler on patience for adjusting, and making sure everything is as straight as one possibly could make it. I have not seen this from any of the techs, and I am sure it goes way beyond just the geometry. I know there are GREAT, experienced techs out there, but I haven't seen them.

#2.

One thing might get fixed and another thing screwed up. Or like I experienced, your TV gets taken apart and then put back together with the same pieces, with nothing being cured.



#3

If I was retired....or worked from home, I would demand a screen replacement. But I am neither.

Muff how many of these sets are you going to go through before you give up and move to a diffrent brand of set?? Heck I would have told them to take it back when the second one had the same problem... You are coming onto your 30th day now right.. Too much of a hassle IMHO sitting enjoying my great HDTV no bowing no bad light engines no taking off work etc... Still say you need to consider Sony... Just got a PS3 hooked up picture just blows me away even SD is looking great now past my adjustments..

I took delivery of a HL-T5076S on 7/189 right before I left town, and it is aweful!
This set was a replacement for my HL-S5087W.
The geometry is so bad, the picture sharpness if aweful, and the unit looses all of my picture adjustments once and a while.
I am calling Samsung Executive Cust. Serv. now to try to get a full refund.
I loved the PQ on my HLSA, what TV to I get now?
I can not live with this HLT.

I took delivery of a HL-T5076S on 7/189 right before I left town, and it is aweful!
This set was a replacement for my HL-S5087W.
The geometry is so bad, the picture sharpness if aweful, and the unit looses all of my picture adjustments once and a while.
I am calling Samsung Executive Cust. Serv. now to try to get a full refund.
I loved the PQ on my HLSA, what TV to I get now?
I can not live with this HLT.

I was all set to grab a Samsung myself till this Geometry issue appeared and went back to research and bought a Sony 2020 50 Inch.. Love this set!! The Hidef is amazing, the SD is from good to actually great at times.. Colors are vivid and blacks are inky with great shadow detail!! Compared the two at BB and honestly could not tell a diffrence in picture quality. I know some swear Samsung beats the pants off Sony but IMHO they are about equal in all respects except with the Sony you get perfect geometry, NO returning Sets, NO techs coming to your house multiple times!! All you get is a great high quality HDTV!

Well...for a good news story. I received my HL-T6189 yesterday as a replacement to a HL-S6188. It looks like it was a good decision to pay for the upgrade. My 6189 has 0 geometry issues. The picture quality doesn't seem to be quite as good as the HL-S but it makes up for it in other ways. For all the praise that the Sony's are getting...be careful. Sony tech support is terrible. Lots of people complain about things that are defects or issues and get the "that's normal operation" response. Sony isn't willing to send people out to investigate. I know because I had an XBR1 with terrible green blob and Sony wouldn't do anything except try to say it was my eyes or that it was normal to have that. Samsung tech support at least listens and tries to make things right...even though this year it looks like they've made mistakes with the HL-TXX76 series. JVC is in the same boat.

Are the HL-TXX87s any better than the 76s?

There are advantages and disadvantages to both. The HL-TXX76s have the slimmer cabinet which is good for placement/size, and I feel from observation that the lamp-based units have a slightly better picture (although that is comparing my 6189 to last year's 6188). Unfortunately, that slimmer cabinet seems to have introduced more geometry issues (there have always been geometry issues with DLP TVs though). If you read the 87/89 forum (HL-T) there are a lot less complaints about bowing.

Re: HLT TVs, since 76S apparently doesn't seem to have HDMI 1.3, I don't see any advantage it has over 87S, other than price. 89S is clearly the best (at least in the Samsung DLP family), but there's a very hefty premium for those TVs. :(

Re: HLT TVs, since 76S apparently doesn't seem to have HDMI 1.3, I don't see any advantage it has over 87S, other than price. 89S is clearly the best (at least in the Samsung DLP family), but there's a very hefty premium for those TVs. :(


I've heard from plenty of people who feel the picture is not as good as the older lamp versions. One is an LED lamp the other is the old style lamp. Check out their thread.

Being a newbie I probably previously posted this in the wrong section. Circuit City finally said they will not fix my Hitachi 61swx10b again. The sound board is shot for the third time and they said I can replace the tv about a $2,200 credit. It's been a long time and I have not kept myself informed about the tv's out there now. However, I looked at alot of sets recently, spoke to many people and looked through this forum. If it's possible to get an unbiased opinion I would like it. Do you recommend tossing the Hitachi and taking the credit? Might be a stupid question but I could always just hook up a receiver to it. I know once I buy a new one I will need a stand, receiver and speakers at the minimum because the Hitachi had a built in surround sound. They don't make them like the stand alone Hitachi 61swx10b anymore. I found the Samsung HLT6176S to have the best picture quality and Mits mdewdy65 to be a close second along with Sony. Do you think the Samsung HLT6176S is a WISE choice? If you own this tv please give me some feedback and could you also tell me what type of stand you bought for this set. I know everyone one has a different opinion but there is limited information concerning this tv right now. Should I buy a new dvd player as well with HDMI. What are the best components to utilize? Any feedback is appreciated.

Being a newbie I probably previously posted this in the wrong section. Circuit City finally said they will not fix my Hitachi 61swx10b again. The sound board is shot for the third time and they said I can replace the tv about a $2,200 credit. It's been a long time and I have not kept myself informed about the tv's out there now. However, I looked at alot of sets recently, spoke to many people and looked through this forum. If it's possible to get an unbiased opinion I would like it. Do you recommend tossing the Hitachi and taking the credit? Might be a stupid question but I could always just hook up a receiver to it. I know once I buy a new one I will need a stand, receiver and speakers at the minimum because the Hitachi had a built in surround sound. They don't make them like the stand alone Hitachi 61swx10b anymore. I found the Samsung HLT6176S to have the best picture quality and Mits mdewdy65 to be a close second along with Sony. Do you think the Samsung HLT6176S is a WISE choice? If you own this tv please give me some feedback and could you also tell me what type of stand you bought for this set. I know everyone one has a different opinion but there is limited information concerning this tv right now. Should I buy a new dvd player as well with HDMI. What are the best components to utilize? Any feedback is appreciated.

Reading this whole thread could help with that decision. A lot of ticked off people. If you want the TV that has the best potential, pick this HL-TXX76S. It's picture is great if it wasn't for the majority of them having Geometry issues. It has 3 HDMI's, 1080p over VGA, and great looking cabinet, though a flimsy one, and it's 10.6 inches deep if you need a TV to be.

The Sony will most likely give you a picture with no defects, no geometry issues, but not as great of a pic, but still very good once dialed in. The TV is a lot bigger at 20inches deep. The cabinet is ugly in my opinion. I like a shiny cabinet compared to a dull black. You also have less inputs and you "DO NOT" have 1080p over VGA.

The prices of these 2 are quite similiar. And as far as warranty price goes, I give that to Sony. I have heard their customer service stinks, but I do not know how much worse it can be when compared to Samsungs. If you do buy the Sony, ****Do not buy the Service from the retailer**** You can call Sony up to 11 months after you buy the TV and purchase the 2 year extended plan for $99.99!!!

Tough choices......

Thanks Muff!!!! I do see that there are alot of pissed off people but there must be some happy people with these sets. Some people had the geometry issues and some don't. Your right this is a tough decision. I already had a tv with mutiple problems for six years and I don't want to do that again. I'm also worried about this rainbow effect that people are talking about. Well as usual I am more confused than ever. I want a 61' or bigger and it must be purchased at CC due to the store credit. If anyone else has some feedback it would help.
Thanks.

Ok this has happened to me twice now with the tv and the ps3. I'm not sure where the blame goes so I'll just ask here and see what you guys think. In both 300 and Planet Earth Blu-ray playing through the ps3 the background has a grainy effect to it. I've gone through and done everything I know to try and make sure that it's playing 1080p and the hdmi is going directly from the ps3 to the tv and it's still having that effect. Any suggestions?

My 6176s pops like crazy when it is warmed up. Does anyone else have this problem?

There are advantages and disadvantages to both. The HL-TXX76s have the slimmer cabinet which is good for placement/size, and I feel from observation that the lamp-based units have a slightly better picture (although that is comparing my 6189 to last year's 6188). Unfortunately, that slimmer cabinet seems to have introduced more geometry issues (there have always been geometry issues with DLP TVs though). If you read the 87/89 forum (HL-T) there are a lot less complaints about bowing.
Thanks for the reply, as I have posted here, I had a HL-S5087 and loved it until the return.
The HL-T5076 have in its place from Samsung it a huge pile of SH*&.
I am all about PQ, and can not stand this thing. I was hoping the new 87's were better than the 76s
I may have to go back to Sony.

Ok this has happened to me twice now with the tv and the ps3. I'm not sure where the blame goes so I'll just ask here and see what you guys think. In both 300 and Planet Earth Blu-ray playing through the ps3 the background has a grainy effect to it. I've gone through and done everything I know to try and make sure that it's playing 1080p and the hdmi is going directly from the ps3 to the tv and it's still having that effect. Any suggestions?

I've seen this on multiple TV's, not just the HL-T models. It is just the quality of the filming. I've seen other film, or Discovery HD, that looks amazing, and some some stuff just looks ok. It all depends on the source.

Would like to say I have enjoyed reading all the threads,, tho very dishearted. I too purchsed the 6176 and yes it has the bowing,, (which stinks) I need to take it back, but what else is there? I have seen where a few are trying the sony 50a2020,,, ? Man i wish they could find a fix for the bowing! I like the tv!

I started with the sony lcd 46s3000,, which was a good tv,, I just wanted the 1080P,,, so I paid the restocking fee (stupid) thing,,, LOL then ended up with a larger tv with 1080p at a cheaper price. Now I think I might should have just kept the sony? My wife and teen says just keep the tv for the price we paid. Your gonna finda a problem with all of them LOL,,, maybe so,, but now every time I look at it I just keep seeing the bow,,, LOL

Thanks for the site.

Is there anyone that is actually happy with their Samsung, if not what would you recommend if you had to buy a tv 60' or larger????????

Is there anyone that is actually happy with their Samsung, if not what would you recommend if you had to buy a tv 60' or larger????????

I am. I think I am one of the few with VERY little or no bowing. The PQ is the best I have ever seen after some cal. No issues yet at all (knock on wood) I also said screw it and did not buy the extended warranty. CC wanted like 600 bucks for the 4 year. I said I will roll the dice and if I have to repair something, oh well I have a $600 head start. I never buy extended warranties. I did the same thing with my truck. They wanted 1800 bucks for the 100K warranty. I said no, so far spent 900. I am still 900 ahead.

Is there anyone that is actually happy with their Samsung, if not what would you recommend if you had to buy a tv 60' or larger????????
Like Brathing Borla I have the 61" and I love it. I can't see any bowing. I did however getthe 4 year plan. Only $400ish dollars at BB. Anyway, good luck with your decision.

I purchased a 5676 a month ago and I am very happy with it. I have a very small bowing problem but it is only noticeable when I view the guide page.

Everything else is spot on

Well, thats about 2 out of hundreds on here that are happy with their HLTxx76s. It looks like the owners of the samsung HL-T6187S are very happy. Not sure what to do and I am very confused and not even sure if I should go with Samsung now after reading this thread. Maybe I am reading too much and just should go out and get it...LOL

Well the folks down at da place said I could get a store credit towards something else,, but What? I want a big screen TV at least 40 plus "s or so. I don't know how long they will let me slide before I have to make a choice. I am trying to read as much as I can between my task,,, LOL My boss purchase the 42 slim line DLP sammy and he LOVE's it. He says he has no problems at all. I gues its just the 50" and up that seem to have an Bow problems... I must admit the tv has a very nice picture,, but I can't seem to enjoy it because I keep looking at the bow effect...LOL

Ok,I finally (after 2 weeks) got an email back from Samsung tier 2...

Sorry Bill, I sent this up to my supervisor and I thought he took care of everything.

I see in the notes that you have spoke to the service center. They are doing 1 more repair. If they can’t fix it they will be giving me a worksheet saying the unit is out of spec and needs to be replaced.

They have contact information for our product support center if they are having any hard time repairing it they can call .

Well looks like i'm waiting even more.

Well thanks for responding, I knew there had to be more happy samsung HLT XX76S Owners out there. Is there a problem with the rainbow effect on this set?????? Also, can someone load a picture that shows this bowing that everyone talks about, is it that bad? This set has to be better than my Hitachi 61swx10b.

Just to reiterate...for the people that are reading these forums and getting scared off from buying TVs. These forums aren't a "rating" service. For the most part they are for asking questions and troubleshooting. It also doesn't represent anywhere near all the TVs that are sold. Most people have never even heard of this very valuable web site (AVS in general). For the most part, unless you blatantly ask like you did, most of what you're going to read in any thread is what problems people are having and how to fix them. Obviously, in this thread, the prevalent issue is bowing. I haven't heard many other complaints though, which is actually pretty good. Last year the HL-Ss had numerous complaints about bad power supplies, smudges on screens, light tunnel collapses, blinking lights of death (happened to my TV). The Sony (biggest competitor) had premature lamp failures, green blob, and other prevalent issues. While this forum is good for helping to formulate an opinion, also realize that if every TV had this problem a civil action lawsuit would be forthcoming from all the other non-AVS members with this TV, stores would refuse to sell them due to the hit they take on returns, and Samsung (or any other company) would be in big trouble. Also, read any DVD, Blu-Ray, HDDVD, AV Receiver, or Speaker thread and you'll see complaints as well. Don't get me wrong, though, I'm not saying the bowing isn't an issue, and if you have it, return it, or make Samsung fix it, but I've seen TVs, and you've heard on here, that there are likely many TVs that don't have it, or it is at least not distracting.

I am. I think I am one of the few with VERY little or no bowing. The PQ is the best I have ever seen after some cal. No issues yet at all (knock on wood) I also said screw it and did not buy the extended warranty. CC wanted like 600 bucks for the 4 year. I said I will roll the dice and if I have to repair something, oh well I have a $600 head start. I never buy extended warranties. I did the same thing with my truck. They wanted 1800 bucks for the 100K warranty. I said no, so far spent 900. I am still 900 ahead.

I paid a lot less for my 5-year warranty with Tweeter. Just make sure when you register your TV that you do it online. It adds another 3 months to the 1-year warranty. I actually needed it;) Samsung, so far, has been good about trying to help people with TV problems out of warranty, but don't count on it.

Is there anyone that is actually happy with their Samsung, if not what would you recommend if you had to buy a tv 60' or larger????????
now that I got mine replaced I am completely satisfied with the tv.

I paid a lot less for my 5-year warranty with Tweeter. Just make sure when you register your TV that you do it online. It adds another 3 months to the 1-year warranty. I actually needed it;) Samsung, so far, has been good about trying to help people with TV problems out of warranty, but don't count on it.

I did register it and got the extra 3 months. I figured 15 month warranty was good enough for me and am willing to put some cash into it if it breaks down the road. I really like the PQ. It looks better than any other HDTV I have seen. (within a reasonable price, not 10K)

I have the 5076s, and even though it has bowing, I still love the tv. IMHO, when calibrated it outshines the PQ of damn near anything in the price range (including the Sony A2020, I calibrated them back to back and compared for nearly 30 minutes at a CC). Yeah, the bowing does suck, but much of the time it's not noticeable unless you look for it. The one time it pops up is when watching 2.35:1 content. Plus, there are several advantages to this set compared to the competition. It's super slim, and being so I was able to place my tv on a fireplace stoop (don't worry, the fireplace doesn't work :-P ), get rid of my big entertainment center, and really open up my room. I also have a 360, and got it before the elite came out... BUT sammy's allow 1080p over component (and are the only manufacturer to do so to my knowledge). It's got tons of inputs, and for heavens sake, look at what you get for the price! 50" 1080p for about 1500 ain't too shabby if you ask me, even with a few problems.

For the warranty, there was no way in hell I was paying what CC wanted. I registered with Samsung to get an extra 3 months, and bought a service plan from Tapeworks Texas. I can certainly understand people on here having tech's come out and work on their tv, and exchange them 3 or 4 times. But to me personally, it's not worth the hassle to go through all that to get rid of a little bowing. Down the line, maybe 3-6 months, I'll call and get them to fix it. Hopefully by then they'll have a fix, or start putting in firmer screens.

I know by reading these threads, you'd think it's a horrible tv. But it really isn't, it's got one problem. If you researched any product on AVS, you'd be hard pressed to find one that doesn't have any problems or complaints, that's what this place is for. If you only bought consumer electronics that didn't have any problems, you probably wouldn't have anything at all. That's my input to prospective buyers. If you can deal with this bowing problem (which isn't the end of the world) for a while, until they HOPEFULLY develop a repair technique, or when new sets don't exhibit the problem, go for it. I know I can't stop playing games and watching HD-DVDs on mine.

I have the 5076s, and even though it has bowing, I still love the tv. IMHO, when calibrated it outshines the PQ of damn near anything in the price range (including the Sony A2020, I calibrated them back to back and compared for nearly 30 minutes at a CC). Yeah, the bowing does suck, but much of the time it's not noticeable unless you look for it. The one time it pops up is when watching 2.35:1 content. Plus, there are several advantages to this set compared to the competition. It's super slim, and being so I was able to place my tv on a fireplace stoop (don't worry, the fireplace doesn't work :-P ), get rid of my big entertainment center, and really open up my room. I also have a 360, and got it before the elite came out... BUT sammy's allow 1080p over component (and are the only manufacturer to do so to my knowledge). It's got tons of inputs, and for heavens sake, look at what you get for the price! 50" 1080p for about 1500 ain't too shabby if you ask me, even with a few problems.

For the warranty, there was no way in hell I was paying what CC wanted. I registered with Samsung to get an extra 3 months, and bought a service plan from Tapeworks Texas. I can certainly understand people on here having tech's come out and work on their tv, and exchange them 3 or 4 times. But to me personally, it's not worth the hassle to go through all that to get rid of a little bowing. Down the line, maybe 3-6 months, I'll call and get them to fix it. Hopefully by then they'll have a fix, or start putting in firmer screens.

I know by reading these threads, you'd think it's a horrible tv. But it really isn't, it's got one problem. If you researched any product on AVS, you'd be hard pressed to find one that doesn't have any problems or complaints, that's what this place is for. If you only bought consumer electronics that didn't have any problems, you probably wouldn't have anything at all. That's my input to prospective buyers. If you can deal with this bowing problem (which isn't the end of the world) for a while, until they HOPEFULLY develop a repair technique, or when new sets don't exhibit the problem, go for it. I know I can't stop playing games and watching HD-DVDs on mine.

good post. I love to turn mine on as well. I still say damn that's clear all the time.

Just to reiterate...for the people that are reading these forums and getting scared off from buying TVs. These forums aren't a "rating" service. For the most part they are for asking questions and troubleshooting. It also doesn't represent anywhere near all the TVs that are sold. Most people have never even heard of this very valuable web site (AVS in general). For the most part, unless you blatantly ask like you did, most of what you're going to read in any thread is what problems people are having and how to fix them. Obviously, in this thread, the prevalent issue is bowing. I haven't heard many other complaints though, which is actually pretty good. Last year the HL-Ss had numerous complaints about bad power supplies, smudges on screens, light tunnel collapses, blinking lights of death (happened to my TV). The Sony (biggest competitor) had premature lamp failures, green blob, and other prevalent issues. While this forum is good for helping to formulate an opinion, also realize that if every TV had this problem a civil action lawsuit would be forthcoming from all the other non-AVS members with this TV, stores would refuse to sell them due to the hit they take on returns, and Samsung (or any other company) would be in big trouble. Also, read any DVD, Blu-Ray, HDDVD, AV Receiver, or Speaker thread and you'll see complaints as well. Don't get me wrong, though, I'm not saying the bowing isn't an issue, and if you have it, return it, or make Samsung fix it, but I've seen TVs, and you've heard on here, that there are likely many TVs that don't have it, or it is at least not distracting.
Well stated mikeynavy1. I think I will pull the trigger and just buy the 61'.

So after having done a bunch of research (including reading most of this thread), I went ahead and bought a 5676. Unfortunately, my TV also has the bowing issue. I was lured by the really awesome PQ (which is probably what allowed me to get past all of the complaints of the bowing issues in this thread). The PQ is still really good. SD PQ isn't as bad as I thought it might be either (even when stretching it to 16:9).

I bought the TV from Brandsmart (retailer in Florida/Georgia), and had them deliver it for $50 (bargain in my opinion). The delivery guys were really good. I could tell they were careful with the box. They unpacked the TV, put it on my stand and hooked up the power/cable. They turned it on and asked if I approved. Unfortunately, I think I was too excited to check for the bowing issue so I immediately signed off (they even called the main store on their cell phone and had me verbally approve the delivery to a woman on the phone). I've since noticed the bowing problem (the TV guide channel, ESPN, CNBC, etc all exemplify the issue quite a bit). I wonder if the 16:9 scaling of SD TV exaggerates the problem (I'm getting satellite installed this weekend for HDTV)? Anyways, I've called Brandsmart customer service and they are sending one of their techs out on Monday to check out my problem. I am just hoping the tech will actually consider the bowing issue a problem and allow me to exchange it (with their delivery guys). I don't anticipate the tech being able to do any adjustments that will fix the problem, but we'll see.

By the way, I'm a huge fan of the power on/off sounds.

shoulda listened

I also have a 360, and got it before the elite came out... BUT sammy's allow 1080p over component (and are the only manufacturer to do so to my knowledge).

Audiophile - you do realize that the xbox 360 only upscales the dashboard and games over component, right? Movies (DVD) and such are only upscaled via VGA (or in case of the Elite, HDMI). HD-DVD movies can be played at 1080i, however you have to set the console to display in that format to get that feature when using component. For more information, take a look at http://www.xbox.com/en-US/hardware/xbox360/hdtv.htm.

Can I simply use an optical cable from the back of the HLT6176s going to the audio receiver and receive sound through all the input sources when I switch back and forth from dvd to satellite for example. This would seem like an easy way to get the surround sound I need with one optical cable. Does anyone know if this can be done this way?

Can I simply use an optical cable from the back of the HLT6176s going to the audio receiver and receive sound through all the input sources when I switch back and forth from dvd to satellite for example. This would seem like an easy way to get the surround sound I need with one optical cable. Does anyone know if this can be done this way?

No you will need to run digital audio from each device to the receiver.

For the warranty, there was no way in hell I was paying what CC wanted. I registered with Samsung to get an extra 3 months, and bought a service plan from Tapeworks Texas.

I've seen this mentioned a few times now. So you're purchasing a service plan from a different site than where you purchased the TV. I've checked out Tapeworks' website and don't see any links to even find details about a service plan. I'm curious, how did you purchase this plan and how would I find out the cost and coverage?

Well I decided to trade the 6176 in for the LCD 4661, I hated to go down in size, but decided I was too A*** to just let the bowing continue. Couldn't seem to stop looking for it. LOL anyway, I told the wife, we would give it some time and see if they get it fixed. (I'll keep reading the threads) and maybe put the 46 Sammy in another room and get the 6176 back again down the road. I miss the size and the overall PQ. But such is life. Sometimes I really wish I could just let the little stuff go.... I do think the folks who decided to live with it will like it allot in the long run. As long as the HDMI and popping noises don't become a problem.

Well I decided to trade the 6176 in for the LCD 4661, I hated to go down in size, but decided I was too A*** to just let the bowing continue. Couldn't seem to stop looking for it. LOL anyway, I told the wife, we would give it some time and see if they get it fixed. (I'll keep reading the threads) and maybe put the 46 Sammy in another room and get the 6176 back again down the road. I miss the size and the overall PQ. But such is life. Sometimes I really wish I could just let the little stuff go.... I do think the folks who decided to live with it will like it allot in the long run. As long as the HDMI and popping noises don't become a problem.

Man, bowing or no bowing, I couldn't go froma 61 to a 46, that must of seemed really small when you first set it up. How is the PQ compared to the 76.

I was watching the dodgers game on ESPNHD2 last night and thinking again, wow, this thing is clear. It seemed on certain shots, you could reach through the screen and touch the ball. I think this thing has some of the best natural looking color I have even seen. I wonder if that extra color in the wheel makes the difference. I love how I can adjust the green only so I can ge the grass looking just how I want.

Hello everyone. This is my first post on AVS. I've read through this entire thread after (unfortunately) already purchasing the HLT5076S through Amazon. If any of you haven't seen their price on it lately, you should take a look. At about $1360 it still seems like a good deal despite the "bowing" issues I've become so familiar with over the last couple days of reading this thread. I was so struck by the picture quality of the TV at my local BB that I didn't notice the bowing. Now that I've gone back and looked at there HLT**76 units I do notice the bowing. I'm hoping my unit will be one of the better ones and that I can overlook the problem. Has anyone out there had any experience with returning a TV to Amazon recently? I would think the bowing would qualify it as a defective unit if I did indeed try to return it.

I have an OPPO DV-971HD that only does upscaling to 1080i. I'm curious if anyone has experience with this player and the HL-TXX76 line. Does the TV handle the 1080i signal well, and do you think the PQ would be much different from a 1080p upscaling player? Also curious about the HL-TXX76 general DVD PQ performance as opposed to my current 37" 720p Polaroid LCD. We'll be watching a lot of standard DVDs until Bluray players drop in price.

Man, bowing or no bowing, I couldn't go froma 61 to a 46, that must of seemed really small when you first set it up. How is the PQ compared to the 76.

I was watching the dodgers game on ESPNHD2 last night and thinking again, wow, this thing is clear. It seemed on certain shots, you could reach through the screen and touch the ball. I think this thing has some of the best natural looking color I have even seen. I wonder if that extra color in the wheel makes the difference. I love how I can adjust the green only so I can ge the grass looking just how I want.


Well, your right, LOL it did seem small. (allot smaller) But over all not too bad. Yes the PQ is very clear. Colors are great. I have no complaints as of yet. (GRIN) I know I should have just keep the 61, but like I said I suffer from being a little anal at times, And this is one of those times. Like some of the other post's, I don't think a person should have to make do with something like that. I'll live with the 46 and most likely hang it on the wall. Then Down the road, maybe next year or maybe a little sooner a I'll pick up another 6176. After they come up with a fix. Then move the 46 to the bed room and rehang it. I don't really have a lot of room so the 46 doesn't seem so bad. But room or not the 61 look very Clear even in my small living room. They do have the 52 LCD released, but I'll have to save my bottles, buttons, and cans a while longer.. LOL

I've heard from plenty of people who feel the picture is not as good as the older lamp versions. One is an LED lamp the other is the old style lamp. Check out their thread.
I haven't followed the 87S/89S thread in a while. I was not aware that the picture quality on those TVs are inferior to the 76S. I know the 1st gen. LED DLP (5679W) had a few PQ issues, such as poor black levels, but I thought that was mostly fixed in the 2nd gen. LED DLP TVs.

I've seen this mentioned a few times now. So you're purchasing a service plan from a different site than where you purchased the TV. I've checked out Tapeworks' website and don't see any links to even find details about a service plan. I'm curious, how did you purchase this plan and how would I find out the cost and coverage?


For some info on the service plans, check out this spectacular thread... http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=826857

It's got info about some of the more popular plans around here, has info on how to buy, and contact information.

And smithre4, I do know that I'm only getting 1080i when watching HD-DVDs. I looked at upgrading to the elite, but I decided it wasn't worth taking over a $100 hit to gain that. Down the road I'll upgrade to a standalone that can also do the new lossless surround formats.

Now for a question. I'll be moving back to school in a few weeks. What precautions are necessary when moving a DLP? Can you not tilt it? Or lay it on it's back? I need to know so I can plan the move accordingly.

And smithre4, I do know that I'm only getting 1080i when watching HD-DVDs. I looked at upgrading to the elite, but I decided it wasn't worth taking over a $100 hit to gain that. Down the road I'll upgrade to a standalone that can also do the new lossless surround formats.

Now for a question. I'll be moving back to school in a few weeks. What precautions are necessary when moving a DLP? Can you not tilt it? Or lay it on it's back? I need to know so I can plan the move accordingly.

Audiophile - No you don't need an Elite. Pick yourself up a VGA cable (you can usually find used ones at ebgames/gamestops) then you can do 1080p upconversion for DVDs and get 1080p for HD-DVDs.

I would move it right-side up with out much tilt and I wouldn't place it on its back. I've seen how if you apply enough torque on the right and left top ends of the screen how you can easily distort the picture. If still have your box, I'd use that.

my email to tier 2...

He came and couldnt fix,he says the frame is too weak on the 2007 50" dlp's..he also said that the screens are too thin and that they are bowing in the middle because of it and that there isnt a fix for that.

Bill


reply from Samsung

"I do wish that is 1 specific service center can not fix a specific issue they wouldn’t just say it is an issue with the whole Samsung line because there is no truth to that statement.

I am sorry to see we are unable to get this fixed under wty.

I will send this over to one of my Executive customer relations reps and see if we can handle this a different way for you instead of continuing with this service that isn’t going anywhere. "

For some info on the service plans, check out this spectacular thread... http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=826857

It's got info about some of the more popular plans around here, has info on how to buy, and contact information.


Thanks for the link. Very interesting and timely info!!

Well, I will receive my new HLT6176s on Sunday. After looking at the same tv at CC, BB and Brandsmart I said it is worth it. I did not see any geometric problems on any of the three sets, in fact they looked great after I dialed down there settings and checked the menu's for smiley's. I paid $1,999 at CC because of an exchange with my old hitachi lemon. Anyway, can you tell me if using HDMI through the audio receiver is the optimal way to have surround sound. Does it sound good and is it recommended? I do not know much about HDMI going through an audio receiver.

Congrats on your purchase. You will enjoy your new Sammy!

Audiophile - No you don't need an Elite. Pick yourself up a VGA cable (you can usually find used ones at ebgames/gamestops) then you can do 1080p upconversion for DVDs and get 1080p for HD-DVDs.

Oh, I wasn't aware that you could get 1080p from HD-DVDs through VGA. I know this is kinda off topic, but I remember reading a while ago that the VGA produced a washed out image. Has that been fixed? And does the upconversion for DVDs help? I know that the DVD pq through component cables is pretty awful. If anyone in here can weigh in on using the 360 VGA cables on their Sammy DLP, I'd really appreciate it.

Oh, I wasn't aware that you could get 1080p from HD-DVDs through VGA. I know this is kinda off topic, but I remember reading a while ago that the VGA produced a washed out image. Has that been fixed? And does the upconversion for DVDs help? I know that the DVD pq through component cables is pretty awful. If anyone in here can weigh in on using the 360 VGA cables on their Sammy DLP, I'd really appreciate it.

Yes the VGA color issues have been fixed with Spring 2007 Dasboard Update (the latest HD-DVD update also fixes the sound related issues). I haven't noticed any PQ issues with upconverting normal DVDs.

oh forgot to mention, that I am using the VGA cable with the HLT6189 and it looks great.

Anyone have extensive experience with QAM on these? I bought an HLS model last year and the QAM was scetchy at best. I then bought a Vizio plasma at Sams and the QAM is albout all I watch now. The blacks arent real black though and this TV caught my eye at CC.

Is the QAM perfect in this model? I had jumpy pictures with the HLS model.

Received my HL-T5676 Friday evening and set it up on Saturday. I read the entire thread before making my decision and crossed my fingers that I'd have no bowing or at least that it wouldn't be bad enough to bother me. Out of the box, the bowing was very noticeable and I don't consider myself a videophile that is typically concerned with such things.

The picture is sharp and looks great but the bowing of anything with a line across the screen (which is nearly every thing nowadays with all of the screen crawlers) is bugging me enough that I'm leaning towards packing it up and take it back . Bummer.

Received my HL-T5676 Friday evening and set it up on Saturday. I read the entire thread before making my decision and crossed my fingers that I'd have no bowing or at least that it wouldn't be bad enough to bother me. Out of the box, the bowing was very noticeable and I don't consider myself a videophile that is typically concerned with such things.

The picture is sharp and looks great but the bowing anything with a line across the screen (which is nearly every thing nowadays with all of the screen crawlers) is bugging me enough that I'm leaning towards packing it up and take it back . Bummer.


Take it back, don't waste your hard earned money by "living with it". Samsung really botched the HL-T series this year. Every store I've been to has had the HL-T on display and almost all of them clearly showed the smile. Personally, I'd avoid Sammy in 2007-08

So a tech from Brandsmart came out this morning to check out my bowing issue. He immediately noticed the issue and started playing around with the settings in the service menu. He quickly decided that the unit need to be replaced and he set up an exchange. I should hear from the store in the next day or so for them to schedule a delivery of a new TV and pickup of my existing one.

The tech said he hadn't heard of many issues with this TV yet since it was so new (I think he mostly worked on TVs that were a year or more old that needed servicing). He did say he had a customer that was complaining of the bowing issue but it was only noticeable at the top of a letterbox video. He called Samsung who claimed the video was being rendered "within spec" and the customer was pretty much SOL. The tech went on to say that he considered my issue to be "very extreme" and it definitely needed to be replaced.

If the new TV that gets delivered isn't just right, I'm not going to sign off on it and I'm going to have the delivery guys just take it back. I'll probably try to get a plasma or something instead.

I just received my new HLT6176S and it looks great. Does anyone know what the calibrated starter settings are for this tv? Especially the detailed settings. I read through alot of threads but I do not see one specifically for this model. Also, What is the smell coming from the set it seems to be getting better but has anyone experienced this odor when they first received their set?

:( I got my HLT-5676S about 2 months ago. 1 month in, it developed a :) shadow, with the top half of the left and right also. I thought nothing of it because it was about 1" wide and barely noticeable and it didn't bow out my images. Now, it's progressed to about 3" wide! It's the frame :mad:. CC sent out a tech to service it and he assumed it was the light tunnel when he arrived. So, i showed him 2 things.

1. shadow present even WITHOUT the set turned ON.
2. pushing in on the frame makes it go away.

He said he's never heard of anything like that. It figures, because this guy also loaded the set into what looks like a handicap accessible van :eek: . I looked and he had about 6 sets in there, all of which were draped in blankets :eek: . Here's hoping that they can fix it to factory new condition, or that they are incompitent so i get a full refund. I would prefer the latter :rolleyes: , that way i can go get a 61" for the same price i got the 56" 2 months ago :D. Now, i have to go back to my 24" SDTV for about 4-6 weeks :( :(

I attached some pix taken with my phonecam. 1st. and 2nd. pic is with screen on, 1 month and now. 3rd. is with the screen off.

chime in if anybodyelse has the SAME EXACT problem with their sets. That way, i won't be the only one in the club :o .

:( I got my HLT-5676S about 2 months ago. 1 month in, it developed a :) shadow, with the top half of the left and right also. I thought nothing of it because it was about 1" wide and barely noticeable and it didn't bow out my images. Now, it's progressed to about 3" wide! It's the frame :mad:. CC sent out a tech to service it and he assumed it was the light tunnel when he arrived. So, i showed him 2 things.

1. shadow present even WITHOUT the set turned ON.
2. pushing in on the frame makes it go away.

He said he's never heard of anything like that. It figures, because this guy also loaded the set into what looks like a handicap accessible van :eek: . I looked and he had about 6 sets in there, all of which were draped in blankets :eek: . Here's hoping that they can fix it to factory new condition, or that they are incompitent so i get a full refund. I would prefer the latter :rolleyes: , that way i can go get a 61" for the same price i got the 56" 2 months ago :D. Now, i have to go back to my 24" SDTV for about 4-6 weeks :( :(

I attached some pix taken with my phonecam. 1st. and 2nd. pic is with screen on, 1 month and now. 3rd. is with the screen off.

chime in if anybodyelse has the SAME EXACT problem with their sets. That way, i won't be the only one in the club :o .

I don't see a thing.....These shadows, if you do have them with the TV off, can be massaged out.From the bottom of the shadow...massage outwards towards the edges of the frame. It works

"massage outwards towards the edges of the frame. It works"

What??? We're now massaging TVs to make them work??? This is just nuts. How long are people going to put up with these poorly constructed HL_T series anyway. They're crap IMO and I have the experience to back up that claim having gone through 4 Samsungs. My HL-S, (2) HL-T LED and (1) HL-T DLP all had big problems.

Got a Sony 60A2020 yesterday, no issues, unlike the 4 Samsungs I went though before they gave me my money back.

I bought this set over the weekend and have a Directv HD recevier, Panasonic 1080p upscaling DVD player, VHS and a PS3. With any source material the picture is unbeatable imo. I haven't had any bowing issues or any other problems and am thoroughly enjoying this set!!! I feel for everyone that has had problems but am personally very happy with my purchase.

I bought this set over the weekend and have a Directv HD recevier, Panasonic 1080p upscaling DVD player, VHS and a PS3. With any source material the picture is unbeatable imo. I haven't had any bowing issues or any other problems and am thoroughly enjoying this set!!! I feel for everyone that has had problems but am personally very happy with my purchase.

This is a great post considering that my set is due to be delivered next Wed.. :) Seeing the set locally at CC and BB, the picture is incredible, even in that setting.

I went in looking at the TH-58pz700u plasma and was completely blown away by the picture of the Samsung. There is no way I could honestly justify the 2600 dollar difference in price. Without the sets side by side there is no way you could SEE the difference, and even side by side it was negligible imo.

another long time reader first time poster.

I just took delivery of a new HLT5676S from Circuit City to replace a mushroom cloud ridden HLS5687S and very disappointed.

The Geometry on the new HLT5676S is horrendous. With the DISH HD menu I have left smirk on the bottom left of the screen with a retarded frown running on the bottom followed by noticeable pincushioning on SD channels.

I was way happier with the mushroom clouds than the skewed picture.

I'm going to take everyone's advice and look into the KDS-60A2020 models..

I was really hoping for better quality as I've been happy with the Sammy LNS4096S 40' 1080P LCD TV I have in the bedroom.

I've read through this entire thread and most of the bowing issues seem to be on the 5076 and 5676. Mine is a 6176, wouldn't think that this would make a difference but maybe so. The store model was perfect as was mine after I hooked it up. Sounds implausible and may simply be due to the fact that there are more 50" and 56" sets.

Just got back from CC and took a look at the KDS-55A2020 and found a disturbing amount of pincushioning and bowing on it. I wasn't very impressed at the pic quality compared side by side with the Sammy DLPs.

I ended up returning it for brand new HLS6187W which is getting delivered later in the week.

Just got back from CC and took a look at the KDS-55A2020 and found a disturbing amount of pincushioning and bowing on it. I wasn't very impressed at the pic quality compared side by side with the Sammy DLPs.

I ended up returning it for brand new HLS6187W which is getting delivered later in the week.

Bowing and Pincushioning on a Sony (LOL) yea right... Sony has near perfect Geometry you must mean the Samsung had Bowing and pincushioning since this new series is known for Geometry problems.. As for Pic quality IMHO they are neck and neck anyone saying the sammy blows away the Sony must have been looking at a Sony with an inferior feed or the set was calibrated wrong.. I looked at both a BB side by side NO Diffrence in quality except if you look funny at the Samsung the screen with warp (LOL)

I don't see a thing.....These shadows, if you do have them with the TV off, can be massaged out.From the bottom of the shadow...massage outwards towards the edges of the frame. It works

you do know that the shadows come right back as soon as the set warms back up right? :rolleyes:. and, i can't believe you couldn't even see the shadow on my pix :confused: . anyways, if the the techs can't fix it, then i'll try the 61" model. And, if that 61" has problems, then i'll have to switch it up to a Sony set. ;)

Bowing and Pincushioning on a Sony (LOL) yea right... Sony has near perfect Geometry you must mean the Samsung had Bowing and pincushioning since this new series is known for Geometry problems.. As for Pic quality IMHO they are neck and neck anyone saying the sammy blows away the Sony must have been looking at a Sony with an inferior feed or the set was calibrated wrong.. I looked at both a BB side by side NO Diffrence in quality except if you look funny at the Samsung the screen with warp (LOL)

Please be my guest and check out the Steven's Creek Circuit City here in the San Jose and take a look at the KDS-55A2020 floor model. Even the store manager, Duc, acknowledged the Sony model did not look right after I pointed it out to him. I'm not here to slander any products just to state what my experience was as you are entitled to your opinion.

Bowing and Pincushioning on a Sony (LOL) yea right... Sony has near perfect Geometry you must mean the Samsung had Bowing and pincushioning since this new series is known for Geometry problems.. As for Pic quality IMHO they are neck and neck anyone saying the sammy blows away the Sony must have been looking at a Sony with an inferior feed or the set was calibrated wrong.. I looked at both a BB side by side NO Diffrence in quality except if you look funny at the Samsung the screen with warp (LOL)

What a rather biased opinion. Look around, the geometry isn't always perfect. It's in the Sony threads as well. Bad apples? Maybe......but it is possible, something you claim it isn't. Please be more fair in future correspondence.

What a rather biased opinion. Look around, the geometry isn't always perfect. It's in the Sony threads as well. Bad apples? Maybe......but it is possible, something you claim it isn't. Please be more fair in future correspondence.

Rarely have seen any post stating any geometry issues regarding Sony maybe once in a blue moon however the new Samsungs I have seen post after post of BAD Geometry issues, folks that have been through 4 Sets with same issue, having tech after tech come and have not been able to figure out how to fix the BAD Geometry issue. Biased I think not just stating facts... I was all set to buy a new Samsung but why take a crap shoot with a Samsung when the majority of the new Samsungs have the Bowing issue and the Majority of Sony's have "Near" Perfect Geomety...

Rarely have seen any post stating any geometry issues regarding Sony maybe once in a blue moon however the new Samsungs I have seen post after post of BAD Geometry issues, folks that have been through 4 Sets with same issue, having tech after tech come and have not been able to figure out how to fix the BAD Geometry issue. Biased I think not just stating facts... I was all set to buy a new Samsung but why take a crap shoot with a Samsung when the majority of the new Samsungs have the Bowing issue and the Majority of Sony's have "Near" Perfect Geomety...

I think he meant how you began your post by saying "pincushining on a sony (LOL) yea right" or something like that, but whatever the case.....I have looked at the different sony TVs and samsungs and it is true...

Seriously anyone can see samsung has the superior PQ. Its so noticeable to me IMHO in fact that if I do get another TV it will most likely be a samsung LCD.

If you can't see that then good for you maybe you will be satisfied with whatever you buy, but for me...samsung is the only way to fly....even if that means waiting for the next series.

So the Brandsmart delivery guys just showed up with a replacement 5676 and it had the exact same bowing problem! I'm going to exchange it for a third TV, but if that one still has the problem then I'm going to have to return it. :(

I live in south Florida, so I wonder if the extra heat/humidity involved with the climate down here could be a contributing factor to this issue?

Anyways, I guess I should start looking at the Sony TVs in case the third one has the same issue as well?

I wish I could say it's the humidity, but I've yet to find one that didn't bow. A few here have had some luck, but it's unfortunately well in the minority.

Good luck.

Has anyone looked at the berezin web page for theses samsung TV's? I guess the 3-D field sequential systems work fine as long as your PC sends out a 120hz signal. Sorry I'm not allowed to post the url here because I haven't made 5 posts.

Why should I pay $199.95?

Wouldn't any field-sequential system work?

I have about a week on my HL-T5076S and initially had mixed feelings on it. I love the picture quality overall. Brightness/contrast are great once you get a few basics settled. Color still needs some correction as I have just not had the time to really get the VE disc out and spend 1/2 the day with my set in the dark.

A little background on me. I used to work for a company called Iwerks Entertainment in Burbank, CA. I was heavily involved in product development and installations. I have done hundreds of convergence and color calibrations. I have worked with proprietary analog laser-disc systems. This was Sony's first foray into the HD stuff over 15 years ago. 16' x 9' true silver screen with a ceiling mounted Sony component RGB projector. This stuff was never available commercially in the USA. It was awesome at the time. I was the guy sitting in the theater for hours with the remote (wired, boo) in my lap cringing every time someone opened a door. So I am very excited that I have this new HD set in my house now. I did a lot of research and this set fit the bill in all categories - price, size, features, availability and reviews.

Ok, bowing issues. Yes. Its bowed... and skewed.

Skewing-
With the horizontal line internal test pattern on, the top line is a complete "box" off counter-clockwise. Approx. 3/8" on this size set. Hoping a full calibration can remedy this.

Bowing-
Most of the horizontal lines are great from the center to about 6-8 inches from the edge. From that point it curves up about 3/4" on the left and 1/2" on the right. This is worst about 1/4 of the way up from the bottom. This puts it right about the top of most crawls and news taglines/info screens. This is generally most noticable on menus and on-screen programming guides. Also news and sports, with HD sports programs being one of my favorite uses for this new set.

Solution-
I have read about the weakness of the actual plastic cases of these sets. I am using a fairly lightweight (read flimsy) stand that allows me to rotate the unit to accommodate seating positions in my fairly small apartment. With this unit weighing less that 70 pounds, I hoped it would be sufficient. Max viewing distance is 9 feet, so I do find it helpful to rotate the unit to different viewing locations. I put the unit in service mode and selected the horizontal lines test screen. I found it easy to move the image on the screen with light to medium pressure on the case. I then noticed that the two widest feet on the unit are not even on the turntable of my stand. My solution? 3/4" hardwood plywood sheet cut to fit under the complete unit. This helped quite a bit with the "smile". In order to get even closer to accurate horizontal lines, I simply used small wooden shims (think door frame installation) to tweak the case a small amount. With a bit of patience and different combo's this really helped. I have eliminated almost all of the smile on the right side of the box and most on the left. Still have a bit of creep on the last inch or two, 1/4 of the way up.

Conclusion-
I know that a ton of people will cry foul on this solution. I know this will all need to be redone if I move the set. If we have an earthquake I will have the same scenario (Orange County, CA). Ok, I get this. Fine with me. Every time you move any rear projection set you have some recal'ing to do. Period. Ok, LCD and Plasma don't have this problem, but this isn't the Plasma/LCD thread is it.

Next gripe everyone will have - "You shouldn't have to do this, period... (insert company/model name here) doesn't need this done". Every unit out there can benefit from professional calibration. With that being WIDELY accepted, think about this. $10 of plywood and a few shims does not add up to the near $400 charged for most DLP pros. I will give you that I can still benefit from a complete per-input calibration. I plan on doing that, but the fact is, that calibration service will not correct the "smile" anyways. So the point is moot. If you can shim/tweak your case to resolve a good portion of the problem, just do it!

Summation-
I love this TV. I have Time Warner with the SA8300HD Explorer DVR going HDMI to the unit and watched Casino Royale last night from the HD On Demand Service. Loved it. Looked incredible. I don't mind that I have to tweak the case to get the picture better. I would calibrate this thing with a hammer if it helped. My TV looks way better than all of my friends (save for one who is an installer) and that's pretty much why we buy 50" plus TV's right? Well that and some of us are actually audio/videophiles. This set fits the bill well and for the current retail price, it is still a bargain. Ok... Start to cry "Foul!"

Ok... I can't get the PC input to work with my laptop connected to the HL-T5076S. I think the problem is the 25' cable I had built a while ago for my last ceiling mounted 36" CRT RCA TV. I don't think the signal is strong enough for the set to recognize the input is active. I plan on trying a shorter, say 10' cable. I tested the laptops output with a standard monitor and standard length cable. It works fine. Anyone had this problem before?

...
Solution-
I have read about the weakness of the actual plastic cases of these sets. I am using a fairly lightweight (read flimsy) stand that allows me to rotate the unit to accommodate seating positions in my fairly small apartment. With this unit weighing less that 70 pounds, I hoped it would be sufficient. Max viewing distance is 9 feet, so I do find it helpful to rotate the unit to different viewing locations. I put the unit in service mode and selected the horizontal lines test screen. I found it easy to move the image on the screen with light to medium pressure on the case. I then noticed that the two widest feet on the unit are not even on the turntable of my stand. My solution? 3/4" hardwood plywood sheet cut to fit under the complete unit. This helped quite a bit with the "smile". In order to get even closer to accurate horizontal lines, I simply used small wooden shims (think door frame installation) to tweak the case a small amount. With a bit of patience and different combo's this really helped. I have eliminated almost all of the smile on the right side of the box and most on the left. Still have a bit of creep on the last inch or two, 1/4 of the way up.
...


Interesting. My set has a very slight smile in the middle third of the picture towards the bottom. Only at the 6" outside edges and maybe 1/4 to 3/8". My TV sits on a very strong wooden platform and always has. Perhaps thats the secret. It needs a very strong base because the set itself is too flimsy for any support.

Even stating that its unfortunate that it has any geometry problems at all but I think its the lessor than a lot of other evils I have seen. I came off of an HLR with repeating shadow problems with the light tunnels that seems to plauge all the 1 and 2 year old DLP's.

Perhaps that helps. However, that doesn't explain why all of them in the stores have such problems, when they sit on very sturdy structures. I've yet to find an HLT that didn't have this issue.

Yeah I think the rush to get the next-gen stuff out is hurting the quality. Demand is so high that the factorys must be running at full speed. It is unfortunate that the thing to suffer is the picture quality. I think that is foolish since.... THESE ARE HIGH DEFINITION TELEVISIONS! That would be like Yamaha or Onkyo skrimping on DAC's to get a new product out quicker. Stupid.

Ok does anyone know for a FACT (please no posts of 'a friend of mine...') if there is full convergence calibration available for these models? From what I have read no one has talked about true Samsung authorized service techs being able to correct this. Not talking about the drop-off installers or the big retailers guys. I mean a true professional. Let me know if someone has gotten that service. Does it help the smile? Is it worth it for picture quality? I know it generally is.

Ok does anyone know for a FACT (please no posts of 'a friend of mine...') if there is full convergence calibration available for these models? From what I have read no one has talked about true Samsung authorized service techs being able to correct this.Convergence is not an issue with single chip micro display projection systems. There is nothing to converge. :)

[QUOTE=ccouper]Interesting. My set has a very slight smile in the middle third of the picture towards the bottom. Only at the 6" outside edges and maybe 1/4 to 3/8". My TV sits on a very strong wooden platform and always has. Perhaps thats the secret. It needs a very strong base because the set itself is too flimsy for any support.
QUOTE]
My smile isn't noticeable unless I break out tape measures and my stand is very sturdy as well. We may have a solution of sorts here.

microware1970, When you do get around to calibration, I'm sure most of us here would be interested in your final settings. I posted mine awhile back but I'm sure there is always room for improvement.

Little bit of a rant... venting.... experience thus far....

I recently purchased the HL-T6176S and like most of you, I have some major issues with the image geometry. My display is bowed, tilted and barreled. The in-store set I saw had none of these issues (yes, I even went back to check it out and make sure I didn't overlook the issues). They (BB) also had one of the new LED models on display, which by the way had ridiculous bowing. It looked like an elephant was sitting on top... the display was that bad. I can't believe they would stick that on the showroom floor. Back to the HL-T6176S floor model... no bowing, no barrel, no tilt. I asked them to put on a 2:35 movie and the letter boxing was perfectly straight - well, to the naked eye. I must have spent close to a half hour messing with that floor model (menus, tv shows with tickers) and could not recreate any of the problems I am having on my home set. The geometry looked great.

When I got home I made sure everything was level with my tv and stand and even tried messing with the frame and screws... to no avail. Unlike many of you, I simply do not have the patience to have reps come out repeatedly, call customer service repeatedly, swap 4-5 sets of the TV, etc. I applaud your diligence, but I can't commit to all of that just for a TV. I'd end up pulling my hair out.

I am going to give this set one more try next week with a replacement model and if that doesn't work, I will be looking at another brand or wait until Samsung fixes this issue an re-purchase the updated model. It's too bad the build quality on these sets is piss poor, the image is amazing. How could they let this through Q/C and to the consumer???

Hopefully mid-next week I can write back with a positive review, although I am not getting my hopes up.

I'll post a few pics after I hit my 5th post.

The Tilted Departed:
http://craighanna.com/samsung/IMG_1368.JPG


Opening scene from Departed, this was the first movie I popped in... so disappointed
http://craighanna.com/samsung/IMG_1367.JPG

The bottom geometry looks like a flag blowing in the wind.... awesome
http://craighanna.com/samsung/IMG_1365.JPG

Looking at your picture, i say that you should take a piece of paper, fold it in half 4 times until it is about 2"x3" and then stick the piece of folded paper under the right front corner of your tv's foot. See what that does for the situation, you'll be surprised.

I am on my third TV after observing what everyone is talking about. This is BS. I called Samsung again and when I give them the serial number they say "Are you calling about the geometry problem." Then I was told to contact the geometry department between 9-5, not that they will do anything. This is totally unacceptable now that I look at all these threads and have seen it for myself. ISN'T THERE SOMETHING WE CAN DO AS CUSTOMERS?

mantraxl - i did what you said and it worked for the tilt, but i still have a smiley face on my screen. its not THAT bad, but still noticeable. my wife came downstairs to see what i was up to and said 'oh, the image isnt tilting anymore' .... then she saw the piece of paper and laughed.

as i mentioned above, i'm going to give it one more go around since i have seen a few store models not displaying the geometry issues. however, if the replacement is as bad or worse... im getting my money back.

"ISN'T THERE SOMETHING WE CAN DO AS CUSTOMERS?"

If you are not happy with the response from Samsung and cannot live with the bowing then return the set.

mantraxl,

Your little paper shim fix did the trick, thanks! The only issue I've had since I took delivery (June 6th) of this TV was the slight counter-clockwise rotation of the picture, and now it's gone.

Perhaps the bowing issue on my set is not as severe others on this thread (certainly the pictures CRH07xx posted document an unacceptable level), but I can't stress how happy I am with my set. The connectivity options are great, the picture quality is stunning (In-laws visiting this weekend thought it was amazing), and the aesthetics of the all black, slim depth cabinet (flimsy construction not withstanding) look sleek and modern. I challenge anyone to find a better all around solution for less than $2k (I have the HLT-5676S). At that price point it's all about compromise (rainbows, viewing angle, resolution, connectivity options), and it's unfortunate that screen geometry now figures into the equation. I agree with everyone we shouldn't have to deal with it, but I for one am happy with my purchase.

On to another note, has anyone had their set calibrated yet?

So I got a third 5676 from Brandsmart this morning. Unfortunately, it too has the bowing issue. This one is definitely better than the last two (the previous one was really bad), but it is still not acceptable. I went into the store today to talk to the sales guy about what I should do. Initially I wanted to return it and get something else but there is really no other option for the price (the other sets are at least $300+ more expensive, maybe for a reason?). I told the sales guy that I would be willing to exchange it for a fourth unit. He decided to get his manager involved since having to exchange three TVs is kind of ridiculous (which I agreed with him on). The manager wasn't quite as friendly as the sales guy, but ultimately told me that tomorrow (when the service department was open) he would personally arrange for another technician to come out and look at the problem. This is slightly insulting as I feel like they don't trust my judgment of the problem, but I suppose I can understand their thought process. One guy in the store was convinced that there is something wrong with my cable signal that is causing the distortion despite the issue being present in the TV's built-in menus. Anyways, I'm going to be pissed if the tech doesn't consider there to be a problem since this TV's bowing isn't as bad as the first one. But since I'm still within my 30 days of purchase I should be able to return it anyways.

Anyways, sorry for the venting, hopefully the tech concludes that this TV needs to be replaced and the fourth one won't have any bowing. I can't understand how the store hasn't heard of this problem before, so far I've gotten three bad TVs. Maybe most people just don't notice it or maybe they do, but it doesn't bother them?

I just purchased one of these units on Saturday with some reservation. The B+M place that had it, had it at a price point I didn't want to turn down. I read this board prior to buying, hence my reservation. But I decided to take the plunge anyways and hope I got lucky. Nope. Had the same "smiley" face that everyone was describing. My girlfriend laughed once she saw it. It wasn't terrible but I shouldn't have to settle for it not being as bad as some have described. I messed with the case and was just flabergasted at how poorly constructed it seemed. I thought it was funny when my girlfriend could see the picture bounce up and down when I gently pushed down on the case. After only one day of using the TV I've packed it up and set up my old TV. I'm not even going to attempt to play the game of getting a 2nd, 3rd or even 4th replacement in hopes of one being ok. I'm taking this back and getting my refund.

Just got back from Costco and they had a few HL-T6756W floor models. I don't know if these are re-releases as I have never looked at this model before... but the cabinet was much sturdier. Light finger pressure did not alter the image at all and all the content seemed to be pretty level and straight. I pushed down on it pretty hard a few times and didn't notice a change in the image. One set had some slight pin cushioning on 4:3 content... but I could live with it.

Is the only difference between the 76s and the 56s the Slim Depth? If so, I might give this 6756 a shot.

CRH07,

A quick glance at the Samsung site seems to suggest that the 6756W only has 2 HDMI inputs. Also, it looks like all of the connections are on the back (as opposed to the side on the 76). There may be other more significant feature differences that you may want to look into further.

On a separate note, does anyone know how to get into the service menu on the 76? Thanks...

Thanks, I'll check out their site....

"ISN'T THERE SOMETHING WE CAN DO AS CUSTOMERS?"

If you are not happy with the response from Samsung and cannot live with the bowing then return the set.
Thanks but I returned the set three times. Honestly the PQ is great. All I'm saying is that we should not have to deal with this incorrect geometry and flimsy cabinets. I see there are alot of us out there. My tv was manufactured on 07/30/07, so that shows you nothing has been done with this issue. There is no other TV comparable in this price range and it is a shame. Maybe I should have packed it in like some people the first time. I can't understand how Samsung cannot fix this issue. Is everybody contacting Samsung or just returning TV's back to the store. This is totally unacceptable and now I see why everyone is frustrated, these cabinets are a joke. I checked the HLT6187S while I was getting my third replacement and the cabinet is much sturdier. Am I better off shelling out another $600.00 for the LED?

Thanks but I returned the set three times. Honestly the PQ is great. All I'm saying is that we should not have to deal with this incorrect geometry and flimsy cabinets. I see there are alot of us out there. My tv was manufactured on 07/30/07, so that shows you nothing has been done with this issue. There is no other TV comparable in this price range and it is a shame. Maybe I should have packed it in like some people the first time. I can't understand how Samsung cannot fix this issue. Is everybody contacting Samsung or just returning TV's back to the store. This is totally unacceptable and now I see why everyone is frustrated, these cabinets are a joke. I checked the HLT6187S while I was getting my third replacement and the cabinet is much sturdier. Am I better off shelling out another $600.00 for the LED?

mp3019; It is just INSANE to have to go through three sets with the same geometry issue let alone a fourth!! IMHO you should get a complete refund and look into getting a Sony KDS 2020.. I did a comparrision between the Sony and Samsung and I could not tell a diffrence in picture quality. Blacks on the Sony are Inky black, great shadow detail, colors are bright and really pop, HD is super sharp and SD is good as well.. Alot say the Samsung has a great picture better than the Sony myself I did not see any diffrence but it better be a oh my GOD WOW diffrence to the person going through what alot are decribing on this forum.. Had my Sony for over a month and LOVE IT!!!

mp3019 - i for one will definitely be contacting samsung regardless if i keep the replacement set. i wonder how many of these sets are actually being returned. it has to be a pain in the ass for the retailers (online and off) to continually replace and refund these sets. if enough people and businesses complain, hopefully samsung will fix the issues.

has anyone started a petition?

mp3019 - i for one will definitely be contacting samsung regardless if i keep the replacement set. i wonder how many of these sets are actually being returned. it has to be a pain in the ass for the retailers (online and off) to continually replace and refund these sets. if enough people and businesses complain, hopefully samsung will fix the issues.

has anyone started a petition?
We should have one!

does anyone know where i can check out the HL-6756W other than Costco? i can't seem to find any retailers that carry it. i tried the dealer locator on the samsung site, but it came up with nothing.

costcos video source was horrible. i may have to lug my a-20 down there and hook it up

also, i was browsing some retail sites and reading reviews of the HL-T6176S and most people seem happy with their sets. I wonder if they are receiving good sets or are they just blind to the bad geometry? ...... or maybe Samsung hired a team of people to write good reviews :)

They may just not notice it, or perhaps they are lucky. We're not alone here, imo. I've personally gone to dozens of stores looking at Samsungs, as have others, and every one has a geometry problem.

does anyone know where i can check out the HL-6756W other than Costco? i can't seem to find any retailers that carry it. i tried the dealer locator on the samsung site, but it came up with nothing.

costcos video source was horrible. i may have to lug my a-20 down there and hook it up



Its a Costco exclusive.

I think its basically an HLS model in a HLT clothes

Its a Costco exclusive.

I think its basically an HLS model in a HLT clothesIt's a HL-T in modified HL-S clothes. ;)

Are the HLS last years model?

Are the HLS last years model?Yes. The HL-S models are the 2006 version.

The HL-T6756 has HLT (current year ) electronics in a sturdier case. I would not characterize the case as HLS since it does not have the silver bar.

They may just not notice it, or perhaps they are lucky. We're not alone here, imo. I've personally gone to dozens of stores looking at Samsungs, as have others, and every one has a geometry problem.

After reading this thread (and my set is due today) I went to about 5 local stores and NONE had geometry problems. Must be REAL hit and miss. Yes, I looked for about 10 minutes per set.

How do you get the internal test pattern up?

Must be REAL hit and miss.

I think it's more "Hit" then it is "Miss".

I've been to 4 different stores around me and every single one had an issue. Some were better then others. One store was about 60 miles away from where I live, as I stopped by on the way home from a work.

I have a 60 A3000 coming in soon to replace my Samsung. It's sad because I really like the picture but the geometry issue is a flat out deal breaker.

The HL-T6756 has HLT (current year ) electronics in a sturdier case. I would not characterize the case as HLS since it does not have the silver bar.Right. That's why I wrote:

"It's a HL-T in modified HL-S clothes."

The HL-T case retains the HL-S rigidity and depth. ;)

Take it back, don't waste your hard earned money by "living with it". Samsung really botched the HL-T series this year. Every store I've been to has had the HL-T on display and almost all of them clearly showed the smile. Personally, I'd avoid Sammy in 2007-08
Then what would you recommend, besides the Sony TVs people have mentioned here. (I don't buy Sony anymore.)

Then what would you recommend, besides the Sony TVs people have mentioned here. (I don't buy Sony anymore.)

If you don't buy Sony's you may want to try the 833 series Mitsubishi set's.

The only thing you won't get with Mit's is 1080p over component but you will get some more features in turn.

If you don't buy Sony's you may want to try the 833 series Mitsubishi set's.

The only thing you won't get with Mit's is 1080p over component but you will get some more features in turn.

Thanks, I haven't really considered Mitsubishi and JVC TVs, but I should. I haven't done any research on them. So the Mitsu 833 model is getting good reviews? I can live w/o 1080p over component since I plan to use HDMI between the TV, receiver, and HD-DVD/DVD player (whatever player I wind up getting).

I'm also curious on the Costco model of the Samsung DLP TV (the HL-T in HL-S clothes). Do they also come in 50", 56", and 61" screen sizes or just 67"? Has anyone who has bought a Coscto Samsung DLP TV had bowing/smiley face problems?

Thanks, I haven't really considered Mitsubishi and JVC TVs, but I should. I haven't done any research on them. So the Mitsu 833 model is getting good reviews? I can live w/o 1080p over component since I plan to use HDMI between the TV, receiver, and HD-DVD/DVD player (whatever player I wind up getting).

I'm also curious on the Costco model of the Samsung DLP TV (the HL-T in HL-S clothes). Do they also come in 50", 56", and 61" screen sizes or just 67"? Has anyone who has bought a Coscto Samsung DLP TV had bowing/smiley face problems?

It hasn't receieved any reviews yet but it is replacing the 831 series which was CNET's editors pick last year.

It will have PIP, 120hz refresh, xv color, deep color, HDMI 1.3 etc.

4 HDMI's
3 Components also

Boy o BOY

Man at these prices maybe its worth tryin to wait for a fix..

BTW what is the difference between the HLT6156w and the HLT6176s?

Also I could not notice ANY bowing on the 6156w...maybe these models are good?

Boy o BOY

BTW what is the difference between the HLT6156w and the HLT6176s?

Also I could not notice ANY bowing on the 6156w...maybe these models are good?
The 76 is the slim one.

Damn good prices.

you guys should read the thread on the 67 ,the case might be more sturdy but mine and many others have geom issues,putting paper under its edges do nothing to help the prob

I've decided I am going to give the HL-T6756W a shot. I'm hoping to pick it up Wednesday or Thursday. I'll let you guys know how it goes.

Reminder

No pricing other than MSRP or discussion on where to buy.

Thanks

The 76 is the slim one.

Damn good prices.

Wait so you guys have not even tried the 56Ws just because they are not the slim versions??? Its just as new as the 76s series only it doesnt have 3 HDMI inputs....and I saw no bowing....

Please tell me there are other reasons why no one has tried out this series!

It hasn't receieved any reviews yet but it is replacing the 831 series which was CNET's editors pick last year.

It will have PIP, 120hz refresh, xv color, deep color, HDMI 1.3 etc.

4 HDMI's
3 Components also
Thanks, it does look like a nice TV and is much thinner than last year's Mitsubishi DLPs. However, the thin footprint, like these Samsungs, concern me re: bowing, smiley face, flimsiness, etc.

I also read about the 734 model on Mitsubishi's Web site. It seems to have similar specs (albeit no 120 Hz refresh) and also HDMI 1.3. And it's currently available for sale for a much better price than an equivalent size 833, which can only be pre-ordered right now. (I was looking at 1 call.)

Edit: Here (http://reviews.cnet.com/projection-tvs/mitsubishi-wd-57833/4505-6484_7-32450676.html) are the differences between the new Mitsubishi DLP TVs.

733 series

Models

* 57-inch WD-57733 ($2,500)
* 65-inch WD-65733 ($2,999)
* 73-inch WD-73733 ($4,700)

Features

* Three HDMI 1.3 inputs with Simplay HD certification
* Three component video inputs (two rear, one front)
* USB port for photo viewing

734 series

Models

* 57-inch WD-57734 ($2,799)
* 65-inch WD-65734 (no pricing)

Features

* Same as the 733 series, plus:
* PerfectTint, for additional customization of display settings.
* NetCommand, which is designed to let the TV control a rack full of A/V gear, much like a universal remote.
* An additional front HDMI input.

"Diamond" 833 series

Models

* 57-inch WD-57833 ($3,399)
* 65-inch WD-65833 ($3,999)
* 73-inch WD-73833 ($5,899)

Features

* Same as the 734 series, plus:
* FireWire port
* RS-232 input
* Smooth120Hz, which appears to be Mitsubishi's name for 120Hz refresh rate. A 120Hz refresh rate supposedly creates a smoother image during fast-motion scenes, although we have yet to test it with Mitsubishi or other manufacturers.
* TV Guide On Screen, a built-in electronic program guide.
* Game FX, which is 3D gaming functionality, although there are no current titles that support it.

Wait so you guys have not even tried the 56Ws just because they are not the slim versions??? Its just as new as the 76s series only it doesnt have 3 HDMI inputs....and I saw no bowing....

Please tell me there are other reasons why no one has tried out this series!
Isn't that the Costco model? Not everyone has a Costco membership. Sure, one can sign up for it. Also, one would most likely have to pay tax on it. I personally have never even been to a Costco. :o

Isn't that the Costco model? Not everyone has a Costco membership. Sure, one can sign up for it. Also, one would most likely have to pay tax on it. I personally have never even been to a Costco. :o

I saw it at sam's club though for 1889 with stand! But it only had 2 HDMI inputs. I dunno whats the whole dela on this tv...but I gotta find out because the PQ seem to be equal with the 76s series as far as I could tell.

I just got the 5076s model. Arrived from Amazon via truck. SLIGHT geo issues, but the picture is SO darn good and tweakable, I'll probably live with it. MAN, the picture goes way funky if you press on the screen. :)

Too bad I cant put the center on top. The HLS model I had before 42xxsomethin, didnt seem this fragile. I MAY call service and see if they can do anything, but it is ONLY noticable when there is a horizontal line on the set about 5" from the bottom. Other than that, it looks perfect. Seems like the screen material is so weak that IT sags (sorta). Wish I could put glass in there...

Wait so you guys have not even tried the 56Ws just because they are not the slim versions??? Its just as new as the 76s series only it doesnt have 3 HDMI inputs....and I saw no bowing....

Please tell me there are other reasons why no one has tried out this series!You are in the wrong thread.

Samsung HL-T6156W 1080p DLP (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=870642)

Samsung HL-T67xxW info **NO PRICE TALK OR WHERE TO BUY!! (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=10751162&&#post10751162)

Wow, what a great thread. Thanks everyone for the posts. I've felt very identified with many of the posters here.

I purchased the hlt-6176S from Brandsmart about a month ago to put in my basement. I was so psyched by the picture quality but within an hour discovered the horrific smiley face (which name I picked up from this thread).

After finding the smiley face on my new set, I stumbled into this conversation. I read the entire set in one night like it was a soap opera. Too funny. I too am one of the guys that has bought a set, returned it, etc. with my wife hauling huge tv's around with me and who now only wants me to be at peace and move beyond this so we can just be happy with whatever we have.

I scoured the circuit city stores and best buy stores over the next few days with some homemade horizontal jpgs (and some other patterns and color sets) I made and stored on a USB keyring device ("What a dork" my wife says). After reading this thread, I had to see if all the sets were as bad as mine. I also wanted to try the LED lamp based set to see if it suffered as my set did. I had convinced myself I'd pay 10% more to get a set without the bowing. All the sales people in the stores said I was the first person they had seen who had ever brought in a USB key with these "cool images", and of course, they had no idea there was a problem with the set, but everyone that did see (at least 4 sales reps) said, "Yeah, I see exactly what you are talking about". All of the new slimline sets, lamp based and LED based, this years model and last years were ALL showing the smiley face. I tested around 12 sets.

So, I returned my first set to Brandsmart, thinking a replacement MIGHT help. They even let me unbox 2 sets in the store to see if I liked one to take home. (PS, I have a new level of respect for brandsmart customer support). Unfortunately, I gave in and took the second set even though I wasn't happy with it. This set, in fact, ended up being worse than the first, and also has the mushroom light issue (discussed earlier in this forum) which I saw when I got it home.

I then went to check out the Sony A2020 to see if I liked it after reading what everyone says in this thread. I wasn't quite convinced. I only looked at two Sonys, and the Sony picture looked very colorful and bright, but was definitely not as sharp as the Samsung DLP. I already thought the Samsung wasn't true 1080P in "sharpness" so I definitely wasn't going to settle for blurrier. Just as a note, I have a Sony CRT HD 32" set which I like fine, and an Aquos 32" LCD. The Sony A2020 has limitations with PC connections, which I really care about.

A friend at work almost convinced me to go with a projector, but after digging into the real ownership issues, I decided I could wait a couple of years for them to work out the remaining kinks (heat, noise, limitations with ambient light, auto-shut off times, rainbows!, digital noise with fast motion!<- Most of these are problems that "standard" tv's have worked out in the last 2 years).

Anyway, I've grown accustomed to my Samsung set. The picture is just too good for the $ to let go of. I don't like the bowing, but I'm getting used to it. I have a 3 yr warranty and I am hoping Samsung will come up with a fix/solution for this problem. Ironically, I was very worried about how the smiley face would impact playability on an Xbox 360, which I definitely plan to get. I borrowed a friends 360, and it looked VERY good. Instead of noticing the bowing, in fact, I really enjoyed playing Tiger Woods Golf and especially Oblivion and didn't notice the curves.

Microware1970, I am very interested in your post. Could you post a picture of where you placed your shims? I also didn't understand what you are saying about a board underneath the system. Any chance you can post some edited images of your set and an example of what it's been able to do for your smiley face?

I don't care if I get this set perfect, but I would very much like to get the curves diminished. I'll probably get the set serviced for the mushroom light at a minimum.

I have noticed that if I pull back the top of the set, kind of like running your hand through your hair, that the bowing diminishes greatly. I'm thinking of how I could rig a setup to "pull back" the top of the set without damaging the set so I can return it if I need to in the next few months.

At this point, I think I'd like to make an issue with Samsung since there appears to be a growing awareness with customers and Samsung as to the extent of this problem. It seems that if I can help add to the issue, the problem has a better chance of getting resolved for all of us.

I have a 3 yr warranty with Brandsmart, but I think I'd rather take the issue up directly with Samsung to see what I get out of it.

Has anyone had any new revelations in working with Samsung support in the last couple of weeks?

Wow, what a great thread. Thanks everyone for the posts. I've felt very identified with many of the posters here.

I purchased the hlt-6176S from Brandsmart about a month ago to put in my basement. I was so psyched by the picture quality but within an hour discovered the horrific smiley face (which name I picked up from this thread).

After finding the smiley face on my new set, I stumbled into this conversation. I read the entire set in one night like it was a soap opera. Too funny. I too am one of the guys that has bought a set, returned it, etc. with my wife hauling huge tv's around with me and who now only wants me to be at peace and move beyond this so we can just be happy with whatever we have.

I scoured the circuit city stores and best buy stores over the next few days with some homemade horizontal jpgs (and some other patterns and color sets) I made and stored on a USB keyring device ("What a dork" my wife says). After reading this thread, I had to see if all the sets were as bad as mine. I also wanted to try the LED lamp based set to see if it suffered as my set did. I had convinced myself I'd pay 10% more to get a set without the bowing. All the sales people in the stores said I was the first person they had seen who had ever brought in a USB key with these "cool images", and of course, they had no idea there was a problem with the set, but everyone that did see (at least 4 sales reps) said, "Yeah, I see exactly what you are talking about". All of the new slimline sets, lamp based and LED based, this years model and last years were ALL showing the smiley face. I tested around 12 sets.

So, I returned my first set to Brandsmart, thinking a replacement MIGHT help. They even let me unbox 2 sets in the store to see if I liked one to take home. (PS, I have a new level of respect for brandsmart customer support). Unfortunately, I gave in and took the second set even though I wasn't happy with it. This set, in fact, ended up being worse than the first, and also has the mushroom light issue (discussed earlier in this forum) which I saw when I got it home.

I then went to check out the Sony A2020 to see if I liked it after reading what everyone says in this thread. I wasn't quite convinced. I only looked at two Sonys, and the Sony picture looked very colorful and bright, but was definitely not as sharp as the Samsung DLP. I already thought the Samsung wasn't true 1080P in "sharpness" so I definitely wasn't going to settle for blurrier. Just as a note, I have a Sony CRT HD 32" set which I like fine, and an Aquos 32" LCD. The Sony A2020 has limitations with PC connections, which I really care about.

A friend at work almost convinced me to go with a projector, but after digging into the real ownership issues, I decided I could wait a couple of years for them to work out the remaining kinks (heat, noise, limitations with ambient light, auto-shut off times, rainbows!, digital noise with fast motion!<- Most of these are problems that "standard" tv's have worked out in the last 2 years).

Anyway, I've grown accustomed to my Samsung set. The picture is just too good for the $ to let go of. I don't like the bowing, but I'm getting used to it. I have a 3 yr warranty and I am hoping Samsung will come up with a fix/solution for this problem. Ironically, I was very worried about how the smiley face would impact playability on an Xbox 360, which I definitely plan to get. I borrowed a friends 360, and it looked VERY good. Instead of noticing the bowing, in fact, I really enjoyed playing Tiger Woods Golf and especially Oblivion and didn't notice the curves.

Microware1970, I am very interested in your post. Could you post a picture of where you placed your shims? I also didn't understand what you are saying about a board underneath the system. Any chance you can post some edited images of your set and an example of what it's been able to do for your smiley face?

I don't care if I get this set perfect, but I would very much like to get the curves diminished. I'll probably get the set serviced for the mushroom light at a minimum.

I have noticed that if I pull back the top of the set, kind of like running your hand through your hair, that the bowing diminishes greatly. I'm thinking of how I could rig a setup to "pull back" the top of the set without damaging the set so I can return it if I need to in the next few months.

At this point, I think I'd like to make an issue with Samsung since there appears to be a growing awareness with customers and Samsung as to the extent of this problem. It seems that if I can help add to the issue, the problem has a better chance of getting resolved for all of us.

I have a 3 yr warranty with Brandsmart, but I think I'd rather take the issue up directly with Samsung to see what I get out of it.

Has anyone had any new revelations in working with Samsung support in the last couple of weeks?
I have called several times and had tech's out here. You need to speak with someone from the ECR department. So far I have gotten nowhere but they will be letting me know what they are going to do shortly. They should pay me for all that I have been through with 3 exchanges and service calls. I still have 10 days left to return to CC. I am waiting and hoping other people call so they can see what a problem this really is.
PS - Does anyone have any other advice about the RBE? I tried it all contrast down, ambient lighting.
Also, has anyone found out why on scenes like a striped tie, fence, gate, crowd, anything with detail flickers over dish's vip 211 through HDMI. Is it this set also causing this problem?

Nobody ever seems to answer questions here, but here goes anywho..

Anyone have starting calibration settings for the HLT5076s? I am about to throw DVE out the window. The nav is AWEFUL!

Nobody ever seems to answer questions here, but here goes anywho..You've got to be kidding. :rolleyes:

Anyone have starting calibration settings for the HLT5076s? I am about to throw DVE out the window. The nav is AWEFUL!If you follow the links starting with the owner's calibration link at the bottom of my post you will find good settings to start the process and a tutorial on using DVE done by www.avical.com.

Don't worry that the settings are not for your model. Try them. ;)

no offense but how are settings for an LED light source set going to work for a lamp based set? I am not a professional calibrator but they would seem to be apples and oranges.

Here are some settings for THIS set that I stumbled across in another thread(haven't been able to find it again..lol) They seem to work very well.

Movie
Contrast:27
Brightness:51 (I adjusted to 58 as this was to dark for PS3 and dark scenes)
Sharpness:40
Color:65
Tint: G-55 R-45
Color Tone:Normal
Everything else OFF

I have used these settings with my DirecTV HD receiver, PS3, and upconverting DVD player and am very satisfied. I hope they work for you as well.

no offense but how are settings for an LED light source set going to work for a lamp based set? I am not a professional calibrator but they would seem to be apples and oranges.Some settings are the same for all Samsung DLP models starting in 2002, but the main reason that it works is that they are just starter settings. To get the best PQ, short of a professional calibration, using a calibration disk like DVE is necessary.

Here are some settings for THIS set that I stumbled across in another thread(haven't been able to find it again..lol) They seem to work very well.

Sharpness:40

Everything else OFF

The professionals usually set Sharpness to zero because of it's negative effect on PQ. It's included in the "Everything else OFF" group. :)

All I know is that these settings work...try them you'll like them LOL!!!

Tried the starter settings posted in the thread and I think the settings I posted work better for my HL-T6176s but to each his own. People were asking for settings though and I had found those and thought I would share the knowledge. The settings were originally posted by Tone-Loc and he got them using a DVE calibration disk.