tower101 and others that swear by the 50PZ77U. I would really appreciate it if you could answer the following questions:
1. Would you choose the 50PZ77U even if you had a TV viewing environment where you could completely and easily control the lighting or would you opt for the 50PZ700U? In other words, do you think you would be giving up any PQ at all with the AG screen if glare was a non-issue?

2. Do you think the higher CR is just overcoming the slight reduction in contrast due to the AG screen or do you think there is an overall gain in PQ due to the higher CR regardless of the AG screen?

I have a 50PZ700U on order but after seeing some posts on better black levels, etc., I am wondering whether I should go with the newer model. I have windows behind where I sit, but I can pull down the room darkening shades, if I need to.

Randy... no need to comment. I know what you think of the AG screen.

Thank you for your help!

Well, this is only one man's opinion, but ...

After searching high and low, I finally found a store (Circuit City) that had a 50PZ77 and 50PZ700 directly next to each other yesterday. It seemed very obvious to me there was a discernable difference in picture quality -- in favor of the 700. The 77, to me, seemed less "punchy". And it had less contrast (yes I have read about the CR of 10000:1 vs. 5000:1 for the 700). Maybe a better way to say it is a little "washed out." All I know is I preferred the 700 to the 77. The difference wasn't huge, but readily apparent to me.

The same "loop" source was playing on both sets and they were identically set (to "vivid").

I went to the store thinking I would be picking the 77 since our plasma will be located in a bright room. But after looking hard at the two sets directly side by side, I will be going with the 700 (or probably the 750). I ultimately decided that since only about 10% of my viewing is done in daylight, I would go with the best picture quality (the 700 or 750).

That's my take (hope this helps) ...

So are people with HDMI-less 360s playing this at 1080i or 720? The television natively upconverts the signal to 1080p, right?

My 360 is hooked up via component @ 1080i. If you try to send it 1080p it won't display a picture at all (which is what happened to me since the 360 was in 1080p mode due to the last tv I had it hooked to).
Once I flipped the switch on the cable, and set it to 1080i, it worked fine.
Some tvs work with 1080p over component (like sharp lcd's...) but this one doesn't.
1080i looks wonderful though. I haven't tried 720p.

Well, this is only one man's opinion, but ...

After searching high and low, I finally found a store (Circuit City) that had a 50PZ77 and 50PZ700 directly next to each other yesterday. It seemed very obvious to me there was a discernable difference in picture quality -- in favor of the 700. The 77, to me, seemed less "punchy". And it had less contrast (yes I have read about the CR of 10000:1 vs. 5000:1 for the 700). Maybe a better way to say it is a little "washed out." All I know is I preferred the 700 to the 77. The difference wasn't huge, but readily apparent to me.

The same "loop" source was playing on both sets and they were identically set (to "vivid").

I went to the store thinking I would be picking the 77 since our plasma will be located in a bright room. But after looking hard at the two sets directly side by side, I will be going with the 700 (or probably the 750). I ultimately decided that since only about 10% of my viewing is done in daylight, I would go with the best picture quality (the 700 or 750).

That's my take (hope this helps) ...

Thanks...

This is very helpful.

Frankly, I wish Panny would have come out with a 1080p, 10000: 1 CR panel w/o AG.

fireworks?? it's just a side by side comparison i saw yesterday with my own eyes.....AND IT REALLY ISN'T CLOSE....

it's almost like i see the plasma working (refreshing, processing, whatever) while my sony LITERALLY looks lifelike....i didn't expect that myself, but i saw what i saw...i had three other guys with me and they all said the same thing...it truly was night and day ~ and that was why i was hoping there was something to it setup-wise, but i went through the menu's and i'm stumped...:(

I really don't know what to tell you there. I'm of the opinion if you're not satisfied with something, take it back.

There's no magic setting that I know of that's going to change it. Maybe you got a faulty one.

Well, this is only one man's opinion, but ...

After searching high and low, I finally found a store (Circuit City) that had a 50PZ77 and 50PZ700 directly next to each other yesterday. It seemed very obvious to me there was a discernable difference in picture quality -- in favor of the 700. The 77, to me, seemed less "punchy". And it had less contrast (yes I have read about the CR of 10000:1 vs. 5000:1 for the 700). Maybe a better way to say it is a little "washed out." All I know is I preferred the 700 to the 77. The difference wasn't huge, but readily apparent to me.

The same "loop" source was playing on both sets and they were identically set (to "vivid").

I went to the store thinking I would be picking the 77 since our plasma will be located in a bright room. But after looking hard at the two sets directly side by side, I will be going with the 700 (or probably the 750). I ultimately decided that since only about 10% of my viewing is done in daylight, I would go with the best picture quality (the 700 or 750).

That's my take (hope this helps) ...

I don't doubt your opinion. However, I don't think the two TVs necessarily would have the same settings to show their optimal pictures.

It's been expressed here before, however, that the 700/750 has a slight edge in picture quality because there's no anti-glare coating. I'd say get the 700 or 750 since that seems to be what you like. I personally got the 77 because of the window that shines toward the TV. The amount of glare on my old TV was ridiculous.

Are we being taken over by the LOCS?

Are we being taken over by the LOCS?

:D not quite.....just surprised at what i saw....

I was reading the rear projections only have a 6000hr life span and the bulb replacement cost 200 to 400.

6) I love 1080p. But, there is very little content to date to support it if you do not want to buy hddvd or bluray.... I do want to hook up video games, a computer and hd cable. The PS3 does not support 1080p/24(i don't think).

7) Bottom line- I don't think 1080p/24 is that critical, noticeable or important. If it was it would be supported by every new 1080p tv and next gen dvd player....

true, but after that the game is pretty big. You may not notice 1080p in the context of comparing it to 1080i, but in comparison to the absolute lowest possible HD resolution (actually lower since it's below the min requirmements) of 1024x768 that even some top models like the Pioneer 4280 and Pro950 have, combined with a HD source like a blue-ray, i think there probably would be a difference, sadly :(

just received delivery on my 42pz77 yesterday....and i did turn all my levels down, and i downloaded the break-in disc and will begin today...HOWEVER...

the picture on my TV is NOT NEARLY AS GOOD as i had hoped or expected....i own a Sony 55" SXRD 1080p and the picture on that TV BLOWS THE PANASONIC away....it's not even close! both dvd AND high-def cable are equally dissapointing

is there something i can be missing?

~HD cable (1080i - HDMI)
~Sony 1080p upconvert DVD player (HDMI)
Harman Kardon 645 receiver....

any suggestions?
~thanks in advance...

I don't doubt your opinion. However, I don't think the two TVs necessarily would have the same settings to show their optimal pictures.

It's been expressed here before, however, that the 700/750 has a slight edge in picture quality because there's no anti-glare coating. I'd say get the 700 or 750 since that seems to be what you like. I personally got the 77 because of the window that shines toward the TV. The amount of glare on my old TV was ridiculous.

Has it been expressed that the 700's have an edge? i think in this very thread i asked on that and it seemed express that the 77u had a slight edge.

Still, i actually like to see someone find some dissasisfaction in it, mainly because i was having trouble understanding which one was even supposed to be marketed as the superior set. The problem with my store is though that the 77u is on the feed with everything else and they have the 700u in the special sitting cove with a blu-ray, so naturally it will look better.

Has it been expressed that the 700's have an edge? i think in this very thread i asked on that and it seemed express that the 77u had a slight edge.

Still, i actually like to see someone find some dissasisfaction in it, mainly because i was having trouble understanding which one was even supposed to be marketed as the superior set. The problem with my store is though that the 77u is on the feed with everything else and they have the 700u in the special sitting cove with a blu-ray, so naturally it will look better.

In a pure marketing sense, I'd say the 700 is marketed as the superior set because its MSRP is higher. Which set is actually superior is up for debate. I personally think it depends on where you're using your TV.

spincut still sitting on the fence, either one you pick will be great, but i wouldnt wanna pay any more for the 700. Also i liked the style of the 77 wider, lower.

spincut still sitting on the fence, either one you pick will be great, but i wouldnt wanna pay any more for the 700. Also i liked the style of the 77 wider, lower.
I agree with the style statement as I own a 50PZ77 but I believe the 700/750does have a slightly better picture in low light conditions. Todays adds from Frys had the 700 priced $100 higher than the 77 so it is not a major difference.

Overall the biggest difference among the 700U and 77U is the anti-reflective screen, but the 77U has a much smoother picture. However, it may seem dull to some people. Colors are much more vibrant on the 700U. The 77U's picture is much more rounded vs. the sharp edged picture of the 700U.

Chris

Regarding the HD Screen feature on the 77U, I wonder beyond the slight scope difference what is the purpose of this feature? Is it something to do with overscanning? Is one setting a "truer" signal? Is there a picture quality difference?

Thanks so much for the help, guys.

Overall the biggest difference among the 700U and 77U is the anti-reflective screen, but the 77U has a much smoother picture. However, it may seem dull to some people. Colors are much more vibrant on the 700U. The 77U's picture is much more rounded vs. the sharp edged picture of the 700U.

Chris


Much smoother picture? How so? I have a 77U and I'm happy with it but I wonder how much of an improvement the 700 is in a dark living room.

How does the AG screen affect PQ? Sometimes I notice a sort of glassy "screen" glaze over the picture but I believe this is due to poor cable signal over AG screen effect.

Lastly, since the 700 has a better picture, how does my 77u measure against other plasmas and LCD's?

Much smoother picture? How so? I have a 77U and I'm happy with it but I wonder how much of an improvement the 700 is in a dark living room.

How does the AG screen affect PQ? Sometimes I notice a sort of glassy "screen" glaze over the picture but I believe this is due to poor cable signal over AG screen effect.

Lastly, since the 700 has a better picture, how does my 77u measure against other plasmas and LCD's?

It is all speculative. I believe and so do others that the 77U has the better picture since you do not get the washed out pic from light. The 700 has a better pic in low light and if your sitting 2' away other than that they have similar PQ.

The colors are richer and blacks deeper on the 77u aswell. As far as the smoother pic..... Again if I sit 2' away I can make a slight difference but who sits that close unless your looking at it in a store?

Lets start from scratch. The PZ77U and the PZ700U picture panel stats read the same except for the contrast ratio, PZ77U has 10000 and the PZ700U has 5000. The only difference with the panel is the PZ77U has the anti-glare filter and the PZ700U has the antiglare reflecter. I think its been established that the anti-glare filter does a better job of reducing glare than the anti glare reflector. That being said if you take away the anti-glare filter and the antiglare reflector you should have the same quality picture on both sets. My point is that both sets have the same picture/panel specs except for the contrast ratio. The only difference is the glare features and that could debated untill the end of time.

It is all speculative. I believe and so do others that the 77U has the better picture since you do not get the washed out pic from light. The 700 has a better pic in low light and if your sitting 2' away other than that they have similar PQ.

The colors are richer and blacks deeper on the 77u as well. As far as the smoother pic..... Again if I sit 2' away I can make a slight difference but who sits that close unless your looking at it in a store?Well, I took a close look at the two side by side the other day. I concluded that visually the blacks ARE NOT DEEPER on the 77U than the 700 - at least in the typical store environment. I believe that the anti-glare treatment does diffuse reflected light BUT ALSO collects and reflects ambient room light - thus lightening the screen dark areas. So visually, the 77U blacks were washed out in comparison to the 700.

Tis unfortunate. I've been looking for a new family room set to replace our 5 year old Sony 34XBR800 CRT. I've been considering the Sony SXRD (KDS50A3000) and the Panny 50PPZ77U. We have a big window behind the seating area - so reflections are a consideration. There are pros and cons to each of the sets, but the reflections rule out the more conventional plasmas and "real" black reproduction on the 77U is not up to snuff - so I guess I'll go with the SXRD (with all it's problems).

The only difference with the panel is the PZ77U has the anti-glare filter and the PZ700U has the antiglare reflecter.Please, though this has been pointed out before, you and others continue to use complete incorrect nomenclature here.

It is NOT an Anti-Glare Reflector. It IS an Anti-Reflection Coating on the PZ700 and a Anti-Glare Filter on the PZ77.

A REFLECTOR (according to Webster) is: "a polished surface for reflecting light or other radiation". Certainly you don't want that!

I don't know if it is common sloppiness in writing or in thinking - but please get it right.

Thank you.

PS: Specified contrast ratios are bogus - they are measured under unrealistic conditions that real users will never experience. For example, see my above post. The impact of ambient room light will have a very real impact on this.

.

Tis unfortunate. I've been looking for a new family room set to replace our 5 year old Sony 34XBR800 CRT. I've been considering the Sony SXRD (KDS50A3000) and the Panny 50PPZ77U. We have a big window behind the seating area - so reflections are a consideration. There are pros and cons to each of the sets, but the reflections rule out the more conventional plasmas and "real" black reproduction on the 77U is not up to snuff - so I guess I'll go with the SXRD (with all it's problems).

the SXRD is a great TV with a phenominal picture, don't know what the problems are that you have referred to, but i've owned the 55" SXRD 1080p for about a year now and haven't had any....but be warned, the SXRD still has it's issues with light (i.e. windows) reflecting....i also own the Panny Z77 and i'll give this side by side comparison:

GLARE/REFLECTION --> edge actually goes to the PANNY
PICTURE QUALITY --> edge goes surprisingly to the SXRD

originally, i would've thought the opposite be true in BOTH cases, but after seeing them both in my home with the same setups....it is what it is....my .02's....

I believe that the anti-glare treatment does diffuse reflected light BUT ALSO collects and reflects ambient room light - thus lightening the screen dark areas.

I disagree with this assessment. I conducted my own (non-scientific) test by turning the overhead light on and off, increasing the ambient light in the room. I noticed no difference in the picture quality. It could just be my eyes, of course, but I do not see a difference in the picture when increasing ambient light.

I disagree with this assessment. I conducted my own (non-scientific) test by turning the overhead light on and off, increasing the ambient light in the room. I noticed no difference in the picture quality. It could just be my eyes, of course, but I do not see a difference in the picture when increasing ambient light.Well, I've seen and calibrated enough displays so that I feel confident about my comparative visual observations of blacks - so I am confident in my statement about PZ77 black vs others. On the other hand, I was not in control of ambient lighting when I made the observations, so you might be right about that part.

the SXRD is a great TV with a phenominal picture, don't know what the problems are that you have referred to, but i've owned the 55" SXRD 1080p for about a year now and haven't had any....but be warned, the SXRD still has it's issues with light (i.e. windows) reflecting....i also own the Panny Z77 and i'll give this side by side comparison:

GLARE/REFLECTION --> edge actually goes to the PANNY
PICTURE QUALITY --> edge goes surprisingly to the SXRD

originally, i would've thought the opposite be true in BOTH cases, but after seeing them both in my home with the same setups....it is what it is....my .02's....Would you agree that the glare/reflection on the SCRD ranks somewhere between the Z77 and ordinary plasmas?

The problems with the A3000 are:
1) Questionable reliability (green stain/blob problems)
2) Minor geometry issues (on A3000 more than earlier models)
3) Restricted viewing angles (reportedly worse on A3000 than earlier models)
4) Lack of good color adjustments in service menu
5) Finite bulb life

But the pluses are:
1) 24fps input/120fps display (thus no 3:2 pull-down issues)
2) No Image Retention worries (we do watch 50% 4x3 content and don't like stretch)
3) Somewhat lower initial cost (perhaps wiped out by first lamp replacement)

At the moment, the big issues for me are: Reflections and good black levels (coming from a great direct view CRT).

PS: Specified contrast ratios are bogus - they are measured under unrealistic conditions that real users will never experience. For example, see my above post. The impact of ambient room light will have a very real impact on this.

AVS Member tower101 measured the CR and black levels of the 50PZ77U and substantiated a true CR of 10000:1 and excellent black levels (the lowest he has seen on a Panny). I don't have the link to his post but you can find it as easily as I can.

It seems to me the the main difference between the PZ700U and the PZ77U is the CR since that is the most important attribute for PQ. One should be able to control the light in any viewing area to do it right no matter what kind of HDTV you have. So whether you have an AR or AG screen is not as relevant as CR.

I wish Panny would have come out with the sister to the 50PX75U... a 1080p panel w/o AG and then we could better answer the questions regarding the AG screen by comparing apples to apples.

A related question is why does everyone rave about the anti-reflective screen on the Pios? Do they use a different process?

Well, I've seen and calibrated enough displays so that I feel confident about my comparative visual observations of blacks - so I am confident in my statement about PZ77 black vs others. On the other hand, I was not in control of ambient lighting when I made the observations, so you might be right about that part.

I don't disagree with your statement about the blacks. I don't really know for sure as I haven't had the two TVs next to each other.

I wish Panny would have come out with the sister to the 50PX75U... a 1080p panel w/o AG and then we could better answer the questions regarding the AG screen by comparing apples to apples.I think you just described the PZ700U.... it's 1080p without AG.

Well, I've seen and calibrated enough displays so that I feel confident about my comparative visual observations of blacks - so I am confident in my statement about PZ77 black vs others. On the other hand, I was not in control of ambient lighting when I made the observations, so you might be right about that part.

I agree with your assessment. I had similar findings of both displays. Again everyone's settings will be different based on their settings. Overall, most people will be impressed with both displays, but my choice would be the 700U.

Chris

Would you agree that the glare/reflection on the SCRD ranks somewhere between the Z77 and ordinary plasmas?


i would agree with that accessment...



The problems with the A3000 are:
1) Questionable reliability (green stain/blob problems)
2) Minor geometry issues (on A3000 more than earlier models)
3) Restricted viewing angles (reportedly worse on A3000 than earlier models)
4) Lack of good color adjustments in service menu
5) Finite bulb life



i guess i've been really lucky in these areas cuz i haven't experienced any problems whatsoever, and the viewing angle is not an issue, i have a chair located at about 25degrees and 8 feet and the picture is fine....PLUS...with the reduced cost, i guess you can invest in the extended warranty and still end up on top ??



But the pluses are:
1) 24fps input/120fps display (thus no 3:2 pull-down issues)
2) No Image Retention worries (we do watch 50% 4x3 content and don't like stretch)
3) Somewhat lower initial cost (perhaps wiped out by first lamp replacement)


i guess the 24fps input/120fps is why i felt pampered with its picture when compared to the panny...:p

BOTH seem to be great TV's though, so you really can't go wrong with either....

BOTH seem to be great TV's though, so you really can't go wrong with either....Absolutely - that why I agonized over it (plus, who knows, I may change my mind before I purchase (have to get through the stand decision first).

RE: Viewing angle: Reportedly the A3000s have a narrower viewing angle than previous SXRD's. That is a major point in favor of Plasma.

Im sorry i got the calibrator upset by calling the anti-reflective coating on the PZ700u the anti glare reflector, it could have been due to my sloppiness in writing. My point was and still is that both sets have the same picture/panel stats except for the glare issues which can be debated for ever. As far as my thinking im capable enough to know i dont need a calibrator to touch my tv.

I am looking at a PZ77 and wanted to know what people thought about it's computer capabilities? Is it legible? Can anyone take some really high resolution screenshots / camera pics to show the texting of a web browser etc?

My thoughts are to have this TV be my primary tv and also be run by my HTPC w/ Desktop capabilities. Most Desktop uses will be going online and possibly watching downloadable / streaming content and possibly NetFlix on demand streaming movies, so I have to make sure the quality is ok.

Also, I may use it as a monitor at times just as a cool factor when working from home with an IR / Wireless Keyboard / Mouse to do my work.

This is really going to be the decision maker for me between LCD / Plasma I think.

Thanks

As far as my thinking im capable enough to know i dont need a calibrator to touch my tv.As ACCURACY doesn't seem to be one of your strong points, I wouldn't expect that you would be interested in an accurate picture either. :D

But, I hope I accomplished what I set out to do: get folks to call things by the right name (after all, if you think about it, continually referring to an anti-glare treatment as a reflector does not appear to bright).

As ACCURACY doesn't seem to be one of your strong points, I wouldn't expect that you would be interested in an accurate picture either. :D

But, I hope I accomplished what I set out to do: get folks to call things by the right name (after all, if you think about it, continually referring to an anti-glare treatment as a reflector does not appear to bright).


BTW, there are ways to make a point without being a jerk...

Anyone want to see some cool pics of a 42PZ77 in action? Well I'm going to post them regardless :) I am probably going to return mine and wait for the Pioneers to get cheaper or wait for the next gen Panasonics with deeper blacks, they just aren't good enough to satisfy me, but while I have it I'll get some good pics for you guys.

Anyone want to see some cool pics of a 42PZ77 in action? Well I'm going to post them regardless :) Why bother? Any screen shots you post will not look anywhere near as good as the image does in person - they tend to look like crap on a PC monitor and we can't distinguish between Pioneer screen shots and Vizio screen shots :)

bperry8, Thanks for the support, i was thinking the same thing. He should be thrown off the thread for being so insulting. You can attack the posting but not the poster.

bperry8, Thanks for the support, i was thinking the same thing. He should be thrown off the thread for being so insulting. You can attack the posting but not the poster.Tell you guys what. Seeing that you guys here are not interested in getting things accurate (and I've decided to go with a better set - better for me) I'll leave on my own.

Enjoy your antiglare reflectors!

Why bother? Any screen shots you post will not look anywhere near as good as the image does in person - they tend to look like crap on a PC monitor and we can't distinguish between Pioneer screen shots and Vizio screen shots :)

Haha. You're completely correct. With the huge number of variables that go into the pipeline from camera to someone else's computer screen, there's really no point in looking at or comparing screen shots. There aren't even any digital cameras available that are capable of the dynamic range required to show a high contrast scene without over/under/both exposure.

Tell you guys what. Seeing that you guys here are not interested in getting things accurate (and I've decided to go with a better set - better for me) I'll leave on my own.

Enjoy your antiglare reflectors!

Enjoy your better set. Make sure to calibrate it.

KKIMBO ~

i was referring to the Panny....just hadn't had it delivered yet, and was shopping around for a good upconverting DVD player...(coincidentally, i went with the Sony dvp-ns77h with the MediaTek chip)....

but thus far i am not overly happy with the Panny (still breaking it in though) when comparing it to my 55" 1080p sony SXRD rear projection...my sony literally made you feal like you were at the stadium and/or in the movie....but when i watch the Panny, it just pales in comparison, it's just not lifelike (if that makes any sense)
TVO - Are you going to return the pz77u? If so, what will you get for a replacement? Thanks.

just a question about connecting a panny htib to this set as i'm buying one in the next 3 weeks. I already have the htib and it is a newer ezsync model with hdmi. when connecting it to the tv do I still need to connect a digital audio cable, or does it feed through the hdmi cable? i'm wondering because i'm also gonna connect a satilite reciever that will be using component and know i'll need the digital for that (seeing as how this set only has one). i'll also be adding a 360 elite through hdmi and hope I can do the same.

thx

just a question about connecting a panny htib to this set as i'm buying one in the next 3 weeks. I already have the htib and it is a newer ezsync model with hdmi. when connecting it to the tv do I still need to connect a digital audio cable, or does it feed through the hdmi cable?HDMI carries audio as well as video.

I think you just described the PZ700U.... it's 1080p without AG.

I think you know what I meant... A 1080p w/o AG and the same CR as the 75U. Now if the 750U had a CR of 10000:1 you would have something!

thx Randy......so if I run a 360 into the tv through hdmi it will play digital out of my htib, or does it have to be connected through that? I'm asking because there is no digital out on the dvd/reciever, and only 1 hdmi output.

hi,

i am new to this forum, i have researched this to the extreme, i work at an electronics store and have hooked up tvs to blu-ray, hd-dvd, sd cable, and a loop. its down to the sony kdl-40v or 40w 3000's or the panasonic 42pz77u.

my problem is i want to watch sports and love watching movies on my new but unused sony ht-7000dh home theater in a box (last year, but great deal). i plan on buying a PS3 in the future.

i think the sony has an incredible white and picture quality, and the colors just seem to jump. i am pretty sure the setting is on vivid though. and i like the pq on the panasonic but think it is a little dull/faded/washed out/lighter whatever you want to call it. does anyone know how to change the settings so it doesn;'t look as washed out and the white look white (sry if yall went over this)

i want a tv that will last and that i will not regret, i know both brand wise are very good. price is not an issue, i can get both at a price close enough not to matter.

what would you do, for sports and action movies i know plasm,a is better, blacks are better etc...

don;t know what to do

if anyone can help that would be awesome

Well, I took a close look at the two side by side the other day. I concluded that visually the blacks ARE NOT DEEPER on the 77U than the 700 - at least in the typical store environment. I believe that the anti-glare treatment does diffuse reflected light BUT ALSO collects and reflects ambient room light - thus lightening the screen dark areas. So visually, the 77U blacks were washed out in comparison to the 700.

Tis unfortunate. I've been looking for a new family room set to replace our 5 year old Sony 34XBR800 CRT. I've been considering the Sony SXRD (KDS50A3000) and the Panny 50PPZ77U. We have a big window behind the seating area - so reflections are a consideration. There are pros and cons to each of the sets, but the reflections rule out the more conventional plasmas and "real" black reproduction on the 77U is not up to snuff - so I guess I'll go with the SXRD (with all it's problems).



I have been thru dozens of TV's and have had them side by side aswell. I will simply say.... I must have better eyes :)

And I would beleive as most would here that it is my eyes it has to please and look better to. Not anyone else's. And what you or I think is deeper or more rich is irrelevant.

But to say there is a noticeable difference in PQ is just as bad as complaining about what one has deeper blacks.

I think that about sums it up.

Alopez8, i would never buy a tv if i thought its PQ looked little dull/faded/washed out/lighter.

specgeorge,

do you own this tv?

if so, do you see what i am talking about

(its not that the picture is bad, its like a screen is over it not letting bright light through (anti-reflection screen, i know) but is not bad its just like there, i read almost this entire thread, and have read some ppl like it b/c it reduces glare, but i wonder if they actually see what i am talking about)

if you do own it, do you see it, if you see it have you gotten rid of it by changing brightness, sharpness, any other controls . . .

thanks

sorry if i am being really questioning, its just its a lot of $ for me to drop, don;t mind spending it, just mind regretting it

i think you would be more of a happy camper with the sony sxrd LCOs. A lot of people have been raving about it on this site even though this is not the sony LCOc thread.As far as the anti-glare filter on the PZ77U it has received many more postive comments than negative and appears to be the answer to non glare LCD. Go panny go.

I have a question: is the anti-glare filter on the PZ77 models plastic? I ask because of having to wipe away imprints left by curious dog noses and the potential of scratching a soft outside layer.

specgeorge, no thats a rear projection def do not want that . . . lol . . .

i will prob get the panasonic, it looks great, i think i am trying to find something wrong with plasma, have had an lcd thats been great to me

OLDDAVE, Her is your answer straight from panasonic Email to me.(The anti glare coating and anti glare filter are one in the same. The anti glare coating is applied as a coat on the inside surface of the front glass. Since it acts as a IR filter (it absorbs infra-red light waves) it is sometimes called a filter. So i guess you have no problem the dogs can even lick the screen.

Alopez8, I thought that sony was the one you were in love with in the store you work in.

lol, that is true, but i also know that plasma is better for what i want, truth be told price is somewhat important, if i had the $ i would get the xbr4, but dropping close to $2500 for what i can technically get for at least half as less with the panasonic seems dumb, at least i think it does . . . lol i am confused, i think i need to stop researching everyday i read something i do or do not like about the other, its a tug of war

specgeorge -- thanks; my daughter and her three dogs will be happy to hear this.

hi,

i am new to this forum, i have researched this to the extreme, i work at an electronics store and have hooked up tvs to blu-ray, hd-dvd, sd cable, and a loop. its down to the sony kdl-40v or 40w 3000's or the panasonic 42pz77u.

my problem is i want to watch sports and love watching movies on my new but unused sony ht-7000dh home theater in a box (last year, but great deal). i plan on buying a PS3 in the future.

i think the sony has an incredible white and picture quality, and the colors just seem to jump. i am pretty sure the setting is on vivid though. and i like the pq on the panasonic but think it is a little dull/faded/washed out/lighter whatever you want to call it. does anyone know how to change the settings so it doesn;'t look as washed out and the white look white (sry if yall went over this)

i want a tv that will last and that i will not regret, i know both brand wise are very good. price is not an issue, i can get both at a price close enough not to matter.

what would you do, for sports and action movies i know plasm,a is better, blacks are better etc...

don;t know what to do

if anyone can help that would be awesome


IMO, there is no comparison between watching sports on plasma vs. LCD. I owned an LCD and took it back to get the panny plasma b/c I couldn't stand the motion blur during football that I saw on my LCD. Sony LCDs are great, but all LCDs have problems with motion blur. As for the picture differences I can't help you b/c I am completely satisfied with my plasma. Also, if you are going to do a lot of gaming the LCD might be better but IR seems to be a non-issue with this plasma.

just wondering why you would recommend an lcd for gaming when you just stated yourself that you returned one because of a problem with motion blur......:p

Alopez8,Ya it is rough deceiding but i think you can handle it.

I would only recommend an LCD for gaming because of the possibility of IR and burn in on plasma. Almost anyone and almost all experts would recommend an LCD if you spend most of your time gaming or are going to use your set as a computer monitor. Also, motion blur is very noticeable to some people while not at all to others, it is subjective while burn-in is not IMO.

OLDDAVE, glad to help out, check back if you need some more assistance and say hello to the dogs for me.

spincut still sitting on the fence, either one you pick will be great, but i wouldnt wanna pay any more for the 700. Also i liked the style of the 77 wider, lower.

I'm still a little unsure at why the released the 77 though, as clearly most companies dont care about a duller screen, if anything shying away from it (like samsung going all AR only and no matte on anything). Then comes this model, not clearly better or not than the 700u (although my best buy chooses to feature it outside the magnolia area, so it's like the kind of the mainstream tv's displaywise).

TVO - Are you going to return the pz77u? If so, what will you get for a replacement? Thanks.

not returning it....

i think you would be more of a happy camper with the sony sxrd LCOs. A lot of people have been raving about it on this site even though this is not the sony LCOc thread.As far as the anti-glare filter on the PZ77U it has received many more postive comments than negative and appears to be the answer to non glare LCD. Go panny go.

get over it....i was simply comparing since i own BOTH....:mad:

spincut,As far as to why they released the PZ77U. I believe the reason was that panasonic wants to compete with the non glare LCD, the 700U anti glare didnt do the job and the PZ77u anti-glare filter does do the job of reducing glare.

I really can't decide between the TH-42PZ77 and the 42PZ700U. The 700U seems to be less common and generally priced higher. I found a very competetive price for the 700U online with free shipping and no tax, so the two are almost identically priced.

I was able to see them next to each other at Best Buy and noticed the 700U was much more prone to glare while the PZ77 is very glare resistant. The picture on the 700U might have been ever so slightly "cleaner", and the whites seemed slightly brighter (although who knows how the TV's are set up?). The other advantage with the 700U is the speakers. The only thing that concerns me is the glare. Is the 700U worth the slightly higher cost and potential probelms with having it shipped vs. buying locally?

I really can't decide between the TH-42PZ77 and the 42PZ700U. The 700U seems to be less common and generally priced higher. I found a very competetive price for the 700U online with free shipping and no tax, so the two are almost identically priced.

I was able to see them next to each other at Best Buy and noticed the 700U was much more prone to glare while the PZ77 is very glare resistant. The picture on the 700U might have been ever so slightly "cleaner", and the whites seemed slightly brighter (although who knows how the TV's are set up?). The other advantage with the 700U is the speakers. The only thing that concerns me is the glare. Is the 700U worth the slightly higher cost and potential probelms with having it shipped vs. buying locally?

For what it's worth, these two HDTVs are not really in the same class. Panasonic's original MSRP is $2,500 for the TH-42PZ700U and $1800 for the TH-42PZPZ77U. That they are at similar pricing today only reflects the general plasma price slippage.

The way I look at it, 2007 saw 1080p resolution at one lower price point than 2006.

Gary McCoy, What do you mean by not in the same class.

i am new to this forum, i have researched this to the extreme, i work at an electronics store and have hooked up tvs to blu-ray, hd-dvd, sd cable, and a loop. its down to the sony kdl-40v or 40w 3000's or the panasonic 42pz77u.


I've looked at all three of the sets you have listed here and for me, without question, I'd get the pz77. While the Sony's have a lot going for them and I'm sure they are fine sets, the Panasonic pz77 series is just an outstanding value. The biggest reason I'd choose the pz77 over the LCD's you have enumerated is that sports on LCD's have motion blur. Not everyone sees this but I see it on all but the most expensive sets. I don't think it's a problem for me when viewing the XBR-2/4 LCD's but I definitely see it on the majority of the LCD sets out there. Still pictures can look fantastic but when the action starts I get a Monet like blur.

Another reason I prefer the Panasonic plasmas is the SD picture handling. While we'll have more and more HD content in the coming years I think we'll still see SD content for a few more. If you've done your research you'll see posters here with excellent reputations (Randy Walters for one) who have stated that the SD picture on the Panasonic's holds up well. Three years from now you may not care but for now SD performance is still pertinent.

Performance during sports, solid blacks, good SD performance, and a good price make it the right choice this year.

We used to keep our old tv plugged into the cable box so they both would shut off and power up together. But with my new 42pz77u and its 3-prong plug I've got it plugged directly into the power strip. Problem is that on occasion we have forgtten to turn off the tv along with the cable. This results in the tv showing a black background for hours without any source.

Is this something to be concerned about? If so, is there a better solution?

Bluescreen - The PZ77 has an auto turn-off function that will turn your set off when it's not in use. Look in the set-up menu options. I currently use this feature.

Deanstevenson, great post,plain & simple and right to the heart of the matter . Your observations are right on target. I just would like to add that i have always felt that one TV should be reserved for gaming ,Pc,digtal photos, etc and a second one just for TV and dvd watching. But thats just me.

PS can anyone tell me why my member name shows up in orange. Id like to have it in blue like everyone else. Im begining to think somebody might be keeping an eye on me.

i have a questoin read pages upon pages of this thread and have a quesiton

other than 1080p what is the difference between the 42th-pX77u and the 42th-pZ77U

i saw a px77u hooked up the way i am going set mine up and it looked utterly amazing, should i expect the same pq from the pz77u, because from what i read both screens have the same coating, please correct me if i am wrong, i know the pz700u and pz77u diff. have been discussed extensively, just want to know about the px77 and pz77

thanks

btw . . . thx deanstevenson and everyone else great posting on this thread its been a great help in finding answers to questions

Alopez8,yes, panasonic says both sets have the same coating. 42PZ77u is 1080p and PX77u is 1080i/720p. This set is also a great buy.Check out consumer report NOV 2007 issue,they gave it the highest rating. I better stop raving about the 42PZ77u. I just checked the leading electronic chains in my area, no one has the set on sale for 1400.

specgeorge,

so pq shpould be equal or better on the pz compared to px

btw sears has it on sale till the 10th for that price

Gary McCoy, What do you mean by not in the same class.

Just what I said.

The TH-42PZ700U was introduced at $2500 in 2006, and now near the end of production in 2007 is selling at street prices between $1500 and $2000.

The TH-42PZ77U was introduced in late 2007 at $1800 and will probably be selling around $1000 a year from now.

Those are very different price points, dispite the fact that the two are at similar street prices today - when the 2006 model is at it's maximum discount and the 2007 model is still getting top dollar. The PZ77 occupies a price point that had a 720p Panasonic model last year.

It's a credit to Panasonic that they can offer much more value at a lower price point than ever. But IMHO it's an apples/oranges comparison.

I believe the pz700U was introduced in march of 2007 if im wrong please correct me. When you said in your first post that they were not in the same class i assumed you meant one was much better than the other. In the second post your saying apples/oranges comparison. Im not trying to be picky . Im just trying to understand your point. I agree with the good job panasonic is doing by lowering prices.

Alopez8, Your call to make, both good sets.

just ordered my stand for my 50pz77 :)

http://techcraft.net/htm/products/solutions/trk50b.htm

Lol now all I have to do is buy the tv :p.

specgeorge,

so pq shpould be equal or better on the pz compared to px

btw sears has it on sale till the 10th for that price
I've had both the 42px77u and the 42pz77u. I returned the px because it had a small flaw in the glass... I had intended to replace it with a new px, but they had just gotten the pz models in. Not sure which way to go, I decided to pay an extra $300 for the 1080p pz model. After about two weeks with the pz, I feel that it provides a slightly clearer, sharper picture than the px, with absolutely no screen-door effect from my viewing distance of about nine feet. Having said that, the px also provides a very fine picture. The only caveat I would provide is that the anti-glare coating on both these models might slightly "dim" the picture during daylight hours, but so far I've found this to be an acceptable shortcoming when all things are considered. Foremost among these is, of course, that the negative effects of the ambient light coming through my sliding glass doors is negated. The picture quality in the evening and at night, i.e. in low light conditions, is absolutely superb. I've also found that the PQ on standard definition channels is exceptional. So much for my rambling.......

kkimbo,

i have a friend who has the 42PX hooked up and it looked awesome, just like you said though during the day PZ looks little faded/dim (only seen it in stores), but if you have had both and feel you are in fact gaining picture quality with the PZ, i think my decision has been made

thx

CRT tubes were typically rated at 30,000 hours so even the previous several model years of plasma were double that. Now only if the video boards and power supplies would last that long that 100,000 hour projected lifespan would actually mean something :p

i am sorry i don;t understand, i have head that halflife is 60,000 to 100,000 which translates to about 20 -30 yrs,

what is this about video boards and power supplies, how long do they last on average? (is this why most extended warranties for plasma are 3 yr, b/c failure rate or repair time is expected some time following the 3 yrs)

any answers are welcome, first i ever heard of this

I just wanted to check in and see how everyone is doing? I am getting close to the 100hrs already on my PZ77U...I have to say that I love this set. I am so glad I went with this one. I am wondering if anyone out there who recently got a set, if you decided to get it ISF calibrated...that is my next big decision for the TV. I picked up a A-3 over the weekend with the crazy blowout sale Toshiba was having. Again just curious if anyone got their set ISF calibrated...and yoour opinion if you feel it greatly enhanced the picture or just so so

-Rob

kkimbo,

i have a friend who has the 42PX hooked up and it looked awesome, just like you said though during the day PZ looks little faded/dim (only seen it in stores), but if you have had both and feel you are in fact gaining picture quality with the PZ, i think my decision has been made

thx
I believe they dimmed look is an attribute of the contrast ratio and luminance of the screen.

Chris

KKimbo, Great input your post clears up a lot of question between the PX & PZ.

Rhino5167, There is a thread on this forum for calibration. you might want to look at it and pick up some tips, i read a few post and some say you dont need to hire a calibrator which will cost you around 400 just buy the avia disk for 30.00 and do it yourself. Theres a joke about the calibrator man, he will calibrate your tv to all the specifications but you might not notice the difference in the picture and you still have to lay out the 400 and thats after you flew him in from california and payed for lunch.

Rhino5167, There is a thread on this forum for calibration. you might want to look at it and pick up some tips, i read a few post and some say you dont need to hire a calibrator which will cost you around 400 just buy the avia disk for 30.00 and do it yourself. Theres a joke about the calibrator man, he will calibrate your tv to all the specifications but you might not notice the difference in the picture and you still have to lay out the 400 and thats after you flew him in from california and payed for lunch.

Ok I will check that out..your right once they calibrate it you really shouldn't mess with the settings..never really thought about that. But if you use the DVD calibartion disc you can always tweak it as need be...and save some big $$

-Rob

Got the 50" pz77u. Wondering what happens if I turn off the 3:2? I don't notice a PQ difference but then I'm not scanning the screen with fine comb either.

This set passed the deinterlacing test but failed the 3:2 with film. Video seems to better. Does that mean shows will look better than movies?

I would just like to add something to my prior post regarding calibration. I have no qualms with someone trying to earn a honest living by calibrating tvs. Its just that i dont see why i have to pay 1400 plus for a set and then have to spend another 30% to have a proper picture. Most sets are delivered with good pictures out of the box and adjustments that you can make on your own. That being said if have the extra bucks and feel it will make you sleep better at night to have the set calibrated. Im all for that.And if i hit the lotto i might even try having my set calibrated.

Hey Everyone, I've been looking over all the options available on the plasma front, and think the 50PZ77 is the best way to go. (Note: I'm in Canada and this Panny model is JUST being introduced! Talk about lag time.)

I have a small question regarding PS3 gaming - Are all games delivered to the panel via 1080p60 or 1080p24? I've read through this forum and several others but most of the information seems to be anecdotal or outdated.

I believe Sony released a firmware update to enable 1080p24 which can cause jutter, and since the z77 can only handle p60 are the games natively coded for p60 (i.e. no jutter)? Or will the PS3 introduce jutter in all games displayed on the TH-50PZ77?

Thanks

Bluescreen - The PZ77 has an auto turn-off function that will turn your set off when it's not in use. Look in the set-up menu options. I currently use this feature.Thanks. I looked at that option before but ignored it because it didn't seem to work as I thought it would. Digging out the manual reveals that it waits 10 minutes before cutting off.

Is it okay, then, to just leave it to the tv to turn itself off every time we turn off the cable? Mucking around with the universal remote (power of cable, select tv mode, turn off tv) everytime we've finished watching TV is getting to be really annoying ... or I'm just getting to be really lazy.

I've had both the 42px77u and the 42pz77u. I returned the px because it had a small flaw in the glass... I had intended to replace it with a new px, but they had just gotten the pz models in. Not sure which way to go, I decided to pay an extra $300 for the 1080p pz model. After about two weeks with the pz, I feel that it provides a slightly clearer, sharper picture than the px, with absolutely no screen-door effect from my viewing distance of about nine feet. Having said that, the px also provides a very fine picture. The only caveat I would provide is that the anti-glare coating on both these models might slightly "dim" the picture during daylight hours, but so far I've found this to be an acceptable shortcoming when all things are considered. Foremost among these is, of course, that the negative effects of the ambient light coming through my sliding glass doors is negated. The picture quality in the evening and at night, i.e. in low light conditions, is absolutely superb. I've also found that the PQ on standard definition channels is exceptional. So much for my rambling.......
Thanks for this... I was wondering! If I can't get the Mits RP CRT in the media room fixed, then a 50PZ77 is the way I'm going.

I just got the 50PZ77 and it's up on the wall finally.

The picture is great!

I'll try and post pictures.

To my ears the sound is lacking but the picture is great.

My deal with the 50" TV, Professional Installation, mounting brackets, two 25' HDMI cables, one 25' component cable, Panasonic Rebate, delivery, tax (or lack of), HD-DVD player, and 7 HD DVDs all came out to just under $2000.

I don't think I could have done better than this for an equivalent TV

WHERE in the world did you get a deal like that?
Online? Please PM me.

dude, killer deal. Holy crap!!!

My 50pz77u just came today too!!! The box is rather large. Wow. Cannot wait to get this thing powered up.

- Christian

AJoseph, please PM me with that deal. That is a steal.

Rhino5167, I paid $400 to have my old Mits 55W835 (or something like that) calibrated and if I didn't see the guy actually doing the calibration, I would have thought he never came. I could tell absolutely ZERO difference. I had previously calibrated my TV with a calibration DVD, don't remember which one. A "professional" calibration is a waste of money IMO.

I just got the 50PZ77 and it's up on the wall finally.

The picture is great!

I'll try and post pictures.

To my ears the sound is lacking but the picture is great.

My deal with the 50" TV, Professional Installation, mounting brackets, two 25' HDMI cables, one 25' component cable, Panasonic Rebate, delivery, tax (or lack of), HD-DVD player, and 7 HD DVDs all came out to just under $2000.

I don't think I could have done better than this for an equivalent TV

Fantastic! Could you PM me as well?

So I am debating upgrading my TH50PHD7UY. Given that the price is the same, which of the three 50" 1080p pannys would you go with? I am leaning towards the new pz77u over the pz700u for the glare and contrast. But the new professional models came out. The pro has a thinner bezel, two HDMI, and is pretty flexible. With the exception of the speakers, what are the other reasons for going with the pz77U?

Sorry all, I should have explained better about my deal. I got this deal out of pure luck. I went to an online vendor who price matches to buy the 50PX77u. However in the process I asked about the PZ77u and the PZ700u. Finally he sold me on the PX. I asked him to price match to Amazon and he said OK. By the time he got to checkout he rattled off the price which was about right and then he mentioned the model number 50PZ77u. I thought I heard it wrong and then when I got my confirmation e-mail it was the PZ77u! Then I went to Amazon and tried to find the price he price matched ($1499). I couldn't find it anywhere. Not even for the 42" size.

So the long and short of it is that I got lucky. Sorry about not explaining this first.

The Cables are from Monoprice
The mount is from Amazon (PDR Mount)
The HD DVD is from Amazon (Toshiba A2)
The DVDs are from Amazon and Toshiba as part of a promotion
The professional install is from a local guy ($305 including a new electrical drop above my fireplace)
The rebate is from Panasonic on the install costs.
No tax or delivery charge for the TV.

I won't talk specifics about price, but....I just bought one from CC last night, and let's just say the price was a lot lower than amazon and close to a grand off Panasonic's site.

It had me second guessing myself...like....is my decision to buy this right? Obviously somthing has to be wrong with this set! I would have picked this over the PX700 anyway because of the antiglare....so for this price it was a no brainer. The PQ in the store was great (all the TV's PQ at this CC suffer because they are all from a cheap source), and the blacks were clearly darker than all the others.

FosserX, which set did you get the 42PZ77U or the 50PZ77U.

50PZ77U

42 is way too small after watching my returned 4665F Samsung.

42" is fine for a bedroom, but really...What is the point in forking out all this moola if you're not going to really be able to immerse yourself in the movie?? :-)

We're not rich, and our condo living room is small, but < 42" is just small. The extra few hundred is totally worth it to super size it. It's like going to the movies! :-P

42" just feels like watching TV!

The only thing I didn't like about the 50PZ77U (this is the 1080P) is that it's speakers are on the side, which make it even longer. I like the nice small frames around most HDTV's...but I guess for under 2K, it's not a big deal. I suppose if I had it mounted, it wouldn't be a problem at all, but since it's going to be on a long table, it just makes things look BIG for my small condo.

http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Panasonic-50-Plasma-HDTV-TH-50PX77U/sem/rpsm/oid/175536/catOid/-12869/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do

Hmm...there it is....sweet price for this. Seems like it HAS to be something wrong with the set. lol Well...if there is, I'll just take it back and try again.

FooserX, something is seriously wrong here. There is no way you got the 50PZ77u for less 2000. I think you must of bought the 50PX77U. Your numbers just dont add up.

http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Panasonic-50-Plasma-HDTV-TH-50PX77U/sem/rpsm/oid/175536/catOid/-12869/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do

Hmm...there it is....sweet price for this. Seems like it HAS to be something wrong with the set. lol Well...if there is, I'll just take it back and try again.

That link takes you the the 720p PX77U not the PZ77U. However, that price was indeed available for the PZ77U on Sunday...
N

No way cc sale starts on the weekend and runs till the next weekend . I have to see it to believe it. Maybe FooserX can show us the bill.

>>>>However, that price was indeed available for the PZ77U on Sunday...

Glad to see I'm not going crazy.

Hmm...wow. My bad on the web link. :-( That sucks...I could have sworn I selected the correct model. Maybe they changed it today online?

I know for SURE I bought the 50PZ77U with 1080p though...and I know for a fact the tag was reduced to $1999. I have no idea why it's so low now.

Maybe it was a normal sale though, and it will come back?

FooserX which one are they delivering, it should say the model numberon your bill.

Hi gang,

Is there a way to pull up some kind of input information menu?

I've got a mac mini hooked up via dvi-hdmi and I want to know if the tv is receiving a full 1080p signal, and not a 1080i.

Thanks!

The 50PZ77U was on sale for $1999.....if you ordered online and picked it up they had another coupon for 10% more off. I bought mine for $1799. The sale was off by Monday night. It's in my living room right now and was without a doubt the 50PZ77U.

Fooserx If the bill says 50PZ77U and 1900 whats your problem?

I believe FooserX got his in store.

BIG QUESTIONS FOR Panny PZ77U owners:

I've had my television since Oct. 18. Up until Nov. 6, I loved this television set - it was perfect. Today, I noticed while running the break-in DVD, a lone pixel in the center of the screen. It looked pernament. Once I remembered where it was, I could find it on TV, component, HDMI outputs. While a few hours of running the DVD, the pixel seems to be flickering. I don't know if it's black or green, as its toooo small to really make an issue.

Being the perfectionist that I am, I was sorta pissed off. I mean, I choose the best in plasma *Panasonic* due to my issues with stuck/dead pixels in LCD. Now, 3 weeks later, there's this lone pixel. It's not viewable from a meter-plus away, but still.

How common is this?

Should I expect in a few months, a half-dozen pixels gone doodoo - is this a problem of the technology????

I called Panasonic themselves, and they're sending a tech guy. But when I spoke to the tech guy, he told me that most likely he might need to change the panel - a 2hr plus job, which would fix it away since I'm under warranty:

IS THIS WORTH IT?! HOW RELIABLE IS THIS?? Changing the whole engine for one pixel seems a little extensive? Would you do this?

I'm also covered under the warranty at the store I bought it, but it's a hastle to lug a 42 inch plasma to get another that might have the same problem...

SO, if you were in my shoes, would you: 1) say "F" it and keep the television, 2) let the Panny tech guy do his work, or 3) de-drill the television of my stand, throw it in the car, and explain everything to the idiots at Brandsmart (it's like a Best Buy in South FLA) for an exchange??


Please, it would be very important if you could help me answer these questions...

I don't have a problem. Someone was making me think I was confused, and didn't get the 50PZ77u. Then I thought because the web price is now back to normal...I was going crzy and giving people bad advice to good pricing.

No problem here. :-)

DRE

If I were in your shoes, I would get it fixed.

My first choice would be to have the store come fix it. I just had to return my Samsung, and CC charged me a $60 delivery charge to do so...which works out fine because they are delivering my Panasonic at the same time.

October 18...that's still within the 30 day return policy, so I think having the store come replace it or fix it is the best option. I personally would just get it replaced. lol

It's only 1 pixel, but it's a BRAND new TV. You paid premium dollars! You should get something you're happy with. If you're going to focus on this pixel forever...it'll drive you crazy...you won't enjoy it.

Don't even debate about this internally. Have it fixed or replaced for free and be happy. :-)

FooserX, so you checked your bill/receipt and it says 50PZ77U under 2000 and everthing is okay, im so happy for you.

The tech guy Panny would send it is from the area. You think they chances that they change my panel should fix my problem with minimal damages? What I mean is I would hate for the guy to "fix" it only for another problem to occur (audio, visual, - who knows when a guy is taking your television apart!)...But if this is the service company that Panny endorses, then I should be fine then????


As far as the store is concerned: Brandsmart. I had bought a 32 inch Sharp Aquos LCD that was plagued with 7 stuck pixels, retruned it, got another except this one had 3 DEAD pixels. It wasn't until then, I realized the stuck pixels coulda have been fixed. Returned it and got a 37 inch Sharp Aquos, but that had horizontal banding. Finally, I returned that, and made the choice after reading these forums and the Consumer Report to Panasonic Plasmas. SOOO, let's just say I've had a bit of bad luck as far as televisions are concerned. I don't know whether to blame LCDs, Sharp, or Brandsmart itself. But after this issue with my Plasma, the last place I want to go is back to the store. Ha. Godforbid.

Hi gang,

Is there a way to pull up some kind of input information menu?

I've got a mac mini hooked up via dvi-hdmi and I want to know if the tv is receiving a full 1080p signal, and not a 1080i.Just press the RECALL key on the remote - you'll get a pop-up banner displaying the signal it's getting and some other info.

Oh, and what actually makes up a Plasma? Just a panel, glass and the back piece with all the outputs/inputs?

Also, once the panel is replaced, does this mean I have re-break-in my television?!

Originally Posted by RandyWalters View Post


CRT tubes were typically rated at 30,000 hours so even the previous several model years of plasma were double that. Now only if the video boards and power supplies would last that long that 100,000 hour projected lifespan would actually mean something
i am sorry i don;t understand, i have head that halflife is 60,000 to 100,000 which translates to about 20 -30 yrs,

what is this about video boards and power supplies, how long do they last on average?

could someone please explain this

any answers are welcome, first i ever heard of this

lol @ Dre.

I hear ya! I had an HDMI dropout issue with my Samsung 4665F, and went through FOUR freaking DVD's before I realized it has to be the TV. I also took back my first HDTV, an older Sony Bravia because of mass clouding. So now I've exchanged 2 HDTV's and 4 DVD's. I'm sure CC and BB are sick of me. I'm just waiting for them to say "ENOUGH! We don't want your business anymore!" lol

Isn't 1 dead pixel...like....out of 2 million?

How can you even notice it unless it's a flat black or white screen?

I don't have a problem. Someone was making me think I was confused, and didn't get the 50PZ77u. Then I thought because the web price is now back to normal...I was going crzy and giving people bad advice to good pricing.

No problem here. :-)

I also got the tv for 1799 on Sunday at Circuit City (with 3 years interest free). I wasn't even close to being in the market for a new tv but jumped on it. I do have to say so far I'm among those who feel the antiglare dulls the picture just a bit (compared to my TH-42PX60U). I'm going to crank up the picture once I've broken it in a bit. For the price I certainly can't complain, but I was surprised that I noticed it so much.

And yet another new 50PZ77U owner. I missed the initial price but still got in for a couple of hundred more. I'm picking up the set tonight and will be running the break-in DVD on it but was wondering if there were any recommended break-in settings. I had been tracking closely on one of the new Pio's but for the price CC had it this weekend and the predicted leveling off of the flat panel price drops, I felt like this would be one heck of a set for my first flat panel (I'm refusing to even talk about the Westinghouse I had for 3.5 weeks that went back to the store last weekend :( ).

All I know is Sony's flat matte screens look damn fine...especially the new XBR4. So how bad can anti glare really be.

Isn't 1 dead pixel...like....out of 2 million?

How can you even notice it unless it's a flat black or white screen?

When I run the Break-In DVD that's on these forums, you can see the dot on EVERY color. Some of the colors, it flickers. Sooo...That's how. Ha. I was watching A Clockwork Orange and noticed it up close predominantly on flesh tones. Soo...Eh.

I also grabbed a 50PZ77 at the recent CC deal. I must say it has exceeded my expectations on SD and DVDs. I have not seen HD on this set yet, but I would be very happy with only the upscaling of SD content. Might change my mind once the HD-DVD player finally arrives.

In any event, the antiglare screen works very well, and I bought this model with that requirement in mind. I have been shopping to the point of paralysis over the last year, and I don't have a single regret on this decision. For anyone looking for a great choice in a panel, this is it.

Can anyone recommend a wall mount for this unit?

XYTH,wow you guys really stepped in it. that set at cc right now is going for over 2600. I understand it was a one night sale on sunday. Did you just happened to be there and saw the sale? Its like hitting the lotto.

Its crazy panasonic PZ77U,PZ700u,PX77u,PX75u all at good prices and the 50PZ77U going for a little over 1700 while the 42PZ77u is going is still going 1500 to 1700. And the above customers just happened to be in the store or on line. Talk about luck.

Originally Posted by RandyWalters:
CRT tubes were typically rated at 30,000 hours so even the previous several model years of plasma were double that. Now only if the video boards and power supplies would last that long that 100,000 hour projected lifespan would actually mean something......

i am sorry i don;t understand, i have heard that halflife is 60,000 to 100,000 which translates to about 20 -30 yrs,

what is this about video boards and power supplies, how long do they last on average? could someone please explain this any answers are welcome, first i ever heard of thisI was commenting that i think the 100,000 hour till half-life figure is pretty much meaningless because the video boards or power supply boards etc probably won't last long enough to verify the 100,000 hour claim :D

I have a question. How come I can see IR on input screens? Like when I'm in the component or HDMI, you can see IR/ghosting of recently viewed solid objects. For instance, channel logos, football scores, static menus in videogames, dvd menus, and the menu itself. Is that normal? I mean, when I play the break-in DVD (which is all solid colors) I don't see any ghosting at all, neither on DVDs or regular programming - just on blank black imput screens... Do all you get this? Or maybe I have definition of image rentention skewed?

I would also like to know. I'm new to having a plasma and first thought it was burn in, but i dont see burn in happening after 15 seconds!

guys,

looking for a little advice....I have narrowed my choice down to the Panasonic 50PZ77u and a Sony 52XBR4....I was leaning towards the sony due to light in the living room light. But I also have a 1 yr old and the thought of him hitting the screen after paying that much money worries me. Everything I have read is great about the anti-glare. I plan on mounting it on the wall to the left of the fireplace. I have thought about putting it over the fireplace, but don't feel like looking up all of the time.

Opinions please.


http://bp3.blogger.com/_2Nd0tFCapoA/Rynuz0E1sdI/AAAAAAAAB2E/8tcIDb1fsPU/s320/DSC_0068.jpg

guys,

looking for a little advice....I have narrowed my choice down to the Panasonic 50PZ77u and a Sony 52XBR4....I was leaning towards the sony due to light in the living room light. But I also have a 1 yr old and the thought of him hitting the screen after paying that much money worries me. Everything I have read is great about the anti-glare. I plan on mounting it on the wall to the left of the fireplace. I have thought about putting it over the fireplace, but don't feel like looking up all of the time.

Opinions please.


http://bp3.blogger.com/_2Nd0tFCapoA/Rynuz0E1sdI/AAAAAAAAB2E/8tcIDb1fsPU/s320/DSC_0068.jpg

I can attest to the Panasonic's effective glare reducer, so your worries about ambient light can be calmed down for sure, but when deciding between your two sets, I'd have to say a flat panel over a fireplace is pretty sexy. Buy a plasma and don't fret about viewing angles.

Aplopez8, Dont worry about the lifespan. Even the old crts had to have repairs tube replacements,circuit boards etc. PANASOINC SETS HAVE A GREAT REPAIR RECORD. yOU WILL BE LOOKING TO BUY ANOTHER ONE IN 15 YEARS ANYHOW.

I just bought a TH-50PZ77 and I wanted to ask you guys if you think it's worth it to buy a MACK extended warranty for it. This is my first HDTV and I intend to have it for at least 5 years. MACK sells a 3 year warranty for $140.

Also, does anyone know where to buy a matching corner stand?

guys,

looking for a little advice....I have narrowed my choice down to the Panasonic 50PZ77u and a Sony 52XBR4....I was leaning towards the sony due to light in the living room light. But I also have a 1 yr old and the thought of him hitting the screen after paying that much money worries me. Everything I have read is great about the anti-glare. I plan on mounting it on the wall to the left of the fireplace. I have thought about putting it over the fireplace, but don't feel like looking up all of the time.

Opinions please.


http://bp3.blogger.com/_2Nd0tFCapoA/Rynuz0E1sdI/AAAAAAAAB2E/8tcIDb1fsPU/s320/DSC_0068.jpg


With either set, with a toddler you will want to use a screen protector. Both LCDs and Plasmas have been destroyed by plastic bats, Wii remotes, styrofoam gliders, and other small impacts.

If handy, you can fabicate a screen protector yourself. 1/8" clear plastic is most often used, spaced 1/4" from the screen. Light control will be needed to reduce glare.

I know somebody whose 54-year old husband destroyed their 52" screen by virtual bowling when the "Wiimote" slipped out of his hand. Don't assume the kid alone is a hazard. Use a screen protector and a stout mount.

I just bought a TH-50PZ77 and I wanted to ask you guys if you think it's worth it to buy a MACK extended warranty for it. This is my first HDTV and I intend to have it for at least 5 years. MACK sells a 3 year warranty for $140.


I got the same set about a month ago and love it...I am going to get an extended warranty tonight. I think it is worth it to get an ext warranty and have the peace of mind. If you have questions about the warranty you can contact Chris from MountAVision.com, he is very helpful. He spent an hr on the phone one Sat discussing warranties, tv, etc...I am sure the other forum sponsors who offer warranties are just as helpful. I can only speak about Chris because he was very patient and answered all my questions....just my .02

Gary and Noel....thanks for the advise.....After reading an article where a kid was killed from pulling the TV onto himself that wasn't mounted, I think I am going the plasma route and setting the TV over the fireplace.....thanks for the advice about the plexiglass Gary and I will put that together shortly after....Any ideas on tilting the TV at a slight angle downwards from the fireplace? I am place a small board, but will have to create some straps into the back and screwed into the mount to hold the TV and as a safety feature.

XYTH,wow you guys really stepped in it. that set at cc right now is going for over 2600. I understand it was a one night sale on sunday. Did you just happened to be there and saw the sale? Its like hitting the lotto.

My approach to getting my first flat panel was to lurk on this forum and the LCD forum for over a year and keep a list of which models seems to meet my requirements (size, 1080p, etc) and be relatively free from know major defects. Once I had that list, I just monitored a net site that specializes in watching for deals that are slick. This way I was able to react fast enough to score the panel of my dreams.

wow you did your homework and it really paid off.What is that net site that specializes in watching slick deals?

xyth, i just checked The slick deals net site and couldnt find any post for 50PZ77u panny sale at cc on 11/4/07 or any dates around 11/4/07. Could you please direct me to that post?. I hope you are not pulling my chain.

xyth, i just checked The slick deals net site and couldnt find any post for 50PZ77u panny sale at cc on 11/4/07 or any dates around 11/4/07. Could you please direct me to that post?. I hope you are not pulling my chain.

http://forums.slickdeals.net/showthread.php?t=646812

I hope you are not pulling my chain.

Sniff.... If I wasn't so happy with my 77u, my feelings might be hurt! :D

link (http://forums.slickdeals.net/showthread.php?sduid=122227&t=646812&highlight=plasma)

I have a question. How come I can see IR on input screens? Like when I'm in the component or HDMI, you can see IR/ghosting of recently viewed solid objects. For instance, channel logos, football scores, static menus in videogames, dvd menus, and the menu itself. Is that normal? I mean, when I play the break-in DVD (which is all solid colors) I don't see any ghosting at all, neither on DVDs or regular programming - just on blank black imput screens... Do all you get this? Or maybe I have definition of image rentention skewed?

:confused::confused::confused: :(

Some guys have all the luck.

A bit disappointed with my 42PZ77U which I 've only had for 2 days. Regular broadcast channels seem out of focus and even when watching HD channels I see a certain amount of graininess, and some very slight pixelization with certain movements.

Same day I go TV I had Fios TV hooked up, so I have no way of comparing Fios connection with previous cable service. Fios STB is motorola connected to TV via HDMI. They used my existing cable, from their outside box to TV.

I've made a few adjustments to color and brightness (and quickly switched out of Vivid mode), but still feel that picture is not as sharp as what I saw in store. (Sharpness set to +15)

Any suggestions?

Jeff

Overall the biggest difference among the 700U and 77U is the anti-reflective screen, but the 77U has a much smoother picture. However, it may seem dull to some people. Colors are much more vibrant on the 700U. The 77U's picture is much more rounded vs. the sharp edged picture of the 700U.

Chris
I went to BB today and compared a PZ77U side-by-side with a PZ700U (after inputting identical picture settings). To me, the PZ77U actually had slightly better detail, but -- as you indicated -- looked a bit washed out compared to the PZ700U. This surprised me, since the PZ77U supposedly has a better contrast ratio.

Can anyone explain why the PZ700U had apparently deeper blacks and richer colors (under dim store conditions)? I was all set to buy a PZ77U, but now I'm leaning the other way.

Also,I recently auditioned an older PX77U at home; if I get the PZ700U home, will it look dimmer than the older 720p set, given that the PZ700U's specified contrast ratio is only half the PX77U's? Some people have commented that the G10 panels have seem to be dimmer, or have less contrast, than the older G9 panels.

Thanks for any info you can give me.

guys,

looking for a little advice....I have thought about putting it over the fireplace, but don't feel like looking up all of the time.

Opinions please.


http://bp3.blogger.com/_2Nd0tFCapoA/Rynuz0E1sdI/AAAAAAAAB2E/8tcIDb1fsPU/s320/DSC_0068.jpg

What about using an arm with tilt feature. That way you could adjust the position. You should not have to look up too much if you angle the plasma down a bit.
http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=108&cp_id=10828&cs_id=1082801&p_id=3725&seq=1&format=1#largeimage

I have a question. How come I can see IR on input screens? Like when I'm in the component or HDMI, you can see IR/ghosting of recently viewed solid objects. For instance, channel logos, football scores, static menus in videogames, dvd menus, and the menu itself. Is that normal? I mean, when I play the break-in DVD (which is all solid colors) I don't see any ghosting at all, neither on DVDs or regular programming - just on blank black imput screens... Do all you get this? Or maybe I have definition of image rentention skewed?

I had temporary IR really bad when I first got my 42PZ77U. I was a little concerned at first, but it would always go away quickly if I threw in the break in dvd or watched a channel without any logos or banners. Now after 150+ hours on the breakin dvd, the amount of IR has really improved. I still get it if I play a video game for a long time, but it goes away quicker and is not near as noticable.

Yesterday I played COD4 for about 4.5 hours non stop. The only way I could see the IR was if I put my nose right up to the screen and looked for it. As long as the IR doesn't turn into Burn In, I can live with it.

Okay....

I just got my 50PZ77U yesterday. When I first turned it on, I thought it was HORRIBLE looking compared to my Samsung 4665 LCD. The colors were SO dull and washed out. The whites were grey, and the SD channels were just bad.

I immediately went to CC and just said bring back my old 4665f, just one that works.

Then last night, I watched some DVD's on it with a better upscaling DVD player (samsung 1080p)...and fell in love with the large screen and details. My problem is that the colors on this anti glare screen ARE muted somewhat compared to a glossy screen. I maxed out all my settings, and the whites are still a slight grey.

Basically, the colors are there, and rich...they're just soft. There's no pop. I'm guessing the 50PX700 is the one with the pop, no?

Anyway, it's back to CC today to upgrade to the PX. The colors on this are great, but I'm used to my LCD's brightness and hard feel...the colors and stuff just popped out at you, and this 77U are slightly dull.

That's my review. Great TV...awesome deal if you can get it...but I prefer the glossy screen because of the colors.

Okay....

I just got my 50PZ77U yesterday. When I first turned it on, I thought it was HORRIBLE looking compared to my Samsung 4665 LCD. The colors were SO dull and washed out. The whites were grey, and the SD channels were just bad.

I immediately went to CC and just said bring back my old 4665f, just one that works.

Then last night, I watched some DVD's on it with a better upscaling DVD player (samsung 1080p)...and fell in love with the large screen and details. My problem is that the colors on this anti glare screen ARE muted somewhat compared to a glossy screen. I maxed out all my settings, and the whites are still a slight grey.

Basically, the colors are there, and rich...they're just soft. There's no pop. I'm guessing the 50PX700 is the one with the pop, no?

Anyway, it's back to CC today to upgrade to the PX. The colors on this are great, but I'm used to my LCD's brightness and hard feel...the colors and stuff just popped out at you, and this 77U are slightly dull.

That's my review. Great TV...awesome deal if you can get it...but I prefer the glossy screen because of the colors.

PX isn't the upgrade. The PX is a 768p panel. What you're looking for is the 50PZ700U.

You're right...my bad.

Actually, the more I think about it...and the more I read. The 77u has MUCH richer colors and darker colors and smoother images than my ex LCD. It's almost like I am trading brighter whites for deeper blacks.

Can anyone tell me if the 700 has the same deep blacks as the 77U, but the whites are brighter?

I dont have a 700 U but I wouldn't say that the whites are brighter from what I have viewed in a store. What you will get with a 700U is a more glossy almost 3-Dish picture vs. the 77U. BUT one thing to keep in mind, I am sure you have read, is if you have alot of sunlight coming into the room where the TV will be...you may have a glare issue to deal with. I have the 77U and couldn't be happier with it! Just my .02

I had temporary IR really bad when I first got my 42PZ77U. I was a little concerned at first, but it would always go away quickly if I threw in the break in dvd or watched a channel without any logos or banners. Now after 150+ hours on the breakin dvd, the amount of IR has really improved. I still get it if I play a video game for a long time, but it goes away quicker and is not near as noticable.

Yesterday I played COD4 for about 4.5 hours non stop. The only way I could see the IR was if I put my nose right up to the screen and looked for it. As long as the IR doesn't turn into Burn In, I can live with it.

When do you see IR? As soon as you shut off the game? I hope I dont jinx myself with replying back...but I have had my set(PZ77U) for about 3 weeks now and I dont see any IR. I sit about 9 ft back from the set...maybe this is why? I play my Xbox for maybe 2 hrs max at a time, trying to keep it to a minimal during the first 150 hrs. I have about 90ish hrs so far on the set...it isn't like I am complaining by any means, but just want to know where or when I should look to see if there is any IR at all...:rolleyes:

Well my Samsung LCD was BRIGHT. The images popped out at you like crazy. Watching Dancing with the Stars was mezmerizing (and I hate the show). Looking at the image was like....just....wow. I took it back for HDMI issues, and slight blurring on pans. Watching Sunday night football in HD was like being there in real life.

After plugging it in, the 77U just seemed dead to me. Lifeless.

A first...

Then, the more I watched it, the more I started liking it. Instead of colors popping out at you, they seemed more real and softer...richer. Sound weird? I watched lord of the rings, and the clothing on the characters looked like actual felt I could go touch. Amazing...yet...different than the hard colors of the glossy screen LCD.

Then I watched the office, and the image was still so different than the LCD...not bad...just....different. The HD quality is there...it's just a softer image. Hard to describe. I'm using my LCD as what I assume the 700 would be like because of the glossy screen.

I might decide to keep this afterall. for 2k....is it really worth it to upgrade to the 700 for 500 more? Maybe not.

Man I hate paralysis by analysis! lol

The 77U has anti-image retention built into it, no? Doesn't that fix things?

I'm not into gaming on this so much...so it'll be hard for me to burn anything in. Flipping channels and all the different commercial image sizes are always changing.

FooserX...I think one concern may be is that your comparing an LCD vs. a Plasma different technologies...I have yet to see a plasma be as "bright" as an LCD. I feel that the plasma give a more natural appearence, where the LCD whites are sometimes blinding and the green color of the grass on a field looks fake...this is just my opinion...maybe you appreciate the look of an LCD over the plasma, perhaps LCD is the better choice for you...

I have to also say that at first, when i brought the pz77u home i was slightly put off by the glare filter's effect on what seemed like dulling out of the image. but after adjusting the settings and getting used to it, i could really tell that the colors were accurate, but instead of glossy, they were more realistic. i mean, if there is something that is REALLY shiny in real life, it does have some gloss to it. but something like soft skin, felt, and other less reflective surfaces, seemed more real. I've always been used to the glossy look of most flat panel TVs since thats just how they've been for so long. I think most people who experience the pz77's anti glare will come to appreciate that its softness actually makes things look more realistic.

I question though, anyone with this set ever notice that at maybe a 45 degree from centerviewing angle or more, that especially white lettering on a black background has a double image? you can see where it is emitted from the panel and where it is reflected from the glass inside. sort of strage. with normal images it's no biggy, just with solitary text sometimes.

and to whoever mentioned it, about I guess IR on the screen: i notice that after even 1 minute with the menu on the screen that after turning off the source, you can see the faint image left behind. this tends to go away after watchign somethign with motion for a few minutes, but it kind of worries me. You can only see it if you are within a foot or so.

You're right Rhino...they are different technologies and I have only had personal experience with one. The Plasma most DEFINITELY is way more natural. The deeper colors are so inky and yummy. And maybe the brightness of an LCD is fake, but it's still pretty awesome to watch too.

I think I'm just in an adjustment phase. Going from one type to the other. All I know is the image is great in movies with this 77U and there's absolutely no blurring that was on my LCD. Lord of the Rings has lots of sweeping camera movements around the dark tower parts, and I was able to see every detail of the rocks and stuff...with deep as hell blacks.

I am using a Samsung 1080p upconvert dvd player, and it is amazing for newer dvd's on it. I can't imagine BluRay being too much better, but I'm still holding out for those prices to drop.

I'm convinced to just stay with this plasma then. Thanks for helping me understand things about the two flat panel types! I would hate to drop $500 more on the 700 just to see that the whites still are not LCD type.

I was the one who asked about IR....maybe it is because I am 9 ft away that I NEVER noticed any IR. Maybe I will stay 9 ft away...that way I don't get fixed on looking for it...ha

>>>>I question though, anyone with this set ever notice that at maybe a 45 degree from centerviewing angle or more, that especially white lettering on a black background has a double image?

I saw that at the store when looking at them.

I thought it was kinda cool though...lol. That's just the technology. I guess it's not practical if you had people actually sitting that far of an angle. Maybe it's only white on darker backgrounds though.

I'm convinced to just stay with this plasma then. Thanks for helping me understand things about the two flat panel types! I would hate to drop $500 more on the 700 just to see that the whites still are not LCD type.

That's what we are all here for...to help each other and provide different opinions and views. I have had sooooooo much help from numerous people here that I took their information and decided what set was best for me. Which is really what it boils down to...which set looks best to YOU.

-Rob

When do you see IR? As soon as you shut off the game? I hope I dont jinx myself with replying back...but I have had my set(PZ77U) for about 3 weeks now and I dont see any IR. I sit about 9 ft back from the set...maybe this is why? I play my Xbox for maybe 2 hrs max at a time, trying to keep it to a minimal during the first 150 hrs. I have about 90ish hrs so far on the set...it isn't like I am complaining by any means, but just want to know where or when I should look to see if there is any IR at all...:rolleyes:

I can see the IR when I turn off my xbox and all that is on the screen is the grey background, no source going to the picture. I have to stick my face right up to the screen to notice it though, I can't see it at all from my normal viewing distance, about 6-8 feet away. That is the only time I see the IR, I can't see it at all when I turn on the cable or throw a movie in.

I was the one who asked about IR....maybe it is because I am 9 ft away that I NEVER noticed any IR. Maybe I will stay 9 ft away...that way I don't get fixed on looking for it...ha

LOL yeah...now that I know it's there, every time I turn off my xbox I run up and smash my face against the screen to see if there is IR. :p

I also saw the Samsung 5071 LCD (the one with the Auto Motion 120Hz feature) playing an animation movie. It seemed clean and crisp...but really fake because it was too glossy and bright.

I watched Ratatouille on the 77U last night and the colors were SO gorgeous and warm. I just kept thinking "were's the shocking pop of the colors?" so I kept going back and forth about the 2 models.

It's like I was psyching myself out from loving this natural look, because I was so used to the super bright LCD's.

Why is IR still there is it has Anti-IR technology?

LOL yeah...now that I know it's there, every time I turn off my xbox I run up and smash my face against the screen to see if there is IR. :p

That is a pretty funny visual! :D I may try to do this over the weekend to see if I notice any IR...then again this may not be the best idea....:confused::eek:

FooserX, If you ever decide to bring that set back let me know so i can be standing right there and pick up a great open box sale for another 40% off . Thats if they dont just repack it and give it to next poor sucker.

I also want to add that glare is overrated.

I work in the day, and watch my movies and TV at night...so there's just no glare whatsoever in my primetime movie watching.

I have been lurking over this tv for several weeks.

Please post your quick and dirty reviews- if you own this tv in the 42 inch version.

Also, please post any links of expert reviews for these tvs.

Thank you,

I have been lurking over this tv for several weeks.

Please post your quick and dirty reviews- if you own this tv in the 42 inch version.

Also, please post any links of expert reviews for these tvs.

Thank you,

Great TV. Picture quality is excellent over all the inputs. Anti-glare coating works wonderful.

Why they put a glossy plastic case on a TV with an anti-glare coating is beyond me, though.

Overall, I really enjoy this TV.

>>>>Why they put a glossy plastic case on a TV with an anti-glare coating is beyond me, though.

Yeah, it does look a little weird like that, but not a big deal.

700 and 77U...both are excellent top quality TV's...and from my experience with good LCD's, I would go with these plasmas. They are the best of the best in terms of quality.

LCD's are fine, but I just get this minute blur sensation from pans that I don't see on the plasmas. I have researched and seen more TV's than I can count in the past month, and these are my best choices for the price.

Really the only thing you should choose between is the anti glare coating and the regular kind. I personally would have chosen the glossy kind, but the more I watched my 77U (because of such a cheap price) last night, the more I loved it because of the smooth rich colors. It blows my ex 4665F (top reviewed LCD 60Hz according to Cnet) away except the bright whites and "pop" of color. Anti glare gives a natural feeling, while the glossy screen makes the colors stand out more. This to me is the biggest decision.

I don't game much, so I doubt I'll have a problem with image retention and burn in. Plus it has anti pixel IR technology. I also personally believe in 1080p, where a lot of people say it looks the same as 720. It has a higher resolution, which means better quality image...plain and simple. Someday, we'll get the sources to feed it.

I wanted to hate on plasma, because of the delicate reputation and burn in chances, but really...these panasonics are too freaking smooth and rich to ignore. It's not like I'm going to play with them, or my kid is....once you set it up, it never gets touched again except to clean.

If money was no object I might go with the Sony XBR4, but the prices are just too insane right now for 120Hz.

I also think 42" is too small...it's like watching TV while the 50"+ is an experience.

If I had a choice between 42" 1080 and 50" 720....I would go with the 50" 720 because of the cheap price and bang for your buck.

Guys i got great news for those who have been having a problem with fan noise, a humming noise coming from the fan in the rear of the set. My old panny plasma is 3 years old and the fan humming was getting louder, i called my service plan with cc. The service man knew right away how to fix it. He said we recently found the fix. He took out a current tap 24UW adapter plugged it in my floor adapter and rerouted my tv wire/plug into the $5.00 current tap adapter,Lo and behold no more humming from the fan.

I have been lurking over this tv for several weeks.

Please post your quick and dirty reviews- if you own this tv in the 42 inch version.

Also, please post any links of expert reviews for these tvs.

Thank you,My only complaints are the glossy bezel, the relatively dim picture and the lack of a third (or fourth) hdmi input. The anti-glare, while not perfect, is a large improvement over my old CRT. And even without the glossy screen I still feel a lot of depth to the picture. Given the right source I get that "looking through a window" effect (perhaps an open window in this case). If it weren't for the price difference I might've considered taking it back in exchange for a Samsung 71, Sony XBR4 or even a Pio 4280. But overall I've been very happy with it and am not looking back.

Got my 50pz77u hooked up last night to my PS3 via HDMI. Love it. Really great set!!

A good friend of mine has a year old 42" Panny (dont know the part number) and while the "normal" glass looks slick and the picture is awesome, I sure do appreciate the anti-glare of the 77u. IMO, it doesn't detract from my personal viewing experience :)

Now time for some more Spidey blu-ray action!!!

- Christian

What about using an arm with tilt feature. That way you could adjust the position. You should not have to look up too much if you angle the plasma down a bit.
http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=108&cp_id=10828&cs_id=1082801&p_id=3725&seq=1&format=1#largeimage


I am actually considering getting the Peerless Table Stand that will tilt down, since I was just going to set the Plasma on top of the Fireplace.

http://www.peerlessindustries.com/dyn/Products/BrowseProduct.aspx/productID/149221/manufacturerProductID/165209/categoryID/195


anyone have any experience with this stand and whether or not it's worth it?

1 - In connecting my computer (via Hdmi), it doesn't look nearly as sharp as it did with my prior LCD. It's hard to explain, but windows text looks extremely washed out -- the blacks almost look grey! Can anyone help with this?? I really want to love this tv!

2- Can someone either post or send me a link to optimized settings for this TV? Thanks!!

-Eric

This is kind of a bizarre question, but to anyone that owns the 42PZ77:

The official width is 44.7" according to Panasonic. The TV cabinet my wife wants to put this in :rolleyes: (just kidding: love you dear, if you're reading this) has a stated interior width of 44.5"

Can I somehow make this work? We're talking 0.1" on either side here... I don't guess the speakers are removable like the UY series? :D

The other option is to get the 42PZ700, which is more expensive, of course (plus won't be in until next Thursday where I live, and there is college football to be watched THIS weekend), or convince her that we need to ditch the cabinet, get a 50PZ77, and put it on top of a media stand. :p I actually think she'd go for this if I could find an easy (and aesthetically acceptable to her) way to hide the set on demand.

Why do women need to hide TVs? Bright orange Kitchenaid mixer on the counter? No problem! Beautiful piece of gleaming plasma technology in the living room? No way! :confused:

Why do women need to hide TVs? Bright orange Kitchenaid mixer on the counter? No problem! Beautiful piece of gleaming plasma technology in the living room? No way!

Indeed, weird. :cool:

Great.... That thing is twice the cost of the set itself!

I have looked at lift, stands, cabinets, armoires, you name it... I am ready to sand down the sides of the PZ77 0.1" to make this thing work!* :)

Realistically, I think the 50PZ77 is out of the question... I just can't justify the extra $750 or so, plus I'd have to take the media cabinet we have back, plus I'd have to figure out a place for the YSP-1100 speaker, yada, yada, yada...

I think I'm just going to go for it and buy the 42PZ77... If I have to somehow cheat 0.2" somewhere to make it fit, I'll figure out a way to!



* Actually, in retrospect, I'd probably put the sander to the media cabinet. :p

lol @ tictac.

Mount it on the wall - all flat screens look very classy on the wall :-) I wish my wall was strong enough to hold it!

Fooser, the last set we had (it was a 50" Panny 7UY) was wall mounted. Loved it, but I think that's when the wife resolved to never agree to that sort of thing again... Okay, so it DID dominate the room a little... and I DID convince her to paint the wall black so the set would kind of recede into it... :D

Plus, it would have to be a corner mount, and it's a townhome that we don't own, and I'm not sure how the owners would feel about the hardware that would have to be installed for the mount...

Can someone point me to the comparisons between Panasonic TH-50PZ700U vs newer 50PZ77U? Thanks ...

Ok. I've probably read about 500 posts in this forum. This stuff is incredibly helpful (or not helpful, as instead of watching my new tv, instead I'm reading posts!)

Here are some questions I have AFTER reading these posts (and it's quite possible I didn't come across something; I'd be happy to be sent a link)

1 - Connecting a computer to the z77: What are the best settings to use? I have it connected through HDMI and it still does not look good. Granted, I'm used to the brightness of a LCD, but the white background screen of windows look very dull to me.

2 - Is there no contrast control? It seems like picture controls over-all brigthness. I don't really "see" a difference in the brightness controll

3 - What's the deal with this mentality about break-in. Some people say it's totally not necessary, others seem obsessed with minimizing bright use for the first 100 hours. What's the low down?? Thanks!!!

700 and 77U...both are excellent top quality TV's...and from my experience with good LCD's, I would go with these plasmas. They are the best of the best in terms of quality.

The best of the best? Really? So you looked at Pioneer?

2 - Is there no contrast control? It seems like picture controls over-all brigthness. I don't really "see" a difference in the brightness controll

Here's the crazy thing... "Picture" is brightness, and "Brightness" is contrast.

and computer settings??

I thought someone might be interested in how much electricity the Panasonic TH-PZ77U uses.

Over the course of 8 hours displaying a variety of movies, HD and SD television programming, the flat panel averaged about 1.9A, 290W or 1.6KW/H (kilowatts per hour) power consumption. Does anyone have a different experience?

Electricity in my part of the country is about $0.09 per kilowatt hour.

An example usage would be:
5 hours a day M-F = 25 Hrs.
8 hours a day S-S = 16 Hrs.
41 weekly hours multiplied by 4 weeks = 164 Hrs. a month.
1.6 KWh multiplied by $.09 = $0.144 /Hr.
$0.144 multiplied by 164 = $23.62 in electricity costs per month from running the flat panel, not including tax and other fees on your bill.

I thought someone might be interested in how much electricity the Panasonic TH-PZ77U uses.


Did you use a device like the Kill-A-Watt to determine that use? I was going to connect mine to calculate it, but I won't bother if you already did it.

$25.00 per month for what I'm seeing is cheap considering my cable bill, and considering I just removed a huge 32" CRT TV its probably a wash.

I have not seen a discussion on these features of this set, so I wanted to state they seem to work very well, especially the general signal noise reduction option.

I have a large collection of old VHS tapes that I was almost resolved to tossing into the trash now that HD is in the house. However, setting the NR on the VCR video input make the image near DVD quality in smoothness, but lacking a bit of detail. Very watchable. The other NR settings only made minor changes, not significant enough on this material to notice.

Guess I will keep the Disney collection for when the grand kids visit, but for now, I can still watch the Talking Heads "Stop making Sense" concert on tape till they release that on HD-DVD.

This set continues to amaze me in the wide variety of signals it can make look gorgeous.

Should I "break-in" the TV? I am reading conflicting things ...

Also,

when I watch SD broadcasts, the Tv automatically zooms to fill the whole screen -- how do I change that? Thanks

I just bought the 77, thinking it was the only panny 50" plasma. After getting it home, it seems I may want to return and get the 700:

Here's the deal.

I LIKE the "pop" of an LCD
but
my room, while not bright per-se, definately gets its share of light.

Glare issues aside, does anyone PREFER the 77 to the 700 with regard to PQ, and PQ only??? I don't care about the speakers (I use a 5.1 system), tuner, etc ...

Thanks ... Looking forward to seeing what you have to say.

Should I "break-in" the TV? I am reading conflicting things ...

Also,

when I watch SD broadcasts, the Tv automatically zooms to fill the whole screen -- how do I change that? Thanks

You'll continue to read conflicting things about break-in. Some don't think it's necessary. I did 100 hours because I felt I should.

The way the TV displays can be set using the Aspect button on the remote. The 4:3 setting will display SD broadcasts properly.

Thank you! ;) Now if I could only solve the buyer's remorse of the 77 instead of the 700 ...

I just bought the 77, thinking it was the only panny 50" plasma. After getting it home, it seems I may want to return and get the 700:

Here's the deal.

I LIKE the "pop" of an LCD
but
my room, while not bright per-se, definately gets its share of light.

Glare issues aside, does anyone PREFER the 77 to the 700 with regard to PQ, and PQ only??? I don't care about the speakers (I use a 5.1 system), tuner, etc ...

Thanks ... Looking forward to seeing what you have to say.

When I looked at the two in the store (not next to each other, though... one was down a little bit from the other), I didn't see much of a difference in PQ. With the direction the windows face in my apartment, there was no question that I should get the 77U. The glare I got on my old TV was ridiculous and the 700 would have shown the same amount of glare.

I just bought the 77, thinking it was the only panny 50" plasma. After getting it home, it seems I may want to return and get the 700:

Here's the deal.

I LIKE the "pop" of an LCD
but
my room, while not bright per-se, definately gets its share of light.

Glare issues aside, does anyone PREFER the 77 to the 700 with regard to PQ, and PQ only??? I don't care about the speakers (I use a 5.1 system), tuner, etc ...

Thanks ... Looking forward to seeing what you have to say.


I like the matte look of the 77U as well. My MacBook Pro is matte, my powerbooks prior to that were, and any of my choice photos I get printed are matte and framed in non-reflective "matte" glass+frame.

I guess it's safe to say I prefer the matte b/c to me it doesn't take away from the awesome picture quality. Cant wait until Planet Earth blu-ray from netflix comes in. Rad.

Oh, I have the 50" too. It has my two thumbs up recommendation.

- Christian

In addition to my comparison question, I have (yet) another ..

How do you see how many hours the tv has been in use?

I thought someone might be interested in how much electricity the Panasonic TH-PZ77U uses.

Over the course of 8 hours displaying a variety of movies, HD and SD television programming, the flat panel averaged about 1.9A, 290W or 1.6KW/H (kilowatts per hour) power consumption. Does anyone have a different experience?

Electricity in my part of the country is about $0.09 per kilowatt hour.

An example usage would be:
5 hours a day M-F = 25 Hrs.
8 hours a day S-S = 16 Hrs.
41 weekly hours multiplied by 4 weeks = 164 Hrs. a month.
1.6 KWh multiplied by $.09 = $0.144 /Hr.
$0.144 multiplied by 164 = $23.62 in electricity costs per month from running the flat panel, not including tax and other fees on your bill.
A kilowatt hour is equal to a 100 watt light bulb running for 10 hours. Or 1000 watts running for 1 hour. So 290 watts would have to run for 3.44 hrs to equal 1 kilowatt hour.
If a TV ran for 141 hours a month, then 141 hours divided by 3.44 equals 40.98 or 41 kilowatt hours per month. Take that times .09 per kilowatt hour and it equals $3.68 per month.

Ericuf,if you like the pop of the LCD.Buy the LCD your not going to get that kind of pop from the 77 or the 700. Dont you feel sorry for the poor sucker who might have to pay regular price for a returned set just becaues of your whim. What you are gonna get from the plasma is beautiful natural picture without sea sickness.

A kilowatt hour is equal to a 100 watt light bulb running for 10 hours. Or 1000 watts running for 1 hour. So 290 watts would have to run for 3.44 hrs to equal 1 kilowatt hour.
If a TV ran for 141 hours a month, then 141 hours divided by 3.44 equals 40.98 or 41 kilowatt hours per month. Take that times .09 per kilowatt hour and it equals $3.68 per month.

Yes I calculated as you did, that first post was way off for an average 290W. Sounds like it was the 42PZ77U model since thats 1/2 the peak power use from the owner's manual, and the 50" model would be higher.
In any case $4 or so a month is very little, even if the power use is double my CRT HDTV (145W) - kinda like running an extra 100W light bulb in the house.

I appreciate your response. My thought is that if everyone says the picture on a plasma is better, is surely must be better ! Also, I see that the LCD image "grabs" you right away, but that doesn't necessarily make it a better image when you view a movie/play a game/etc (as opposed to watching for 3 minutes at best buy)

I appreciate your response. My thought is that if everyone says the picture on a plasma is better, is surely must be better ! Also, I see that the LCD image "grabs" you right away, but that doesn't necessarily make it a better image when you view a movie/play a game/etc (as opposed to watching for 3 minutes at best buy)

The only thing that "grabs" you is that the LCDs are very bright. Peak white level alone means nothing at all when it comes to overall picture quality. I won't advocate one technology over another, but please don't pick LCD just based on how bright they can get. Plasmas have enough brightness to give a completely satisfying picture as far as that aspect is concerned.

don't mean to be repetitive, but would LOVE to find settings someone uses for a computer. Also, does the TV "remember" your? settings for each input??

Also, does the TV "remember" your? settings for each input??

Yes, and it offers a custom setting for each input so you can keep all the standard defaults (vivid, cinema, standard) in factory configuration, or those can be modified and stored as well.

My 100 hours on the 50pz77u is nearing completion. Does anybody have any recommendations for settings for a fairly bright room.

By the way, I've had both the 700u and 77u in my house. If lighting wasn't an issue, I'd definitely go with the 700u. The 77u seems to add a slight haze over the entire picture. Hard to explain, but definately there. Just my opinion. The 77u is still a pretty good TV. It's definitely the best for my situation of a bright room.

My 100 hours on the 50pz77u is nearing completion. Does anybody have any recommendations for settings for a fairly bright room.

By the way, I've had both the 700u and 77u in my house. If lighting wasn't an issue, I'd definitely go with the 700u. The 77u seems to add a slight haze over the entire picture. Hard to explain, but definately there. Just my opinion. The 77u is still a pretty good TV. It's definitely the best for my situation of a bright room.



I've noticed this "haze" you speak of, but interestingly enough it seems less noticeable with better sources, nearly indistinguishable with high quality HD.

I wonder if we'll ever enjoy the "deep color" aspects of 77u's HDMI 1.3?

The quality of the source video does not effect the haze, which is light diffusion caused by the matte-finish anti-glare screen. What does effect it is ambient light level - in a brightly lit room, it's almost invisible. In a dark room, it's extremely visible, as it is on LCD screens.

The quality of the source video does not effect the haze, which is light diffusion caused by the matte-finish anti-glare screen. What does effect it is ambient light level - in a brightly lit room, it's almost invisible. In a dark room, it's extremely visible, as it is on LCD screens.

If the above is true, it is disappointing. I thought the 77U was recommended for brightly lit rooms (such as rooms with windows). If the room was "dark", there would be no need for an anti glare screen.

just got mine...unbelievably good pic (Z77). Thought I would have to settle for the X77 but we moved up the the Z77. Previously had a 27" crt tuber. Very satisfied so far.CFB y'day was SWEET!

I am experiencing some maddening problems connecting this TV (the z77) to my computer ---

When resolution is anything LESS than 1920*800, text looks fine; crisp, sharp and black.

BUT, at 1920*800, although my main windows screen looks fine, anything with text in it (whether in windows, firefox, whatever) looks absolutely grey, NOT black.

It's incredibly strange to me, especially because a) the TV is 1080 P (and looks great with all other sources), b) when I change the resolution, all of a sudden the text IS black.

Any help PLEASE????

With regards to your computer to screen problem. I think it is a problem with your computer or your operating system (Windows).

What video card is in your computer?
What version of windows are you running?
Are you connected dvi to hdmi?
Have you tried changing the refresh rate of the computer to 60 hz?
Have you tried adjusting the picture through the tv options menu?

Does anyone know if this set supports 1080P/30HZ, because I heard somewhere that this may be the format that is used when they actually broadcast 1080P?

Should I "break-in" the TV? I am reading conflicting things ...

Also,

when I watch SD broadcasts, the Tv automatically zooms to fill the whole screen -- how do I change that? Thanks
When you set the TV aspect to "full" it should display the SD broadcasts in their proper
4:3 format; then, it should automatically switch to wide-screen with an HD feed. At least, that's the way mine works!

Ymark, Nothing to be disappointed about. I believe what Gary is saying is due to the anti-glare filter the plasma now behaves the same as the Lcd in light or dark rooms, where as before the plasma picture was effected by glare in brightly lit rooms.

Does anyone know if this set supports 1080P/30HZ, because I heard somewhere that this may be the format that is used when they actually broadcast 1080P?

Will this display receive and tune a 1080p/30 broadcast signal? Yes - all ATSC tuners, including the one in this display, must support all 18 ATSC formats, including 1080p/30. Will this display take a 1080p/30 signal through any of its general purpose inputs? No. But it will take 1080/60 via HDMI which could accomodate frame-doubled 1080p/30.

But really, both of these things are extremely low on the importance scale. 1080p/30 and 1080/24 broadcasts would be great, but are highly unlikely anytime soon.

I LIKE the "pop" of an LCD
but
my room, while not bright per-se, definately gets its share of light.

Glare issues aside, does anyone PREFER the 77 to the 700 with regard to PQ, and PQ only??? I don't care about the speakers (I use a 5.1 system), tuner, etc ...

Thanks ... Looking forward to seeing what you have to say.

my Z77 looks just as bright and has much more pop than my neighbor's 40" Samsung..in ambient light.

So I'm almost 99% sure I'm going to get the 42" set this week due to the price point I've found it at. I know these answers have been posted but I'm not sure where to start...

Is the 2 speaker PZ77U version worse than the 4 in the PZ700U?
Should I worry about 2-3 hour Halo sessions with IR or Burn in?
How about 4:3 TV? Should I set on stretch or is there a grey bar feature?
Also is there a pixel orbiter feature?

I'm coming from a LCD which I am disappointed in due to blur and overall picture and I watch a lot of sports/gaming/4:3 content...

Should I even worry? Thanks

running xp Media Center edition
Graphics card is a gforce 8400
It is HDMI to HDMI (my computer has an hdmi out)

When I set the resolution to anything BUT 1920*1080, the text IS in fact black -- but anything else it isn't!

Has anyone checked out Sears.com today!?!
I just picked up the 42 inch 77U for a ridiculous price...remember you can take 150 off the sale price when you use a sears credit card. That's black friday pricing...today! I can't imagine its going to get much better than this even on BF at other big box retailers.

Available for delivery on the 13th.

I managed 2 get the the Z77( for the x77 price so I couldn't be any happier...only an advertised $100 difference between the two starting today in some ads.

THe Sears I visited Friday night wouldn't sell for their online price so I went elsewhere...

SbWillie, Great buy 1200. Tell me did you go to another sears?

bigevan23, deal of the century1050 wow. From what i understand you can only get it online?

SbWillie, Great buy 1200. Tell me did you go to another sears?nope BB...

PROBLEM

I have my SA8300 hooked up to my Z77 through component in (til I get another HDMI cable,) and I can only get audio...what am I doing wrong? I've tried adjusting the plasma and 8300 settings and still No video! My only HDMI cable is hooked up to my HD A3 and I'm not moving it. :(

anyone?

Randy Walters, Whats the difference between the 50PZ700 and the 50PE700 weight maybe?

Gotta love the price match! I bought a new Pany 42 1080 last week at BB. I paid $1699.00 for it. Sears has the exact TV for $1199.00. So I trecked on up to my BB and they about crapped. They gave me $ 534.00 back on CC. That paid for my new Onkyo 605 I bought the other day! My life usually does not go this easy.

This is news, BB online site__ NEW42PE7Uplasma panney under 900 coming soon. WOW.

slandy,WAy to go. Life isnt usally that easy. You have to say thanks to SEARS.

Please somebody help out SBwillie he cant get a picture on his new set.

specgeorge Please somebody help out SBwillie he cant get a picture on his new set.

Thanks spec... While I'd love to help SBwillie, I would like to mention that I thought price talk wasn't allowed?? I too got a good deal on my 50" but the most helpful aspect of this thread was to make sure I got the right set for my needs...

- Christian

Sorry if i broke any rules, but P.T. is so rampant on these threads. Not everyone is well off so theres people looking to save a few bucks and are greatful when they do. Glad you got a good deal. Cant believe nobody wants to help out SBwillie, everyone must be watching the giant/dallas game.

Not an attack on price talk... Oops, sorry I gave off that vibe. This thread has been very helpful for me from a technical aspect and I was hoping to reel it back in. I'm with everyone else here who likes to save a couple of bucks when I can. LOL!!

- Christian

OK no more PT for me. If you have a sec check out the TH42PE7u thread or the under 1299 thread.

PROBLEM

I have my SA8300 hooked up to my Z77 through component in (til I get another HDMI cable,) and I can only get audio...what am I doing wrong? I've tried adjusting the plasma and 8300 settings and still No video! My only HDMI cable is hooked up to my HD A3 and I'm not moving it. :(

anyone?anyone?

anyone?

Audi only- with component connected...

Component video is only video. Unlike HDMI it does not contain sound.

Make sure you match up the colors on the cable...Its possible your cable box is not working properly or sending out a signal the tv cannot accept.
I'm not sure if the tv can accept 480i via component...

Do these have burn in prevention?

Sorry I can't help with the tech issues, but I want to say a big THANK YOU to you guys with the tip on the Sears deal.

I just went over and ordered the 42" 1080p Panny, I did it from the store so I could go in and sign up for the Sears credit card, which I used to get an additional $150 off the price. Went like clockwork and I will pick up my set when it gets in next week.

I have been eyeballing flat screens for at least a year now! Finally, a deal too good to pass up!!!

:D :D;):)

I was going to go with a Samsung LCD LNT4665 or 4661 until I saw this TV. I think plasma's have better PQ than LCD's but LCD's are cheaper. Is this Sears deal worth it over waiting on a sale on those Samsung LCD's?

I'm out of my seat anxious to go pick this up with the right response!

same, i love the samsung 4065f picture or the sharp 42d64u (however banding issues). this deal seems too good to pass up...just not sure if me and this other guy should wait longer for better deals?

Sorry I can't help with the tech issues, but I want to say a big THANK YOU to you guys with the tip on the Sears deal.

I just went over and ordered the 42" 1080p Panny, I did it from the store so I could go in and sign up for the Sears credit card, which I used to get an additional $150 off the price. Went like clockwork and I will pick up my set when it gets in next week.

I have been eyeballing flat screens for at least a year now! Finally, a deal too good to pass up!!!

:D :D;):)

I got the same deal. First HDTV.

Need help though. New on board. I have searched for break in settings for this tv and not come across anything. Anyone have any settings? Besides just turning everything down? Thanks for help.

Does anyone know anything about or has experience with Panasonic's Customer Care Plans? (can't post a link b/c avsforum says I'm too new)

If it's cheaper than the B&Ms, I would consider one.

If the 77u has double the contrast ratio, why does it look the same? (as 70u)

I know the answer is probably the AG screen, but I don't see why that is disrupting contrast PQ.

I just bought the 50" model last week. It replaces a cheapo 42" akai.
I wanted another plasma but I have a huge window that shines right on the t.v., so I was looking at DLP. I knew I didn't want LCD becouse I already Have the Sony XBR2 in the bedroom. While I like it real well I still like plasma better. Long story short as soon as C.C. kid shows me the panny I'm walking out spending a $1000 more than I was going to. Love this T.V.

These 42 PZ77U sets, are these the 07 or 08 models? I know I have the new Anti Glare coating and such, but I was wondering if the reason for the sudden price drop was to get the old models out and make room for the newer ones. However, The way Panny talks these are the latest ones??

Another Sears.com user checking in, couldn't resist the sweet deal. 1080p at <1200 bucks?

Shazaam!

I am thinking about picking up the 42" this week at Sears but have a question. How are the anti-burn in features on this set? I noticed the set at the store claimed it has anti-burn in features similar to the Orbiter technology that Pioneer uses where it virtually eliminates IR. How good is this tv at handling IR especially with regards to gaming? I have a Pioneer 4280HD and it is doesn't show IR at all when I play PS3/XBOX 360. Thanks in advance!

Well I FINALLY found a note in the manual under the `connections diagram'..it stated that component cannot be used for video if there is a component using a HDMI input.....makes no sense for it to be set up that way...now I'll HAVE to buy another HDMI cable 2day.

thx for the help-this noob greatly appreciates it,

back to rewiring some of the components (some still attached to my old 27"tuber still!)

I know one thing..we need a Z77 tweek thread..took me hours to get the halo effect off of some weaker/stretched cable channel feeds! NOW it's flawless with very LITTLE noise even on NFL footage! Sitting 2 close (5 five looks great, ent. center for the tv still hasvn't been purchased..will be this week).