I'm not sure the PZ77U is a "better" set than the PX77U. The 42" PX77 is rated tops in the latest Consumer Reports, although the 42" PZ77 was not rated in that particular test. I've had both, and even though the PZ77 has the advantage of no discernible "sreen-door effect" at close distances, the PZ77 had a noticeable "dim" or "lack of pop" look to it that I just couldn't tolerate. I did not notice this phenomenon so much on the PX model. I returned the PX because of a flaw in the glass screen and came home with the PZ model, thinking that would be an upgrade. Because of the aformentioned "lack of pop" and dark/dim apperance of the picture (at least to my eyes) I returned the PZ77 and just got the PZ700 yesterday. NO COMPARISON!!! Although I'm now breaking it in, I did experiment briefly with the settings at normal viewing levels and the picture is fantastic, with WAY more "smash" and brightness than the PZ77. It's easy to see why CNET.com rated the PZ700 as the best 42" panel of any type they've ever tested. Also, amazingly, yesterday at Best Buy the 700 was actually priced lower than the 77. And, as a bonus, the 700 has a higher-powered, four-speaker sound system that sounds great. I highly recommend that anyone looking at the PZ77 model should seriously consider the PZ700 model. Unless glare is a major, major, monumental problem for you, the PZ700 provides MUCH more of the "jump-out-at-you" and "WOW factor" that we want, and which we buy an HDTV to get... it's as simple as that.

Maybe screen size is an issue, I have compared 50pz700u and 50pz77u side by side at several stores, unlike the 42" ones, the antiglare did not make the 77u less "popping." And of course on the 50" the 77u is cheaper.

I would have bought a 42pz700u because of the more intense PQ, but found a deal I could not refuse on the 50pz77u, and the fact it looked the same as a 50pz700u, I ended up bringing the 50pz77u back.

Happy as clam.

Is there a custom setting most agree on to be the preferred calibration for this set?

how is everyone connecting there cable boxes to there TV's?(hdmi or component) i have the Motorola dvr box from comcast and i notice when i change the channels it sometimes makes a pop noise(using HDMI).

Go into your motorola's system settings. From there you can select to have the STB box pass-through the image without upscaling it. This will make it faster to go from HD-SD but also eliminate the noise pop. Do some searches for how to get into the box. I believe its turn on the tv, turn off the STB then hit OK, and then menu.

thanks,

Another mundane, non-techi question regarding the 50pz77u....

Does anyone have theirs wallmounted?

Since the connectors are 'rear facing' - just wonder how severe the bend radius will be for the cables. I'm going to mount my panny using the Sanus VMPL50 tilting mount.

I plan on using the Blue Jean component video cable - but those 'honking big' RCA connector bodies have me concerned that the cables will have to bend alot to make the drop down to connect to my AVR.

Any experienced wall-mounters out there with words of advice?

Thanks,
Erik

Erik,

Might think about buying right angle RCA connector adaptors (on BJC's site for $1.50 each) or seeing if BJC will make your cables with right angle connectors...

Good Luck,

Chris

Just an update on my HTPC problem. I have a ATI X1300 card with the latest catalyst drivers. The TV would not display 1920X1080 until I set refresh rate to 30. So to anyone having any issues with a refresh rate of 60, try 30.

By the way, the pz is a better TV than the px. I had two versions of the Matrix, one in 720p and one in 1080p, same encode otherwise. Watched the 720 version on the PX 2 or 3 times, then tried the 1080p verision on the PZ and I can definitely see a difference on a 42inch from about 8 feet away.

Erik,

Might think about buying right angle RCA connector adaptors (on BJC's site for $1.50 each) or seeing if BJC will make your cables with right angle connectors...

Good Luck,

Chris

Great tip! Thanks!

Erik

Also, I'd call up Panasonic and complain about stuck/fixed/dead pixels. I had one that was flickering that could be seen from 2 feet away, right dab in the center. Called up Panny and they sent to a certified technician around my area that would replace the actual diplay panel with another. The tech dude is supposedly coming tomorrow afternoon, so we will see if it was worth the wait and fix.

Well, I've gotten back my Panny. And it's worse than before. That one flickering pixel is now joined by 15 (!!!) flickering pixels. This is after a Panasonic endorsed Technician came and replaced the display panel. F'ing figures, you know.

I pretty heated and dissappointed at the same time. I don't know what to do but to attempt to go back to the store now, and demand a new one.

I HATE LIFE! :mad::(

I came to this thread to see if there were ISF calibrator settings for the TH-50PZ77U. To my surprize settings entered in this thread, that I found, were all over the place. Standard picture mode settings varied from 9 to 19 for picture, -2 to 16 for brightness, -1 to -3 for color, -2 to -3 for tint, -10 to 4 for sharpness. My settings for the Standard picture mode based on using the Digital Video Essentials DVD are picture 24, brightness 10, color -2, tint 0, sharpness 5. Is there an ISF calibrator reviewing this thread? If so, what are the preferred settings for the Standard picture mode.

Erik,

Might think about buying right angle RCA connector adaptors (on BJC's site for $1.50 each) or seeing if BJC will make your cables with right angle connectors...

Good Luck,

Chris

Chris and for others - fyi,
I called BJC - they can not manufacture a cable with the right-angle connector - so I went with the adapters.

Erik

Chris and for others - fyi,
I called BJC - they can not manufacture a cable with the right-angle connector - so I went with the adapters.

Erik

Ahhh, thought they might be able to accommodate you, that's too bad, but good to know!

Enjoy that set, finally finished breaking mine in (what can I say, erring on the side of caution with this purchase...) and fired up King King in HD since I have no other HD movies yet, and all I can say is I wish I had a bigger TV! (42") ;-) With quick eyeball settings, no calibration yet, I'm loving it!

Peace,

Chris

hey guys,

i posted this question in another thread but i guess no one knew the answer..does anyone happen to know if this stand will fit my 42" pz77U? thanks guys

http://bfads.net/FlatScreen-TV-Console-at-WalMart

hey guys,

i posted this question in another thread but i guess no one knew the answer..does anyone happen to know if this stand will fit my 42" pz77U? thanks guys

http://bfads.net/FlatScreen-TV-Console-at-WalMart

It should, but I couldn't tell you for sure. The vertical bars just need to be long enough to accomodate the screw holes on the back of the TV.

I am currently watching the Bucs and Skins game via OTA signal and using the optical out to my surround sound system and its in 5.1.

Yes. The TV doesn't pass surround sound through. You will only get stereo sound out of the optical out. I believe the only input that will pass surround sound through is the coaxial input.

RE: Digital Audio Out: I have read almost every thread on this TV, and read the manual carefully, and the following "seems" to be true:

1. TV connected to Receiver or Amp. with HDMI cable outputs 5.1 sound to the receiver over the HDMI cable.
2. Anything else connected directly to the TV via HDMI will send 2 channel only sound (not 5.1) to the receiver via the optical audio cable. Note: the receiver may simulate surround sound (all 5 speakers working) but its probably not true 5.1. It does sound very good though.
3. Anything connected directly to the TV via composite or component cables and analog audio cables will output 2 channel sound to the receiver via the optical audio cable. (manual is unclear on this, only talks about HDMI)
4. Over the air signals will be outputted in 5.1 sound via the optical cable.
5. Audio outputted from the Prog Out terminals is 2 channel analog.

As stated, this "seems" to be true based on the manual and observation. Does anyone have any experience or test data that indicates any of the above is false?

RE: Digital Audio Out: I have read almost every thread on this TV, and read the manual carefully, and the following "seems" to be true:

1. TV connected to Receiver or Amp. with HDMI cable outputs 5.1 sound to the receiver over the HDMI cable.
2. Anything else connected directly to the TV via HDMI will send 2 channel only sound (not 5.1) to the receiver via the optical audio cable. Note: the receiver may simulate surround sound (all 5 speakers working) but its probably not true 5.1. It does sound very good though.
3. Anything connected directly to the TV via composite or component cables and analog audio cables will output 2 channel sound to the receiver via the optical audio cable. (manual is unclear on this, only talks about HDMI)
4. Over the air signals will be outputted in 5.1 sound via the optical cable.
5. Audio outputted from the Prog Out terminals is 2 channel analog.

As stated, this "seems" to be true based on the manual and observation. Does anyone have any experience or test data that indicates any of the above is false?

I believe all of this is correct.

do you guys know the size/type of bolts the 42pz77u uses in the back for mounts? thanks guys

had this TV delivered to the house last night about 7PM.

Absolutely outstanding! Even with all settings at 0!

had this TV delivered to the house last night about 7PM.

Absolutely outstanding! Even with all settings at 0!

I am with you :o) Still on all 0's for about a day (break in almost done)... Still looks great.

Ahhh, thought they might be able to accommodate you, that's too bad, but good to know!

Enjoy that set, finally finished breaking mine in (what can I say, erring on the side of caution with this purchase...) and fired up King King in HD since I have no other HD movies yet, and all I can say is I wish I had a bigger TV! (42") ;-) With quick eyeball settings, no calibration yet, I'm loving it!

Peace,

Chris



do they make right angle HDMI adapters????

First, I want to thank this website, and specifically the people on this thread for your great advice, reviews, etc on the panny pz77u. I know there's been a lot of back and forth about glare/anti-glaze etc between the 77u and the 700. They were right next to each other at BB and I could not tell the difference at all, except for the reflections. They were both spectacular. I placed an order for the 77u with Sears and am waiting patiently for it to get back in stock ( which should be this weekend). My question (and I'm sure I will have many more) is do any of you know, or remember, the height of the box the set comes in? I have no problem with picking up the set from the store, but want to make sure it will fit in my Explorer

The box dimensions are on the BB website, but fwiw, it fit fine in the back of my wife's RAV4 after completely removing one seat and putting it behind the other seat. I'm pretty sure your explorer probably has even more room. It just barely cleared the door height-wise going in but once in it had a good 6-8" of room to spare. Width-wise it was the width of the seat I remove, length-wise it went all the way from the front seat to the rear door with about 1" to spare.

Well, I did what any sensible person would do...window shopping at BB, CC, Fry's etc...read scores of reviews/user experiences on various plasma/lcd models... decided on the TH-42PZ77U as the best overall for my needs...then came home and saved quite a few $$ by ordering online.;) (and not getting a stripped down black friday version tv) This will be my first time ordering something this large and expensive online, but I've been online shopping since 98 and I expect this experience to be fine. In my mind, the 42PZ77U at the price I scored is the best bang for the buck right now.:cool:

One thing I have noticed about the whites on my 50"77U....is that whites from text or vector graphics has a tiny grey tint....

But whites for natural stuff seems to be perfect to me. I mean, the whites on football jerseys in HD is white to me...whiter than the text displaying the score. Looks fine to me.

After all the problems I had with my Panasonic, I returned it and went back to LCD. It was fun while it lasted, but I'd like to thank everyone here for being real informative. Good luck with your Pannies and enjoy 'em. I wish I would have had the nerve to re-break-in another plasma. Samsung, here I come!

hi

exact dimensions are,

30 3/4" height
51 " length
18 1/2" depth

i have the box next to my computer in my apartment and i just measured it, it barely fit in my buick rendevous

hope that helps

hi

this may seem like a dumb question, but i have seen a lot of settings on this thread, does it matter if one person has their settings for standard and i use the same settings in vivid, (will there be a difference in all 0 settings in vivid compared to all 0 in standard)

thanks

do they make right angle HDMI adapters????

For only $3.42 each when QTY 50+ purchased - HDMI Port Saver (Male to Female) - 90 Degree | HDMI Repeater/Coupler (http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=104&cp_id=10419&cs_id=1041907&p_id=3733&seq=1&format=2)

There are others, many of which look bigger so not too sure if they would work in your situation or not...

Peace,

Chris

I'm unhappy with the negative effect the anti-reflective screen has on the picture quality and would probably sell this TV for a few hundred less than what I paid for it just to get rid of it. I'm in Chicagoland if anybody is interested in making me an offer. LOL

hi

this may seem like a dumb question, but i have seen a lot of settings on this thread, does it matter if one person has their settings for standard and i use the same settings in vivid, (will there be a difference in all 0 settings in vivid compared to all 0 in standard)

thanks

Yes, the base settings are different for standard and vivid. Can't compare them easily. Vivid at all 0's and standard at all 0's looks very different.

Just bought the 42" PZ77U and love it. Here's the question. When I hit "recall" the bar at the top of the screen says 720p. Shouldn't it say 1080p? Also, it only shows the resolution, the picture mode, aspect ratio and time. It should also show the station (channel), CC, SAP, and rating level. Any ideas? Thanks! -JIM-

First, I want to thank this website, and specifically the people on this thread for your great advice, reviews, etc on the panny pz77u. I know there's been a lot of back and forth about glare/anti-glaze etc between the 77u and the 700. They were right next to each other at BB and I could not tell the difference at all, except for the reflections. They were both spectacular. I placed an order for the 77u with Sears and am waiting patiently for it to get back in stock ( which should be this weekend). My question (and I'm sure I will have many more) is do any of you know, or remember, the height of the box the set comes in? I have no problem with picking up the set from the store, but want to make sure it will fit in my Explorer


42 or 50 inch?

Just bought the 42" PZ77U and love it. Here's the question. When I hit "recall" the bar at the top of the screen says 720p. Shouldn't it say 1080p? Also, it only shows the resolution, the picture mode, aspect ratio and time. It should also show the station (channel), CC, SAP, and rating level. Any ideas? Thanks! -JIM-

That display is for what the program is being broadcast in.

I am totally new with all this, (HDTV), I am looking to get the 50". I am a little worried about burn-in. What is the best way to prevent this? I have heard about the news tickers on the bottom or the network logos. Do I have to switch channels every once in a while when I am watching. Also what is the best settings for a semi-dark room. It will be in my basement where If the lights are off it is dark. Not that much light gets down there.
Thanks

First, I want to thank this website, and specifically the people on this thread for your great advice, reviews, etc on the panny pz77u. I know there's been a lot of back and forth about glare/anti-glaze etc between the 77u and the 700. They were right next to each other at BB and I could not tell the difference at all, except for the reflections. They were both spectacular. I placed an order for the 77u with Sears and am waiting patiently for it to get back in stock ( which should be this weekend). My question (and I'm sure I will have many more) is do any of you know, or remember, the height of the box the set comes in? I have no problem with picking up the set from the store, but want to make sure it will fit in my Explorer

42" Box Dims: 30-5/8"H x 51-1/4"W x 18-1/8"D
50" Box Dims: 34-3/4"H x 58-7/8"W x 16-7/8"D

For only $3.42 each when QTY 50+ purchased - HDMI Port Saver (Male to Female) - 90 Degree | HDMI Repeater/Coupler (http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=104&cp_id=10419&cs_id=1041907&p_id=3733&seq=1&format=2)

There are others, many of which look bigger so not too sure if they would work in your situation or not...

Peace,

Chris


thanks, for some reason i couldn't find that on monoprice.

I am totally new with all this, (HDTV), I am looking to get the 50". I am a little worried about burn-in. What is the best way to prevent this? I have heard about the news tickers on the bottom or the network logos. Do I have to switch channels every once in a while when I am watching. Also what is the best settings for a semi-dark room. It will be in my basement where If the lights are off it is dark. Not that much light gets down there.
Thanks

Just keep your settings low for the first 100 hours to be safe. If you are watching in a dark room, you will probably use low settings anyway. On my 42pz77u the "Cinema" setting seems best for this, with tweaks of course.

I have had my 50' PZ77U set for about two months now and have passed the 150 hr mark. Time to change up the settings a bit....still love this set! Still on the fence whether ISF is really necessary....anyone else out there who recently got this set and decided to go with ISF? Did you notice a significant difference in picture? Not much of a difference? Will a Avia/DVE DVD purchase do the same trick?

I have DVE SD DVD, but if I could do it over, I'd get Spider2 software. If you have a laptop (or can bring a PC into the room your display is in) and can follow directions, the result should be pretty close to an ISF calibration. DVE probably gets you 75% there. I ordered two pz77u that should be in stock tonight. Although I don't have mine yet, my understanding is plasma sets by nature are very tweakable, thus ISF calibration has more potential than a lot of other displays. If there weren't many options for tweaking, then I'd say just do it yourself. Sinc Spider2 is only $50 on Amazon, I'd give it a shot and see what you think. If you don't like it, get an ISF calibration. Not much money lost.

Well, I did what any sensible person would do...window shopping at BB, CC, Fry's etc...read scores of reviews/user experiences on various plasma/lcd models... decided on the TH-42PZ77U as the best overall for my needs...then came home and saved quite a few $$ by ordering online.;) (and not getting a stripped down black friday version tv) This will be my first time ordering something this large and expensive online, but I've been online shopping since 98 and I expect this experience to be fine. In my mind, the 42PZ77U at the price I scored is the best bang for the buck right now.:cool:

i know what you mean, i ordered my 58 pz 700u online, and i was sweating bullets.the 58 alot bigger and more $. everything was fine and i got a perfect tv. but i sure was worried about such a large purchase online. the worst part was the wait... had mine shipped to my work. it arrive at 10:00 am,went went home at 10:15, called in the next day.

I have DVE SD DVD, but if I could do it over, I'd get Spider2 software. If you have a laptop (or can bring a PC into the room your display is in) and can follow directions, the result should be pretty close to an ISF calibration. DVE probably gets you 75% there. I ordered two pz77u that should be in stock tonight. Although I don't have mine yet, my understanding is plasma sets by nature are very tweakable, thus ISF calibration has more potential than a lot of other displays. If there weren't many options for tweaking, then I'd say just do it yourself. Sinc Spider2 is only $50 on Amazon, I'd give it a shot and see what you think. If you don't like it, get an ISF calibration. Not much money lost.

anyone try this????

I'm not sure what plasma some of the above posters have but it can't be a 77U. Or at least, not a properly operating/connected/configured one.

My 42" 77U is gorgeous. No stuck/dead/twinkling pixels. Whites are white. Clear, sharp picture. Bright and vibrant colors even with glare from bright lights and morning sun. Fans are silent but they are definitely working -- I can barely hear them when I listen within a foot. Unit outputs 5.1 surround out on optical audio interface from OTA/QAM sources. (Should I be using my TV to switch HDMI audio streams to my HT receiver? I didn't get that memo.)

Upconversion of SD DVDs to this set is wonderful. SD digital cable, great. HD content is simply dazzling. No dimness. No haze. Just clear and bright movies and Television.

I had a couple of different 37" 720p LCDs before. This unit smacks the tar out of them in regards to color, sharpness, SD picture quality, black levels/shadow details. 42" is also still reasonable in terms of weight and doesn't require two linebackers to move around (just don't drop the heavy metal stand on your feet).

It seems amazing that I didn't need to wait for a firmware upgrade or anything here. It's this way out of the box.

-comix

anyone try this????

Check out the calibration forum. Lots of people use it.

I'm not sure what plasma some of the above posters have but it can't be a 77U. Or at least, not a properly operating/connected/configured one.

My 42" 77U is gorgeous. No stuck/dead/twinkling pixels. Whites are white. Clear, sharp picture. Bright and vibrant colors even with glare from bright lights and morning sun. Fans are silent but they are definitely working -- I can barely hear them when I listen within a foot. Unit outputs 5.1 surround out on optical audio interface from OTA/QAM sources. (Should I be using my TV to switch HDMI audio streams to my HT receiver? I didn't get that memo.)

Upconversion of SD DVDs to this set is wonderful. SD digital cable, great. HD content is simply dazzling. No dimness. No haze. Just clear and bright movies and Television.

I had a couple of different 37" 720p LCDs before. This unit smacks the tar out of them in regards to color, sharpness, SD picture quality, black levels/shadow details. 42" is also still reasonable in terms of weight and doesn't require two linebackers to move around (just don't drop the heavy metal stand on your feet).

It seems amazing that I didn't need to wait for a firmware upgrade or anything here. It's this way out of the box.

-comix

Glad to hear it! My 50pz77u is arriving tomorrow...

Hi does anybody knows how the pan compares to sharp 46d64u (LCD)in terms of picture quality
thanks

I'm not sure what plasma some of the above posters have but it can't be a 77U. Or at least, not a properly operating/connected/configured one.

Upconversion of SD DVDs to this set is wonderful. SD digital cable, great. HD content is simply dazzling. No dimness. No haze. Just clear and bright movies and Television.
-comix

I agree 100%. I am completely happy with the image from upconverted DVD's (42PZ77u) and I have not even seen true HD yet! Unfortunately I need to make an exchange because of a buzzing speaker and a black horizontal bar along the top of the screen. I guess it's just part of the inconvenience of finding the perfect set. I'm sticking with the 42PZ77u.

I just picked up my Panny 42px77u lastnight and couldnt be any happier! Even with all the setting on 0, imo the picture is amazing on SD channels and even better on the HD channels....Black levels are great!

It seems i got a goodie: my fans are whisper quiet, no dead/stuck pixels, and it had 0 hrs on it out of the box. Brand spanking new!

can anyone thats mounted this on their wall tell me the bolt size they used to attach the tv to the mount?

How do I check to see how many hours are on my TV?

edit: never mind.... I found the answer in another informative threadhttp://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=12199081

I bought a 42pz77u in the Sears sale about two weeks ago and it stopped working yesterday - powered it on and no picture comes up. The red power light flashes 7 times. I've scheduled a service call but I'm pretty disappointed - has anyone else had this issue? I've read about something similar in older models.

At least you're still in your 30 day grace period. All else fails you can return it for another one.

Has anyone played any fps games on this set? Have you noticed any fringing (color breakup) when panning quickly from side to side? Not noticeable is it? Annoying?

Has anyone played any fps games on this set? Have you noticed any fringing (color breakup) when panning quickly from side to side? Not noticeable is it? Annoying?

I've been playing FPS games non stop since I bought my set. Bioshock, Halo3, Orange Box & COD4....haven't noticed any fringing at all.

I just bought my 50" on Sunday...BB didn't have it in stock so they ordered it...I had to wait 3 long days till last night when I picked it up...It looks great so far...

I brought it home in my pickup truck and in less than 2 hours had it up and running on the wall after all the testing...

Most of you probably know this but if you are mounting your TV on the wall, just make sure you check before mounting:
1. function test every single input on the back of the TV with real signals from your DVD or cable box. After it is on the wall, although possible, it is a bitch...
2. Check your tv for anomalies in the screen...make sure it does not have more dead / stuck pixels than normal...
3. Check the tv's bezel / case for dings / bangs / etc...again, once it is up on the wall...

Now, out to break it in and checking prices in some other stores just in case I can get some $ back with the price match guarantee...

I picked up a 42PZ77U last week, and mounted it to the wall. set pixel mapping to 1:1 (mode #2)

I now noticed 3 bad pixels: two are stuck green, one is dead/stuck black. Can anyone report what panasonic's warranty is on these? I called panasonic they said it's up to the servicer. The service tech in my area said up to panasonic.

Also, I copied all the 1920x1080 test jpg's from http://www.pbase.com/jackcnd/1080p_tests to an SD card. The textfocusconvergence test, with the single pixel green text, is off. On the top half of the screen it shows two rows--the green pixels are clearly well below white pixels of the same letter. On the bottom half of the screen the convergence is perfect. can this be user adjusted? service adjusted? or just sent back to the place of purchase?

The other test images looked ok, although on many tests the top of the screen had a green line across the top. I've also noticed when watching SDTV, there is an annoying white band at the top as well. Hopefully a simple adjustement will fix this all?

I bought a 42pz77u in the Sears sale about two weeks ago and it stopped working yesterday - powered it on and no picture comes up. The red power light flashes 7 times. I've scheduled a service call but I'm pretty disappointed - has anyone else had this issue? I've read about something similar in older models.

I had this same issue with my 42pz700u. You have a bad board. When mine was broke the part was on back-order with no ETA.

We went ~21 days with no resolution and eventually sent it back to Panasonic for a refund. ( I bought direct from them)

Good luck to you.

I picked up a 42PZ77U last week, and mounted it to the wall. set pixel mapping to 1:1 (mode #2)

I now noticed 3 bad pixels: two are stuck green, one is dead/stuck black. Can anyone report what panasonic's warranty is on these? I called panasonic they said it's up to the servicer. The service tech in my area said up to panasonic.

Also, I copied all the 1920x1080 test jpg's from http://www.pbase.com/jackcnd/1080p_tests to an SD card. The textfocusconvergence test, with the single pixel green text, is off. On the top half of the screen it shows two rows--the green pixels are clearly well below white pixels of the same letter. On the bottom half of the screen the convergence is perfect. can this be user adjusted? service adjusted? or just sent back to the place of purchase?

The other test images looked ok, although on many tests the top of the screen had a green line across the top. I've also noticed when watching SDTV, there is an annoying white band at the top as well. Hopefully a simple adjustement will fix this all?Try the HD1 and HD2 setting for overscan..

Try the HD1 and HD2 setting for overscan..

It's in HD2 which I thought was preferred (1:1 mapping), I'll try HD1 tonight

OLED models just went on sale in Japan with 1,000,000:1 contrast ratios and are 1/4" thick, and a 11" one costs $1800!! They cost WAY more than a plasma or LCD, which is why budget minded people go for the cheaper Pioneer.

My first HDTV was a 57" Hitachi CRT RPTV for $3600, so buying a relatively cheap Pioneer plasma doesn't bother me as much since I won't be throwing out nearly the money I did on my RPTV, I just couldn't find one locally or justify spending that much more for a TV that goes above my pool table.

Anyway, I disagree with your reasoning because in 1 year my set will be worth less than half of what it's worth now but yours will be worth 1/4 of what it's worth now, AND I'll be able to get a 2nd, more modern (and improved) TV and STILL spend less than Pioneer buyers did (on the "USED" market once OLED's are out noone will care that it's the "best plasma out 1 year ago", they will see them both as the same, just like having the "best CRT" doesn't matter anymore). That means that 1 year from now I'll have two 50" tv's, one with better IQ than the Pioneer, and will have spent less. 1MILLION/1 contrast ratios. 1/4 inch thick. Plasmas are already dead, so why sink any more money into them if you don't have to?

Time is not the friend of the early adopter.

The 11" OLED HDTV ships next week, the 27" shouldn't be too far behind:

http://www.engadget.com/2007/01/08/sonys-1-000-000-1-contrast-ratio-27-inch-oled-hdtv/

In a year neither of us will be able to give our Plasma TV's away.

the problem is if people with that atittude were always right we wouldnt be able to give our plasmas away many years ago, nor would the be worth more than "1/4th" what they were.

Most people do not presume that just because they buy a slightly cheaper tv that they can keep buying new ones on a yearly basis either, you still spend a premium amount of money either way and it's just a waste to keep buying year after year, if you try and actually get on a scheduel, paying more for more still seems to be a good idea, then by the time "it" gets tired, not the technology outside of it making it so, it will then be the right time to get something else (if time is not friend to the early adopter than dont early adopt, getting an OLED next year, if you're obtimistic enough to think they'll be sold mainstream will be very new, that would be a waste to pay what will definetly be a high premium to get it then, and having bought a cheaper tv now wont help that much, get a nicer tv now and make it last until an OLED is not an early adoption level technology).

Greetings all,

This is my first post here, but I've been lurking in the shadows for a while now, trying to absorb all there is to absorb on this line of Plasma's before taking the plunge. Thanks to ALL of you for some great information.

I have to tell you that I'm convinced that the Panny 50-PZ750 is the way to go for me regarding HD content, but my lousy cable company only offers up a few (and I mean a few - like 5) HD channels, so I'll still be watching a fair amount of SD content.

I have digital cable with a digital cable box that has an S-Video jack... It might have component as well, not sure as I type this.

ANYway - I swear I can't get a straight answer about how good (or bad) the SD content on this Panny is.

I currently have a 32" JVC which, though its 13 years old, still gives me a really nice, colorful and sharp image. I would hate to think that I'll be dropping $2,500 on a PZ750 to get sub-par SD performance.

So, I ask you all, how would you rate your SD content on these Pannys?

Good, bad, acceptable? Should I consider LCD which seems to fair better with SD? Any honest opinions would really be appreciated.

Thanks again, all-

-John

ANYway - I swear I can't get a straight answer about how good (or bad) the SD content on this Panny is.

I currently have a 32" JVC which, though its 13 years old, still gives me a really nice, colorful and sharp image. I would hate to think that I'll be dropping $2,500 on a PZ750 to get sub-par SD performance.

So, I ask you all, how would you rate your SD content on these Pannys?

Good, bad, acceptable? Should I consider LCD which seems to fair better with SD? Any honest opinions would really be appreciated.

I just got a 50PZ77U this week and I love it. Currently, I have no HD content available (spent my wad on the set, content will have to come later). I had tried out a Philips LCD last week, but I just didn't like the picture once I got it home so I returned it. One of the first things that I noted was the SD quality on the Panny was a lot better than the Philips. Panasonic does a much better job of upscaling SD content (IMHO). In addition to better upscaling, my new Panny has several noise reduction filters that can be played with (their results are variable, depending on both the source material and the viewer).

On the down side, bigger means the noise that is present in the signal is easier to see. There was a big difference between my 34" 16x9 CRT and the new Panny as far as how much I noticed the artifacts. Suddenly, the mosquito noise, macroblocking, and general loss of detail from the MPEG2 compression that was relatively easy to ignore on the CRT is now very noticeable. This is not the Panny's fault though. It is just a fact of having a bigger set (relative to my seating position).

That's where multiple rows come in handy;). I'm waiting to pick two 42's from Sears. One is going in the bedroom and the other in the living room. For the bedroom, there's a couch about 8' away, and the bed behind it is about 14' away. If SD material doesn't look all that good from the couch, we'll just sit on the bed.

Not sure if this is the right place to post. But wondering how well the 42pz77u deinterlaces? Im new to the HD world and looking for an HD-DVD player. I was looking @ the AD-30, but ppl tell me to save the extra money and get HD-A2 b/c the tv will do the deinterlacing so there wont be any notice in quality. So does the PZ77U deinterlace well enough to drop down to the a2 w/o any quality loss?

I have an HD-A3 on a 50pz77u and it deinterlaces to perfection. No need to go to the A30 IMO

hi, first post here.

I ordered TH42PZ77U from BB a while ago and it will be delivered 12/6. I wonder if there is a check list I need to do when I get the baby. I know there is a burn in disc to download and I need to run it for about 100 hrs. What else shall I shall do? Also I am going to order camcast triple play. Any suggestion what kind of cables I need to order to connect panny to cable box. Thanks.

Since CC and Sears both have the TH-42PZ77U for a great price right now, I may pick one up tomorrow since I am having U-Verse installed in a couple of weeks and it would be nice to have the TV already broken in and ready to go.

I am so excited to finally be getting one after putting it off for so long but with the great deal from U-Verse, I could not resist. I'm getting the U400 package with free HD for a year so what better way to start it of than with a TH-42PZ77U, my first HDTV!:D

with my new 50pz77 due to arrive next week I see a big price drop on the 5084 (my first choice). I can actually get it for $100 less then I paid for the panny, someone please tell me i'm crazy to be actually thinking of regreting my purchase. :(

Any suggestion what kind of cables I need to order to connect panny to cable box. Thanks.
I'm picking up my pz77u from Sears today. Going to be a busy weekend, I'll probably never step foot outside

The place to go for your cabling needs is www.bluejeanscables.com. Here's what you need:

2 x HDMI cables (BJC Series-1 Belden)
http://www.bluejeanscable.com/store/hdmi-cables/index.htm

1 x digital audio cable (BELDEN 1694A in Orange - Coaxial)
1 x Optical Digital cable (BJC Optical Digital Audio cable)
http://www.bluejeanscable.com/store/digital-audio/index.htm

To calc length:

1) HD-DVD player: HDMI cable is going to TV, Optical digital audio cable goes to receiver

2) Cable Box: HDMI cable is going to TV, digital audio cable goes to receiver

NOTE: Make sure you buy enough to leave slack in the line and the ability to move things around.

[WOW!! I have been watching my new panny for 2 night now, and all I can say is WOW!! I have absolutely no buyers remorse. I have things cranked down pretty low and am still blown away. I have cranked it up a couple times to experiment and it's frickin awsome. I kept struggling with spending another 1500.00 for that next brand up, but without the other set sitting right beside it to compare, I wouldn't know the difference. Now if I could just find a full motion bracket that doesn't cost 400.00:D[/B]

with my new 50pz77 due to arrive next week I see a big price drop on the 5084 (my first choice). I can actually get it for $100 less then I paid for the panny, someone please tell me i'm crazy to be actually thinking of regreting my purchase. :(

Well I cant speak for the 5084, but I've had my panny 50pz77 for 2 weeks now and I have no regrets at all. To me reliability is a major factor in a decision when I was looking for TV. I don't need to be hauling a 50" TV anywhere.

I've got close to 150 hours on it now and starting to turn up the picture and brightness and it's really starting to look better and better everyday.

So yes I'm very happy with mine, as long as you feed it a great source (thru HDMI) it won't disappoint.

I picked up a TH-42PZ77U for a small winter room. I have a Sony 60XBR2 in my living room (beyond Awesome).

I am havings issues with not picking up 15 of the 30 HD channels. All I get is a black screen? One two channels it is just a smear of pixals. On about 15 channels it is fine? On ESPN some pixals seem to refresh slower?

Is the problem with the TV or my box or my cable line? My Sony id picture perefect everyday?

thanks in advance for any comments

I picked up a TH-42PZ77U for a small winter room. I have a Sony 60XBR2 in my living room (beyond Awesome).

I am havings issues with not picking up 15 of the 30 HD channels. All I get is a black screen? One two channels it is just a smear of pixals. On about 15 channels it is fine? On ESPN some pixals seem to refresh slower?

Is the problem with the TV or my box or my cable line? My Sony id picture perefect everyday?

thanks in advance for any comments

Could be a cable box problem, especially since you get some channels fine.

I picked up a TH-42PZ77U for a small winter room. I have a Sony 60XBR2 in my living room (beyond Awesome).

I am havings issues with not picking up 15 of the 30 HD channels. All I get is a black screen? One two channels it is just a smear of pixals. On about 15 channels it is fine? On ESPN some pixals seem to refresh slower?

Is the problem with the TV or my box or my cable line? My Sony id picture perefect everyday?

thanks in advance for any comments


I had a similar issue awhile back; first thing to fix is not receiving all the hd channels....its either the line or the box OR what happened to me i had a two way splitter one for tv one for cable modem and it was only rated to 500mhz...is your line direct or do you have a splitter...if you do make sure its 1000mhz or more

Ok, so am breaking in my 42PZ77u using that break-in DVD with the alternating hues. On certain tones (red, blue) I can see 2-3 random dead pixels. They are single pixels at different parts of the screen and I would have never noticed them if I as not looking for them. I mean, my face was literally 10 inches from the screen scanning the color field.

My question is: Should I worry that this is the beginning of an eventual problem, or should I not worry because most plasmas come with a couple of dead pixels and they are not noticable during normal viewing?

Thanks!

It's in HD2 which I thought was preferred (1:1 mapping), I'll try HD1 tonight

Does anyone know how to get to those areas to change the settings...Mine are grayed out and not accessible. I only have SD content but have seen where people like 1:1 and also turn the blacklevel down! I can't find anywhere in the manual how to get to it. Thanks!

hi, first post here.

I ordered TH42PZ77U from BB a while ago and it will be delivered 12/6. I wonder if there is a check list I need to do when I get the baby. I know there is a burn in disc to download and I need to run it for about 100 hrs. What else shall I shall do? Also I am going to order camcast triple play. Any suggestion what kind of cables I need to order to connect panny to cable box. Thanks.I hope you don't mean you are going to run the burn-in disk for 100 hrs.....I'm not even sure burn-in procedures are necessary for the newest generation of panels.

Does anyone know how to get to those areas to change the settings...Mine are grayed out and not accessible. I only have SD content but have seen where people like 1:1 and also turn the blacklevel down! I can't find anywhere in the manual how to get to it. Thanks!

mine is grayed out in sdcard view, but changeable when I have a HDMI 1080 source hooked up. I believe the 1:1 pixel mapping only takes effect if you have a 1920x1080 source hooked up anyway, because otherwise it is always blowing up the images to fill the screen. I'm curious why it's not changeable when in sdcard view while a 1920x1080 photo is on the screen though...

So I stopped by Sears today and got a great deal on the TH-42PZ77U. They didn't have i in stock so I won't get it until the 18th. I am supposed to get U-Verse installed on the 15th but I think I will have the date pushed back so that I have the Panny ready to test when they install it. I am happy that I finally took the plunge.

had this TV delivered to the house last night about 7PM.

Absolutely outstanding! Even with all settings at 0!

We picked our up yesterday, as well, at Sears. After setup, we had an AV tech friend of ours come over and calibrate the set. Wow, what a difference! It looked so much better than it did in the showroom. The whites are white (not sort of gray, like they were in the store) awesome blacks. No dead pixels. We ordered the Toshiba HD-DVD player ($169, incredible price) and that arrived yesterday too. Watched the new Willy Wonka movie. The anti glare screen is outstanding. Blown away!!

We picked our up yesterday, as well, at Sears. After setup, we had an AV tech friend of ours come over and calibrate the set. Wow, what a difference! It looked so much better than it did in the showroom. The whites are white (not sort of gray, like they were in the store) awesome blacks. No dead pixels. We ordered the Toshiba HD-DVD player ($169, incredible price) and that arrived yesterday too. Watched the new Willy Wonka movie. The anti glare screen is outstanding. Blown away!!

I am still waiting for mine to come in at Sears. Should be here Tuesday. I am all ready to wall mount it. I ran the power outlet and HDMI cables with wall plates this weekend (thank you monoprice). Also assembled a nice piece of furniture for the components. Should look really nice when I get the Panny up there :D

I have a Panasonic 50PZ77u connected to my Tivo HD with software v9.2 via HDMI.

When I Jump between the Tivo Main Menu and a live show there is a delay, and the screen turns black. But this delay is so long that the TV will display the input i'm on. So i get the Blue/Grey "HDMI" box in top left corner for a few seconds.

Is there any ways to disable that? The HDMI box often will block part of the Info TiVo wants to display.


Also, sometimes the delay is so long, the Screen flashes green before bring back the picture.

I have a Panasonic 50PZ77u connected to my Tivo HD with software v9.2 via HDMI.

When I Jump between the Tivo Main Menu and a live show there is a delay, and the screen turns black. But this delay is so long that the TV will display the input i'm on. So i get the Blue/Grey "HDMI" box in top left corner for a few seconds.

Is there any ways to disable that? The HDMI box often will block part of the Info TiVo wants to display.


Also, sometimes the delay is so long, the Screen flashes green before bring back the picture.

That is probably switching resolutions which is normal. There may be an option on your Tivo to output one fixed resolution.

I haven't been a big poster here....I come in every once in a while and read a few threads...but now I have been here quite a bit the last few weeks. I currently have a Sony KV-34HS510 that I have had for about 3 1/2 years or so. It has always had a great picture, but it has never given me the home theater experience I was hoping for. I realized that the main problem was that the set is too small. I currently sit about 9 feet from the TV, and my living room is such that there is only one way to set up everything to make the most of the room.

Unfortunately, that means the set is directly opposite of a large picture window. I have been thinking for a few months now of getting a larger set. I was almost on the verge of getting a Sony SXRD set...but was not happy with the viewing angle, and it just didn't seem to be as sharp as some of the sets in the store.

I did more research, and finally come to the realization that plasma sets currently have the best picture. So I started looking around, then Consumer Reports said the Panasonic 50PZ700u was one of the best sets they had tested. I went to the store and looked at it, and it does have an outstanding picture, but a very glossy screen. At Circuit City they have the 50PZ77u and I was blown away by the picture. Now they didn't have the same source material, and the 700u was mounted higher on the wall, but the 77u seemed to me to have an excellent picture.

This is a long-winded way of asking if I would best be served by the 77u (with 1080p), or should I save some money and get the 720p version? And someone please help me here, I am assuming that the TH-50PX77U is the 720p version of the PZ77U??? The trouble is, that right now, at one online retailer that has free shipping and no sales tax, the difference in price is only $480...

I could always move my couch up a few feet to watch something "important".

Or is there a Panasonic with comparable picture quality that would be less than $1500? Like I said earlier, there is a large picture window...but I can always close the shades.

Also, this particular retailer has the "OmniMount 1N1L PLATINUM Low-Profile Universal Flat Panel Mount" for free with Panasonic. Is this a good mounting kit? I currently have a Maxim glass stand for my Sony....and that thing is heavy! I was thinking of keeping that same stand and using the pedestal for the Panasonic....but like the idea of mounting it on the wall...but this would increase my viewing distance by a couple of feet....

Thanks in advance!

Steve

http://www2.panasonic.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/vModelComparisonResults?storeId=15001&catalogId=13401&catGroupId=75003&surfCategory=Plasma%20HDTVs&cacheProgram=11002&cachePartner=7000000000000005702&items=177930|112103|

copy and paste above link to see the comparison. The PZ model has 1080P native resolution and the PX has 720 along with a couple differences. I love my new PZ

reffering to a previous post., asking if setting the picture to all zeros under vivid v.s. setting to all zeros under custom or another name will result in differnt images? someone answered them saying yes there is a difference. that's just wrong. Those are just labels for quick reference to what group of settings you're under or want to be under. it doesnt matter the label, if 2 of them are set up exactly the same they will have the same picture...

reffering to a previous post., asking if setting the picture to all zeros under vivid v.s. setting to all zeros under custom or another name will result in differnt images? someone answered them saying yes there is a difference. that's just wrong. Those are just labels for quick reference to what group of settings you're under or want to be under. it doesnt matter the label, if 2 of them are set up exactly the same they will have the same picture...

I actually don't believe that to be true...Cinema, Standard and Vivid all seem to have different baseline settings. Standard and Custom are the same or at least have a negligable difference.

reffering to a previous post., asking if setting the picture to all zeros under vivid v.s. setting to all zeros under custom or another name will result in differnt images? someone answered them saying yes there is a difference. that's just wrong. Those are just labels for quick reference to what group of settings you're under or want to be under. it doesnt matter the label, if 2 of them are set up exactly the same they will have the same picture...

Not true, they have different base settings. I'm guessing they may be adjusted via the service menu. If you set all values to zero then switch back and forth it will be obvious they are not the same.

From what your describing with set-up and all,I say you will love the 77 it's 1080p.which alone makes it a no brainer and then in your situation add the anti-glare screen and you will be very very happy.I have the 77 and I really love it,best picture I've had as far as a tv goes in my home! Hope it helps!! Jim

Unfortunately, that means the set is directly opposite of a large picture window.

Steve

This was a main issue of mine, and 77u models' antiglare coating does an excellent job in this area. Actually, the shiny black frame is the only place you see the glare. (Bit of an oversight I think, but you quickly tune it out) I would say get the 1080 version, and be happy. :)

I had a similar issue awhile back; first thing to fix is not receiving all the hd channels....its either the line or the box OR what happened to me i had a two way splitter one for tv one for cable modem and it was only rated to 500mhz...is your line direct or do you have a splitter...if you do make sure its 1000mhz or more

Thanks, I had the cable line split out 3 times. Now I only have my XBR2 and PZ77U sharing a cable line and it is really good. Would an amplifier on the cable line be a benefit?

Thanks

Like he stated, make sure you are using a splitter that is rated 1000MHz or preferably 2.2GHz. It will say it right on there. You should also check the coax run in your house and make sure it is RG6 preferably sweep tested to 2.2GHz or better. If it is old cable run a long time ago it may be RG59. I would look at those things before trying an amplifier.

HDTVexpert - Two Of A Kind: Panasonic TH-50PZ77U and Samsung FP-T5084 Plasma HDTVs (http://www.hdtvexpert.com/pages_b/2ofAKind.html)

Peter Putman takes a look at the 50PZ77U.

Panasonic’s TH-50PZ77U is a very nice plasma HDTV, perhaps the best one they’ve ever produced. It has amazingly low black levels, great color saturation, and once calibrated, produces a nice gamma curve and grayscale.

Is the Panasonic power consumption really that much higher than the Samsung(483 vs. 217)?!!

What surprised me is that it was actually a little brighter (post calibration) than the Sammy.

I have done exhaustive research and "Bang For The Buck" says Panasonic TH-42PZ77U if you have any ambient or natural light impacting the viewing (windows in the room).

A HUGE difference between the 77U and 700U is contrast ratio...the TH-42PZ77U is 10,000:1 versus only 5,000:1 with the TH-PZ700U...I went to Best Buy and requested the remotes for both TV's...the PZ-77U has profoundly greater picture quality...in fact, I was able to replicate the PQ of the benchmark Pioneer next to the Panasonics with the PZ77U NOT the 700U...I have to assume that the contrast ratio is the determining factor.

BTW...neither Consumer Reports nor CNET have rates the TH-42PZ77U...only the PX77U and the PZ700U...given the glare factor with plasmas, I rate the PZ77U superior amongst the 3.

The PZ77U does has have inferior speakers to the 700U but something had to give to get the 1080P and 10,000:1 Contrast Ratio.

The PZ77U does has have inferior speakers to the 700U but something had to give to get the 1080P and 10,000:1 Contrast Ratio.

...and which do you use more frequently? The speakers on the TV or the speakers hooked up to your A/V receiver?

IMHO, you didn't invest in a high end TV to not fully enjoy the experience. I use my A/V receiver more than the TV's sound system..

I'm tempted to buy the 50PZ77. But I'm also thinking of waiting for the 2008 models which will most likely have 24p capability. Does anyone think 24p is worth waiting for? Can people tell the difference between 24p and 60p? Also, I heard that the 2008 models will have reduced power consumption. What are your thoughts on this? Thanks.

Depends what you want. I ordered 42pz77 for the living room and bedroom. I have a separate front projector in my HT. Since it does 24fps and that's were I'll watch my BDs and HD-DVDs, there was no need to wait for 24fps on the plasmas. Having said all that, I don't think 24fps is that big of a deal (at least on my PJ). Of course all this depends on the VP capabilities of the display. We won't know how big of a difference it means in these Panny's until the '08 models come out. Just remember, there will always be something better coming out in 6 months. At somepoint you have to buy and enjoy life!

That is probably switching resolutions which is normal. There may be an option on your Tivo to output one fixed resolution.

Yep I agree. My Directv DVR (HR20) had the same issue. Found it was in "Native mode". Once I set it to 1080 output the channels changed much quicker.

Hi everyone! I'm thinking about getting a TH-42PZ77U Viera set for gaming (Primarily PS3/360)... I just wanted to know everyone's experiences with the TV and whether or not it's good for gaming...

I play a lot of games that require a fast refresh rate... (My current TV is a Sony KDL46XBR2 that has a 8ms refresh rate).... Hopefully this set offers something faster, or equal to it. I play a lot of fighting games and would appreciate it if anyone can shed some light/opinions on this TV for gaming! Cheers! Thanks in advance...

MarkMan23,

The 8 ms with the Sony is called the response time (refresh rate is something different). That is the amount of lag that the LCD pixels have when being switched on and off. This is what causes LCD displays to exhibit blurring during quick action on the screen. Other display technologies, including plasma, don't exhibit the same lag properties as LCD, so that shouldn't be a problem.

For a hardcore gamer, though, the biggest downside with the PZ77U would probably be the anti-glare coating. I personally have no problem with it and love the image quality of my TH-42PZ77U, but some people do have a problem with the coating. If you are planning on using it in a room with controlled lighting, you would probably be happier with the PZ700U. If you are using it in a well lit living room with a picture window, like me, the benefits of the anti-glare coating out-weigh the minor downside of softening the image.

I hope this helps.

I picked my TV up last night. Got it home and hooked it up. I had IR from searching for digital channels. BE CAREFUL! I downloaded the break-in DVD and played it all night long. When I first put it on, I skipped to the deep blue, red, and green; and noticed about 5 dead pixels for each color (not all the same). I woke up this morning after having it run all night long, the IR was gone and checked the colors again - only had 1 dead pixel on deep blue!!! AMAZING!

I picked my TV up last night. Got it home and hooked it up. I had IR from searching for digital channels. BE CAREFUL! I downloaded the break-in DVD and played it all night long. When I first put it on, I skipped to the deep blue, red, and green; and noticed about 5 dead pixels for each color (not all the same). I woke up this morning after having it run all night long, the IR was gone and checked the colors again - only had 1 dead pixel on deep blue!!! AMAZING!

Same with me, I have one dead pixel dependng on the color. If it wasn't for that break-in CD I would have never even noticed it. So far I am extremely happy with this set.

Oh, I totally agree, I didn't see it until after I put the disc in. I was so upset when I saw so many dead on each color, but after running the disc overnight, down to just 1 - couldn't be happier! Just wish the TV had pass the surround sound from the HDMI input then outputted through the optical port :-/

reffering to a previous post., asking if setting the picture to all zeros under vivid v.s. setting to all zeros under custom or another name will result in differnt images? someone answered them saying yes there is a difference. that's just wrong. Those are just labels for quick reference to what group of settings you're under or want to be under. it doesnt matter the label, if 2 of them are set up exactly the same they will have the same picture...BOLOGNA! Vivid looks nothing like any other setting even if they are set identically! not even close!

Same with me, I have one dead pixel dependng on the color. If it wasn't for that break-in CD I would have never even noticed it. So far I am extremely happy with this set.

Where did you get the break-in DVD and what exactly does a break-in dvd do?:confused:

Where did you get the break-in DVD and what exactly does a break-in dvd do?:confused:

The download can be found here:

http://www.eaprogramming.com/

Basically it is just a series of different colors which cycle through. Put the DVD on repeat and make sure your settings are all on "0" with the screen 100% filled with the color.

The idea is that it helps to age the new phosphers in your screen, and supposedly this will help to reduce IR and burn-in with future viewing.

Dead pixels are most noticable if you look at the deep red, blue, and green screens.

Let this disc cycle through, along with regular program viewing at low settings and after 100-150 hours your plasma will be considered "broken-in".

Everyone here has different ideas about how necessary all of this is, but I figure better to be safe than sorry. Panasonic just recommends to keep the settings low for the first 100 hours. The DVD just helps to speed the process along.

Well... I picked up my two 42pz77s last night (one for the family room and one for the master bedroom). I had the uncles come over and help me take them out of the SUV and set them up. Damn they were a tight fit too... half inch to spare front and back and a half inch on each side (wheel wells). I downloaded the burn in disk, set everything to zero and have had one of the two units running non stop. I'll prbably burn another disk tonight and get the other one burned in. So far so good. Interestingly enough, I ran the channel set-up and they pick up more digital channels that are "in the clear" than the samsung stand alone QAM tuner that I have hooked up to my front projector. I now get 30 music stations :). No IR problems so far! The imgage is a little dull with everything set to 0, but it looked mighty dynamic out of the box. It just tells me there will be loads of potential for calibration once I get to 100 hours in each display.

I forgot to mention... no dead pixels so far! I've only really scrutinized one display since they didn't get set up until 11pm last night. I really like how Panasonic intermingles the analog and "in the clear" digital signals. My uncle has a JVC and that display requires you to manually change from analog to digital signals. This is much easier... especially for my wife (which translate to better for me;)). As for the anti-glare surface... it works very well. In looking at the screen, it appears to not be a coating (unlike the anti-reflection coatings found on spectacles). The bedroom has a big picture window opposite the display and the reflection is very diminished. You can see it if you look for it, but it is in no way distracting.

I forgot to mention... no dead pixels so far! I've only really scrutinized one display since they didn't get set up until 11pm last night. I really like how Panasonic intermingles the analog and "in the clear" digital signals. My uncle has a JVC and that display requires you to manually change from analog to digital signals. This is much easier... especially for my wife (which translate to better for me;)). As for the anti-glare surface... it works very well. In looking at the screen, it appears to not be a coating (unlike the anti-reflection coatings found on spectacles). The bedroom has a big picture window opposite the display and the reflection is very diminished. You can see it if you look for it, but it is in no way distracting.It's definitely a screen coating, but it isn't agressive and grainy like what you see on Dell widescreen desktop monitors. It has an almost "satin" look to it but it does a good job of minimizing reflections from windows, lamps and such. I am so happy that daytime viewing in my house is no longer a pale, washed out experience!

I am so happy that daytime viewing in my house is no longer a pale, washed out experience!

Tell me about it. I went to my brother-in-laws place for Thanksgiving. He has a Sony 40" XBR CRT display. The reflections made the image unwatchable during daylight hours :eek:. The walls are lightly colored and there are 10 windows in the room. Makes me appreciate this Panny all the more :D.

I have done exhaustive research and "Bang For The Buck" says Panasonic TH-42PZ77U if you have any ambient or natural light impacting the viewing (windows in the room).

A HUGE difference between the 77U and 700U is contrast ratio...the TH-42PZ77U is 10,000:1 versus only 5,000:1 with the TH-PZ700U...I went to Best Buy and requested the remotes for both TV's...the PZ-77U has profoundly greater picture quality...in fact, I was able to replicate the PQ of the benchmark Pioneer next to the Panasonics with the PZ77U NOT the 700U...I have to assume that the contrast ratio is the determining factor.

BTW...neither Consumer Reports nor CNET have rates the TH-42PZ77U...only the PX77U and the PZ700U...given the glare factor with plasmas, I rate the PZ77U superior amongst the 3.

The PZ77U does has have inferior speakers to the 700U but something had to give to get the 1080P and 10,000:1 Contrast Ratio.

i'm confused, i thought we decided that the 700u still had the better picture. I had a similar experience at best buy but with the 700u looking close to the pioneer (although i was a little confused because the previous time the pioneer looked alot darker, so something may have been off).

If the 10000:1 ration makes any difference it's less to make the tv a more premium screen (it is cheaper mind you) but more to compensate for the flatness the anti-glare screen gives, which in my mind still is more noticeable than any bonus the higher cotrast ratio gives from what i've seen of them.

Well, for what it's worth... I had the 42" PZ77U in my house for about a week and had to return it for the 700U as the 77U did not fit our media cabinet. BOTH sets offer stunning picture quality, and I'd be really hard-pressed to say that one was truly better than the other. I was initially worried about the contrast ratio difference, but I've personally been unable to discern any advantage in that area of one over the other.

Of course, I think source material is everything. Feed either of these sets 1080p Blu-ray (EDIT: well-encoded Blu-ray :) )and you'll be blown out of the water.

I think the anti-glare coating stuff is probably a more tangible factor to use to differentiate between the sets, but I think you can't go wrong with either. Both are really, really wonderful televisions. I could not be happier with my Panasonic.

i'm confused, i thought we decided that the 700u still had the better picture. I had a similar experience at best buy but with the 700u looking close to the pioneer (although i was a little confused because the previous time the pioneer looked alot darker, so something may have been off).

From my own experience after taking home the P77u and having it calibrated by an AV tech, the picture is completely different (and 200% better) then it was in the store. I honestly don't think you can just look at 2 TVs in a store and make a good comparison. It's all about the settings.

you can though, it's all relative in the store, no one tv has advantage over the other. I may not be able to tell how good it is alone but i sure as heck can compare to the other tv's at the same disadvantage.

The 77u did look flatter due to its antiglare screen, thats why i've always figured why the the contrast needed to be upped, but as someone else confirms that doesnt necesarily balance it and especially not make it look better. Also it's actually cheaper on top of it.

Still, after all that went down i thought it was the general consensus that the 700u looked better, probably due in part to the anti-reflective only screen causing things to look deeper and more vivid.

I bought the 42PZ77U before T'giving from Sears when they had that great price, and sent in my MIR for $150. Well, today I got a denial letter claiming I had not met the terms of the rebate. Got on the horn with Sears and had a curious conversation with the CSR. He basically asked me to confirm my TV was a 42" and then immediately said he would approve the rebate and mail me the check. Makes no sense as the info is all there on the receipt.

Checking online, I see the rebate is now in the Resubmission process, in the Processing state, so I'm not sure if I've heard the end of it.

Have people had similar problems with their Sears MIR? To me, it sounds like they are playing the odds - first, only a fraction apply for the rebate, and then, only a fraction challenge the denial.

Naughty, naughty, Sears!

Wonderful news (sarcasm intended).

It appears tonight, after running the break-in disc for nearly 61 hours straight since bringing it home Tuesday night, that my TV is now kaput! Like I have read somewhere else about the pz700u, I believe it is related to a power supply failure. When I turn it on, it will not do ANYTHING except the power LED will blink 13 times (error code 13 I presume), but I cannot find anything online about an error code 13 and when I called Panasonic they were unaware of an error code 13. This really irks me, my best course of action is to return it to Best Buy, but then I will have to have them order another one and wait 3-5 days before receiving it! I swear if it has any more dead pixels than the one I have now, I'm going to return it - I told myself I would not be super duper picky with this one, but I want it to be at least as nice as the one I have.

Ugh,
Wayne

Wonderful news (sarcasm intended).

It appears tonight, after running the break-in disc for nearly 61 hours straight since bringing it home Tuesday night, that my TV is now kaput! Like I have read somewhere else about the pz700u, I believe it is related to a power supply failure. When I turn it on, it will not do ANYTHING except the power LED will blink 13 times (error code 13 I presume), but I cannot find anything online about an error code 13 and when I called Panasonic they were unaware of an error code 13. This really irks me, my best course of action is to return it to Best Buy, but then I will have to have them order another one and wait 3-5 days before receiving it! I swear if it has any more dead pixels than the one I have now, I'm going to return it - I told myself I would not be super duper picky with this one, but I want it to be at least as nice as the one I have.

Ugh,
Wayne
MADWAD, which model number Panasonic do you have that just "died?" If it's a
42pz77u, I'd suggest you consider it a blessing in disguise, return it to Best Buy, and get the pz700u. I've had both the pz77u and the pz700u and the 700 has a much better picture, at least in my house and with my eyes.

MADWAD, which model number Panasonic do you have that just "died?" If it's a
42pz77u, I'd suggest you consider it a blessing in disguise, return it to Best Buy, and get the pz700u. I've had both the pz77u and the pz700u and the 700 has a much better picture, at least in my house and with my eyes.

lol here we go again with that. Seriously though when trying to get a good sense of user reviews on cnet, the Panasonics have a somewhat lower average due to people giving it 1's and 2's due to them failing. Not that that isnt deserving of a low score, but it's generally not indicative of quality while it's working and skews the ratings.

Completely different sub-topic for those with the PZ.

How many use a SD DVD (480i) and let the Panny do the upconverting to 1080p?

I've read the reviews and they indicate that Panny does a smart job for this.

I'm one of those that is balancing on the fence for HD or Blu-Ray and if the Panny does a good job of the SD DVD upconverting, then I'd rather not plop down any more cash for an upconverting DVD if there is no noticable difference between that and what the Panny can do.

Anyone do their own direct comparisons?

Thanks!
Erik

Wonderful news (sarcasm intended).

It appears tonight, after running the break-in disc for nearly 61 hours straight since bringing it home Tuesday night, that my TV is now kaput! Like I have read somewhere else about the pz700u, I believe it is related to a power supply failure. When I turn it on, it will not do ANYTHING except the power LED will blink 13 times (error code 13 I presume), but I cannot find anything online about an error code 13 and when I called Panasonic they were unaware of an error code 13. This really irks me, my best course of action is to return it to Best Buy, but then I will have to have them order another one and wait 3-5 days before receiving it! I swear if it has any more dead pixels than the one I have now, I'm going to return it - I told myself I would not be super duper picky with this one, but I want it to be at least as nice as the one I have.

Ugh,
Wayne

I took it back this morning and since they did not have any left in stock, they had to order me a new one. The earliest date they can get another one in is not until December 27th. I'm so upset... argh!

I took it back this morning and since they did not have any left in stock, they had to order me a new one. The earliest date they can get another one in is not until December 27th. I'm so upset... argh!


I ordered mine from Sears before Thanksgiving and it took 2 weeks for it to come in. The fact that you will have to wait 3 weeks is not surprising given this is the Christmas season (along with all the associated shipping that goes on) and the vast number of units they've moved with this sale. At least they are taking care of you :D. All is not bad.

The PZ77 is on the wall in my den. The picture is excellent. I was wondering if there are any calibration sheets for this TV? There were several availibe for my 60XBR2. I feel more comfortable knowing I have a calibrated baseline to work with.

I just bought the 50 inch PZ77U. It will be delivered in three days. It is replacing a Panny LCD projection TV.

Here is my question. I often listen to TW music channels using the Scientific Atlanta HD box. I won't want to keep the plasma tv on due to power consumption and possible burn in. The TW box has a DVI output. If I hook this up to the Plasma TV using a DVI-HDMI connecter, and hook up the Optical output of the cable box to my receiver, I suspect that the cable box will not recieve the handshake from the plasma TV if it is off,
and the box will stop working. Is this correct? That is true with my LCD TV
now, but I just leave it on ( this older Panny has a DVI input).
If so is there any way around this other than using component cables from the box to the TV?

you can though, it's all relative in the store, no one tv has advantage over the other. I may not be able to tell how good it is alone but i sure as heck can compare to the other tv's at the same disadvantage.

The 77u did look flatter due to its antiglare screen, thats why i've always figured why the the contrast needed to be upped, but as someone else confirms that doesnt necesarily balance it and especially not make it look better. Also it's actually cheaper on top of it.

Still, after all that went down i thought it was the general consensus that the 700u looked better, probably due in part to the anti-reflective only screen causing things to look deeper and more vivid.
I find that it is the anti-glare screens that look best in store for obvious reasons. With regards to everything being equal in a store, that's true. But it's often a poor signal to begin with so it's irrelevant. The bottom line is to try and mimic what you'll be watching at home. If consumers can get to a Magnolia and have them run a direct input (dvd or blu or hd etc) into their tv of choice, I think that's the best we can hope for. I find that the 77U has extremely rich inky blacks as long as you're in a moderately dark room and I much prefer the matte screen. I do notice that watching the tv in a brightly-lit room tends to reduce contrast noticeably though which may not be the case with the 700u.

Regarding calibration, you can hook up a PC or laptop via HDMI and open up 21-step gradients and other calibration jpeg's off of the net for free.

Do you know if there are any reccomended settings for the PZ77U availible on this site?

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=938089&page=13

Thx good thread! Just what I needed.

hi guys i bought this Th-42pz77u last month from sears, used it for over 100 hrs.
Mode: Standard
Picture: 0
Brightness: 0
Color: 0
Tint: 0
Sharpness: 0
Color Temp: warm
Everything else off.
played a lot of cod4 , watched bluray movies now I see light burn in of game menus such as the score count on left , rader... But it slightly vanishes when i use vivid mode...
Can anyone help me out with this problem ? please let me know the right settings.

From my own experience after taking home the P77u and having it calibrated by an AV tech, the picture is completely different (and 200% better) then it was in the store. I honestly don't think you can just look at 2 TVs in a store and make a good comparison. It's all about the settings.

We picked our up yesterday, as well, at Sears. After setup, we had an AV tech friend of ours come over and calibrate the set. Wow, what a difference! It looked so much better than it did in the showroom. The whites are white (not sort of gray, like they were in the store) awesome blacks. No dead pixels. We ordered the Toshiba HD-DVD player ($169, incredible price) and that arrived yesterday too. Watched the new Willy Wonka movie. The anti glare screen is outstanding. Blown away!!

I have done exhaustive research and "Bang For The Buck" says Panasonic TH-42PZ77U if you have any ambient or natural light impacting the viewing (windows in the room).

A HUGE difference between the 77U and 700U is contrast ratio...the TH-42PZ77U is 10,000:1 versus only 5,000:1 with the TH-PZ700U...I went to Best Buy and requested the remotes for both TV's...the PZ-77U has profoundly greater picture quality...in fact, I was able to replicate the PQ of the benchmark Pioneer next to the Panasonics with the PZ77U NOT the 700U...I have to assume that the contrast ratio is the determining factor.

BTW...neither Consumer Reports nor CNET have rates the TH-42PZ77U...only the PX77U and the PZ700U...given the glare factor with plasmas, I rate the PZ77U superior amongst the 3.

The PZ77U does has have inferior speakers to the 700U but something had to give to get the 1080P and 10,000:1 Contrast Ratio.


Can any of you guys post your calibrated settings that greatly increased the PQ and adding more pop by any chance? or does this "calibration" require service menu modifications rather than just changing the picture settings?

Can any of you guys post your calibrated settings that greatly increased the PQ and adding more pop by any chance? or does this "calibration" require service menu modifications rather than just changing the picture settings?

Here is what my AV tech friend set mine at. I will have it calibrated again when I reach about 150 hours

Mode: Custom
Picture: 0
Brightness: +8
Color: -4
Tint: +2
Sharpness: 0
Color Temp: norm
Color Mgmnt: Off

My settings after calibrating off my computer:

Color Temp: Warm
Picture: 0
Brightness: 5
Picture Mode: Standard
Sharpness: 0
Tint: 0
Color Mgmt: Off

Here is what my AV tech friend set mine at. I will have it calibrated again when I reach about 150 hours

Mode: Custom
Picture: 0
Brightness: +8
Color: -4
Tint: +2
Sharpness: 0
Color Temp: norm
Color Mgmnt: Off

My settings after calibrating off my computer:

Color Temp: Warm
Picture: 0
Brightness: 5
Picture Mode: Standard
Sharpness: 0
Tint: 0
Color Mgmt: Off


Thanks. How about those who have surpassed the break in period? What settings did you settle on that gave the image quality some POP while also staying true to the naturalistic tones? Currently I ve been looking at the vivid setting which gives the pop but the colors are WAY too bright but the image is crisp and clear with a little false edges. Any settings that give the crispness and clarity of vivid but also the naturalness of Standard or Cinema?

Thanks. How about those who have surpassed the break in period? What settings did you settle on that gave the image quality some POP while also staying true to the naturalistic tones? Currently I ve been looking at the vivid setting which gives the pop but the colors are WAY too bright but the image is crisp and clear with a little false edges. Any settings that give the crispness and clarity of vivid but also the naturalness of Standard or Cinema?

Remember on this set "Picture' is brightness and "Brightness' is contrast.

onthebeam: I agree with you COMPLETELY. I've had my 42pz77u for three weeks now... I've tried every possible setting to somehow increase the "brightness" or "smash" on my picture, to no avail. I will say that, sometimes, the picture in HD looks great; however, just when I think the picture is fine and I convince myself that the set is OK, I'll change channels and again am struck with the feeling of "where's the WOW factor?" I've seen too many friends' HDTV's and countless others in stores that "grab" me with their spectacular pictures - as much as I wish mine would do the same.... it just doesn't! My brother has the PX77U, which as we all know is the 720p version with presumably the same anti-glare screen, and his does not exhibit this same "dim" or "no-pop" picture that the PZ has. I've concluded that it must be the combination of the 1080p panel and the anti-glare screen that is causing, in my eyes at least, this very real problem. I'm afraid I'm going to have to return my set to Sears, much as I hate to, and suck up the 15% restocking fee (fortunately, it's only 15% of the low price I managed to purchase the set for.) My dad has the 50" px75u with no anti-glare and it looks great... it just irks me that my supposedly superior 1080p PZ model has turned out to be a disappointment.

I couldnt agree more, I just bought the 42pz77u and there is no wow factor at all. I just came from my father in laws who has the 50" px60u and his popped looked punchy,bright and came home only to be dissapointed with mine. I think Im going to return it and get the 50" 75u.

Has anyone else noticed how susceptible the shiny black piano finish is to scratching? I wiped mine off gently a few times with a microfiber cloth from Costco and in bright light, it appears to have a significant number of minor surface scratches. Any suggestions on the best way to clean this surface without scratching it? How about scratch removal? Other than this, I love the set so far!

Thanks. How about those who have surpassed the break in period? What settings did you settle on that gave the image quality some POP while also staying true to the naturalistic tones? Currently I ve been looking at the vivid setting which gives the pop but the colors are WAY too bright but the image is crisp and clear with a little false edges. Any settings that give the crispness and clarity of vivid but also the naturalness of Standard or Cinema?

Those settings just seem very dark and muted to me. I keep my settings for picture in the 20's...do you have yours calibrated beyond the normal picture screen.

I'm past 100 hours and find that a 20ish vivid setting with a 10 or so brightness with color turned down to a -5 produces images that really pop.

I'd just like a little more naturalness too with the vivid setting.

My settings were past the 100 hours although I don't think there's any change after 100 or 200 hours with the Pannies.

I watch everything in a perfectly dark room however so I would understand others being up higher in Picture and Brightness. I also tweak things depending upon the content the same as I would eq my receiver for certain songs. Nonetheless, the one thing I don't ever change is color temp. I find the Warm setting to actually be the most accurate and natural.

Regarding wow or pop alls I can say is I'm blown away every second I watch this thing. I really wish I had considered the 50" though.

My settings were past the 100 hours although I don't think there's any change after 100 or 200 hours with the Pannies.

I watch everything in a perfectly dark room however so I would understand others being up higher in Picture and Brightness. I also tweak things depending upon the content the same as I would eq my receiver for certain songs. Nonetheless, the one thing I don't ever change is color temp. I find the Warm setting to actually be the most accurate and natural.

Regarding wow or pop alls I can say is I'm blown away every second I watch this thing. I really wish I had considered the 50" though.

Mayor Quimby, What are your settings.

Its pronounced chowda...say it right Frenchie!

My settings after calibrating off my computer:

Color Temp: Warm
Picture: 0
Brightness: 5
Picture Mode: Standard
Sharpness: 0
Tint: 0
Color Mgmt: Off


This was done off a 21 step chart and other downloads. I'm in a perfectly dark room. With these settings I never get clipped highlights and maintain very good shadow detail. I also found that the same settings under different picture modes looked...different. I don't understand why though.

I sometimes bring both the brightness and picture up about 5 points depending upon the source (usually Sunrise Earth). I keep the saturation at 0 but sometimes certain channels are a bit oversaturated. I think it's on their end however so I just keep it at 0.

Has anyone else noticed how susceptible the shiny black piano finish is to scratching? I wiped mine off gently a few times with a microfiber cloth from Costco and in bright light, it appears to have a significant number of minor surface scratches. Any suggestions on the best way to clean this surface without scratching it? How about scratch removal? Other than this, I love the set so far!

Yah, the piano finish is the same scratch magnet material that the Sony PSP and PS3 are made of it seems. I have 3 scratches on my border and no idea where they came from, fortunately they can only be seen at certain angles.

Anything I've tried to clean this border with leaves streaks, if anyone has any recommendations on cleaning or scratch removal please speak up.

I just wanted to chime in and say I got the 42" on Sunday from BB. So far I really like it. I've spent a decent amount of time watching my friends 700U and the image is comparable. I probably would have gone 700U if the TV + bluray combo I got didn't end up being much cheaper than the lowest I've ever seen the 700U priced at.

I am going to start running a DVD break in tomorrow or the next day. I've just kept the settings low and not watched too much TNT (darn logo!)

Overall I'm very happy, thus far, with my purchase. I've still got a lot to learn.

Those settings just seem very dark and muted to me. I keep my settings for picture in the 20's...do you have yours calibrated beyond the normal picture screen.

I'm past 100 hours and find that a 20ish vivid setting with a 10 or so brightness with color turned down to a -5 produces images that really pop.

I'd just like a little more naturalness too with the vivid setting.

Cool! I'll give those settings a try.

Here is what my AV tech friend set mine at. I will have it calibrated again when I reach about 150 hours

Mode: Custom
Picture: 0
Brightness: +8
Color: -4
Tint: +2
Sharpness: 0
Color Temp: norm
Color Mgmnt: Off

Thanks for the post. Can you clarify if your friend went into the service menu to do some tweaks as well or did he just change the settings in the regular menu?

If he did/does change some items in the service menu, could you ask him to document them for you and could you please share them with us?

I'm unsure if any poster on this forum yet has had the set calibrated via the service menu and this would be most helpful.

Thanks for the post. Can you clarify if your friend went into the service menu to do some tweaks as well or did he just change the settings in the regular menu?

If he did/does change some items in the service menu, could you ask him to document them for you and could you please share them with us?

I'm unsure if any poster on this forum yet has had the set calibrated via the service menu and this would be most helpful.

I'd also be interested...picture at 0 seems sooooo low! Am I crazy or does 0 seem low to anyone else?

This was done off a 21 step chart and other downloads. I'm in a perfectly dark room. With these settings I never get clipped highlights and maintain very good shadow detail. I also found that the same settings under different picture modes looked...different. I don't understand why though.

I sometimes bring both the brightness and picture up about 5 points depending upon the source (usually Sunrise Earth). I keep the saturation at 0 but sometimes certain channels are a bit oversaturated. I think it's on their end however so I just keep it at 0.

Do you have a link to the chart and process, I'd be interested to see where I net out.

Anybody know if the line-level audio outputs are variable or fixed on the PZ77? I would assume fixed is the default, but are they fixed-only?

I'd also be interested...picture at 0 seems sooooo low! Am I crazy or does 0 seem low to anyone else?

Yes, using custom settings and a 'light" black level, Picture seems to need +5 to +20 depending on ambient room light but brightness (contrast) seems good at 0 or -15 depending on desired black level.

Hi All,

I recently purchased a VGA to Component cable hoping to use the VGA-out on my laptop (IBM T42 via ATI Mobility 9600) to display onto my pz77u. I was able to match the resolution on my laptop to match 1920x1080i at 30mhz, but the picture was all wrong. The plasma display my desktop in all sort of wierd colors even though my desktop is completely white. The icon on my desktop have strange colors as well. The picture also flickers in and out. Am I doing something wrong? Has anyone successfully used their pz77u as a laptop monitor via VGA to component? Any help is appreciated. Thanks.

For the Panasonic TH42PZ77U, do any cables come with the TV ? If not, can someone please tell me exactly which cables (and how many) I will need if I am ordering them from monoprice.com ? I am technologically challenged (LOL), so please be specific.

I will be using a Dish sattelite unit, a TIVO unit, and a DVD/VCR.

Thanks.

For the Panasonic TH42PZ77U, do any cables come with the TV ? If not, can someone please tell me exactly which cables (and how many) I will need if I am ordering them from monoprice.com ? I am technologically challenged (LOL), so please be specific.

I will be using a Dish sattelite unit, a TIVO unit, and a DVD/VCR.

Thanks.

Well it will depend on what kind of connections you have on those units ;)

Why do women need to hide TVs?

During the stanley cup playoffs, my wife would rather place a lit stick of dynamite near our TV. The rest of the time, she would like company to believe we didn't own one. ;)

I have two questions about settings on the 50pz77u:

1. I have been trying to run an HTPC via HDMI and i can't quite fix the underscan of the panny (the best I can get is ~1-2cm dark 'border' around the 1080p output from the computer). Powerstrip can't seem to fix it either. Has anyone else made this work?

2. I have a bright room and I find I need the picture setting at maximum to get decent output. If I decide to keep the set will the TV have a short life span if I leave the picture setting at max AFTER the 100 hour break in period?

I have compared the 50pz77u side by side with the sony 46xbr4 lcd.

in favour of the panny:

-no blurring of motion in low contrast or dark areas of the screen.
-excellent off-axis viewing
-better colour reproduction across the dynamic range, dark scenes are excellent.
-it is less expensive and larger
-better blacks, especially in a dark room.
-little or no flicker/judder compared to the sony with motion enhancement off
-low quality SD material looks better on the panny

in favour of the sony:

-bright scenes have more pop, especially scenes with alot of white.
-better anti-reflective screen. The panny is good for a plasma, but it still tends to reflect light diffusely alot more than lcd panels do...this can sometimes affect black levels.
-computer connection is a snap with no overscan
-more control over colour decoding.
-sometimes I like the anti-judder motion enhancement on the sony (although its rare).

Its a pretty tight competition...but the blur on the sony is the real potential deal breaker.

Question about burn-in/IR:

I've had this set for about 2 and a half weeks now.

I've been careful about watching television in full-screen modes, however occasionally with commercials, etc black bars do appear across the top and bottom of the screen.

Well last night, I noticed slight burn-in/IR across the top of the screen - about 3 inches or so tall. It only appears when the screen displays dark, or dark images. I don't notice it across bright objects/backgrounds.

Is it possible that burn-in/IR only affects certain colors, or should I be seeing it all the time, regardless?

Also, how concerned should I be? Any chance it will eventually fade?

Thanks for the post. Can you clarify if your friend went into the service menu to do some tweaks as well or did he just change the settings in the regular menu?

If he did/does change some items in the service menu, could you ask him to document them for you and could you please share them with us?

I'm unsure if any poster on this forum yet has had the set calibrated via the service menu and this would be most helpful.

For the initial calibration, he just used the picture settings, just to save time and effort. After the break in period (maybe 150-200 hours), he will go into the service menu and calibrate those settings. I'll document anything he does.

Question about burn-in/IR:

I've had this set for about 2 and a half weeks now.

I've been careful about watching television in full-screen modes, however occasionally with commercials, etc black bars do appear across the top and bottom of the screen.

Well last night, I noticed slight burn-in/IR across the top of the screen - about 3 inches or so tall. It only appears when the screen displays dark, or dark images. I don't notice it across bright objects/backgrounds.

Is it possible that burn-in/IR only affects certain colors, or should I be seeing it all the time, regardless?

Also, how concerned should I be? Any chance it will eventually fade?I've owned my 42PZ77U for roughly the same amount of time and I haven't noticed any IR at all. My two other plasmas (Panny ED, LG 720p) had IR for the first couple months when new, and then eventually it went away altogether. I wouldn't worry about it with 10th gen panels..


edit- IR (image retention) is not the same as permanent burn-in and will eventually go away. If you had actual burn-in you would be able to see it all the time and it wouldn't fade with use...you might want to turn down your contrast if you are getting IR from a few seconds of black bars during commercials.

I just wanted to ask this, because the posters on the 700u board are saying the graininess of the 77u models bothered them, is it as bad as that or is there an overstating of the facts on on that board, these are the two models I was looking into so I just wanted to check the opinions on this board too?

Hey, I too bit the bullet and joined the club. I am now a proud owner of a 42pz77u (I would have loved the 50, but I'm cheap and got the 42 at a great price).

As for a nutshell review, I'm very happy with it so far. I will confirm what other have said, and admit that in a showroom of TVs, the 77u appears to have a slightly less "bright" picture than other panels around it. This is probably due to the antiglare coating. But at home, with the on the right settings to match your light, I think it looks fantastic. In vivid, it has all the "pop" I need... With my HD cable source hooked up via HDMI, I think it looks fabulous. Of course this is my first plasma, and my first real HD display (besides normal computer monitors). I'm definitely not as picky as some of the video-philes that post here... Anyway, the point is I love the plasma, and for it's price you get a fantastic panel.

Now on to a few questions.

Mike Infinity, like you I'm not getting a full image when hooking up to a computer. I'm using a DVI to HDMI cable to hook up my new Macbook Pro. The Macbook Pro I have uses a Nvidia Gforce 8600m GT chip and has 256MB of ram. Anyways, I set the Panny to Size 2, to make sure it doesn't overscan the output. My Macbook detects the panny display and allows me to choose HDTV compatible settings. I want to output at 1080p, so I choose 1920x1080 at 60hz, which I expect should completely fill the screen. It does fill the screen vertically, with no overscan or underscan, but it does not fill it horizontally. Instead, I get thin, letterbox like black bars on the left and right of the screen. Just like the letterboxing that happens when you display a 4:3 signal, just not as big... about a cm on either side. I'd really love to fill the screen with the image. If anyone knows how to do this or knows if there is some setting on my Macbook Pro or TV that I'm missing, I love to know what it is.

DaveLA2, I'm also very interesting in details about the service menu. After reading this forum, I do know how to get into it and how to check my displays run time. I have also figured out how to browse through the various menus, and have explored the settings. However, being new to all this TV tweaking, most of the settings in the service menu have quite cryptic names and settings to me. I love if someone with some know-how would explain the service menu and its menu items in a little more detail. Also, I recently read Peter Putnam's "2 of a Kind" review that goes over the 50 inch version of the 77u. (I can't post links yet, but if you look for "2 of a Kind" on the www HDTVExpert com page, you fill find it). In his review, he mentions this:

Figure 8 shows how well the TH-50PZ77U tracked a consistent color temperature. I had to enter the service menu to raise the overall measurement about 350 degrees, and was very pleased with the results.

I'd like to know where exactly in the service menu he made this "350 degree" color temperature change... Anyway, just a post with a lot of detail about the service menu would be much appreciated.

Well, I'm sure I could bore you with many more questions, but this is long enough so I'll leave it at that. But if anyone is following this threat wondering if they should buy this TV, I think it's a fantastic bargain for a 1080p plasma. To an amatuer like me, it looks great with HD sources, and its SD performance is much better than many of the other plasma's and LCDs I saw. Finally, many ppl seem to be comparing this TV to 700 series. For me, it wasn't even an option because of price. If you're not a super picky video-phile, and are just a relatively normal consumer, like I am, you'll probably be happy with the 77u and lower cost. But that's just my opinion.

Do you have a link to the chart and process, I'd be interested to see where I net out.

I'm having a hard time finding the ones I downloaded but these should keep you busy:

http://www.pbase.com/staggerwing/image/67769565

http://www.davebazz.com/calibration.htm


Once you calibrate your display however, you may still notice problems with shadows or highlights clipping. These can be problems with the source. Having a calibrated display will at least get you in the ballpark. If you have a monitor calibration tool ("Spyder"), that is always the best option AFTER doing these charts. Finally, it may not matter much but I always turn the monitor/tv on for at least 10 minutes before doing any calibration.

I'd like to know the answer to this whole thing about the overscan and the native 1080p resolution on the Mac. I'm sure you've seen that there is an "overscan" setting the display options of the Mac that changes things. I'm sure SOMEONE's researched this but I'm too busy right now to look for it. Perhaps something involving DisplayConfigX? I really want to be able to run Front Row from my Mini...

Also, I recently read Peter Putnam's "2 of a Kind" review that goes over the 50 inch version of the 77u. (I can't post links yet, but if you look for "2 of a Kind" on the www HDTVExpert com page, you fill find it). In his review, he mentions this:

Figure 8 shows how well the TH-50PZ77U tracked a consistent color temperature. I had to enter the service menu to raise the overall measurement about 350 degrees, and was very pleased with the results.
http://www.hdtvexpert.com/pages_b/2ofAKind.html

Hey, I too bit the bullet and joined the club. I am now a proud owner of a 42pz77u (I would have loved the 50, but I'm cheap and got the 42 at a great price).

As for a nutshell review, I'm very happy with it so far. I will confirm what other have said, and admit that in a showroom of TVs, the 77u appears to have a slightly less "bright" picture than other panels around it. This is probably due to the antiglare coating. But at home, with the on the right settings to match your light, I think it looks fantastic. In vivid, it has all the "pop" I need... With my HD cable source hooked up via HDMI, I think it looks fabulous. Of course this is my first plasma, and my first real HD display (besides normal computer monitors). I'm definitely not as picky as some of the video-philes that post here... Anyway, the point is I love the plasma, and for it's price you get a fantastic panel.

Now on to a few questions.

Mike Infinity, like you I'm not getting a full image when hooking up to a computer. I'm using a DVI to HDMI cable to hook up my new Macbook Pro. The Macbook Pro I have uses a Nvidia Gforce 8600m GT chip and has 256MB of ram. Anyways, I set the Panny to Size 2, to make sure it doesn't overscan the output. My Macbook detects the panny display and allows me to choose HDTV compatible settings. I want to output at 1080p, so I choose 1920x1080 at 60hz, which I expect should completely fill the screen. It does fill the screen vertically, with no overscan or underscan, but it does not fill it horizontally. Instead, I get thin, letterbox like black bars on the left and right of the screen. Just like the letterboxing that happens when you display a 4:3 signal, just not as big... about a cm on either side. I'd really love to fill the screen with the image. If anyone knows how to do this or knows if there is some setting on my Macbook Pro or TV that I'm missing, I love to know what it is.

DaveLA2, I'm also very interesting in details about the service menu. After reading this forum, I do know how to get into it and how to check my displays run time. I have also figured out how to browse through the various menus, and have explored the settings. However, being new to all this TV tweaking, most of the settings in the service menu have quite cryptic names and settings to me. I love if someone with some know-how would explain the service menu and its menu items in a little more detail. Also, I recently read Peter Putnam's "2 of a Kind" review that goes over the 50 inch version of the 77u. (I can't post links yet, but if you look for "2 of a Kind" on the www HDTVExpert com page, you fill find it). In his review, he mentions this:

Figure 8 shows how well the TH-50PZ77U tracked a consistent color temperature. I had to enter the service menu to raise the overall measurement about 350 degrees, and was very pleased with the results.

I'd like to know where exactly in the service menu he made this "350 degree" color temperature change... Anyway, just a post with a lot of detail about the service menu would be much appreciated.

Well, I'm sure I could bore you with many more questions, but this is long enough so I'll leave it at that. But if anyone is following this threat wondering if they should buy this TV, I think it's a fantastic bargain for a 1080p plasma. To an amatuer like me, it looks great with HD sources, and its SD performance is much better than many of the other plasma's and LCDs I saw. Finally, many ppl seem to be comparing this TV to 700 series. For me, it wasn't even an option because of price. If you're not a super picky video-phile, and are just a relatively normal consumer, like I am, you'll probably be happy with the 77u and lower cost. But that's just my opinion.

What he said. For 1050 clams I am totally satisfied with this panel. I would add that SD and upscaled DVD's are much better than I anticipated.

When I see how much the anti-glare coating diffuses the light it's hard to imagine that people are actually satisfied with greater amount of reflection on other panels. I will take a little less "pop" if it means a lot less glare.

I would also be interested in those Service Menu tweaks when available.

Thanks!

I have two questions about settings on the 50pz77u:

1. I have been trying to run an HTPC via HDMI and i can't quite fix the underscan of the panny (the best I can get is ~1-2cm dark 'border' around the 1080p output from the computer). Powerstrip can't seem to fix it either. Has anyone else made this work?

2. I have a bright room and I find I need the picture setting at maximum to get decent output. If I decide to keep the set will the TV have a short life span if I leave the picture setting at max AFTER the 100 hour break in period?


I hooked up a mac mini via DVI to HDMI and everything fit perfect on the screen at 1080p. I havent booted up my mac mini in windows yet so I dont know if it will also fit prefectly. As far as the underscan why not try the HD1 mode to solve the underscan problem. 1:1 pixel mapping mode of HD2 mode worked great for me.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=95312&d=1196223016

I bought the 42PZ77U before T'giving from Sears when they had that great price, and sent in my MIR for $150. Well, today I got a denial letter claiming I had not met the terms of the rebate. Got on the horn with Sears and had a curious conversation with the CSR. He basically asked me to confirm my TV was a 42" and then immediately said he would approve the rebate and mail me the check. Makes no sense as the info is all there on the receipt.

Checking online, I see the rebate is now in the Resubmission process, in the Processing state, so I'm not sure if I've heard the end of it.

Have people had similar problems with their Sears MIR? To me, it sounds like they are playing the odds - first, only a fraction apply for the rebate, and then, only a fraction challenge the denial.

Naughty, naughty, Sears!

I purchased the tv in-store at sears for this exact reason. In-store the $150 was an instant rebate.

Yah, the piano finish is the same scratch magnet material that the Sony PSP and PS3 are made of it seems. I have 3 scratches on my border and no idea where they came from, fortunately they can only be seen at certain angles.

Anything I've tried to clean this border with leaves streaks, if anyone has any recommendations on cleaning or scratch removal please speak up.I use Pledge Multi-surface wipes for my PS3 and the bezel of my 42PZ77U as it doesn't leave streaks. As far as scratches go...I don't know how you would cover that up on piano black finishes.

[B]tic-tac:[/B There was a setting in my Macbook's display properties that I could check to overscan. I believe it was checked by default, and when I unchecked it, the image didn't fill vertically or horizontally... When, checked, it fills vertically, but not quite horizontally (quite a bit more than a 4:3 image does, but not quite the whole screen).

That said, it looks like bobo529 got his mac mini to fill the screen on the first try. That's great, as if gives me hope I can too... but on the other hand, I'm pretty computer and technology sauvy, so I'm not sure what I'm doing wrong. bobo529, do you know what video card is in your mac mini... I seem to recall other ppl hooking HTPCs to their 77u saying that a particular video card didn't fill the screen properly while another did... can't remember if it was the ATI's or the nvidias that were better this this TV... anyway, my next step is to check out DisplayConfigX.

PS... that picture looks great bobo... when I get home tonight, I'll fiddle with my macbook pro some more, and if I can't fix my issue, I'll post a picture of the slight letterboxing I seem to get...

I hooked up a mac mini via DVI to HDMI and everything fit perfect on the screen at 1080p. I havent booted up my mac mini in windows yet so I dont know if it will also fit prefectly. As far as the underscan why not try the HD1 mode to solve the underscan problem. 1:1 pixel mapping mode of HD2 mode worked great for me.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=95312&d=1196223016

SWEET!!! This is just the information I was looking for! Thanks man! I wonder if the mode shift is something I can program discretely into my universal remote for when switching to and from the Mac Mini...

SWEET!!! This is just the information I was looking for! Thanks man! I wonder if the mode shift is something I can program discretely into my universal remote for when switching to and from the Mac Mini...

If you do find a discrete code for this let me know because I have this issue with NBC-HD in HD Mode 2 (1:1) on the left side of the screen (yellow line), so I must switch to HD Mode 1.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=95243&d=1196133857

[B]tic-tac:[/B There was a setting in my Macbook's display properties that I could check to overscan. I believe it was checked by default, and when I unchecked it, the image didn't fill vertically or horizontally... When, checked, it fills vertically, but not quite horizontally (quite a bit more than a 4:3 image does, but not quite the whole screen).

That said, it looks like bobo529 got his mac mini to fill the screen on the first try. That's great, as if gives me hope I can too... but on the other hand, I'm pretty computer and technology sauvy, so I'm not sure what I'm doing wrong. bobo529, do you know what video card is in your mac mini... I seem to recall other ppl hooking HTPCs to their 77u saying that a particular video card didn't fill the screen properly while another did... can't remember if it was the ATI's or the nvidias that were better this this TV... anyway, my next step is to check out DisplayConfigX.

My mac-mini is an intel core duo 1.66 and it has integrated Intel GMA 950 video. It plays 1080p content very smooth using OSX Tiger and it also plays 1080p windows media files while in windows XP smooth also. The mac mini now has its own 24 inch 1080p LCD monitor so I may need to get one dedicated for the panny. Hopefully they will release a mac mini with hdmi built in soon.

What does the TV show as the signal from your computer. If you look at my post with the pic, the TV was receiving a 1080p signal from the mac mini.

I hooked up a mac mini via DVI to HDMI and everything fit perfect on the screen at 1080p. I havent booted up my mac mini in windows yet so I dont know if it will also fit prefectly. As far as the underscan why not try the HD1 mode to solve the underscan problem. 1:1 pixel mapping mode of HD2 mode worked great for me.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=95312&d=1196223016

GREAT PIC bobo529!!! you gotta post your settings :). You watch in a dark room?

bobo529: That's a good question. I didn't press recall when I tested this. As I said, I send the macbook to send a 1920x1080x60hz signal, so I just assumed that panny would receive that... but I didn't check to see if it really did... I will tonight, and photo-document the experience if I still have the problem. I admit that I had just got my monoprice wall mount at the same time as my DVI-HDMI cable. I was excited to get the wall mount installed, so I really kind rushed through a quick test with the macbook pro... maybe I just missed something simple... That said, you vid card is different... it would totallly suck (for me that is) if the nvidia Gforce just isn't good at sending a 1080p signal.. its a nice video card, but who knows...

Question about burn-in/IR:

I've had this set for about 2 and a half weeks now.

I've been careful about watching television in full-screen modes, however occasionally with commercials, etc black bars do appear across the top and bottom of the screen.

Well last night, I noticed slight burn-in/IR across the top of the screen - about 3 inches or so tall. It only appears when the screen displays dark, or dark images. I don't notice it across bright objects/backgrounds.

Is it possible that burn-in/IR only affects certain colors, or should I be seeing it all the time, regardless?

Also, how concerned should I be? Any chance it will eventually fade?

I got home from work a while ago and have been anguishing over the burn-in on my set.

Until just a bit ago.

I've realized that the burn-in is actaully a shadow from the frame being caused by a couple of recessed lights I have in the ceiling above the television. :D

I owe my wife an apology now for immediately assuming it was she that had cause the burn-in :o

haha!

I did the exact same thing! I had a 2-inch "shadow" on the top of my screen from overhead lighting (shadow created by the beveled frame) which made it darker than the rest of the screen. I almost returned it based on this!
:o



I got home from work a while ago and have been anguishing over the burn-in on my set.

Until just a bit ago.

I've realized that the burn-in is actaully a shadow from the frame being caused by a couple of recessed lights I have in the ceiling above the television. :D

I owe my wife an apology now for immediately assuming it was she that had cause the burn-in :o

haha!

i just setup my 42pz77. this is my first flat panel tv after been on a 20" tv for 2 decades. anyhow. why must i press the aspect button each time i want it zoomed for each channel? when you flip channels, it reverts back. its ticking me off. can't i save the zoom setting for all channels?

I just wanted to ask this, because the posters on the 700u board are saying the graininess of the 77u models bothered them, is it as bad as that or is there an overstating of the facts on on that board, these are the two models I was looking into so I just wanted to check the opinions on this board too?

They don't know what the hell there talking about. I have had mine about 2 weeks now, and believe me, there is NO graininess. The only comments I have heard from friends is WOW!!! Nice picture!!

They don't know what the hell there talking about. I have had mine about 2 weeks now, and believe me, there is NO graininess. The only comments I have heard from friends is WOW!!! Nice picture!!

Thanks for the response, I think I'm gonna get the 42pz77u, they have a great deal at best buy for the combo Panasonic Blue Ray and this TV that is too good of a deal to pass up.

Thanks for the response, I think I'm gonna get the 42pz77u, they have a great deal at best buy for the combo Panasonic Blue Ray and this TV that is too good of a deal to pass up.
I've had both the 42pz77u (returned it) and the 42pz700u. The 77u had a lack of vibrancy and "pop" in the picture.... the 700u has an abundance of both.

So I figured out my Macbook Pro issue. This could be interesting to anyone else trying to output from a Macbook to the panny with a DVI to HDMI cable. When I was trying to output my Macbook to my panny, I set the Macbook to use the Display mirror mode. In other words, you see the same image on both the laptop's display and that plasma display. The problem is, the laptop's LCD is a 16:10 display... even though I had set the panny display to output using 1920x1080, it had to force that into a 16:10 output in order to truly mirror the the macbooks LCD display... Thus it didn't properly fill the screen... as soon as I turned the "mirror mode" off on the macbook, I got a perfect 1:1 fill with my 1080p output. However, my complaint was, with mirror mode off, the menu bar and dock stay on my LCD screen... I wanted them on the panny... This is an easy fix too, you just have to open the display properties, got to the arrangement tab, and click and drag the white menu bar from the first screen (the Macbook LCD) to your second screen (the panny). Once I did this, I had exactly what I needed.. A perfect 1080p output from my macbook to my panny, with the menu and dock on the panny....

With a mac mini you obviously don't have to worry about this since you're only dealing with one display.. the panny is your primary output display, so you won't run into this "mirror mode" issue... and the 1080p output will appear perfect right away. That's why the mac mini owners didn't have the problem I originally had... anyway, the macbook pros outputing perfectly now, so I'm happy...


PS... does anyone know how long I should limit my computer usage too when using the panny as an monitor.. obviously, if I'm just viewing movies using frontrow or something, I'm fine... but if I'm actually using the macbook, there's alot of element that could be on screen for awhile without movement... should I worry about burnin if I leave the desktop on the panny for long periods?

I've had both the 42pz77u (returned it) and the 42pz700u. The 77u had a lack of vibrancy and "pop" in the picture.... the 700u has an abundance of both.


By the way, in doing some searches online I found that crutchfield now has a similar bundle deal with the panasonic blue ray player as best buy and it includes the 700u models. I think I've pretty much decided on the 700u, the lighting in the living room isn't too bad, it's a relatively small room with one average size window to the east side, on the tube set I currently have I can see the lamps in the room pretty clearly but not to the point where it annoys me and I'm assuming that it wouldn't be any worse on the 700u than the tube, I think I'd rather have a focussed reflection than a diffused reflection that takes away from the rest of the screen's contrast too. Does anyone know if they run these big instant rebates with the TV and Blue Ray all the time, because I'm going to have to wait until I get my tax return in early February before I can make my purchase?

GREAT PIC bobo529!!! you gotta post your settings :). You watch in a dark room?

Yes when the I turn the lights off, lol.. Actually, the settings I was using when I took that pic was the Vivid mode with everything at zero. At that time I had only dialed in the cable input because I didnt have an HD box yet.

I just wanted to ask this, because the posters on the 700u board are saying the graininess of the 77u models bothered them, is it as bad as that or is there an overstating of the facts on on that board, these are the two models I was looking into so I just wanted to check the opinions on this board too?

I posted a reply in the Buyer's Remorse: P42PZ77U thread after reading the same thing there and in the 700U thread. Mine is still on order so I do not it yet and could cancel it but after going back and comparing them again at a few different stores, I still prefer the 77U's image.

Here is what I posted in the other thread:
Well after reading this plus some of the posts in the other Panny PZ threads, I decided to go look at them in a few local stores again since my 77U will not be here until next week. Two stores had the the 77U and 700 next to each other one had one on top of the other and I still prefer the look of the 77U. The main room that I will have this in does not have any windows across from the TV and lighting won't be a problem, so that would make it seem like I would then prefer the 700U but I just don't.

I took a friend of mine who works with me and does not know which one I have on order and he preferred the image on the 77U as well.

I am not trying to change anyones opinion, this is just mine of course, but I am sure that I am going to be happy with the 77U. Good thing we have these choices though.

Okay, so whats the concensus? I know this is the PZ77 owners thread, so ill get a lot of people saying to go that route. But my choice is between a PZ77 and PZ750. What is the main differences between the 77U and 750U/
thanks a lot.

Be forewarned...the PQ experience in a store is not the same as the PQ in your home enviroment.

I was absolutely, positively certain that the 77U was superior to the 700U @ Best Buy...after all, there was 1080p, a crisp 10,000:1 contrast ratio, etc...and Wow - look how the lights glare is remarkably diffused.

So, I bought the 42PZ77U @ Sears (best price)...it has a great picture, no doubt...awesome in HD...BUT where's the plasma sizzle???...I reailzed that there was no glare - again - great news...but where's my plasma "pop".

I went back to BB...okay, the 77U has a slightly duller matte look but it sure is sweet...I went home and watched HDTV again...I insist that with the incredible 1080p resolution, you can actually see the anti-glare screen...I've learned that the AG is not a coating but microperforations put on the inside of the screen to diffuse light...it is effective but it does create an LCD-like quality to the image.

I opted to return the 77U to Sears...upon which I adopted a neutral position on all HDTV's...should I go LCD (Samsung 4661 or 4665), Pioneer 4280 or 5280 plasma or the 42PZ700U...well upon returning to Sears the choice became "glaringly" obvious...step up to the TH-50PZ700U - to me, it simpy has the best PQ, depth of vision and "pop" of them all...the caveat - at least in the shop...it should arrive next week.

Good Luck...feel good knowing that Panasonic has really stepped up to the Plasma challenge...all the Panny Plasmas look great!

does anyone have personal expereince with comparing the graininess from the pz77 to the pz700? i'd like to know if the graininess seen in the pz77 is also in the pz700.

thanks
Here's my two cents.
For what it's worth, I am an artist (and department chair for the illustration program at a college) so I am somewhat visually demanding. I compared the 77 and the 700 at BB. I found that the anti-glare screen introduces an "apparent" grain to the image due to the way it diffuses the light. The is most obvious in light colors and white. Granted, I sit fairly close to the screen so this is a concern for me. At what some might consider "normal" vieweing distances, this apparent grain my not be a factor. As has been noted elsewhere, the anti-glare screen does not really make the reflections go away. The primary reflectd light source can still be seen, albeit fainter. The diffusion also creates a "bloom" of the remaining light around the source; the "fog" others have referred to. I think both screens look OK from a few feet away. I decided on the 700 primarily because of the subtle grain issue. Hope this helps some of you decide. I think you'll be happy with whichever you choose. Cheers!

Be forewarned...the PQ experience in a store is not the same as the PQ in your home enviroment.

I was absolutely, positively certain that the 77U was superior to the 700U @ Best Buy...after all, there was 1080p, a crisp 10,000:1 contrast ratio, etc...and Wow - look how the lights glare is remarkably diffused.

So, I bought the 42PZ77U @ Sears (best price)...it has a great picture, no doubt...awesome in HD...BUT where's the plasma sizzle???...I reailzed that there was no glare - again - great news...but where's my plasma "pop".

I went back to BB...okay, the 77U has a slightly duller matte look but it sure is sweet...I went home and watched HDTV again...I insist that with the incredible 1080p resolution, you can actually see the anti-glare screen...I've learned that the AG is not a coating but microperforations put on the inside of the screen to diffuse light...it is effective but it does create an LCD-like quality to the image.

I opted to return the 77U to Sears...upon which I adopted a neutral position on all HDTV's...should I go LCD (Samsung 4661 or 4665), Pioneer 4280 or 5280 plasma or the 42PZ700U...well upon returning to Sears the choice became "glaringly" obvious...step up to the TH-50PZ700U - to me, it simpy has the best PQ, depth of vision and "pop" of them all...the caveat - at least in the shop...it should arrive next week.

Good Luck...feel good knowing that Panasonic has really stepped up to the Plasma challenge...all the Panny Plasmas look great!
Well stated... I agree with you 100%. I went through the exact same routine... ended up returning a 42pz77u which had NO high-definition "pop" or "smash"... it was incredibly subdued, for lack of a better word. Got the 42pz700u to replace it... difference is like night and day, almost literally. Tremendous "pop" and "wow factor," which is what I bought a plasma HDTV for in the first place.

I really think the pop and smash that we are all looking for can easily be obtained through playing with the settings. It just takes a LOT of time. Ill be playing with mine and posting the settings.

I really think the pop and smash that we are all looking for can easily be obtained through playing with the settings. It just takes a LOT of time. Ill be playing with mine and posting the settings.

I agree...think it is harder to get this set dialed in...but I seem to be getting close :rolleyes:

I agree...think it is harder to get this set dialed in...but I seem to be getting close :rolleyes:

I would definitely have to agree with this statement. One other caveat I would like to add, and it has been said before, especially by me, is about room brightness. If you have a bright room, this AG coating is a savior. If you are in a dark room, I would probably lean towards the 700u over the 77u, just for the slight extra pop. I could not agree with people saying there is a huge difference, but there is. If you have a bright room, like I do, this AG screen on the 77u's makes the TV usable in the daytime. If it were not for that, I could not watch tv unless I closed all my blinds.

Is it possible to remove that stupid glossy bezel. The rest of the set is the standard dark grey matte finish of panasonics.

Will the hdmi input pass the digital audio to the optical out? My current Samsung DLP doesn't do that :(

Will the hdmi input pass the digital audio to the optical out? My current Samsung DLP doesn't do that :(

No...

I can't find a compatible resolution to sync my Panasonic TH-50PZ77U with my PC... I have downloaded Powerstrip and tried just about every resolution I've come across. So far I've only been able to get it to work with 640 X 480; 750 X 720; & 1024 X 512... all of which have horrible picture quality. Any suggestions?

Bryanrham, none of those resolutions are HDTV standards, nor friendly to your panels aspect ratio... you want to choose one of the following resolutions:

720x480
1280x720
1920x1080

Output these resolutions at 60hz...

Some video cards on TVs won't show HDTV resolutions by default, but if you find their advanced settings, you can make them show these resolutions... I don't remember where to find these setting of the top of my head.. and they may be different depending on your video card, but all my ATI and Nvidia cards from the last few years (whether on mac or PC) can output these resolutions... hope this helps...

PS If you have a video card that supports it, definately choose 1920x1080 at 60hz.... make sure to set the panny to Size 2 mode, so you get full 1:1 pioxel mapping.

I can't find a compatible resolution to sync my Panasonic TH-50PZ77U with my PC... I have downloaded Powerstrip and tried just about every resolution I've come across. So far I've only been able to get it to work with 640 X 480; 750 X 720; & 1024 X 512... all of which have horrible picture quality. Any suggestions?

1920x1080 with the size 2 option (can't remember the name though).
You must use the HDMI connection.

- Rich

Oh yeah... what RichB said about the HDMI connection... if you are actually using a computer or laptop that has a composite or svideo output to connect to your plasma you will get a horrible picture no matter what! Really DVI to HDMI is the only way to go to get the crisp computer output this panel supports... If your computer doesn't have DVI output, I've heard some ppl talk about VGA to HDMI.. or more specifically, a VGA to DVI adapter stacked on a DVI to HDMI adapter... I have no idea if this works or not, and whether or not you get the true DVI digital quality... so if you don't have a DVI output on your PC you may not have good results

Bryanrham, none of those resolutions are HDTV standards, nor friendly to your panels aspect ratio... you want to choose one of the following resolutions:

720x480
1280x720
1920x1080

Output these resolutions at 60hz...

Some video cards on TVs won't show HDTV resolutions by default, but if you find their advanced settings, you can make them show these resolutions... I don't remember where to find these setting of the top of my head.. and they may be different depending on your video card, but all my ATI and Nvidia cards from the last few years (whether on mac or PC) can output these resolutions... hope this helps...

PS If you have a video card that supports it, definately choose 1920x1080 at 60hz.... make sure to set the panny to Size 2 mode, so you get full 1:1 pioxel mapping.

Thanks for the quick reply...

Unfortunately, none of those resolutions you mention work either... I must be doing something wrong.

I have an Nvidia Nview video card and am running VGA to HDMI through a converter. What are some other settings I can play with?

Anyone? Please? I'm desperate here... I'm sure I'm just missing something simple...

I just purchased the 50pz77. I've been reading that these TV's have to be broken in for 100 hours with the picture settings at zero. And then I read that this only applies to USA models. So I emailed Panasonic Canada regarding the break-in issue and this is their reply:

Thank you for your e-mail. Please be advised that our panels have already been operated for 100 hours at the factory prior to distribution. We do recommend that you change the Picture Mode from the default of Vivid to either Standard or Cinema, based on which you feel looks better in the room that the Plasma is in (lighting conditions). Also, as a general rule we would recommend that you turn the Brightness Level to 0, and set the Picture Level between 20 - 28. All of the other settings are based on your own personal preference.

Sincerely,
Panasonic Canada Inc.
Viera Support Team

I just purchased the 50pz77. I've been reading that these TV's have to be broken in for 100 hours with the picture settings at zero. And then I read that this only applies to USA models. So I emailed Panasonic Canada regarding the break-in issue and this is their reply:

Thank you for your e-mail. Please be advised that our panels have already been operated for 100 hours at the factory prior to distribution. We do recommend that you change the Picture Mode from the default of Vivid to either Standard or Cinema, based on which you feel looks better in the room that the Plasma is in (lighting conditions). Also, as a general rule we would recommend that you turn the Brightness Level to 0, and set the Picture Level between 20 - 28. All of the other settings are based on your own personal preference.

Sincerely,
Panasonic Canada Inc.
Viera Support Team

I have been hanging around these forums for years and IMHO I think the break in issue is bunk...at least now-a-days. Now, anyone correct me if I am wrong, but the break in period isn't about the longevity of the phosphers of a PDP is is to avoid IR in the first 100-200 hours when they are more susceptible to IR. Once past the "break-in" period you are less likely to suffer from IR. This isn't the kind of thing that if you don't do you are screwing up you display forever. There aren't even warnings about break in periods in the manuals anymore.

Now I can see going back and re-calibrating after a couple weeks to see if everything is still Kosher, or if you plan on getting a pro...waiting. But that has more to do with the fact that the phosphers change as they age, not that you'll damage anything.

I am personally not afraid of IR, as, I know I can get rid of it...if it would ever occur, which it hasn't, not even in the slightest. So what did I do when I got my 50PZ77U out of the box? I said screw it and I calibrated every input to my taste (see above) and watched a movie...bars and all...three hours long. Not a lick of IR. I even ran the break in DVD just to make sure certain colors didn't suffer from IR and again...nada.

If you aren't getting IR now, you aren't going to all of a sudden start getting it.

But, hey, that's my opinion. Enjoy at your own risk.

I think the above poster hit the nail on the head when he stated: "There aren't even warnings about break in periods in the manuals anymore." The manufacturer (who has to deal with complaints, repairs etc..) would be the first one to recommend a break-in period if it was still needed. I don't know if the panels are pre-broken in at the factory level for 100hrs (I doubt it) but I do know that my latest plasma (TH-42PZ77U) was the first one that had no IR (not the same as burn-in) whatsoever when fresh out of the box. My older Panny and LG both had IR for a while that eventually went away..

Bryanrham: Sorry for the late reply.. at work, so just checking intermittently. Anyway, the only issue here that I can't help with is the VGA to HDMI conversion. I have now hooked up three computers to this panny. A Macbook Pro with a nvidia card, a dell PC with an ATI Mobile Radeon card, and a HTPC with a nvidia card. All these computers send a good 1920x1080 signal to the tv that displayed fully on the screen and as totally clear. The only difference between what you and I are doing is that in all three cases my computers have DVI outputs and I just used a DVI to HDMI cable. So I have no experience on whether or not VGA to HDMI conversion works or how well it works. I'm guessing that is probably contributing to the program, but since I have no experience outputting from a VGA source to HDMI, I can't really know for sure. Maybe someone else on this forum that has done this will speak up and let you know what's going on.

Sorry I couldn't help more.. I'm confident that if you want a clear picture with the best resolution the TV offers, then you want to output 1920x1080, I just don't know if you can do that with a VGA to HDMI converter... if you use a computer with a DVI output, however, you should have no problems... good luck.

About the break-in issue... I'd do it, even if it may not be technically necessary. I have read both sides of the "to break-in or not to break-in" conflict.... none of convinced me that it is for sure necessary or not... but here are a few reasons why I'm putting my px77u though a break in period.

1) Panasonics own plasma FAQ says you should do this. You can see the FAQ here:

http://www2.panasonic.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/vSupportFAQCategory?storeId=15001&idval=&fname=&faqcat=Television

Check out the "Break-in" period answer.. it says:


4. What is the "break-in" period and what should I do during the break-in period to minimize any risk of image retention? When your plasma TV is initially installed, the first 100 hours of use is known as the "break-in period." During this time, to minimize any risk of image retention, you should:

1. Make sure the plasma TV is in a viewing mode (aspect ratio) that completely fills the screen. The panel is shipped in this condition, in what is called the "Just" mode.
2. Turn down the Picture setting (in the Picture menu) to +0.
3. Briefly engage the 4:3 mode and confirm the side bars are set to "Mid", or "Bright". This can be adjusted in the Set Up menu.
4. Always return the display mode that fills the screen (such as Just, Zoom, Full, or H-FILL).
5. Try not to view channels with stationary backgrounds or logos for extended periods of time.
6. Avoid extended display of static images (video games, computer images, DVD title screens, etc.).

So panasonic's own FAQ recommends a break-in period.. whether or not it really is technically necessary, it costs me very little (nothing really) to do.. so why not.

2) Although the panny service rep emailed you that they've already broken the TV in, when I entered my service menu when first getting my TV, it said 0 hrs.. Sure, they may have reset the service menu time counter, but I'd rather be sure it gets its break in period

This 42" set is 44 inches wide, I can only go 43.3. Are the side speakers removable?
yup, drop a new blade in your sawzall and you're good to go.

"During this time, to minimize any risk of image retention, you should..."

First question that comes to mind is, how long ago was this added to their site?

Second point...read the quote..."to minimize any risk of image retention".

I kinda offered my display up as a guinea pig and I didn't see the slightest hint of IR. I have my picture setting around +28. I am definitely not holding back and everything was fine. If I'm not seeing any IR after that, I'm not going to worry about it. I watch 4:3content stretched. Which reminds me, I hate how the aspect ratio doesn't stick when you change channels, but I digress.

Now, will I go on a 8 hour Mass Effect or Halo marathon? I'm not going to push it that far. But I have it set up the way I want it and I am enjoying the doodoo out of it. Plus, if I had taken the time to break it in, it would be almost over by now. Do what you are comfy with...piece of mind means a lot.

I bought the 50PZ77 a few days ago and broke it out two days ago and started with the break-in DVD. I still have my old TV that I'm trying to sell so I haven't hooked it up to any HD sources yet but I did view some 1920X1080 pictures and oh my.......it's like looking at a huge computer monitor. I'm coming from a 3.5 year-old Sony 46" rear projection HDTV. I was fine with the Sony - only reason I bought the Panasonic is because of the deal BB had and other things to reduce the price.

On a side note, I've read this entire thread over the past few days and here is my brief take on this TV: Everyone keeps comparing it to the PZ700 and how the PZ77 is supposed to be an upgrade but the PQ is lacking, blah blah blah. You know what I think? I think that the fact that the PZ77 is being compared to the PZ700, which is supposed to be one the best TV's EVER, is a compliment in itself because it's cheaper and it reduces glare more effectively. The fact that it has a fewer features is petty considering who is buying this TV and what they're going to be using it for.

I can't wait to try this beast out. Thanks everyone for your input!

Bryanrham: Sorry for the late reply.. at work, so just checking intermittently. Anyway, the only issue here that I can't help with is the VGA to HDMI conversion. I have now hooked up three computers to this panny. A Macbook Pro with a nvidia card, a dell PC with an ATI Mobile Radeon card, and a HTPC with a nvidia card. All these computers send a good 1920x1080 signal to the tv that displayed fully on the screen and as totally clear. The only difference between what you and I are doing is that in all three cases my computers have DVI outputs and I just used a DVI to HDMI cable. So I have no experience on whether or not VGA to HDMI conversion works or how well it works. I'm guessing that is probably contributing to the program, but since I have no experience outputting from a VGA source to HDMI, I can't really know for sure. Maybe someone else on this forum that has done this will speak up and let you know what's going on.

Sorry I couldn't help more.. I'm confident that if you want a clear picture with the best resolution the TV offers, then you want to output 1920x1080, I just don't know if you can do that with a VGA to HDMI converter... if you use a computer with a DVI output, however, you should have no problems... good luck.

That's good to know... thank you! I guess I just need to get a different video card or upgrade my computer. Thanks again!

I just got my TH-42PZ77 this week and it's my first experience with plasma. I've been running the break-in DVD just incase, as well as to see if there were any dead pixels.

When examining the screen I noticed that the pixels do not appear to be all the same size. I took a macro photo to get a better look at what's going on.
http://www.onthez.com/temphosting/plasma-pixels.jpg

It appears that the pixels are in groups of 3, with one larger 3 sub-pixel group and 2 smaller sub-pixel groups.

Any idea why this is? Is that what it takes to cram 1080p resolution into a 42" form factor or do the 50" and above do the same thing?

Thanks

Reading posts here can really make people second guess themselves but I am still standing firm on my 77U decision.

One of the stores that I got to compare the 77U and 700U in had them in a theater room setting and while I see what people are talking about, I still preferred the 77U. It had enough pop for me.

When I add a second HDTV to our house, maybe I will go with the 700U so that I have both but I am sure that I will be happy with the 77U as my first HDTV.

I just got my TH-42PZ77 this week and it's my first experience with plasma. I've been running the break-in DVD just incase, as well as to see if there were any dead pixels.

When examining the screen I noticed that the pixels do not appear to be all the same size. I took a macro photo to get a better look at what's going on.
http://www.onthez.com/temphosting/plasma-pixels.jpg

It appears that the pixels are in groups of 3, with one larger 3 sub-pixel group and 2 smaller sub-pixel groups.

Any idea why this is? Is that what it takes to cram 1080p resolution into a 42" form factor or do the 50" and above do the same thing?

Thanks

That is a cool pic. Now I'm curious. I'll look when I get home. I am leaning toward the 50s having equal pixels.

I bought the 50PZ77 a few days ago and broke it out two days ago and started with the break-in DVD. I still have my old TV that I'm trying to sell so I haven't hooked it up to any HD sources yet but I did view some 1920X1080 pictures and oh my.......it's like looking at a huge computer monitor. I'm coming from a 3.5 year-old Sony 46" rear projection HDTV. I was fine with the Sony - only reason I bought the Panasonic is because of the deal BB had and other things to reduce the price.

I can't wait to try this beast out. Thanks everyone for your input!

I had the same Sony back in 04. The one with the weird half stand right?What a great display. It was mad accurate right out of the box. I don't miss the daily convergence sessons though. How far we have gone in so little time? The 50PZ77U is one of the most pleasing displays I've owned (I've owned 3 more since that Sony). It takes a bit of tweaking, but the results can be beautiful!

right?What a great display. It was mad accurate right out of the box. I don't miss the daily convergence sessons though. How far we have gone in so little time? The 50PZ77U is one of the most pleasing displays I've owned (I've owned 3 more since that Sony). It takes a bit of tweaking, but the results can be beautiful!
It was/is a great display. I bought a Monster Cable DVI cable as soon as I bought the TV and I remember seeing other people's HDTVs that cost more than mine but they had component cables from the cable company hooked up and the PQ didn't look as good as mine. I'm moving in a month and the TV is enourmous and I didn't want to transport it (that's just an excuse for buying a plasma though ;)).

Dang, that must be extremely close macro photography... I can not see the pixels at all, even when I have my nose on the screen.. Of course, my eye sight isn't the best... I wear contact/glasses and all... let us know if you find the answer, I like hearing about the technical stuff, even if in the end it doesn't affect my personal buying decision as much as price and my personal opinion of a screen when looking at in myself.

Dang, that must be extremely close macro photography... I can not see the pixels at all, even when I have my nose on the screen.. Of course, my eye sight isn't the best... I wear contact/glasses and all... let us know if you find the answer, I like hearing about the technical stuff, even if in the end it doesn't affect my personal buying decision as much as price and my personal opinion of a screen when looking at in myself.

OK, I don't have an explanation as to why they are manufactured this way, but I think I do have an idea regarding what the small pixels are for.

The small ones, (I think) are not actually independent pixels. I didn't take the time to count all of the pixels in one vertical column of the TV :) but I have a feeling if I did there would be 1080 large pixels and 2160 small pixels for each color. The small pixels immediately above and below their corresponding large pixel seem to be connected. I think their purpose is simply to end up with a square pixel.
Since the resolution of the display is 1920x1080 which would require square pixels to end up in a 16:9 format each pixel (RGB) must be square, the small subpixels are more or less filler used to make each one as a whole a perfect square.

Reference image with square overlay:
http://www.onthez.com/temphosting/plasma-pixels-square.jpg

I don't really have any proof of this but I was lead to the conclusion by examining the one dead pixel on my screen (actually a pixel with two dead sub-pixel colors green & blue, red appears to be just fine)
I doubted that there would be 3 sets of 2 sub pixels in a row all dead and that the more likely scenario was that there were two dead sub pixels and the small dead areas above and below were just clones of the actual dead subpixels.
Reference photo of dead pixel:
http://www.onthez.com/temphosting/plasma-pixel-dead.jpg

Those small ones appear dimmer, they may not even be emitting their own light, it might simply be a small empty chamber that reflects the light of it's nearest neighbor.

The only other way around this would be to have elongated pixels where each colors height was 3 times it's width.

That's my take on it anyway.

And yes, that macro shot was taken really close. I had the lens on the glass surface of the TV and was zoomed in about 33% beyond which I couldn't get a decent focus.

It might be the back plane. In other words, each pixel...red, blue, green are actually one tall pixel and not "sub pixels". The lines that look as though they might be dividing each color could possibly be the actual current conductors behind the pixels. This is what delivers the electrical current to each pixel. Interesting!

Hehehe.. not really related, but I just bought myself a Nikon D80 and a few lenses for X-mas.... Plan to play with some Macro photography myself.... :)

I'm still debating 77 and the 700u, it seems from reading over the 2 threads that there seems to be less people complaining about the power failing on the 77 compared to the 700u, maybe i'm just imagining I don't know

Don't let all the obsessive compulsive people in this forum scare you. The 77U is an AWESOME TV. It looks great, and it has the least IR I have ever seen on any plasma. I play xbox360 and PS3 on it 4 hours a day; Also I have left a paused screen on for like an hour and I have NEVER SEEN IR, NOT ONE BIT.

IF you play video games, I highly recommend PANNY plasmas. Don't be fooled by other companies' screen wipes and other anti-burn in technology. This TV is one of the best.

I bought the Th-42pz77 and i love it so far! What's the break-in dvd? Is there a dvd that comes with the tv? I don't recall seeing one in the box. I bought in Canada. Is it different than the USA model?
Thx.

I bought the Th-42pz77 and i love it so far! What's the break-in dvd? Is there a dvd that comes with the tv? I don't recall seeing one in the box. I bought in Canada. Is it different than the USA model?
Thx.

Back out to the main Plasma forums. You will see break in threads. If you don't use the search function in the top, right corner. There are many links to different free versions of the break in dvd files you need to save, and in turn, burn to a dvd. Take a look at the first page of the pioneer break in thread. There is a link there. Just turn all of your picture adjustments to zero and log at least 100 hours of use with no black bars.

On a side note. I never did the break in and everthing is perfect. I don't believe in it anymore. Many just need to have piece of mind. I don't blame them at all.

I just purchased a 42PZ44u and I want to mount it to the wall. Does any one have any suggestions on which mount to get? I want one that articulates and extends away from the wall. When I look at the mounts, I don't quite understand how they attach to this TV. Does the mount get in the way of cables? Any help will be greatly appreciated.

I just set up my parents HT and I am trying to make it as simple as possible for them to use.

TH-50PZ77U
Onkyo HT-574 7.1 rec
Kliptsch Reference speakers and sub
Bell 9200 HD PVR

The PVR to TV is HDMI and optical out from TV to receiver.

The PVR remote can be programmed to control basic TV functions but with the PZ77U's internal speakers turned off we cannot control the volume...screen displays "speaker off" window. The PVR remote cannot be programmed to control the Onkyo rec so they need two remotes to operate.(The Onkyo remote has very small buttons and text). As I said I am trying to keep it as simple as possible for them to use, is there anyway to have the TV control the volume of the system like in their previous setup??

Don't let all the obsessive compulsive people in this forum scare you. The 77U is an AWESOME TV. It looks great, and it has the least IR I have ever seen on any plasma. I play xbox360 and PS3 on it 4 hours a day; Also I have left a paused screen on for like an hour and I have NEVER SEEN IR, NOT ONE BIT.

IF you play video games, I highly recommend PANNY plasmas. Don't be fooled by other companies' screen wipes and other anti-burn in technology. This TV is one of the best.I thought I got lucky with my 42PZ77U but this seems to be a common thing with the 10th gen 1080p panel. This is my third plasma and the only one where IR doesn't show up in the first couple months of use. I also use mine for Xbox 360/PS3 with no ill effects whatsoever....I even pushed my luck by hooking them up during week 2!:)

I just set up my parents HT and I am trying to make it as simple as possible for them to use.

TH-50PZ77U
Onkyo HT-574 7.1 rec
Kliptsch Reference speakers and sub
Bell 9200 HD PVR

The PVR to TV is HDMI and optical out from TV to receiver.

The PVR remote can be programmed to control basic TV functions but with the PZ77U's internal speakers turned off we cannot control the volume...screen displays "speaker off" window. The PVR remote cannot be programmed to control the Onkyo rec so they need two remotes to operate.(The Onkyo remote has very small buttons and text). As I said I am trying to keep it as simple as possible for them to use, is there anyway to have the TV control the volume of the system like in their previous setup??

I don't know if there is an easier way to accomplish this than with a universal remote control. I'm pretty new to this and just acquired a OneforAll URC 8910 (~$20) to control my PZ77U, Harmon Kardon AVR, Toshiba HD-DVD, and Scientific Atlanta STB (all new). The 8910 was fairly simple to set up and easy to upgrade over the phone to enable it to control the two devices that it wouldn't control out of the box. It also easily "learns" specific functions from your other remotes. And once it's set up, it's very simple to use.

I'm sure there are other URC's that will do what you need, but this one seemed to be an excellent value to me. So far, I'm very happy with it. I'd suggest you do further research on URCs if this is the approach you decide to take. Good luck.

I don't know if there is an easier way to accomplish this than with a universal remote control. I'm pretty new to this and just acquired a OneforAll URC 8910 (~$20) to control my PZ77U, Harmon Kardon AVR, Toshiba HD-DVD, and Scientific Atlanta STB (all new). The 8910 was fairly simple to set up and easy to upgrade over the phone to enable it to control the two devices that it wouldn't control out of the box. It also easily "learns" specific functions from your other remotes. And once it's set up, it's very simple to use.

I'm sure there are other URC's that will do what you need, but this one seemed to be an excellent value to me. So far, I'm very happy with it. I'd suggest you do further research on URCs if this is the approach you decide to take. Good luck.

If you're willing to spend the money, the Logitech Harmony series of remotes are great. You can program them on your computer and instead of switching devices on the controller to turn each component on, you set up "activities" such as "Watch DVD", which when pressed would turn on the TV, DVD player, set the TV to the DVD input, and set the receiver to the DVD to the DVD input. I have an older model and I wouldn't hesitate in buying another one if something happens to this one.

I'm still debating 77 and the 700u, it seems from reading over the 2 threads that there seems to be less people complaining about the power failing on the 77 compared to the 700u, maybe i'm just imagining I don't know

Yes, it seems each has its positive and negative posts. I could have easily said that even though I am reading more and more posts about how some feel the 700U looks better than the 77U, that I don't want to risk getting one of the 700's and have a power supply problem.

At some point you just have to make a decision or you will put it off forever. I planned on getting an HDTV over a year ago and read many online reviews, tons of posts here, did my own research and finally decided on the 77U. It should be here next Tuesday or Wednesday and then I am having U-Verse installed on Friday so I am excited to finally just get it and enjoy it.

I just purchased a 42PZ44u and I want to mount it to the wall. Does any one have any suggestions on which mount to get? I want one that articulates and extends away from the wall. When I look at the mounts, I don't quite understand how they attach to this TV. Does the mount get in the way of cables? Any help will be greatly appreciated.

I have a 50 inch but I believe this will work for you too. Shop prices cause there are huge price spreads.

http://www.sanus.com/us/en/products/ProductDetails/line/visionmount/pcat/fullMotionMounts/modelCode/VMAA18/

Back out to the main Plasma forums. You will see break in threads. If you don't use the search function in the top, right corner. There are many links to different free versions of the break in dvd files you need to save, and in turn, burn to a dvd. Take a look at the first page of the pioneer break in thread. There is a link there. Just turn all of your picture adjustments to zero and log at least 100 hours of use with no black bars.

On a side note. I never did the break in and everthing is perfect. I don't believe in it anymore. Many just need to have piece of mind. I don't blame them at all.

Found it! Thanks, DPowers!
:)

I am strongly considering getting the 42PZ77U. I noticed that Panasonic has a rebate on this model (and many others) on their website. The rebate language indicates that the TV needs to be delivered and installed. Is anyone familiar with the terms of the rebate in detail, or whether or not most companies you buy from on the internet perform something that qualifies as "installation"? At least one company I found indicated their price was after rebate despite no real indication of installation.

I had in mind that I would buy the TV, have it shipped to me, and set it up myself but it appears that would not qualify for the rebate.

I apologize if this topic has been discussed already.

Thanks,

-Clay

Exact wording on the Panasonic rebate certificate is "delivery and installation must be completed from 12/1 to 2/29. Instalation includes wall mounting or placement on a stand."
You have to include the delivery/installation receipt with the rebate certificate. So it all depends on how your merchant charges you:
$2000 with free delivery - rebate no
$1800 plus $200 delivery/installation fee - rebate yes
I don't think most internet merchants are going to "install" the TV on the wall or stand although there may be a few that offer "white glove" installation for a price.

I have a 50 inch but I believe this will work for you too. Shop prices cause there are huge price spreads.

http://www.sanus.com/us/en/products/ProductDetails/line/visionmount/pcat/fullMotionMounts/modelCode/VMAA18/

I still don't quite understand how the mounts attach to the TV and if the mount gets in the way of the cords coming out of the inputs. Could some one post a picture of the back of the TV attached to a mount. Thanks.

I still don't quite understand how the mounts attach to the TV and if the mount gets in the way of the cords coming out of the inputs. Could some one post a picture of the back of the TV attached to a mount. Thanks.

go to there web site and search around. There is probably a picture there, and no it does not block any source plugs as that would totally defeat the purpose of the mount, wouldn't it? It is bolted on to the TV and the stud wall.

Several of you talk about "running THE" break-in DVD as though it came with the TV. Mine did not contain a break in DVD. Is it suppose to come with one??

Several of you talk about "running THE" break-in DVD as though it came with the TV. Mine did not contain a break in DVD. Is it suppose to come with one??

Nah it doesn't come with one. Just google for "plasma break-in dvd" and you can download the .iso file. You then burn that to a DVD. It is just a looping variation of solid full screen colors that will help "break-in" the coating evenly...as I understand it.

I see. Well I guess I don't need one now as I am over the 100 hour break-in period. Thanks for getting back to me..

For the debate about break in I had been told yes and no from the retailers. I figured I would call Panasonic tech. I know you can get varying opinions there as well, so I called 5 days in a row with same question. All five different techs stated it is a good idea, but not critical as it was several years ago. There basic suggestions were to turn setting down a tad and make sure the screen is full. Thats it..

Don't let all the obsessive compulsive people in this forum scare you. The 77U is an AWESOME TV. It looks great, and it has the least IR I have ever seen on any plasma. I play xbox360 and PS3 on it 4 hours a day; Also I have left a paused screen on for like an hour and I have NEVER SEEN IR, NOT ONE BIT.

IF you play video games, I highly recommend PANNY plasmas. Don't be fooled by other companies' screen wipes and other anti-burn in technology. This TV is one of the best.

so it's the least amount of IR over any other plasma you've ever seen, that's quite the endorsement, but how many plasmas have you seen before then? i only ask because your name is plasma"noob"

so it's the least amount of IR over any other plasma you've ever seen, that's quite the endorsement, but how many plasmas have you seen before then? i only ask because your name is plasma"noob"

What does it matter? If he doesn't see any IR then it is a non-issue. Now, if he says it is the best plasma he has ever owned aned he has only owned one, then yeah, that's a bit sketchy.

I'll ask this here as I never got a responce in the tips/tweaks thread....

As of now i'll be hooking my 50pz77u (should be in today/tomorrow) to a panny htib with hdmi out and no in's. It also doesn't have any digital inputs so while i'll get my sound from the tv through hdmi i'm wondering about my other components. I'm using a Starchoice sat reciever which only runs component so I know that won't get true surround sound, but what if I come across a reciever with hdmi and run that through the tv. Will I still need to connect a sound input into the htib? Same question for a 360 elite/ps3 if I run it hdmi into the tv will I get 5.1 through the htib?

Accidentally posted this in the 75 thread, instead of the 77 one. So I'll copy/paste my post:

Just bought a 42pz77u today [Sunday]. Prior to today I had a Sony WEGA 1080i CRT.

I must say, this TV is amazing looking. I've been watching Battlestar Galactica on HD-DVD for the past hour and I'm simply blown away by the clarity this set offers. I haven't even began tweaking the settings at this point, I'm going to give it a few days of usage before I start plowing through all of the picture adjustments.

Transformers on HD-DVD made me drool, but I only watched about 15 minutes before switching to Battlestar. Wanted to break the TV in with full screen content rather than having aspect ratio bars.

I also watched an entire episode of Sunrise Earth on DiscoveryHD - amazing again.

This set is incredible, and I recommend it to anyone wanting a digital HD experience.

Anyone know where to get the TH-50PZ750U cheaper than this?
http://www.bwayphoto.com/ViewProduct.aspx?ID=3273008&l=Pricehead

Thanks

In a few weeks, I will finally get my Panasonic Plasma (yay). Originally, I was going to get the PX75 because it fitted my budget and I was about 10-12 feet away which is fine for me.

I know the PX75 is 720p vs 1080p for the PZ77 and there is, usually, around 500$CAN difference in pricing. However, boxing day sales are starting to pop and I'm seeing them often at only around 150-200$ difference.

I'll be getting a PS3 at the same time to play games but also watch BR movies. Considering this info, would it still be worth taking the PX77, or for the size and distance I just won't notice the difference.

I welcome all imput, thx people :)

Anyone know where to get the TH-50PZ750U cheaper than this?
http://www.bwayphoto.com/ViewProduct.aspx?ID=3273008&l=Pricehead

Thanks
Be careful:

http://www.resellerratings.com/store/Broadway_Photo

Just giving you heads up.

Chris

In a few weeks, I will finally get my Panasonic Plasma (yay). Originally, I was going to get the PX75 because it fitted my budget and I was about 10-12 feet away which is fine for me.

I know the PX75 is 720p vs 1080p for the PZ77 and there is, usually, around 500$CAN difference in pricing. However, boxing day sales are starting to pop and I'm seeing them often at only around 150-200$ difference.

I'll be getting a PS3 at the same time to play games but also watch BR movies. Considering this info, would it still be worth taking the PX77, or for the size and distance I just won't notice the difference.

I welcome all imput, thx people :)


150 to 250$ difference.............if it were me I would go with the 1080p ....... I find my viewing distance changes or people come over and SDE will never be a problem ... I took the px back for the pz for that reason I find im not always at the same distance from my set ...or my wife or kid.

Though i *generally* sit at 10' and I personally can tell the difference in 720p and 1080p

Accidentally posted this in the 75 thread, instead of the 77 one. So I'll copy/paste my post:

Just bought a 42pz77u today [Sunday]. Prior to today I had a Sony WEGA 1080i CRT.

I must say, this TV is amazing looking. I've been watching Battlestar Galactica on HD-DVD for the past hour and I'm simply blown away by the clarity this set offers. I haven't even began tweaking the settings at this point, I'm going to give it a few days of usage before I start plowing through all of the picture adjustments.

Transformers on HD-DVD made me drool, but I only watched about 15 minutes before switching to Battlestar. Wanted to break the TV in with full screen content rather than having aspect ratio bars.

I also watched an entire episode of Sunrise Earth on DiscoveryHD - amazing again.

This set is incredible, and I recommend it to anyone wanting a digital HD experience.

Why would you have "Aspect" bars watching Transformers?

I bet Battlestar looks pretty good also. They have good graphics on that show for a cable channel show. It's ashame that show will be coming to an end from what I hear.

Because Transformers has an aspect ratio of 2.35:1 and the display is 16:9.

Anyone use or tried a mono 2x1 manual hdmi switch on the PZ77U?

Because Transformers has an aspect ratio of 2.35:1 and the display is 16:9.


Is widescreen 2.35:1?
I'm a noob, just got my first HD plasma this weekend.

So are most movies in the 2.35:1 and therefore black bars at the top and bottom will be displayed?

I was thinking movies were generally done in 16:9.

Is widescreen 2.35:1?
I'm a noob, just got my first HD plasma this weekend.

So are most movies in the 2.35:1 and therefore black bars at the top and bottom will be displayed?

I was thinking movies were generally done in 16:9.

It's a mix, but most of your movies will be 2.35:1.

Does anyone game on either of these sets? I've got a Xbox 360 and the 42pz77u, but am terrified of hooking it up and playing for any extended period of time (a few hours). I know true burn-in is supposedly a thing of the past, but is it a for real set in stone statement? Anyone have any limited experience with one of these sets and actual burn-in, or long-time IR?