Samsung 71' 1080P DLP HL-S7178W (owners)

[Proxximo]

I have the melody set to on as well, and it plays when I turn it on and off. I got a 5 year warranty that covers everything on the TV including Bulbs for $600 from tweeter, but I got them to come down even more on the price of the TV after I showed them a quote sheet from magnolia. They both came down to the same final total price but tweeter was giving me the extra year on the warranty so I went with them, luckily they both are in the same huge shopping center so I went back and forth a few times to get them down as low as I could.

[AppliedVisual]

Originally Posted by rsk

Does anyone find the VGA connector on the TV a problem for quality when displaying a full 1920x1200 image on the TV? For example when I run my Dell 24" monitor using an old school 15-pin VGA connector it looks blurry, but when I switch it over to a full DVI-DVI cable, it looks fantastic, I'm wondering f the same occurs on this set, in which case that could be a plus for the Mits which has a DVI connector.

Thoughts?

I find the VGA connector to be a problem for quality on any display. I haven't tried the VGA connector on this set or on any of the newer HDTV sets. At 1920x1080, over VGA, you'll want to keep your cable run short and use a quality cable. Blurring, ghosting, smearing, etc.. are all part of analog VGA. If you want a clear, crisp picture, you have to use DVI/HDMI. Just as you have observed with your Dell monitor. Other factors come into play with analog signal devices too... The output DAC on your computer may be less than optimal and could be causing some of the blurring as well.

[sammy_7178]

Originally Posted by letsjet

I have DTV also and have been waiting for the new DTV DVRHD to be avail. before I do anything. I think they are still a month or two out and I'm waiting....

Do you know anything about when it's coming? Also, what model/box is it?

[MXC-Rider]

Hey all,
just wanted to let everyone know that i just had to cancel my calibration with Eliab. Two days ago my set 7178(2 weeks old) developed a dark smudge on the bottom left corner of the screen. I had Tweeter Service come by and i believe they were very thorough. I was told the issue was with the light engine and it needed to be replaced. I was also shown a small, what appeared to be a scratch, in the upper left hand corner of the screen measured at about 1/2" long and about 1/32nd width. This was never visible to me before at about 13 foot viewing distance however, once the tech put the tv into the service mode (light grey screen) it was very apparent. Now that i know where it is i can see it in almost all modes.
This set replaces my "65 Mits CRT. I love this new Samsung, out of the box the image quality was spectacular, i'd even have to say that in some cases even better then my calibrated Mits. My only option at this point is to replace the set with a new one which will hopefully occur later next week.

I'll try to get some images up of the two issues with my set as soon as possible and will update again once i have the new set calibrated...

If your in the MA area and need a calibration in the next day, give Eliab a call as soon as possile.

[rnick1976]

If your in the MA area and need a calibration in the next day, give Eliab a call as soon as possile.

ACKK! This is getting way, way too tempting ...

[JimP]

rnick1976

Go for it.

[rnick1976]

Believe you me ... I would if I could.

I'm getting tired of tweaking.

[BuckFly]

Originally Posted by sammy_7178

Do you know anything about when it's coming? Also, what model/box is it?

If you are talking about the HR20-250; it was, coincidentally, launched in Los Angeles on August 16th. Directv says that if there are no "bugs" over this trial period (2 months) they'll then start to release the units across the country.

[rsk]

Hey guys just pinging this thread because it has slowed down I think atleast 3 of you actually own this set now. Any feedback after a few weeks with it? Additionally, any of you had a chance to grab some good pictures of it displaying different kinds of media? SD/HD/DVD/XBox/porn?

I'm also curious if anyone here ended up getting it professional calibrated adn what the result was. As I mentioned, my time with it in the store *did* see noise/artifacting during fast-pan scenes from a football game that was either on a crappy HD feed or a great SD feed... looked OK, but I wasn't positive. It might have been one of those typical fudgy DirectTV "HD" feeds that are compressed to nuts and back... which would explain the artifacting, however the 67" Mits next to it wasn't showing the blocking as much, so either the set was just bigger and this is a "duh!" moment for me, or ot was just a tweaking thing that I might have improved had I played with it more.

Anymore info would be great!

[letsjet]

The set still looks great to me........ No change, no problems

XBox 360 no lag and great picture

Edit -

I posted some picture earlier, but is it really of value to you to see a picture of a screen? If so, I'll post up some others....

[hjpj]

Originally Posted by rsk

Hey guys just pinging this thread because it has slowed down I think atleast 3 of you actually own this set now. Any feedback after a few weeks with it?

I bought mine on Thursday, and it will be delivered this coming Thursday. I'll be posting my impressions soon after it arrives, and pictures if anyone is interested.

[paxi]

Originally Posted by rsk

Hey guys just pinging this thread because it has slowed down I think atleast 3 of you actually own this set now. Any feedback after a few weeks with it? Additionally, any of you had a chance to grab some good pictures of it displaying different kinds of media? SD/HD/DVD/XBox/porn?

I'm also curious if anyone here ended up getting it professional calibrated adn what the result was. As I mentioned, my time with it in the store *did* see noise/artifacting during fast-pan scenes from a football game that was either on a crappy HD feed or a great SD feed... looked OK, but I wasn't positive. It might have been one of those typical fudgy DirectTV "HD" feeds that are compressed to nuts and back... which would explain the artifacting, however the 67" Mits next to it wasn't showing the blocking as much, so either the set was just bigger and this is a "duh!" moment for me, or ot was just a tweaking thing that I might have improved had I played with it more.

Anymore info would be great!

I *should* be getting this TV next week. Might be awhile before everything is set up but planning charter HD/Moxy, toshiba HD-A1, Pioneer 84 and some aperions. Man I can't wait! I too wish there were a few more impressions/tweaks/pics/anything on this thread. I hope this means that the owners are too busy enjoying their great sets to post. hey, sometimes no news around here is good news.
umr (a calibrator) is coming to my area in december so a calibration is a definite possibility. For now I will be going with eliab's recommended settings (see tech links thread).

[paxi]

Originally Posted by letsjet

The set still looks great to me........ No change, no problems

XBox 360 no lag and great picture

Edit -

I posted some picture earlier, but is it really of value to you to see a picture of a screen? If so, I'll post up some others....

No, it's not of value - but it is pretty fun! Lets see SD, upconverted DVD, and HD in that order

[sammy_7178]

Originally Posted by rsk

Hey guys just pinging this thread because it has slowed down I think atleast 3 of you actually own this set now. Any feedback after a few weeks with it? Additionally, any of you had a chance to grab some good pictures of it displaying different kinds of media? SD/HD/DVD/XBox/porn?

SD sucks and I want to change hd receivers pronto. Only problem is, I haven't researched which box I want. Supposedly the HR20-250 is out in LA and nationwide shortly after, but I don't want to wait, nor do I want to pay too much for the upgrade.

My hd receiver right now does not have HDMI out so I'm basically looking to get any directv hdmi receiver that is somewhat reliable (I've read that there were problems with other hd receivers). Which model(s) are recommended?

Staying with component is not an option for me because as of now, both component inputs on the tv are used by hd box and my receiver respectively. I want my hd receiver through hdmi so that I can connect my xbox to the tv and get better resolution through it (my receiver limits to 480p).

Anyone with a suggestion as to which hd receiver from directv with hdmi I should get, please chime in. Thanks!

[RayPaganJr]

Received my set Saturday afternoon. Comcast came later in the evening and installed a stb. I told them five times when setting up the appointment I wanted a box with HDMI. Of course they forgot and got an old refurbished one with component instead. I noticed when he was installing it a funny noise. He said it was okay. Ten minutes after he left cable went out. They are supposed to come back this evening.

The set looks very good with DVDs. Only one channel comes in HD and it's great. (ESPN2) Just spoke to a professional custom builder and I'll be going to see him tomorrow morning. The t.v. is sitting on an old chest. Looks horrible, but hope me and the builder can come up with a cool design.

[rsk]

Originally Posted by RayPaganJr

Received my set Saturday afternoon. Comcast came later in the evening and installed a stb. I told them five times when setting up the appointment I wanted a box with HDMI. Of course they forgot and got an old refurbished one with component instead. I noticed when he was installing it a funny noise. He said it was okay. Ten minutes after he left cable went out. They are supposed to come back this evening.

The set looks very good with DVDs. Only one channel comes in HD and it's great. (ESPN2) Just spoke to a professional custom builder and I'll be going to see him tomorrow morning. The t.v. is sitting on an old chest. Looks horrible, but hope me and the builder can come up with a cool design.

Geez Ray, I got my fingers crossed for you bud. They'll bring over the HDMI compatible STB and then all will be right with the world again, I'm sure of it.

[BuckFly]

Originally Posted by sammy_7178

SD sucks and I want to change hd receivers pronto. Only problem is, I haven't researched which box I want. Supposedly the HR20-250 is out in LA and nationwide shortly after, but I don't want to wait, nor do I want to pay too much for the upgrade.

My hd receiver right now does not have HDMI out so I'm basically looking to get any directv hdmi receiver that is somewhat reliable (I've read that there were problems with other hd receivers). Which model(s) are recommended?

Staying with component is not an option for me because as of now, both component inputs on the tv are used by hd box and my receiver respectively. I want my hd receiver through hdmi so that I can connect my xbox to the tv and get better resolution through it (my receiver limits to 480p).

Anyone with a suggestion as to which hd receiver from directv with hdmi I should get, please chime in. Thanks!

By the way, Sammy, if I can believe Directv Customer Service, the HR20-250 will actually be cheaper than its older brother.

As I mentioned in a previous thread, even the representative said to wait b/c of the difference in price. However, it puts me in a sort of no-man's land concerning my switch over to HD.

I'm not too cognizant of the HD Receiver options for Directv, but please let us know what you end up with. SD is also a conern of mine.

[Mike5454]

On the verge of purchasing the 7178. I am sitting 14 ft away in a room with 10 windows and skylights. How is the screen glare with this model?

Thanks

[rnick1976]

On the verge of purchasing the 7178. I am sitting 14 ft away in a room with 10 windows and skylights. How is the screen glare with this model?

There practically is none ... mine is setup in a basement with 4 recessed lights almost right in front of it, and they're hardly noticable on the screen. The screen itself is plastic and "matted", if you will. Very, very little glare.

[bonedaddy77]

I'm in the process of buying a new house and this will be one of my first purchases.

Where and for how much are you guys buying these? O N Ecall seems to be the cheapest authorized dealer I can find at the moment. $4390 + shipping.

Thanks in advance.

[letsjet]

Originally Posted by Mike5454

On the verge of purchasing the 7178. I am sitting 14 ft away in a room with 10 windows and skylights. How is the screen glare with this model?

Thanks

I have some windows behind me when viewing the set. I don't notice the glare much at all. But, if I take a picture of the screen with a camera while there is light going through the window, then I see a lot of glare in the picture. Seems the camera can pick it up much better then the naked eye.

[Mixdoctor]

Gotta admit I think the 7178 is one of the best values in TV's right now. Here is a 71" that will in a month or two be one of the absolute cheapest 70" > sets you can get with a great picture. The HL-S series from Samsung is kicking butt.

Too bad I can't really buy it as I am suffer from RBE now, but if I didn't, I think I would probably go for this set.

[rnick1976]

Where and for how much are you guys buying these? O N Ecall seems to be the cheapest authorized dealer I can find at the moment. $4390 + shipping.

fyi ... people generally don't talk about price in here so much.

[rnick1976]

I was having a real issue watching DVDs on my 7178. The colors were just ... not right. Not HORRIBLE, but not great either. I have the Sony NS75H player.

So as I come to find out, the DVD player has its own "display modes" much like the TV does with its Movie/Standard/etc modes. So the DVD player was set to "Cinema2" which does its own work on the color schemes/darkness/etc ... and then the TV was taking THAT feed and converting it to movie mode/Eliab's basic settings.

After changing my DVD player to "Standard" output, the colors looked great again. Just something to look at if you're having the same issue!

[Ragnarok]

Originally Posted by rnick1976

I was having a real issue watching DVDs on my 7178. The colors were just ... not right. Not HORRIBLE, but not great either. I have the Sony NS75H player.

So as I come to find out, the DVD player has its own "display modes" much like the TV does with its Movie/Standard/etc modes. So the DVD player was set to "Cinema2" which does its own work on the color schemes/darkness/etc ... and then the TV was taking THAT feed and converting it to movie mode/Eliab's basic settings.

After changing my DVD player to "Standard" output, the colors looked great again. Just something to look at if you're having the same issue!

Nice advice..

[Eliab]

Originally Posted by MXC-Rider

Hey all,
just wanted to let everyone know that i just had to cancel my calibration with Eliab. Two days ago my set 7178(2 weeks old) developed a dark smudge on the bottom left corner of the screen. I had Tweeter Service come by and i believe they were very thorough. I was told the issue was with the light engine and it needed to be replaced. I was also shown a small, what appeared to be a scratch, in the upper left hand corner of the screen measured at about 1/2" long and about 1/32nd width. This was never visible to me before at about 13 foot viewing distance however, once the tech put the tv into the service mode (light grey screen) it was very apparent. Now that i know where it is i can see it in almost all modes.
This set replaces my "65 Mits CRT. I love this new Samsung, out of the box the image quality was spectacular, i'd even have to say that in some cases even better then my calibrated Mits. My only option at this point is to replace the set with a new one which will hopefully occur later next week.

I'll try to get some images up of the two issues with my set as soon as possible and will update again once i have the new set calibrated...

If your in the MA area and need a calibration in the next day, give Eliab a call as soon as possile.

Was your display ever repaired? I'll be back in MA at the end of September.

Eliab

[Eliab]

Originally Posted by JimP

rnick1976

Go for it.

I'll be in AL in October.

Eliab

[Eliab]

Originally Posted by rsk

I'm also curious if anyone here ended up getting it professional calibrated adn what the result was. As I mentioned, my time with it in the store *did* see noise/artifacting during fast-pan scenes from a football game that was either on a crappy HD feed or a great SD feed... looked OK, but I wasn't positive. It might have been one of those typical fudgy DirectTV "HD" feeds that are compressed to nuts and back... which would explain the artifacting, however the 67" Mits next to it wasn't showing the blocking as much, so either the set was just bigger and this is a "duh!" moment for me, or ot was just a tweaking thing that I might have improved had I played with it more.

Anymore info would be great!

Here is a link to some Samsung ISF Calibration Reports written by AVS members that you might find useful.

Eliab

[Eliab]

Originally Posted by paxi

I *should* be getting this TV next week. Might be awhile before everything is set up but planning charter HD/Moxy, toshiba HD-A1, Pioneer 84 and some aperions. Man I can't wait! I too wish there were a few more impressions/tweaks/pics/anything on this thread. I hope this means that the owners are too busy enjoying their great sets to post. hey, sometimes no news around here is good news.
umr (a calibrator) is coming to my area in december so a calibration is a definite possibility. For now I will be going with eliab's recommended settings (see tech links thread).

HD DVD, a Samsung HL-S display, and a well performed calibration in concert make for video Nirvana.

Eliab

[rnick1976]

Was your display ever repaired? I'll be back in MA at the end of September.

Eliab - how long will you be in MA? Any particular part?