Official Samsung UNxxES8000 Owner's Thread - Page 234

Originally Posted by darkvader001 

Motion and voice are a gimmick but some time they are useful and Samsung have the best Smart Hub and network integration of the market.

Originally Posted by eagle_2 

Another update regarding my ongoing tech issue.
I called Samsung back today and explained the entire thing with them about how the tech visit went, and that even after speaking to the manager of the repair facility, they told me that the clouding and flashlighting would not be covered and is normal. Firstly, the rep I spoke with was very surprised at this, and said that is ot how the viait should have gone. She said the set is practically new and it is certainly well within warranty, and that it would certainly be covered. She said the tech should have made the call on what to do, not pass it back to Samsung and blame them for not covering it. She said they would mark this at the highest priority and she then connected me to executive consumer relations, and said that they would likely exchange the set for a brand new one, and she again apologized for the service and the problems I was having.
Next I spoke with executive consumer relations, and explained everything again. She said that the repair company never should have said it wasn't covered, and that flashlighting and clouding are most definitely covered, along with the bands in 3D mode. She had no idea why they said differently. She put me on hold and then said they were going to set up another service call with them, and they would mark it in their notes for them that this is a covered service. She said it would be up to the tech to decide if the set should be repaired. She said he could decide that it can be repaired, and if that's the case, they would order the panel or any parts needed. If the tech decides it's not worth it to do the repair, he can make that call right here on the spot and Samsung will replace the set with a new one if the tech feels it's not worth the cost or effort to repair.
So that's where I'm at now. Certainly an improvement. Contrary to at least one opinion in here, it's a shame that customers have to go through all this. At this point, due to all the hassle, I was hoping they would just make it easy and swap the set out like the first rep said. Unfortunately I have to get another visit from the same service facility. She said it's their decision on how to fix the set or what to do, but the last 10-minute service call didn't impress me, nor did my conversation with the manager yesterday. I could see the average person who gets caught up in all this just giving up and feeling bewildered, which I definitely feel by now. But I'm not giving up until this issue gets resolved.

Originally Posted by eagle_2 

Another update regarding my ongoing tech issue.
I called Samsung back today and explained the entire thing with them about how the tech visit went, and that even after speaking to the manager of the repair facility, they told me that the clouding and flashlighting would not be covered and is normal. Firstly, the rep I spoke with was very surprised at this, and said that is ot how the viait should have gone. She said the set is practically new and it is certainly well within warranty, and that it would certainly be covered. She said the tech should have made the call on what to do, not pass it back to Samsung and blame them for not covering it. She said they would mark this at the highest priority and she then connected me to executive consumer relations, and said that they would likely exchange the set for a brand new one, and she again apologized for the service and the problems I was having.
Next I spoke with executive consumer relations, and explained everything again. She said that the repair company never should have said it wasn't covered, and that flashlighting and clouding are most definitely covered, along with the bands in 3D mode. She had no idea why they said differently. She put me on hold and then said they were going to set up another service call with them, and they would mark it in their notes for them that this is a covered service. She said it would be up to the tech to decide if the set should be repaired. She said he could decide that it can be repaired, and if that's the case, they would order the panel or any parts needed. If the tech decides it's not worth it to do the repair, he can make that call right here on the spot and Samsung will replace the set with a new one if the tech feels it's not worth the cost or effort to repair.
So that's where I'm at now. Certainly an improvement. Contrary to at least one opinion in here, it's a shame that customers have to go through all this. At this point, due to all the hassle, I was hoping they would just make it easy and swap the set out like the first rep said. Unfortunately I have to get another visit from the same service facility. She said it's their decision on how to fix the set or what to do, but the last 10-minute service call didn't impress me, nor did my conversation with the manager yesterday. I could see the average person who gets caught up in all this just giving up and feeling bewildered, which I definitely feel by now. But I'm not giving up until this issue gets resolved.[/quote


Exactly the way it should have been. As I stated earlier, the tech made the call to replace my panel right then and there. Then a followup call from Samsung about the repair company and service rendered. Eventhough I still have a panel with a flaw the banding is virtually non existant. The picture is high quality. Samsung still wants to replace it or refund, my choice. I may just keep it. Glad you are on the right track. I have had no issues with their service.

Originally Posted by Ricoflashback 

Best recommendations for buying any set, not just the Sammy's discussed in this thread:
1. Do you homework. Look at reviews but most important - - go see the sets for yourself, in person, at a retail location. I prefer Paul's TV (if you have one in your area) or some other retailer besides Best Buy. Costco is also very good - - especially with their return policy and extended warranty.
My advice to to find a reputable retailer that will match prices with online distributors - primarily due to experience and making sure you are covered if there is anything wrong with your set - - which is a distinct possibility when you're looking at new technology or the "panel lotto" as it is referred to on this thread and many others.
Online preferences are Amazon - - again, personal experience, but I've never, ever had a problem in returning a product to Amazon and getting a full refund, pronto. But these sets are large and cumbersome - - if you can get it delivered to your residence, that's that way to go - - convenience wise.
2, ISF calibrations and technical reviews like CNET. If you really want an ISF calibration, then fine - - get one. Personally, I do not think it's necessary. The settings recommended on this forum have worked great for me but with my own tweaks. My setup is also a little different in that everything is upscaled through my Yamaha AVR - RX-A2000 to 1080P.
And we've been over this and there are many opinions but I could give a "rat's ass" about color uniformity or calibration to "expert" settings. The recommendation by CNET (Katzmier) for the Sammy was pure, unadulterated horseshit. I've never seen such a bad picture from their "recommended" settings. If you want your Sammy to look like a dull Plasma, then by all means, take their advice. I also find CNET to be quite biased towards Panasonic and especially the VT50.
Again, personal preference, but use your own eyes. I personally viewed all the sets except for the Sony HX950 which wasn't available when I bought and probably wouldn't be a consideration due to the extra $1,500 price tag.
Use your own eyes! Repeat, use your own eyes! Play around with the settings at the store. If you can, have them hook up a Bluray player. Make your own judgment.
3. Extended Warranty - an absolute must!!! Costco is the best in this area - - SquareTrade Warranty - four years for $99.00 total. And, you do not have to buy the TV from Costco! If you do, an extra year - - five years. There are also other warranty companies out there that are much cheaper than going through your retail site - - even Paul's TV was way overpriced on the warranty. You usually have 60 to 90 days to be eligible for the warranty for your set from date of purchase.
GET THE WARRANTY !!!! For piece of mind!
4. Problems you may incur with your set include flashlighting, clouding, bleeding, vertical banding and dead pixels (see the Sony HX950 AVS thread!). If you incur anything else, chances are it's a real lemon. (Hissing, buzzing, major functionality problems.)
Can this be mitigated? Yes - to some degree. The larger panel like my 65" 8000 is more susceptible to vertical banding - - which can be a real problem with these sets. It took my two tries to get it right - - and this will be discussed in the next topic.
5. If problems arise - how to resolve: many experiences here on this thread as well as my own. My recommendation - find out and quick if you have problems. First recourse is where you bought your TV from. If you have to go to Samsung, forget calling in - - always, always document in writing. Unfortunately - - you need a paper trail to build your case. And it's not just Samsung - - take a look at the Sony HX950 thread and the issues with vertical banding and especially dead pixels - - what Sony views as acceptable as compared to an owner who is pissed off (and rightly so) about a $5K TV that has dead pixels with it. (As opposed to "stuck" pixels that can be fixed or flipped back.)
Net net - - don't accept no for an answer. You're entitled to be happy with your purchase. If it is a reputable retailer/online distributor - - they want you happy. It's just a sound business practice.
Lastly - - this should be a fun experience! Once you get the right TV, it's heaven. I'm extremely happy with my set and the 3D movie experience. It is like looking through a glass window - - CNN is fabulous - - down to Wolf Blitzer's teeny hairs on his beard and Candy Crowley's craters (sorry Candy!) Older movies look like new on my Sammy 65". Football is a gas - - NFL Ticket in full HD. Bluray movies in all their glory with full soundtrack!
Hope this helps.
Enjoy!!!

Originally Posted by thebignewt 

Sounds good Eagle. So what I'm getting is that it took a second call to Samsung to get it taken care of. Did you call the same number both times? Which one? I used to be on cellphone forums (BB, Apple, etc), and if I heard one story about someone calling CS and getting nowhere, and then calling again and getting somewhere I heard a hundred. Same thing with my Mini Cooper forum and car warranty stuff. Some dealers claim your bad fuel pump was "bad gas" and want you to pound sand, and some replace it. Same thing with the clutch. Some people even lawyer up.

Originally Posted by Wolo 

I'm a very long-time lurker here and I usually just read hundreds of pages of threads instead of contributing anything. I'm researching the 65ES8000 (among many other displays) as a replacement for an XBR2 that was damages in a burglary. It seems to me that if the display works the way it's "supposed" to, I'd be very happy with it. But, much like with any owner's threads here, you tend you read more about the things people are struggling with.
So, anyone that's owned this particular display for an extended period of time actually happy with it? I'm tired of researching and weighing all the possible problems associated with every display. I'm pretty sure this is the one for me. Just don't want to make a $3500 mistake.
Thanks, in advance (and thanks for everyone who's contributed to this thread so far--lotsa information!).

Originally Posted by 10k 

Just ordered a 55" es8000 locally for delivery tomorrow and am definitely looking forward to it! Having owned a few plasma panels in the past I realize each individual panel is unique, but I was wondering if there is a generally agreed set of calibration settings which provide a good starting point? I think I have seen a lot of people mention nitra and garnoch settings?
Thanks!

Originally Posted by Bolt989 

Never trust biased owners. This is really not a good place to get honest feedback. My suggestion is read the reviews and compare sets for yourself. There seems to be a lot of hyperbole in this thread from a select few individuals. It's funny what Blade runner said, the reviewers (professionals) seem to think the exact opposite of what he said about the other sets. IF you want to talk about overpriced, this set is overpriced by a long shot! Your paying for gimmicky motion and voice controls that do not work worth a damn.
Just my 2 cents.
Hope this helps!
Billy

Originally Posted by EAnglum 

I disagree, most of us have done extensive research and comparisons before laying down $$$$ for these sets. Its not like ES owners blindly purchased a TV or were forced to purchase these sets, then all of a suddenly become biased owners. There is plenty of positive and negative feedback within all Owners Threads.
We obviously like these sets or they never would have been purchased or would have been exchanged for another brand.
My suggestion to anyone looking to purchase a set is to do an extensive demo before purchasing.

Originally Posted by Bolt989 

And the reviewers like CNET, HDGuru, home-theater magazine and tweaktv to name a few didnt do extensive research and comparisons with other sets? My whole argument was mainly against a a person who I quoted who seems way over the top with lots of hyperbole. I agree with you that there is a lot of good info on these forums, both negative and positive, although asking questions about if a set is good or not in a owners thread, you may get a lot of biased feedback. Therefore why I said read reviews and do your own research.
Billy

Originally Posted by 7011jrs 

Couldn't disagree more with this assessment. But my opinion doesn't matter - look at the sets side by side and you won't match the clarity of this set with a Plasma. Also, try to adjust a plasma for better clarity or pop, or whatever look you want - good luck!
The ES8000 is an incredible set. You pay for gimmicky smart hub stuff on this set - i use some of it, but not most of the features. At the end of the day, the picture quality is what sold me - you might find comparable, but i doubt you'll see a better picture quality on any set for less than $5k.
Whatever the criteria for your purchase, get what looks best to YOUR eye, based on YOUR viewing environment. Buy a warranty, and enjoy your purchase.
EDIT - don't expect the set to be perfect out of the box. you are going to adjust or tweak more on this set to get the picture looking the way you want it. That is a benefit that you can do this, not a negative. Most of the reviews I have read, are "out of the box" reviews and not calibrated/tweaked for user environments.

Originally Posted by 7011jrs 

You would trust an ISF calibration "stat" vs. your own eyes?
I wouldn't, but that's just me. Obviously, you want your settings to accurately represent the images as they are intended, but personal preference is HUGE factor, not simply a contrast or black level measurement.
My point is that my opinion, or your opinion, or an expert's opinion is a place to start, but ultimately, the purchaser needs to decide based on their own eyes.

Originally Posted by Garnoch 

See the link below your post. Also search here for CE Dimming, which is what is causing what you see. Movie mode does not have CE Dimming. Feel free to look at my settings on page 117 or by the direct link you see after you click on my name. My third set of settings is for counteracting this effect in Standard. I'll be back in the States later tonight and will be updating my settings based on the latest firmware though.
All, I'm at an airport typing on a phone again so excuse it please. I've been trying to read when I can find time when not sitting under a palm tree
As for biased people, it may be true to not ask for advice on another TV in a specific thread like this, but I feel there are very few fanboys in this thread and Blade isn't one of them. Like me, he is simply happy with the TV he bought after reading multiple threads and reviews on many TVs, then comparing them himself, then weighing price vs features vs picture quality. I can easily and have told others that aren't happy to look at the Sony or Vizio or even plasma depending on their viewing habits. The OP asked for advice from Samsung owners, Blade gave his opinion.

Originally Posted by badwilly 

I agree 100%. No TV is perfect. However, I am more than happy with my purchase of the 55" unit. I made a quick look at the review and cost of the Sony referenced above and decided no. As for plasma, I had one in the past. I don't need another furnace. LOL..

Originally Posted by Ricoflashback 

Best recommendations for buying any set, not just the Sammy's discussed in this thread:
1. Do you homework. Look at reviews but most important - - go see the sets for yourself, in person, at a retail location. I prefer Paul's TV (if you have one in your area) or some other retailer besides Best Buy. Costco is also very good - - especially with their return policy and extended warranty.
My advice to to find a reputable retailer that will match prices with online distributors - primarily due to experience and making sure you are covered if there is anything wrong with your set - - which is a distinct possibility when you're looking at new technology or the "panel lotto" as it is referred to on this thread and many others.
Online preferences are Amazon - - again, personal experience, but I've never, ever had a problem in returning a product to Amazon and getting a full refund, pronto. But these sets are large and cumbersome - - if you can get it delivered to your residence, that's that way to go - - convenience wise.
2, ISF calibrations and technical reviews like CNET. If you really want an ISF calibration, then fine - - get one. Personally, I do not think it's necessary. The settings recommended on this forum have worked great for me but with my own tweaks. My setup is also a little different in that everything is upscaled through my Yamaha AVR - RX-A2000 to 1080P.
And we've been over this and there are many opinions but I could give a "rat's ass" about color uniformity or calibration to "expert" settings. The recommendation by CNET (Katzmier) for the Sammy was pure, unadulterated horseshit. I've never seen such a bad picture from their "recommended" settings. If you want your Sammy to look like a dull Plasma, then by all means, take their advice. I also find CNET to be quite biased towards Panasonic and especially the VT50.
Again, personal preference, but use your own eyes. I personally viewed all the sets except for the Sony HX950 which wasn't available when I bought and probably wouldn't be a consideration due to the extra $1,500 price tag.
Use your own eyes! Repeat, use your own eyes! Play around with the settings at the store. If you can, have them hook up a Bluray player. Make your own judgment.
3. Extended Warranty - an absolute must!!! Costco is the best in this area - - SquareTrade Warranty - four years for $99.00 total. And, you do not have to buy the TV from Costco! If you do, an extra year - - five years. There are also other warranty companies out there that are much cheaper than going through your retail site - - even Paul's TV was way overpriced on the warranty. You usually have 60 to 90 days to be eligible for the warranty for your set from date of purchase.
GET THE WARRANTY !!!! For piece of mind!
4. Problems you may incur with your set include flashlighting, clouding, bleeding, vertical banding and dead pixels (see the Sony HX950 AVS thread!). If you incur anything else, chances are it's a real lemon. (Hissing, buzzing, major functionality problems.)
Can this be mitigated? Yes - to some degree. The larger panel like my 65" 8000 is more susceptible to vertical banding - - which can be a real problem with these sets. It took my two tries to get it right - - and this will be discussed in the next topic.
5. If problems arise - how to resolve: many experiences here on this thread as well as my own. My recommendation - find out and quick if you have problems. First recourse is where you bought your TV from. If you have to go to Samsung, forget calling in - - always, always document in writing. Unfortunately - - you need a paper trail to build your case. And it's not just Samsung - - take a look at the Sony HX950 thread and the issues with vertical banding and especially dead pixels - - what Sony views as acceptable as compared to an owner who is pissed off (and rightly so) about a $5K TV that has dead pixels with it. (As opposed to "stuck" pixels that can be fixed or flipped back.)
Net net - - don't accept no for an answer. You're entitled to be happy with your purchase. If it is a reputable retailer/online distributor - - they want you happy. It's just a sound business practice.
Lastly - - this should be a fun experience! Once you get the right TV, it's heaven. I'm extremely happy with my set and the 3D movie experience. It is like looking through a glass window - - CNN is fabulous - - down to Wolf Blitzer's teeny hairs on his beard and Candy Crowley's craters (sorry Candy!) Older movies look like new on my Sammy 65". Football is a gas - - NFL Ticket in full HD. Bluray movies in all their glory with full soundtrack!
Hope this helps.
Enjoy!!!

Originally Posted by 10k 

Just ordered a 55" es8000 locally for delivery tomorrow and am definitely looking forward to it! Having owned a few plasma panels in the past I realize each individual panel is unique, but I was wondering if there is a generally agreed set of calibration settings which provide a good starting point? I think I have seen a lot of people mention nitra and garnoch settings?
Thanks!

Originally Posted by Bolt989 

Never trust biased owners. This is really not a good place to get honest feedback. My suggestion is read the reviews and compare sets for yourself. There seems to be a lot of hyperbole in this thread from a select few individuals. It's funny what Blade runner said, the reviewers (professionals) seem to think the exact opposite of what he said about the other sets. IF you want to talk about overpriced, this set is overpriced by a long shot! Your paying for gimmicky motion and voice controls that do not work worth a damn.
Just my 2 cents.
Hope this helps!
Billy

Originally Posted by EAnglum 

I disagree, most of us have done extensive research and comparisons before laying down $$$$ for these sets. Its not like ES owners blindly purchased a TV or were forced to purchase these sets, then all of a suddenly become biased owners. There is plenty of positive and negative feedback within all Owners Threads.
We obviously like these sets or they never would have been purchased or would have been exchanged for another brand.
My suggestion to anyone looking to purchase a set is to do an extensive demo before purchasing.

Originally Posted by Bolt989 

And the reviewers like CNET, HDGuru, home-theater magazine and tweaktv to name a few didnt do extensive research and comparisons with other sets? My whole argument was mainly against a a person who I quoted who seems way over the top with lots of hyperbole. I agree with you that there is a lot of good info on these forums, both negative and positive, although asking questions about if a set is good or not in a owners thread, you may get a lot of biased feedback. Therefore why I said read reviews and do your own research.
Billy

Originally Posted by 7011jrs 

Couldn't disagree more with this assessment. But my opinion doesn't matter - look at the sets side by side and you won't match the clarity of this set with a Plasma. Also, try to adjust a plasma for better clarity or pop, or whatever look you want - good luck!
The ES8000 is an incredible set. You pay for gimmicky smart hub stuff on this set - i use some of it, but not most of the features. At the end of the day, the picture quality is what sold me - you might find comparable, but i doubt you'll see a better picture quality on any set for less than $5k.
Whatever the criteria for your purchase, get what looks best to YOUR eye, based on YOUR viewing environment. Buy a warranty, and enjoy your purchase.
EDIT - don't expect the set to be perfect out of the box. you are going to adjust or tweak more on this set to get the picture looking the way you want it. That is a benefit that you can do this, not a negative. Most of the reviews I have read, are "out of the box" reviews and not calibrated/tweaked for user environments.

Originally Posted by 7011jrs 

You would trust an ISF calibration "stat" vs. your own eyes?
I wouldn't, but that's just me. Obviously, you want your settings to accurately represent the images as they are intended, but personal preference is HUGE factor, not simply a contrast or black level measurement.
My point is that my opinion, or your opinion, or an expert's opinion is a place to start, but ultimately, the purchaser needs to decide based on their own eyes.

Originally Posted by Garnoch 

See the link below your post. Also search here for CE Dimming, which is what is causing what you see. Movie mode does not have CE Dimming. Feel free to look at my settings on page 117 or by the direct link you see after you click on my name. My third set of settings is for counteracting this effect in Standard. I'll be back in the States later tonight and will be updating my settings based on the latest firmware though.
All, I'm at an airport typing on a phone again so excuse it please. I've been trying to read when I can find time when not sitting under a palm tree
As for biased people, it may be true to not ask for advice on another TV in a specific thread like this, but I feel there are very few fanboys in this thread and Blade isn't one of them. Like me, he is simply happy with the TV he bought after reading multiple threads and reviews on many TVs, then comparing them himself, then weighing price vs features vs picture quality. I can easily and have told others that aren't happy to look at the Sony or Vizio or even plasma depending on their viewing habits. The OP asked for advice from Samsung owners, Blade gave his opinion.

Originally Posted by badwilly 

I agree 100%. No TV is perfect. However, I am more than happy with my purchase of the 55" unit. I made a quick look at the review and cost of the Sony referenced above and decided no. As for plasma, I had one in the past. I don't need another furnace. LOL..

Originally Posted by Ricoflashback 

Best recommendations for buying any set, not just the Sammy's discussed in this thread:
1. Do you homework. Look at reviews but most important - - go see the sets for yourself, in person, at a retail location. I prefer Paul's TV (if you have one in your area) or some other retailer besides Best Buy. Costco is also very good - - especially with their return policy and extended warranty.
My advice to to find a reputable retailer that will match prices with online distributors - primarily due to experience and making sure you are covered if there is anything wrong with your set - - which is a distinct possibility when you're looking at new technology or the "panel lotto" as it is referred to on this thread and many others.
Online preferences are Amazon - - again, personal experience, but I've never, ever had a problem in returning a product to Amazon and getting a full refund, pronto. But these sets are large and cumbersome - - if you can get it delivered to your residence, that's that way to go - - convenience wise.
2, ISF calibrations and technical reviews like CNET. If you really want an ISF calibration, then fine - - get one. Personally, I do not think it's necessary. The settings recommended on this forum have worked great for me but with my own tweaks. My setup is also a little different in that everything is upscaled through my Yamaha AVR - RX-A2000 to 1080P.
And we've been over this and there are many opinions but I could give a "rat's ass" about color uniformity or calibration to "expert" settings. The recommendation by CNET (Katzmier) for the Sammy was pure, unadulterated horseshit. I've never seen such a bad picture from their "recommended" settings. If you want your Sammy to look like a dull Plasma, then by all means, take their advice. I also find CNET to be quite biased towards Panasonic and especially the VT50.
Again, personal preference, but use your own eyes. I personally viewed all the sets except for the Sony HX950 which wasn't available when I bought and probably wouldn't be a consideration due to the extra $1,500 price tag.
Use your own eyes! Repeat, use your own eyes! Play around with the settings at the store. If you can, have them hook up a Bluray player. Make your own judgment.
3. Extended Warranty - an absolute must!!! Costco is the best in this area - - SquareTrade Warranty - four years for $99.00 total. And, you do not have to buy the TV from Costco! If you do, an extra year - - five years. There are also other warranty companies out there that are much cheaper than going through your retail site - - even Paul's TV was way overpriced on the warranty. You usually have 60 to 90 days to be eligible for the warranty for your set from date of purchase.
GET THE WARRANTY !!!! For piece of mind!
4. Problems you may incur with your set include flashlighting, clouding, bleeding, vertical banding and dead pixels (see the Sony HX950 AVS thread!). If you incur anything else, chances are it's a real lemon. (Hissing, buzzing, major functionality problems.)
Can this be mitigated? Yes - to some degree. The larger panel like my 65" 8000 is more susceptible to vertical banding - - which can be a real problem with these sets. It took my two tries to get it right - - and this will be discussed in the next topic.
5. If problems arise - how to resolve: many experiences here on this thread as well as my own. My recommendation - find out and quick if you have problems. First recourse is where you bought your TV from. If you have to go to Samsung, forget calling in - - always, always document in writing. Unfortunately - - you need a paper trail to build your case. And it's not just Samsung - - take a look at the Sony HX950 thread and the issues with vertical banding and especially dead pixels - - what Sony views as acceptable as compared to an owner who is pissed off (and rightly so) about a $5K TV that has dead pixels with it. (As opposed to "stuck" pixels that can be fixed or flipped back.)
Net net - - don't accept no for an answer. You're entitled to be happy with your purchase. If it is a reputable retailer/online distributor - - they want you happy. It's just a sound business practice.
Lastly - - this should be a fun experience! Once you get the right TV, it's heaven. I'm extremely happy with my set and the 3D movie experience. It is like looking through a glass window - - CNN is fabulous - - down to Wolf Blitzer's teeny hairs on his beard and Candy Crowley's craters (sorry Candy!) Older movies look like new on my Sammy 65". Football is a gas - - NFL Ticket in full HD. Bluray movies in all their glory with full soundtrack!
Hope this helps.
Enjoy!!!

Originally Posted by Wolo 

I'm a very long-time lurker here and I usually just read hundreds of pages of threads instead of contributing anything. I'm researching the 65ES8000 (among many other displays) as a replacement for an XBR2 that was damages in a burglary. It seems to me that if the display works the way it's "supposed" to, I'd be very happy with it. But, much like with any owner's threads here, you tend you read more about the things people are struggling with.
So, anyone that's owned this particular display for an extended period of time actually happy with it? I'm tired of researching and weighing all the possible problems associated with every display. I'm pretty sure this is the one for me. Just don't want to make a $3500 mistake.
Thanks, in advance (and thanks for everyone who's contributed to this thread so far--lotsa information!).

Originally Posted by Op's Guy 

I'm one of the first owner's of the 65"models. I have had a panel replaced for a banding issue, but have never been disappointed with the PQ. My replacement panel is virtually band free and was manufactured a handful of months after my original set build date of July. I would buy again with no problem. I don't think you would be disappointed. Good luck with your search.

Originally Posted by gtm73 

This is sheer lunacy to categorically state that the ES8000 doesn't measure up to all full array and high end plasma's. There is no consideration of placement, use, personal preferences, or cost. It might work for you but the categorical statement isn't worth the time it took to read.

Originally Posted by barth2k 

What's the diff between the 65es8000, es6500, and es6550. Io looked at the Samsung siite and it's spectacularly unhelpful. They all have smart app, blah blah, es8000 has 30,000,000:1 contrast, which means who knows what, and hand voice control, which i dont want. So what's really the difference?
How low do you need to turn down the led light to get no noticeable flashlighting or clouding? Is it still bright enough tobe ebjoyable in a darkened room.
Thanks

Originally Posted by eagle_2 

Shame that whether you get treated like an enemy or a valued customer depends on who answers the phone at Samsung. You should expect to get treated like a valued customer regardless of which rep answers the phone, but apparently that's not the case. Also, the tech repair company that services my area has been useless so far, and I hope they are competent enough to actually diagnose the repair and do it properly. The manager there was not rude exactly, but everybody there insisted this was not a covered service, which was totally wrong, and Samsung said it never should have required another call to Samsung and another service call just to get the repair started.

Originally Posted by thebignewt 

This is weird: a few weeks ago I changed all of my Movie Mode settings based on someone on this forum who had a professional calibrator adjust his set from Best Buy Geek Squad. I thought it looked fantastic. But yesterday all of the Movie Mode settings were back to stock. I have no idea when that happened because I don't often look at the picture settings. And there hasn't been any software updates since I bougtht it either (1034, won't auto update). Any ideas as to how that happened? I wrote them down and changed it back and I really think the colors are more lifelike now. Not as eye popping bright, but more like grass and faces really look. Funny, but my wife really likes Natural because the colors are so distinct.

Originally Posted by dfp 

If your set was mistakenly set up in the Initial Setup to "Store Demo" mode instead of "Home Use" mode, it won't remember changes. Check your manual for remote keys to press simultaneously to get to the menu to change it to Home Use.

Originally Posted by avs-jeff 

Just stopped in to say Hello and thanks for all the info, been following this thread for a couple months now.
I just received my new 60es8000 the other day. It has a November build date on it, hs01 panel, and it came with the latest firmware installed. Some minor flash lighting in bottom left corner and a little clouding on right side. So far unable to detect any banding.

Originally Posted by eagle_2 

My jaw is still on the floor from this one.
I didn't receive a call from the repair service facility today, so I called them to set up the 2nd tech visit.
After I gave them my ticket#, they told me it's a new ticket but it was cancelled by Samsung!! He said it was noted that Samsung sent me an email notifying me of the cancellation. I checked my email and sure enough the email said it was cancelled, but it gave no reason why:

"Your repair for service ticket number [XXXXXXXXXX] has been cancelled.
If you still need service please contact us at 1-800- SAMSUNG(800-726-7864)
Thank you for cooperation."
So they said I would have to call Samsung again and set up another ticket! I'm just shocked over the incompetence at this point from everyone involved.
I called Samsung back and pressed "7" from the main menu for "executive consumer relations", as I was told yesterday to do, and the voice said 7 was not a recognized option! Wow! So I had to start with a tier 1 rep and ask to get transferred to executive consumer relations. I gave them the extension# but I got a different rep from yesterday. So I explained my entire situation over again, and this time he said he was transferring me to their "extra care department". I thanked him and he put me on hold.
I then heard a message stating that I've reached the "office of the president" and that there is currently nobody available to take my call. I wanted to wait but it didn't give me that option, and instead asked for me to leave a message and I will get a return call. So I left my message and now I'm waiting for a call back from the office of the president.
With the holidays upon me this is nothing short of a disaster at this point. I'm stressed enough after buying a car last month after the accident and now holiday shopping which my girlfriend and I can't really afford to do, plus her parents are impossible to shop for. The last thing I need is to be in the middle of this situation with Samsung.
Great service. I'll keep everyone posted when I learn more.

Originally Posted by avs-jeff 

Just stopped in to say Hello and thanks for all the info, been following this thread for a couple months now.
I just received my new 60es8000 the other day. It has a November build date on it, hs01 panel, and it came with the latest firmware installed. Some minor flash lighting in bottom left corner and a little clouding on right side. So far unable to detect any banding.

Originally Posted by avs-jeff 

Just stopped in to say Hello and thanks for all the info, been following this thread for a couple months now.
I just received my new 60es8000 the other day. It has a November build date on it, hs01 panel, and it came with the latest firmware installed. Some minor flash lighting in bottom left corner and a little clouding on right side. So far unable to detect any banding.