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Official Panasonic VT50 owners thread - Page 249

post #7441 of 12269
11/3/12 at 9:27pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by barth2k View Post

I'm struggling with feeling that the picture on my 65vt50 looks soft, esp. many cable channels. Even hdnet movies, which is normally excellent, looks rather soft.
Maybe I'm just ruined by years of watching a razor sharp Bravia LCD, but when I compare the vt to even a Samsung plasma at the store ( never mind the sharp Elite or Sony HX) it looks the softest. I got the remote and put the vt through various modes. It looks softer on the Sharp Elite demo loop, and softer on cable. (actually, on cable, the vt looks like the worst tv among the elites (small e). I know all the caveats, bright room, signal split a hundred ways, etc -- but the other sets dealt with the same much better. Fortunately, it looks much better at home with fios tv, except for the softness and motion blur I see on many shows and channels, and I can't shake the feeling it should be cleaner and sharper .
I search softness in this thread, and there's quite a few complaints, with a couple of people denying there's any softness problem. The semi concensus seems to be the set doesn't handle less than pristine source well, but blu rays are great.
The assumption seems to be cable/sat is the problem, but blurays are fine. My question is, how do people know blurays aren't softened by this set also, via whatever filters Panny is using.

I think you are use to heavy edge enhancement of the picture. If you put the VT50 next to other TVs, and compare actual rendered resolution, the VT50 actually matches or comes out on top. With the VT50 you are seeing more of what is actually being displayed.

Just like there are some people who like the pumped up brightness and colors of LCD, and some people actually like the Soap Opera Effect, you may be someone who likes heavy edge enhancement processing. You could try jacking up the sharpness on the VT50.

Michael
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post #7442 of 12269
11/3/12 at 9:49pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by barth2k View Post

I'm struggling with feeling that the picture on my 65vt50 looks soft, esp. many cable channels. Even hdnet movies, which is normally excellent, looks rather soft.
Maybe I'm just ruined by years of watching a razor sharp Bravia LCD, but when I compare the vt to even a Samsung plasma at the store ( never mind the sharp Elite or Sony HX) it looks the softest. I got the remote and put the vt through various modes. It looks softer on the Sharp Elite demo loop, and softer on cable. (actually, on cable, the vt looks like the worst tv among the elites (small e). I know all the caveats, bright room, signal split a hundred ways, etc -- but the other sets dealt with the same much better. Fortunately, it looks much better at home with fios tv, except for the softness and motion blur I see on many shows and channels, and I can't shake the feeling it should be cleaner and sharper .
I search softness in this thread, and there's quite a few complaints, with a couple of people denying there's any softness problem. The semi concensus seems to be the set doesn't handle less than pristine source well, but blu rays are great.
The assumption seems to be cable/sat is the problem, but blurays are fine. My question is, how do people know blurays aren't softened by this set also, via whatever filters Panny is using.

There really is no "softness" or lack of pop, sharpness,dull whites with the VT50. Were the problem lies is with the calibration and how things are setup.
Yes I can understand why some folks may say these things about the VT50, and to some degree it is true as rogo points out in his above post.. But I can say for sure with the right calibrations and supporting hardware all of the types of complaint's can be over come, and give you a display PQ that you have never seen before.
Barring a expensive calibration the VT50 does do a nice job with just out of the box settings and modes, The only other Tv that I have seen that was better at no so good source material was the old Kuro. And imo that's the only thing that the old Kuro did better than the new VT50's.

ss .
Edited by sillysally - 11/4/12 at 1:55am
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post #7443 of 12269
11/4/12 at 11:29am
Mine looks razor sharp to me. Also, I will repeat what other owners have said, it really does improve with age. Colors, detail, and dynamic range are all better than when the set was brand new.
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post #7444 of 12269
11/4/12 at 2:28pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by mnc View Post

Mine looks razor sharp to me. Also, I will repeat what other owners have said, it really does improve with age. Colors, detail, and dynamic range are all better than when the set was brand new.

It either improves with age, or we like it better the more time we have it. Either way, the result is the same.
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post #7445 of 12269
11/4/12 at 3:05pm
Well the better fine detail and improved colors may be subjective, but not the dynamic range. My set no longer clips whites on the S&M disc like it did the first week I had it. Either way this TV rocks!biggrin.gif
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post #7446 of 12269
11/5/12 at 12:39am
Quote:
Originally Posted by rogo View Post

Quote:
Originally Posted by mnc View Post

Mine looks razor sharp to me. Also, I will repeat what other owners have said, it really does improve with age. Colors, detail, and dynamic range are all better than when the set was brand new.

It either improves with age, or we like it better the more time we have it. Either way, the result is the same.

Lets just hope it ain't us degrading as we get older, making the set seem like its getting better eek.gifwink.gifbiggrin.gif

Ha !
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post #7447 of 12269
11/5/12 at 6:28am
Whats up fellas new here to the forum but thought I should join since I am soon to be a VT or GT owner. I apologize if this is the wrong section to post this question but again I am new so cut me some slack. Here's the deal I just bought a 55" VT50 from best buy scheduled to be delivered tomorrow. I am debating on saving $200 and getting a 60" GT50 instead. Will I be disappointed if I make this decision? Are the VT's far and away better than the GT's? I will be sitting about 10 feet away from the tv, and there will be no issues with lighting in the room or anything like that. Mainly going to be watching football and blue rays. Help me out fellas, again I apologize if this has been discussed over and over again. Thanks
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post #7448 of 12269
11/5/12 at 8:46am
Quote:
Originally Posted by rbasch925 View Post

Whats up fellas new here to the forum but thought I should join since I am soon to be a VT or GT owner. I apologize if this is the wrong section to post this question but again I am new so cut me some slack. Here's the deal I just bought a 55" VT50 from best buy scheduled to be delivered tomorrow. I am debating on saving $200 and getting a 60" GT50 instead. Will I be disappointed if I make this decision? Are the VT's far and away better than the GT's? I will be sitting about 10 feet away from the tv, and there will be no issues with lighting in the room or anything like that. Mainly going to be watching football and blue rays. Help me out fellas, again I apologize if this has been discussed over and over again. Thanks

The vt is not far away better. If you have a gt and vt side by side, you may pick out some differences, like slightly deeper black and more details in dark scenes. But otherwise, you'll probably be just as happy. I think the extra 5" will be more enjoyable, unless you're hardcore videophile.

Featurewise, the vt has nicer styling with the one piece of glass front, has a touchpad remote, which I havent frankly used, and 96hz for 24p movies, although I end up using 60hz anyway because it has less artifacts. My 2c, I'm not an expert.
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post #7449 of 12269
11/5/12 at 9:06am
Quote:
Originally Posted by barth2k View Post

The vt is not far away better. If you have a gt and vt side by side, you may pick out some differences, like slightly deeper black and more details in dark scenes. But otherwise, you'll probably be just as happy. I think the extra 5" will be more enjoyable, unless you're hardcore videophile.
Featurewise, the vt has nicer styling with the one piece of glass front, has a touchpad remote, which I havent frankly used, and 96hz for 24p movies, although I end up using 60hz anyway because it has less artifacts. My 2c, I'm not an expert.

Thanks for the reply man I am really torn no clue what I should do.......
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post #7450 of 12269
11/5/12 at 9:56am
Quote:
Originally Posted by rbasch925 View Post

Thanks for the reply man I am really torn no clue what I should do.......

I have a 65VT50 and a close friend of mine has a 60ST50. IMO they are more similar than different. Unless you plan to have it calibrated or the styling is very important the the ST or GT should work without regret. Just my opinion.
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post #7451 of 12269
11/5/12 at 10:24am
Quote:
Originally Posted by wmwilker View Post

I have a 65VT50 and a close friend of mine has a 60ST50. IMO they are more similar than different. Unless you plan to have it calibrated or the styling is very important the the ST or GT should work without regret. Just my opinion.

Thanks bud....the styling is rather important for some reason to me, that is why I am not considering the ST I just think the clear plastic looks kinda corny. I think I may have to go with the GT I was shocked actually how big of a difference there was in size between the 55" and 60".
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post #7452 of 12269
11/5/12 at 11:25am
Quote:
Originally Posted by temmeyhpettti View Post

I like my TVs to be bright and to give that pop factor. I also bought the VT50 mainly to watch sports and movies. After looking at all the preset settings I feel like the THX cinema and bright room are just too dark.7.gif

Your right, they all are too dark. What I'm noticing with this VT50 is, ISF calibration is going to be a MUST. Then you will like this TV very well. SO that means get 200hrs on it asap, then get it ISF calibrated. Or at least use Topper's "bright Room" settings, even for a dark room.

Quote:
Originally Posted by rbasch925 View Post

Whats up fellas new here to the forum but thought I should join since I am soon to be a VT or GT owner. I apologize if this is the wrong section to post this question but again I am new so cut me some slack. Here's the deal I just bought a 55" VT50 from best buy scheduled to be delivered tomorrow. I am debating on saving $200 and getting a 60" GT50 instead. Will I be disappointed if I make this decision? Are the VT's far and away better than the GT's? I will be sitting about 10 feet away from the tv, and there will be no issues with lighting in the room or anything like that. Mainly going to be watching football and blue rays. Help me out fellas, again I apologize if this has been discussed over and over again. Thanks

I would KEEP the VT50 by all means, this is because of the above reply I gave temmeyhpettti. Its not really because of the PQ comparing each model (even though, yes the VT's are best) I admit, some videophiles might not even see the differences unless they are pointed out to them. But the real issue is the GT's and ST's do not have ISF Calibration. This is a huge issue for these Plasmas if you ask me, cause it is so important for them to get ISF Calibrated, or your not seeing their total potential. As a matter of fact, no matter what you do, they seem too dark or just not exactly right.

So the real question is (which would get a different answer I can guarantee you): Is there much of a difference between a GT50 series that is not ISF calibrated (cause it can't be) vs a VT50 series that has been ISF calibrated. And that my friend I'd say is YES. Stick with the VT50, get 200hrs on it and then call out a ISF calibrater and get that puppy ISF'ed the hell out.
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post #7453 of 12269
11/5/12 at 11:33am
Quote:
Originally Posted by rbasch925 View Post

Thanks bud....the styling is rather important for some reason to me, that is why I am not considering the ST I just think the clear plastic looks kinda corny. I think I may have to go with the GT I was shocked actually how big of a difference there was in size between the 55" and 60".

Styling is important to me too. One of the reasons I got the VT. Yes 5 " will make a huge difference in the enjoyment of the set. The only drawback is that a poor quality source will look even worse.
Enjoy your set.
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post #7454 of 12269
11/5/12 at 11:35am
Quote:
Originally Posted by rbasch925 View Post

Thanks for the reply man I am really torn no clue what I should do.......

To make it easier, try and see if you can find a lower price on line and get BB to match it. My local BB/Magnolia did this for me and I got a pretty good deal.
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post #7455 of 12269
11/5/12 at 1:01pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by barth2k View Post

To make it easier, try and see if you can find a lower price on line and get BB to match it. My local BB/Magnolia did this for me and I got a pretty good deal.
Definitely this.

I found the VT50 online for $1895 at Abe's of Maine, and BB matched it even through they were selling it for $2399!

I don't see how BB Brick & Mortar stores will stay in business if they keep matching prices like this, but I'm happy!
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post #7456 of 12269
11/5/12 at 2:59pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by Jarenien View Post

Definitely this.
I found the VT50 online for $1895 at Abe's of Maine, and BB matched it even through they were selling it for $2399!
I don't see how BB Brick & Mortar stores will stay in business if they keep matching prices like this, but I'm happy!

I agree. I got the 65VT50 for $2670 at BB a couple weeks ago. Going to feel bad giving up a such a great deal when I return it. My third Plasma and only flat screen tech I've ever owned. First is an old 42" Panasonic second isa 50" Pioneer Kuro. Still have them both and still use them. The VT50 has some good qualities but I feel like I'm watching it with sunglasses on. Amber or orange sunglasses at that. Way too dark and I've spent many many hours trying to get it acceptable.
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post #7457 of 12269
11/5/12 at 3:53pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by bigbone61554 View Post

I agree. I got the 65VT50 for $2670 at BB a couple weeks ago. Going to feel bad giving up a such a great deal when I return it. My third Plasma and only flat screen tech I've ever owned. First is an old 42" Panasonic second isa 50" Pioneer Kuro. Still have them both and still use them. The VT50 has some good qualities but I feel like I'm watching it with sunglasses on. Amber or orange sunglasses at that. Way too dark and I've spent many many hours trying to get it acceptable.

Try the attached settings in your Custom menu. I am getting 45 ftL light output which should be plenty bright and a lot of pop with the colors. ISF Day 8-6-12.pdf 54k .pdf file
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post #7458 of 12269
11/5/12 at 5:04pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by wmwilker View Post

Try the attached settings in your Custom menu. I am getting 45 ftL light output which should be plenty bright and a lot of pop with the colors. ISF Day 8-6-12.pdf 54k .pdf file

Thanks Mike. For some reason the attachment is not opening correctly. I have AA so not sure why, Any idea?
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post #7459 of 12269
11/6/12 at 2:43am
Quote:
Originally Posted by bigbone61554 View Post

Thanks Mike. For some reason the attachment is not opening correctly. I have AA so not sure why, Any idea?

That's the way it's supposed to look. The numbers are all there.
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post #7460 of 12269
11/6/12 at 3:55am
Does setting hdmi content type do anything on this set? Why is it there?

Is ISF day and night modes something only calibrator can set in the service menu. How does the user select it once it is set up.

Anyway for the user to achieve having two custom modes to use for day and night?

---

Second issue, I'm trying to figure out if my fan noise is excessive for a 65vt50 or I won't be happy with a replacement either. If you have the 65", when it's quiet in your room, either at night or windows closed, can you hear the fans from 8-10 feet away, either sitting in front or to the side (to the side is worse for me). Can you hear it with sound mute? Can you hear it above TV volume?

I thinks it's the fans. It sounds like a high pitched whine and it's constant. Does not sound like electronic buzzing, like a flourescent light. Does not fluctuate with content on screen.

Thanks for any feedback.
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post #7461 of 12269
11/6/12 at 4:55am
Quote:
Originally Posted by bigbone61554 View Post

Thanks Mike. For some reason the attachment is not opening correctly. I have AA so not sure why, Any idea?

Quote:
Originally Posted by buzzard767 View Post

That's the way it's supposed to look. The numbers are all there.


It was made from an XML file so the formatting is as such. Like Buzz says the numbers are there and it may be worth the time to try them, no guarantees though. I've had several people try them and like them so they may work on your set.
Good luck
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post #7462 of 12269
11/6/12 at 9:38am
Newbie here.........65VT50.....What can I expect from ISF modes or ISF calibration as far as brightness is concerned? I would like to get the panel to be allot brighter. Would this bypass the THX bright room and other settings to achieve even higher brightness levels? Just wondering if it’s worth the time and money? Thanks.
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post #7463 of 12269
11/6/12 at 11:45am
Quote:
Originally Posted by Summit 1 View Post

Newbie here.........65VT50.....What can I expect from ISF modes or ISF calibration as far as brightness is concerned? I would like to get the panel to be allot brighter. Would this bypass the THX bright room and other settings to achieve even higher brightness levels? Just wondering if it’s worth the time and money? Thanks.

Your expectations may be too high from what you would expect from a professional ISF mode calibration. It won't come close to matching THX bright mode. The most "accurate" mode is ISF night and that does not seem to be your criteria for buying a 65VT50. So save your money and get what you want, after all, that is all that matters.
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post #7464 of 12269
11/6/12 at 1:48pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by wmwilker View Post

It was made from an XML file so the formatting is as such. Like Buzz says the numbers are there and it may be worth the time to try them, no guarantees though. I've had several people try them and like them so they may work on your set.
Good luck

Thanks Mike, Your reaching out to help unsolicited is one of the things I love about this forum. Your settings made a dramatic improvement in my display. It confirms to me the settings are sh@t out of the box. I would guess if manufacturers would find a way to make these look better out of the box they would dramatically reduce the number of returms as most consumers arent as involved as people on the forums. Thanks again.

Steve
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post #7465 of 12269
11/6/12 at 3:17pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by bigbone61554 View Post

Thanks Mike, Your reaching out to help unsolicited is one of the things I love about this forum. Your settings made a dramatic improvement in my display. It confirms to me the settings are sh@t out of the box. I would guess if manufacturers would find a way to make these look better out of the box they would dramatically reduce the number of returms as most consumers arent as involved as people on the forums. Thanks again.
Steve

You're most welcome. I'm glad the settings work for you.

BTW In the VT50 Settings thread some others have posted their settings too. You can also go to the link and see some more settings from members who have calibrated their sets. You will have to join but it's free. Also if you want to have your ISF Day/Night modes unlocked you can purchase ControlCal at a very reasonable price (IMO) and simply load the settings in your panel.
http://www.calibrationforums.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=61
Edited by wmwilker - 11/6/12 at 3:25pm
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post #7466 of 12269
11/6/12 at 7:24pm
What are the basic settings for thx cinema 3d? Such as contrast, brightness, color, tint, sharpness? Just needed to confirm something. Thx.
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post #7467 of 12269
11/6/12 at 7:39pm
Hey, everybody. It's time for me to make my decision and I've narrowed it down to the e8000 and the VT50. I know about the possible ir for the VT50 and the possible buzzing and the black levels for the Sammy. What concerns me about the VT 50 is how it handles cable signals. From what I've read, it seems that the Sammy handles poor quality signals better and I watch a lot of sports. But if I have a Denon 4311, would that matter? I'm a little lost when it comes to this so any help would be appreciated. Thanks!
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post #7468 of 12269
11/6/12 at 8:39pm
Is anyone else having a problem with customizing the label names for the individual inputs ? I named mine, and they worked (stayed up as the names I made) for a couple weeks. Just tonight though, I noticed they all defaulted to CABLE in all caps. I was like, ok, weird. I went into "edit names" or whatever and seen my custom names in the choices to label. So I chose them. ONCE I went back to input choices, they were all defaulted back to CABLE again !!!!

SO then I renamed them all again, same thing happens. But the new names I make don't stay as choices like my old ones did. EITHER way no matter what I chose, it went back to CABLE instantly once I went to pick a input to source from again.

Ok, so then as a test I just stuck to choosing their premade labels (CABLE, DVD, Etc...) and those stay fine. So WTF is going on ?
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post #7469 of 12269
11/6/12 at 9:04pm
Halo 4 looks amazing on it. Got to go.
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post #7470 of 12269
11/6/12 at 9:55pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by hogues View Post

I know about the possible ir for the VT50
I wouldn't make IR on the VT50 a consideration, based on my experience.

I had left my VT50 showing my HTPC because I knew the screensaver would kick in after 3 minutes. The PC locked up hard and when I came back several hours later, the Windows desktop was being displayed with an explorer window in the center. After a hard reset, I logged in and could still see the explorer window displayed on the solid desktop background. Not just "sort of see it", but I could still read the file names. The set had less than 200 hours on it, and I was scared that I had ruined my almost new TV.

So, I fired up the break-in slides, and could see the desktop pretty well in most of them (but couldn't read everything like I could with the "matching" background), and a single pass (about 20 minutes) had the IR reduced a lot, so I ran the moving bar one cycle (15 minutes). After that, I fired up the slides again and couldn't see anything left over. I switched over to the HTPC desktop and still couldn't see anything, even though that was where it had showed the most.

When less than an hour of other content removed what looked like IR from the days of dedicated apps running on monochrome monitors where you could always read the main screen even when the power was off, I stopped being worried about IR on the VT50.
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