[hipsterjedi]

I am currently researching Widescreen HDTVs to purchase. I had narrowed my search to these two models (Pioneer SD 533HD5/SD 643HD5). On other forum (AnimeOnDVD.com) I have a thread going about these models:

http://www.animeondvd.com/dcforum/DCForumID4/910.html


...and was referred here.


We have determined that these are excellent sets.


The one big question is regarding what SCREEN MODEs are available for a Progressive scan DVD player sending a 480p signal through the component inputs. Through reading the PDF file of the owners manual, I am led to believe that these set will NOT lock into 16:9 FULL mode given a 480p component input. I want to watch progressive 480p 4:3 discs with the grey bars on the sides to keep the original aspect ratio.


Can anyone who owns either of these sets confirm this?


Any help with this question or any other details and pointers about these sets would be much appreciated.


Thank you.


-hipsterjedi

 

[eujin]

go to www.***************.com and check out the Pioneer discussion forum. You'll most likely get all your answers there.

 

[williak]

HJ,


Modes with 480p from Panny RP56: 4:3, Cinema Wide, Natural Wide, Zoom, Full. Lock (Full) only occurs on 1080i as from a HD STB. Previous generation had lock problems at 480p causing all kinds of headaches with non-amorph DVD. You'll love the set. Good luck.


Austin

 

[GC3]

You've got the straight skinny here. Don't bother going to HTS for info.


These Pioneers only "lock in full on 1080i" through 15 pin RGB input, but not 1080i through component inputs. I have the 533 and love it. I use the RGB from my STB, and adjust "aspect ratios" i.e., zoom, partial, stretch, from the STB if needed.

 

[williak]

GC,


My 533 locks on full with 1080i through component from my SIR T150 STB. I can only apply the different view modes when in other than 1080i. I haven't used the RGB input so can't comment on its restrictions.


Austin

 

[GC3]

Quote:

Originally posted by williak GC, My 533 locks on full with 1080i through component from my SIR T150 STB. I can only apply the different view modes when in other than 1080i. I haven't used the RGB input so can't comment on its restrictions. Austin

I did not know that. Others have reported elsewise, at least over at HTS. If you're saying that you can't switch view modes within the STB, however, isn't that a STB artifact and not the RPTV issue?

 

[hipsterjedi]

Thanks for all your help. Did anyone buy theirs from Onecall.com? I have heard good things about them and I am considering buying it from them. I am in California so I would not pay sales tax and they are offering free shipping on both the 533 or the 643.


Any other recommendations for the purchase (Internet or B & M)?


Thanks,


hipsterjedi

 

[williak]

Quote:

Originally posted by GC3 I did not know that. Others have reported elsewise, at least over at HTS. If you're saying that you can't switch view modes within the STB, however, isn't that a STB artifact and not the RPTV issue?

GC,


I'm saying that given a 1080i signal into any of its component inputs, my 533 locks into Full mode. Certainly, STBs that support different image presentations at 1080i can then be used to change the viewed image. But the 533 view modes (Natural, Cinema, etc.) are unavailable when this locking occurs. My understanding is that the xx2 series Pioneers locked into Full on anything other than 480i which caused no end of grief for folks without image scaling in their sources (DVD, LD, etc.). I'll be sure to check things when I get home tonight and will post if I'm mistaken in my recollections. Good luck.


Austin

 

[williak]

Quote:

Originally posted by hipsterjedi Thanks for all your help. Did anyone buy theirs from Onecall.com? I have heard good things about them and I am considering buying it from them. I am in California so I would not pay sales tax and they are offering free shipping on both the 533 or the 643. Any other recommendations for the purchase (Internet or B & M)? Thanks, hipsterjedi

HJ,


Onecall has a very fine reputation for sourcing top-line equipment at very good prices. Best of all, they're "Authorized" so you're not hung out to dry with these high-dollar HD toys. Highly recommeded! Make sure you understand extended warranties, lemon protection and cleaning/recalibration visits before you purchase. Good luck and enjoy your new box.


Austin

 

[GC3]

Quote:

Originally posted by hipsterjedi ...Any other recommendations for the purchase (Internet or B & M)? ....hipsterjedi

I'm one of those who bought locally from a reputable authorized dealer at a very small premium (less than $100) over the offer from one call. I felt a little more "warm and fuzzy" because if it hadn't worked when delivered (by 4 guys I might add) and set up, I could've had another one delivered the next day. Not to mention that onecall d*cked me around a little when I was on their waiting list, so I'm not one of their fans but that's another story. My charge card doubles the mfr warranty (and its 2 years on the pioneer) so I didn't buy an extended warranty.