[bogart219]

Hey guys,

Have narrowed my choices down to the Hitachi 57swx20b and the Toshiba 57hdx82. Am leaning towards the toshiba because I can probably get it a few hundred dollars cheaper . In reading the forums I've heard a few people mention that Toshiba has a problem with their CRT's.

Is this a known issue or problem that I should be aware of? Should it keep me from buying this set? Any feedback appreciated!!

 

[Paul Clancy]

As someone who's had and returned 3 defective tosh 57hdx82 sets with flickering / bursting guns I can say with certainty ...get the Hitachi....I am.


Cheers,

Paul

 

[randy98mtu]

A friend and I both bought 57hdx82's in late Feb/early March. Mine has blue burst, but no problems while viewing programs. My friends set has no such problems (burst or flicker) It is to be considered, but I went with it. Go to the store and ask the sales guy to show you all the viewing modes and features. I think these are the most important things to consider. Also remember that for ever person you see online with a problem, there are probably at least 5-10 people at home enjoying their sets with nothing to write about in the forums.


Not saying there isn't a problem, but I suggest not letting it run your decisions. If the Toshiba is the one you want, buy it. If you have trouble and they don't handle it properly, deal with it then. I wouldn't want to spend $2500 on my second choice based on a problem that *might* occur.


Randy

 

[vigga]

While Randy does have a point...spending $2500 on a product that has some proven problems can lead to a difficult time. My third 50HDX82 set is schedule for pickup tomorrow-all three had multiple problems-none of which were ever fixed by the multiple service calls and technicians that saw the tv's. I bought the original set in September-so this whole ordeal has lasted almost 8 months. If you are prepared for that type of time investment to get a working set into your house, then by all means-go for it. I, for one, am done with Toshiba's. In the last 8 months I've invested enough time to justify the extra 1k to get a Sony GWII. I know that I may represent the minority...but my track records is now 0 for 3...so while every person with a non working tv on this forum might represent 1 for 10 with working sets-I've gotten three bad ones in a row. Go figure.

 

[becks]

Well I've had four Toshiba HDX's now (Nov, Dec, Feb & March) and they've all had problems. I would recommend looking at the Hitachi's, that's what I'm going to try next.


I can't see anyone recommending a product that costs this much after they know it has problems and tell you to keep your fingures crossed you're set will be okay. It's definetly not worth all the time and effort, the Toshiba does have a great picture (when it works properly) but I can't justify spending this much on a tv because the picture is good most of the time, it should be good 100% of the time.

 

[randy98mtu]

Sorry to hear about your luck guys. Previously I only knew of 1 or 2 people who have gone through multiple sets. The fact that you have been able to exchange the sets multiple times counts for something (though it probably wasn't Toshiba who did the exchanges) I just still have faith that they (Toshiba) will make things right. What made me decide to still buy the Toshiba despite knowing about these potential issues was taht I had been looking at HD sets for 9 months. I always decided not to because there was some feature missing or some reported problems. I decided to make a choice and start enjoying the TV. If something happens, I'll deal with it. I did look at all of the sets and compared them in detail and the Toshiba's looked like the nicest one. I didn't care for the Hitachi stretch modes at all, I've had bad luck with Sony and don't want to support them as a company because of all the proprietary features they always use. The Mits was my second choice and should the Toshiba start giving me a lot of trouble that's likely the way I'll go. I have no access to checking out Pioneer and just didn't look too seriously at the Panny I guess.


I agree with you though, becks. I was saying the same thing on the other side. Spending this kind of cash you shouldn't have to settle on features or quality (within reason, nobody expects a plasma for $2500) All this said, these are all very nice sets and if you want HD, I say don't do what I did and keep waiting. Pick one and get the best deal you can on it. If you're worried about these problems, pick up an extended warranty with a company that will allow exchanges for a different brand if you keep having problems. In your case, make sure it's a place that sells both Tosh and Hit.


Randy

 

[Spooky]

Well, I have gotten two bad 65HDX82's in a row. I am debating on trying a third one.


I have not experienced the burst/flicker problem (at least I don't think I have), however, the first set had a beige tint to anything white on the left side of the screen and was slightly blurred. My one now has a criss cross type line going both vertically and horizontally. These lines are transparent but noticeable on bright scenes (first noticed it when watching hockey). It is right near the middle of the screen and driving me nuts !!!!!!


However, everything else about the set is GREAT. And all of the features perfectly fit my needs. Which is way I am actually debating trying another.


Well see...

 

[vigga]

My call looked like the following:

I'm done with Toshiba. Toshiba replaced the first set and second sets. The dealer is going to fight it out with Toshiba and his wholesallers on the third. But full refund coming my way.


GWII-stretch modes are irrelevant-no stretching needed when no burn in. No convergence, easy bulb replacement.


It's funny-a similar thread on home theater spot and here last week yielded mine being the only negative experience with the Toshiba product.

 

[randy98mtu]

I know there are a number of people with negative experiences with Toshiba. But you'll find the same with any brand. It's the common problem not getting resolved that becomes frightening. I feel like the only one here defending Tosh! I do agree that the issue needs to get resolved. I've never been happy with how big companies handle problems for early adopters though. There seem to be a lot of these types of things.


As for stretch modes, I would still prefer to fill my whole screen when watching 4:3 material.


Hope you get all resolved. Are you getting a GWII?


Randy

 

[bogart219]

Thanks for all the info guys! I was leaning towards the Toshiba because of price and supposedly the best stretch mode ( which is important to me).

I gots a tough choice to make. One thing I learned from listining to you guys is to make sure I buy it at a store with a good return policy! I take it that there is no "official " issue with tosh crt's (one that the co. knows about and is admiiting to). Its a shame that people spend all that money for a product and then have to pray that it works ok. I guess its the nature of the business. Thanks again for the input!!

 

[VTBoy]

If you do get the Toshiba you shouldn't pay more then 1900 Shipped, thats the price Onecall had at one time for a special.

 

[Dave_Van]

FWIW, I'm happy with my Tosh 50HDX82. It has to frustrating to shell out >$2K and put up with multiple returns. I suggest you weigh carefully on where you shop - make sure you understand their return policy, and if you can, their reputation for service.