HDTV Questions and Answers Thread

[bigfnjoe96]

Re: HDTV Questions and Answers Thread

50-60 inch for a rear projection. 46-52 inch for a LCD. I'm really leaning towards a LCD, but could buy a rear projection. Does anyone know anything about the Samsung LN-T5265F? The 46 inch version of this set received high marks at C-Net, and the tv is in my price range. Will a Samsung TV perform well with a PS3? Thanks guys for helping this non-tech guy!

Coach, that model didn't get good reviews.. It seems like that set had an HDMI Connection problem, which Samsung tried to fix via a FIRMWARE Update. It did fix the problem via HDMI, but the fix then screwed the TV's COMPONENT Inputs up..

from PC MAG Review:

Though the LN-T5265F proved itself capable of delivering good color and contrast post-calibration, during my first round of tests its video processing unacceptably degraded the quality of HD video. My HD HQV Benchmark test results revealed that the TV's HDMI input was sacrificing up to half of the visual information contained within the signal of video and film-sourced content. When placed side by side with the 1080p NEC Multeos M46-AVT, the differences were dramatic, with the LN-T5265F failing to resolve fine details on the test's stadium scene, reducing some portions of the image to a flat color. Using a selection of HD DVD and Blu-ray movies confirmed that the LN-T5265F's missing picture detail softened the image to the point of being blurry. The use of a quality external video processor returned the missing details, and interestingly, the LN-T5265F's processing of HD component video appeared correct, but I discovered that the TV's video-noise-reduction controls had no discernable effect with this input.

Investigating further, I contacted Samsung about these issues. As I mentioned before, the company provided me with a firmware upgrade for the TV. This update corrected the LN-T5265F's most severe video-processing errors with 1080i HDMI input, and also enabled underscan for HD component video. But folks, don't get too excited. The new firmware shifted the LN-T5265F's 1080i HDMI input problems to its component video inputs. In fact, after the software upgrade, component video exhibited, astonishingly, the exact same loss of detail that HDMI video did prior to the firmware update.

At the time of this writing, Samsung claimed that affected owners could call the company's service center and request the latest firmware update. Apparently, models that shipped after mid- to late July should have the updated firmware. This article will be updated with any new information as it becomes available.

[RoyalBoyle78]

Re: HDTV Questions and Answers Thread

No I don't....which is odd because I've read many people see it on white backgrounds. I used to see it when everything was dark in a scene and then there would be a flicker of light (ie: a candle or fire).

Yeah keeping the contrast high will eventually wear out the bulb. I still haven't replaced the bulb in my set. I know it's getting low, but until it goes black, no need to replace it! I do have a spare waiting in the wings though.

How much was your replacment bulb, is there a site that sells them at a discount price, the reason I ask is, mine would be $250 from Sony.

[Coach Bryant]

Re: HDTV Questions and Answers Thread

Coach, that model didn't get good reviews.. It seems like that set had an HDMI Connection problem, which Samsung tried to fix via a FIRMWARE Update. It did fix the problem via HDMI, but the fix then screwed the TV's COMPONENT Inputs up..

from PC MAG Review:

This tv shopping is about to give me a migraine. C-Net rated the 46 inch fairly high.

[Coach Bryant]

Re: HDTV Questions and Answers Thread

I'm thinking about going back to plan A. I think I'll buy the Sony KDS60A3000, and be done with it. A 60 inch TV for 1899.99 isn't bad in my opinion, and I've heard good things about this TV.

http://www.circuitcity.com/ccd/produ....do?oid=190632

[mjb2124]

Re: HDTV Questions and Answers Thread

How much was your replacment bulb, is there a site that sells them at a discount price, the reason I ask is, mine would be $250 from Sony.

I bought it from Samsung for $150. I thought that was a good price so I went for it. Here it is:

http://www.samsungparts.com/part_detail.asp?catalog%5Fname=Parts+and+Accessories&category%5Fname=&product%5Fid=BP96%2D00826A

[IlliniM1ke]

Re: HDTV Questions and Answers Thread

I'm going to be moving into an apartment and I'm in the market for a HDTV, 26"-32" range preferrably. Ideally I'd like to make the purchase at Best Buy where I have a $250 giftcard waiting to be spent from last Christmas. I'm pretty unknowledgable when it comes to all things HDTV but I'm wanting something to play my 360 on mostly.

If anyone can recommend some good tvs that fit in that size range I'd apprectiate it, I'm pretty flexible price wise, especially if its available to be purchased at Best Buy where I can use the giftcard.

[GAMEC0CK2002]

Re: HDTV Questions and Answers Thread

I'm going to be moving into an apartment and I'm in the market for a HDTV, 26"-32" range preferrably. Ideally I'd like to make the purchase at Best Buy where I have a $250 giftcard waiting to be spent from last Christmas. I'm pretty unknowledgable when it comes to all things HDTV but I'm wanting something to play my 360 on mostly.

If anyone can recommend some good tvs that fit in that size range I'd apprectiate it, I'm pretty flexible price wise, especially if its available to be purchased at Best Buy where I can use the giftcard.

This is the list of the black friday tvs that best buy will have. If you don't mind the crowds, this would be the first place to start your search.

Dynex 19" LCD TV - $239.99<table><tbody><tr><td width="60">
</td><td>Dynex 32" LCD HDTV - $449.99</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table><tbody><tr><td width="60">
</td><td>Dynex 37" 720p LCD HDTV - $629.99</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table><tbody><tr><td width="60">
</td><td>HP 42" 1080p LCD HDTV - $996.99</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table><tbody><tr><td width="60">
</td><td>Insignia 24" Digital Flat Tube SDTV - $179.99</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table><tbody><tr><td width="60">
</td><td>Magnavox 26-in LCD HDTV/DVD Combo - $479.99</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table><tbody><tr><td width="60">
</td><td>Mitsubishi 65" 1080p DLP Projection HDTV - $1499.99</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table><tbody><tr><td width="60">
</td><td>Panasonic 42" 720p Plasma TV - $899.99</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table><tbody><tr><td width="60">
</td><td>Philips 32" 720p LCD HDTV - $599.99</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table><tbody><tr><td width="60">
</td><td>Samsung 50" Plasma 720p HDTV - $1399.99</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table><tbody><tr><td width="60">
</td><td>Sanus TV Mounts - 20% Off</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table><tbody><tr><td width="60">
</td><td>Westinghouse 47" 1080p LCD HDTV - $1299.99</td></tr></tbody></table>

[RoyalBoyle78]

Re: HDTV Questions and Answers Thread

I'm thinking about going back to plan A. I think I'll buy the Sony KDS60A3000, and be done with it. A 60 inch TV for 1899.99 isn't bad in my opinion, and I've heard good things about this TV.

http://www.circuitcity.com/ccd/produ....do?oid=190632

I have the KDS50, It's a good set...

[Virix]

Re: HDTV Questions and Answers Thread

Just ordered a Samsung 56" 1080p DLP, with the LCD engine. It uses 3 led lights instead of a blub and a color wheel, so theres no low level noise from the wheel turning, no bulbs to replace and no rainbow effect. Ill let you guys know what I think of it when i get it next tuesday. Heres the link...

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=8293456&st=samsung&lp=6&type=product&cp=1&id=1173577986415

[loaf31]

Re: HDTV Questions and Answers Thread

Guys I am looking to finally upgrade to an HDTV and I was hoping to do so on BF. I am looking for LCD TVs in the 32"-40" range. I noticed 2 on BF that fit my price range and size range.

Which would be the better deal?
37" Olevia from target ($549)
http://www.target.com/Olevia-37-LCD-...imary&=guidt&1=

OR

Element 32" from CC $399 (The BF ad doesnt specify which)
http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Eleme...eid=k32998&mid=&=

[asrabbit91]

Re: HDTV Questions and Answers Thread

My 51 INCH RCA TV had a small signal board go out, I was wondering if it was cheap or any ideas where to buy the piece or whatever. My freind said heck with it and gave it to me, and I thought maybe get another hd tv cheap if you know what I mean.

[CaptainZombie]

Re: HDTV Questions and Answers Thread

No I don't....which is odd because I've read many people see it on white backgrounds. I used to see it when everything was dark in a scene and then there would be a flicker of light (ie: a candle or fire).

Yeah keeping the contrast high will eventually wear out the bulb. I still haven't replaced the bulb in my set. I know it's getting low, but until it goes black, no need to replace it! I do have a spare waiting in the wings though.

Out of everyone that I have tried to show it to them, I'm the only one that sees it on the white background. I wonder what that means about our eyes, LOL!

I checked the Contrast like you had suggested, the damn things was on 85. What kills me is that I remember having it on 50, so I have no clue why it got up so high unless something reset in the settings. Is this the only thing that I need to lower, and is 50-60 ok for contrast or is that still too high?

[ExtremeGamer]

Re: HDTV Questions and Answers Thread

Out of everyone that I have tried to show it to them, I'm the only one that sees it on the white background. I wonder what that means about our eyes, LOL!

I checked the Contrast like you had suggested, the damn things was on 85. What kills me is that I remember having it on 50, so I have no clue why it got up so high unless something reset in the settings. Is this the only thing that I need to lower, and is 50-60 ok for contrast or is that still too high?

Every TV is different, but my Sony HDTV has contrast at 21 I believe. That's out of 100, but it was professionally calibrated as was MJB's.

[CaptainZombie]

Re: HDTV Questions and Answers Thread

Every TV is different, but my Sony HDTV has contrast at 21 I believe. That's out of 100, but it was professionally calibrated as was MJB's.

I remember you guys telling me that before, I was just wondering what is average Torch mode territory on a DLP so I can stay away from that setting as much as I can.

[mjb2124]

Re: HDTV Questions and Answers Thread

Out of everyone that I have tried to show it to them, I'm the only one that sees it on the white background. I wonder what that means about our eyes, LOL!

I checked the Contrast like you had suggested, the damn things was on 85. What kills me is that I remember having it on 50, so I have no clue why it got up so high unless something reset in the settings. Is this the only thing that I need to lower, and is 50-60 ok for contrast or is that still too high?

Yeah no one else saw the rainbows, but me. I'm just glad I don't see them anymore!!

My contrast is actually at 90. However, when Chad came by to calibrate it, he said my bulb was very low and I'd want to crank it down about 10 notches when I put a new bulb in. Still haven't done that yet as my current bulb hasn't fried.