Zenith C32V37 with integrated HDTV tuner - mini review

[simmike]

Zenith C32V37 with integrated HDTV tuner.
http://www.zenith.com/index.asp?url=./sub_prod/ad_C34W23.asp

At the present time, it is fairly unusual to have a built-in HDTV over the air (OTA) tuner in any TV, let alone one costing less than $1000, so that makes this one worthy of a little mini review.

The HDTV tuner works excellent, getting better signal quality than MyHD tuner card. The HDTV looks as good as any tube TV, or most rear projection and plasma, but it really makes me appreciate my Infocus X1. HDTV at these smaller sizes is kind of a waste. To really appreciate HDTV resolution, you need to make it big, which the X1 does marvelously (even with just 800 X 600 resolution.) That being said, the HDTV picture is sharp and precise. I was also able to route HDTV from MyHD PCI card via component and this worked fine. So I will be able to watch HDTV recorded on my computer with MyHD. And now I can watch one HDTV channel on this TV and record another one with my tuner card – very nice! Not many people can watch one HDTV channel while recording another.

Having the HDTV tuner integrated ensures that the signal stays digital the whole way. HDTV looks really good.

Positives –

Regular cable TV looks good. This is something lots of HDTVs struggle with. The sharpness control works well without introducing video noise.

HDTV tuner is sensitive and locks in to the signal pretty good. I’m using a Zenith silver sensor which I got for around twenty bucks at buy com.

Aspect ratio button on the remote lets you toggle between: “set by program,” 4:3, 16:9 and Zoom. This aspect ratio works on just about any of the input sources, and is especially handy with OTA HDTV, where standard broadcasts are inset in the center of the screen. Using zoom will fill the screen. It is easy to toggle through these options and find the one you like. If you don’t mind making everyone skinny looking, you can get 16:9 source to stretch to fill the 4:3 screen. This worked OK.

EZ tuning automatically inserts HDTV OTA channels into your regular channel lineup. In my area, channel 4 is ABC. When I input “4” on the remote, it defaults to the HDTV digital signal, which if fine because OTA digital has a better picture than cable TV. If I scroll up through the digital channels, I get about 12 in the Seattle area, it will reach the cable channels and I can get channel 4 via cable.

When set to digital cable, I can receive cable transmitted in HDTV. At present Comcast in Seattle only has three, ABC, PBS and ESPN-HD, but it is nice being able to get HDTV over cable without a box. Unfortunately, it is either cable digital or OTA digital. You can't enable both at the same time. This only works for unscrambled digital cable, so no HBO and stuff.

Digital optical out, so you can output OTA Dolby digital to your receiver/decoder.

Custom “surf” button on your remote lets you set a favorites list of channels. You can only have about 10 favorite channels. So I set a few in strategic spots of the cable lineup. So I can zoom to the general area of the cable lineup with the surf button and then go up and down with the regular channel switch.

If you have it set for OTA reception, it will also tune in your regular analog OTA channels. This analog tuner is excellent, with very little ghosting or other problems associated with regular analog TV reception.

Two tuner PIP.

Lots of input, including DVI, two component and four video input.

Each source -- video 1, component, cable, HDTV, etc -- all retain their own video display settings, which is handy. It takes a little more time to get all your sources tweaked, but this is still a plus.

Negatives –

Right now the negatives are longer for me. Don’t make too much out of these complaints, as I get buyers remorse whenever I spend $1000 on something. This makes the negatives more dramatic at first. Usually I adjust and maybe even find out ways around the limitations.

Setup is dumbed down and so is the manual. There isn’t too much customizing of your antenna sources and stuff. This might be a positive for people who want more plug-and-play as it does integrate HDTV digital channels into your lineup automatically.

While this TV has "digital cable" tuner, you can’t select OTA HDTV (DTV) and digital cable (CADTV) at the same time. This is odd and makes me mad, because it won’t let you mix and match what each of your two antenna sources are receiving. Instead you have four options, only one of these options uses a cable TV feed and OTA HDTV feed at the same time. This makes me mad because I wanted to try the digital cable. Instead of allowing you to customize this stuff, it has something called “EZ scan” which only gives you four options, two of which only use only one of the antenna inputs!!

The default video settings were terrible. Why is it that every TV manufacturer makes the default contrast 100% and the default brightness 50%? This rarely looks good on any TV, and yet they continue to use this default. So figure on adjusting the brightness, contrast and color. The default color of 55 was too saturated, so I had to set this at 35. There are about 6 “picture” choices to toggle through, such as “sports” or “theater,” which might be good for certain people. I’ll experiment with these later.

Remote button for toggling through video sources is slow and make you toggle through all your sources. This means it might take you ten or more seconds to toggle through your choices. There is a two second pause between switching sources. There is a separate "component/DVI" button, so you can access these three sources relatively fast.

PIP is highly configurable, but when you swap the picture, there is a two second black screen as it switches sources. No fast PIP switching. This slow switching kind of drains the enjoyment of swapping PIP windows. Maybe I’ll get used to this.

Channel change is a little slow. In between channel changes, there is a ½ second black screen between the channels. This might annoy channel surfers.

While tube is 32”, the actual viewing area is about 31”. There is a black border around the whole picture. Since I upgraded from a legitimate 30” TV, I wanted the full 32”, so this disappoints me.

Warranty on labor is puny 90 days. I’m not sure if this is standard with most TVs now, but I certainly would have preferred a full year warranty. Parts does have one year and tube is two year warranty.

This TV is big and heavy, 158 lbs. While it is 36 inches wide, it starts tapering back immediately, so only the first inch or so if actually 36” wide. Go toward the back of the TV six inches and it is only 32” wide, quickly tapering the rest of the way.

Final remarks.

I’ve pleased with the picture so far. It has a nice picture from a variety of sources. It will compliment my projector nicely. The HDTV tuner is a big, huge plus. If you are located close to an urban area, you can probably get free OTA HDTV. Since cheaper HDTV tuners cost around $300 or much more, that makes the $1000 price look even better. While it is very unusual to have integrated HDTV tuners in TVs, that is soon to change. It is my opinion that the parts for integrated HDTV tuning are probably $50 at most, so more and more TVs will start having integrated tuners (finally!!!) It is also my opinion that HDTV tuners are ridiculously overpriced at $300 for a cheap one by Samsung. Unfortunately there is no way to output the HDTV of this TV to another source, such as a projector.

If you have any questions, just let me know and I’ll try to get the answer.

http://www.zenith.com/index.asp?url=./sub_prod/ad_C34W23.asp

[simmike]

Just a quick comment about why I chose a 4:3 set. The 16:9 picture on this set is 29" diagonal, which is virtually the same as 30" 16:9 TV. But the 4:3 picture on this 32" TV is much bigger than the 30" widescreen. Since the vast majority of my TV viewing is still 4:3, this is the compromise I made. Watching letterboxed 16:9 has never bothered me that much. Wider formats, like 2:35, I'll watch with my projector.

Here is the breakdown of my HDTV venture.

Infocus X1 - $900
Screen and cables - $100
MyHD PCI tuner - $290
Zenith 32" HDTV - $999

So I spent about $2300 and I am able to record and watch two different HDTV channels at the same time. This compares favorably to one big 65" RPTV and is about half the cost of a decent plasma screen. Plus, in about five minutes, I can pack up my projector and bring to my brothers house. Try that with either RPTV or plasma! And I don't have a huge TV dominating my front room.

Just a little justification of my purchases, which I think is a good way to go for many people.

BTW, now that it is nightime in Seattle, I am more impressed with the picture of this Zenith. The HDTV looks especially excellent.

Sorry to be the first to bump my own post. I don't like to do that usually.

[simmike]

Interesting discovery on the digital cable tuner of this TV. I decided to let EZ scan find all digital cable channels. It found about forty extra channels on Comcast here in Seattle. Here is the very interesting part. It found the HDTV cable channels, including ABC, ESPN-HD and PBS. It also found a bunch of audio only channels and some other digital channels.

First impression is that OTA HDTV is better, but getting ESPN-HD without a tuner box is awesome. I hope the cable company doesn't start scrambling this stuff. After all, hardly anyone has digital cable tuners. I'm surprised I can get this.

Now I have to find how to enable OTA digital channels and digital cable channels simultaneously. If that is possible, this tuner setup is impressive.

If I can't have both enabled, I'll setup regular cable and OTA HDTV and only do the digital cable when there is something I want to see.

Update: Enabling OTA digital and cable digital is probably not possible. I think digital is either one or the other. ESPN looked OK for the basketball game that was playing, but not Monday Night Football quality.

BTW, SD digital cable channels didn't look as good as regular cable channels.

[hardwired]

simmike,

I agree with the FPTV complimented by a monitor (ie direct view, rptv, computer display) approach. For HDTV I would recommend XGA or WXGA (if one can afford it) with a high contrast ratio for FP to maximize the benefits of HD resolution.

Did you measure the "effective" diagonal to be 31" on the Zenith? I guess I was expecting a full 32". Now I am wondering if other competing tubes are doing the same thing, sort of like PC monitors...

BTW I would use the Zenith's tuner for digital cable and the MyHD for OTA. Your not going to want to miss ESPN-HD Sunday Night Football!

[simmike]

Yeah the effective picture is only 31". There is a black bar bigger than 1/4" around the whole picture. I'm not sure how much the 36" version of this TV will be, but it will probably be worth the extra money.

I'll turn on the digital ESPN-HD as needed. It only takes about five minutes to reprogram the channels.

Now that I have two distinctly different HDTVs, the X1 and this tube TV, I can see that many of the problems like dark HDTV are also on this HDTV. But this smaller HDTV is more forgiving of flaws in the picture. My local PBS station is a good example. They multicast, so their HDTV has always been overcompressed, which really showed up on my big screen. But with this, the over-compression problems are harder to see and the picture looks awesome.

It does kind of bug me that I'm not allowed OTA and cable digital channels to coexist in one channel setup.

[reneauds]

i just bought this tv. i first hooked up terk 25 antenna and it looked good. i then tried my regular roof antenna and it got an even better picture and signal. now i have a problem. i just put directv through the svideo. and quite frankly i'm not happy with it. it looks like a hazy film over the picture. at first i thought i got spoiled by the high definition picture but no, my new sony in my bedroom is looking better with the directv svideo hookup than the zenith. why?????

[rossi46]

simmike - thanks for the review! The question for me is, jump on this 4:3 set with integrated HDTV, or wait until the 16:9 sets have built-in as well. I guess this depends on how long it takes for the manufacturers to get on the ball...and whether or not they jack up prices. As you say, if Zenith can include the tuner it CANNOT be that expensive.

Whats your viewing distance for the V37? Have you watched a DVD yet; and if so your thoughts? Is the 16:9 window within the set satisfactory? Thanks again!

[galomyr]

C34W37 34" 16x9 is scheduled to ship Nov. 21 with what is rumored to be a MSRP of $1,799. You can pre-order it off of a few websites for $1599.

There's also a C30W37 30" 16x9.

[simmike]

Originally posted by rossi46
Whats your viewing distance for the V37? Have you watched a DVD yet; and if so your thoughts? Is the 16:9 window within the set satisfactory? Thanks again!

I sit about six feet away. Part of my problem with the smaller picture is my glasses prescription needs to be adjusted. With my projector this isn't a problem. So I can't be too critical of the "smallness" of the TV picture. Like I said in the review, the 16:9 picture measures 29" diagonal, so it is darn close to a legitimate 30" widescreen, and the 4:3 picture is much bigger than the 30" widescreen. I have looked at a couple of DVDs, but right now this is connected via S-video, so I haven't really tested this too much. It looked good. I will do the majority of my DVD viewing with my projector, so this isn't as important to me.

The HDTV picture is really good. And even straight cable is OK. I like the TV.

I notice that congress, or someone official, mandated including integrated HDTV tuners in all TVs by a certain date. The TV manufacturers were whining about cost, quoting $300 per TV. The officials who approved this rule, said they suspected it might cost $50 for integrated tuners. I think it might even cost less. It is really a shame that "compatible" and "HDTV ready" TVs were allowed to prosper.

If it really cost $300, there is no way Zenith could sell this TV for $999.

[rossi46]

The rule says that half of all 36" and larger sets sold in '04 must have integrated tuners. Who knows when smaller sets will have HD tuners built-in?

One last question: does the top of the set seem able to hold a typical center speaker?

[rossi46]

Originally posted by galomyr
There's also a C30W37 30" 16x9.

Do you know how much the 30" will cost? :)

[simmike]

Originally posted by rossi46
One last question: does the top of the set seem able to hold a typical center speaker?

There is a flat section on the top that is about six inches wide. It is rounded in back, so the six inches doesn't go all the way across. I suspect most center speakers will probably sit there OK.

[hardwired]

simmike,

Can you check if you can change the SCAN MODE in the user menu when using the RF input? I am hearing that the RF input is different on the 32V37 and possibly scans at 480i. You could try counting the scan lines I guess to see if it's 480 or 1080.

[simmike]

Originally posted by hardwired
Can you check if you can change the SCAN MODE in the user menu when using the RF input? I am hearing that the RF input is different on the 32V37 and possibly scans at 480i. You could try counting the scan lines I guess to see if it's 480 or 1080.

I couldn't find a "scan mode" option. Like I said, it is kind of dumbed down in the setup options. I've been reading other opinions of Zenith, and I would be willing to bet this doesn't really do 480i.

[simmike]

After using this for a week, I have to restate that the HDTV picture and tuner is excellent. DVD also looks good. Regular cable is OK, but probably not as good as a standard TV. The fact that the integrated tuner will work for digital cable HDTV is a plus for people who don't want to rent the cable company box. You won't get the actual digital lineup, because it is probably scrambled. But I think cable companies are going to keep HDTV of network stations (local OTA) unscrambled, so this will get basic cable users HDTV.

Stretching HDTV to 4:3 picture actually works OK. It does make everyone skinnier, but it is actually useable.

Another negative is the sound isn't the greatest. This is probably because I keep the volume lower then is optimal for this system. Neither of the two surround options worked that great, at least at low volumes. The "smart" sound setting, which is supposed to keep commercials from blasting louder than the regular show, works OK for the commercial part, but sometimes it kicks in for musical interludes of the regular TV show. I turned it off. Like I said, these problems are probably worse because I keep the volume low. What I would like to see is a way to adjust the surround volume independently.

[hardwired]

simmike,

So their is no scan mode option in the user menu for any ntsc inputs? The V37 has this option except for inputs greater than 480i.

Zenith told me the sets do 480p and 1080i natively except for the RF inputs and said the V37 can display 480 INTERLACED, but I am reluctant to believe any of it at this point given their track record. I still suspect the V37 can display only 1080i and everything is upconverted to that.

Have you tried connecting your PC to the Zenith via DVI?

[simmike]

Originally posted by hardwired
Have you tried connecting your PC to the Zenith via DVI?

I don't have a DVI cable, so I haven't tried that.

Just from looking at the picture, I don't think this does 480i. I looked everywhere and there is no scan option. The only thing that sounds similar of velocity modulation VM. The manual is really unclear on what VM actually does, but I have it set to high.

[buttons252]

I have mine hooked up to my PC via monster DVI400 cable. I cant get it any higher then 720x480. Otherwise i get flickering. Im going to download powerstrip and try that out.

[edogg]

have you had any more luck with powerstrip???

[qqqqq]

Based on simmike's review and other research. I got this a couple of weeks ago. I'm very happy so far.

The QAM tuner is nice because my cable co is only scrambling HBO and SHO, the other HD channels come through fine (Discovery, INHD plus several locals). It also picks up some SD digital channels that aren't scrambled.

OTA is good. I need to get a decent antenna b/c some locals aren't carried on cable yet. Seems like a common issue that there's always one more channel you want.

PQ is good. Compared to our 13 year old 27" set it's awesome. Turning down the color made it much better. Used a THX DVD to do some tuning and found the a little bit of picture is being clipped off on left, right and bottom. So I need to get a service call.

Tivo is good. My non-progressive DVD is great. Analog cable varies. Some channels are awesome others borderline, none worse than they were before.

Got my universal remote working last night. For the RS 15-2116 the code is 0178, which wasn't in the manuals. Cycled through the discrete codes and found that you can go straight to a particular input (e.g. go to DVI then back to CADTV) which I think simmike was complaining about. Also found that you can access some service menus using discrete codes. Be careful - just scrolling through some of the menus can wipe out your settings. Also if you're on Vid 1-DVI and press channel+ or channel- it takes you right back to TV so that may address some concerns about having to cycle through.

[STEELERSRULE]

qqqq,

I have a C27V36 Zenith HDTV. I was under the impression that the only way to access the service menu was with a service remote. If you have any discrete codes that would help a zenith owner like myself get into the service menu, PLEASE POST IT ON THE FORUM.

I was hoping to get into the service menus of this tv to find out if there is a way to turn off the automatic compression of HD signals when fed to the tv.(ALA the jump fix on sonys)

Any other discrete codes would be great as well

Thanks

[shroomus]

The magic service menu discrete code, for those of you with OFA or similar remotes, is...

(drumroll, please)

018.

Note that there is at least one discrete code which will reset your TV, so do be cautious.

I was able to eliminate nearly all overscan on the DVI input, allowing me to use a GeForce 2 MX's DVI output with a standard DVI-D cable. I had to enable a tiny bit of overscan, or else the scaling hardware would potentially expose line 21 when stretching 1080i into 4:3 aspect ratio...

Also think I got rid of the red push...

And there was much rejoicing!

[STEELERSRULE]

Shroomus,
Please pardon my lack of knowledge here, but what is an OFA Remote?

What does the OFA stand for, and do you mean I can use the TV's Remote in order to get to the Service Menu.

A little more step by step detail will be greatly appreciated. Also could you give a more detailed description on what it is you changed to help improve your overscan issues and your possibly getting rid of red push.

Thanks in advance

[shroomus]

OFA stands for One-For-All, it's a particular brand of universal remote that Radio Shack resells. It has a nifty feature where you can send discrete codes by number, and program arbitrary discrete codes to keys.

The four-digit TV code is 0178 as previously mentioned (Proton TV remote code, I think) and the discrete code that gets you into the service menu is 018.

I don't know if you can use the Zenith remote to get into the service menu, I doubt it.

Custom settings I used -- note that I don't have any real calibration DVDs or anything, so take with a grain of salt:

Raster,Center,H/V_Size
1. V-Position 27 -> 30 (note: big changes here tilt everything)
2. V-Size 29 -> 20 (eliminates nearly all overscan)
3. H-Position 36 -> 32
4. H-Size 52 -> 40 (eliminates nearly all overscan; note: values too small cause pincushion???)
5. UP-VLIN 0
6. LO-VLIN 0
7. Pin_Amp 39
8. Pin_Phase 29
9. Up_CPin 40
10. Lo-CPin 41
11. AFC-Bow 31
12. AFC-Angle 30

White-Balance
1. R-DRIVE 38 -> 31 (trying to reduce red push)
2. G-DRIVE 31
3. B-DRIVE 36
4. R-CUT 37 -> 31 (trying to reduce red push)
5. G-CUT 31
6. B-CUT 40

[beethoven]

Thanks for the review. I've been trying to find a decent 32" 4:3 TV for my parents. I wasn't sure if I should recommend HD or not for them as they don't have any HD sources (except OTA). This Zenith seems to be a great option, especially since 99.5% of what they watch is [i]not[/] widescreen.

Are there any comparable 32" TV's (total width < 37.5") with a built-in HD tuner?

[STEELERSRULE]

shroomus,
Thanx for your prompt reply to my OFA question and for your more detailed account of what you did in the service menu.

Any more forth coming information about things you have done in the service menu to help improve the quality of the picture on your zenith will be greatly appreciated.

Also, my biggest beef with my C27V36 HDTV Zenith, if you find out a way to turn off the auto compress feature(ARC) in the service menu(when it is fed a high def signal 1080i) please post it on the forum.

I have the Avia Disc for calibration and when I finally get into the service menu and do some calibrating, I'll be sure to post all my results here.

By the way shroomus, did you find out this code on your own or was it posted somewhere on the forum or some internet site?

[shroomus]

beethoven:

As far as I know, there's nothing with an integrated HD tuner (especially QAM) for anything near the price. In fact, when I got this set, there was nothing 32" with or without integrated HD tuner that could touch the $999 price.

I agree with whoever it was that said that since the 16:9 picture is about the same size as a 30" widescreen set -- they're so short! -- there really doesn't seem to be any downside to getting this 4:3 set. That's especially true when your physical width is constrained by entertainment center dimensions.

STEELERSRULE:

Alas the Eagles apparently do not rule :-(
A prior post in this thread by qqqq revealed that the correct TV code set was 0178, and I knew that the OFA remote I have can send discrete codes, so I then proceeded to go through them myself. Stay away from discrete code 015, as it will nuke the settings in our set... there are discrete codes for the various video sources and aspect ratios I think, and a discrete power off code; I assume that there is a discrete power on code but I didn't feel like finding it.

Not sure if the C32V37 does ARC? I didn't see it in the service menu, but I didn't really look all that hard.

So far, I highly recommend this set for someone who wants HD but not to break the bank...

[Bremerton]

just want to say i have the Zenith C32V37 and this Television is amazing and by far the best of the bunch in the $1000 dollar Best Buy (899.99)
price range. The Tv is a 32 inch television equipped with a Faroudja Chip. I will say this is my 3rd HDTV purchase in the past 2 months I started with the Samsung model 32 inch TXN models and they are lousier then lousiest TVs stay far, far away from them they have way too many problems and for a tiny bit more you can get this Awesome 32 inch Zenith which looks way better and outperforms it in every way possible, The Zenith has a built in HDTV tuner, the Samsung models dont need I say more? 480p, 720p and 1080i looks simply breathtaking and intoxicating (the Samsungs dont even do 720p you get a flickering screen). You can Zoom in on all modes Yes even in the HD modes too. Tuning in to ESPN Basketball in HD this evening i tried to Zoom (even though the picture looks good in both 4:3 and 16:9) I still took it to the next level and zoomed in from a 16:9 perspective on 1080i and guess what no compression like in the Samsung models it centers it right in as if it were a true 4:3 picture simply amazing the other TVs dont even zoom in HD let alone Zoom from a 16:9 to make the picture 4:3 1080i Perfect with no loss kudos to Zenith! all the score and clock HUDS were completeley center in Zoom! WOW. The picture is clear and crisp even in regular analog and in non HD channels, this thing even has PIP that you can use in HD double WOW, none of the other models can brag about this feature as well as zooming in HD. For anyone looking to buy a HDTV get this one its the best one out right now for its price. Take it from me i went through 2 Samsungs already and wasnt near as happy as I am now, took me 3 tries but I got the right one in the end. I just dont want people to make the same mistake I did go with the Zenith you wont be sorry!!!!:D :D

[qqqqq]

Sorry for the delayed response.

Here's the list of discrete codes I have. It's not complete and may have some errors. Shroomus I thought it was 014 that caused the reset to default, but I may have been clicking too fast and didn't notice it. I don't want to try again to check.

AR = Aspect Ratio
SM = Service menu

009 AR - Set by Program
012 SM - Picture Check
014 SM - Reset to Defaults *****DANGER ******
015 SM - Reset to Defaults *****DANGER ****** ???
016 SM - Sound Check
017 SM - Tilt
018 SM - EZ-Adjust Menu
019 SM - In-Start Service Menu
025 Caption Setting
034 Input - Component 1
040 Picture Menu
053 Power
054 Sleep Timer
055 Audio Button (Caption Lang)
057 Mute
059 Input - TV, Video Cycle Button
079 Digit ? Or Channel Diplay
095 Info
098 AR - Zoom
103 Sound Menu
108 Input - Component 2
109 Input - Video 2
110 CATV
111 Input - Front Video
111 Input - Front Video
113 Input - Video 3
116 Digit 4
117 Digit 0
118 Digit 6
119 Digit 2
120 Digit 5
121 Digit 1
121 Input - DTV
122 Digit 7
123 Digit 3
126 DTV Signal Strength
133 PiP related
134 AR - 4:3
135 PiP related
137 PiP related
138 AR - 16:9
164 Digit ? Or Channel Diplay
167 Menu
171 Menu
173 Ch +
174 Input - DVI
175 Vol +
176 Off
177 Ch -
178 Input - TV, Video Cycle Button
179 Vol -
181 Ch +
183 Vol +
185 Ch -
187 Vol -
197 PiP related
200 Freeze frame
201 PiP related
203 PiP related
231 Input - Video 1
232 Input - Component 1,2, DVI toggle
245 Digit ? Or Channel Diplay
246 Surf
247 Last
253 Input - Component 1

[qqqqq]

shroomus:

BTW - thanks for the detailed service menu settings. I'll give 'em a try soon.

[Bremerton]

how exactly do you work this remote. i have a cheap one for all remote and the code you gave works(0178) but every time i type in the number(018) it changes to that channel LOL????????:confused:

[shroomus]

Here's what I have for the OFA...

Non-LCD remote instructions:

A. To test a code:

# Press the device key
# Press SETUP (don't hold it)
# Enter the 3 digit code
# Check for a response from your equipment
# (Holding the final digit down is the same as holding the actual button down)

B. To program a code:

# Press the device key
# Press and hold SETUP (wait for two blinks)
# Enter 9-9-4 (wait for two blinks)
# (Optional) Press the device button the code is coming from
# Press SETUP (don't hold it)
# Enter the 3 digit code
# (Optional) Press the device button the code is going to
# Press the button to be assigned

C. To program a code (to a SHIFT key):

# Press the device key
# Press and hold SETUP (wait for two blinks)
# Enter 9-9-4 (wait for two blinks)
# (Optional) Press the device button the code is coming from
# Press SETUP (don't hold it)
# Enter the 3 digit code
# (Optional) Press the device button the code is going to
# Press SETUP (don't hold it)
# Press the button to be assigned

D. To delete a code:

# Press the device key
# Press and hold SETUP (wait for two blinks)
# Enter 9-9-4 (wait for two blinks)
# Press the assigned button - twice

E. To delete a code (from a SHIFT key):

# Press the device key
# Press and hold SETUP (wait for two blinks)
# Enter 9-9-4 (wait for two blinks)
# Press the assigned button
# Press SETUP (don't hold it)
# Press the assigned button

So, to send 018 you would make sure you're in TV mode first, then press and release Setup, then type 018.

Here's my list of discrete codes, between this and the other post I can't imagine what we'd have missed:

012
---
P-CHECK (Factory Mode)
1.CONTRAST: 25
2.BRIGHTNESS: 50
3.COLOR: 50
4.TINT: 0
5.SHARPNESS: 50
(exit this mode by hitting MENU)

014
---
discrete code for TV? went to channel 13?
maybe switching between antenna and cable?

015
---
factory reset??? turned audio back on!

016
---
S-CHECK (Factory Mode)
1.VOLUME: 0
2.BALANCE: 0
(exit this mode by hitting MENU)

017
---
tilt adjustment

018
---
Ez Adjust
1. Raster,center,H/V_Size ->
2. Pin-Cushion
3. Cut-off
4. White-Balance
5. Sub-Bright
6. Sub-Tint/Color
7. White-Pattern
8. DVCO-Set
9. AD9883A-Set
10. VPX3226
(exit this mode by hitting MENU)

019
---
IN-START
1. CXA2150AQ ->
2. CXA1875AM
3. UPD64083
4. AD9883A
5. AD9883A_NVRAM
6. HD2-Chip
Cpu Ver: 32V 3.03.1
Mic Ver: 01.10
(exit this mode by hitting MENU)

025
---
caption toggle

034
---
discrete code for Component 1

036
---
number 2 key

040
---
video setting toggle

053
---
power toggle

054
---
sleep timer toggle

055
---
audio mono/stereo/SAP selection

057
---
mute toggle

059
---
video source toggle

079
---
brings up just the little upper right box, but not the info button?

095
---
info

098
---
This feature is not available now -- ?

103
---
audio preset toggle

105
---
discrete code for Front Video

108
---
discrete code for Component 2

109
---
discrete code for Video 2

110
---
discrete code for TV?

111
---
discrete code for Front Video?

113
---
discrete code for Video 3?

116
---
number 4 key

117
---
number 0 key

118
---
number 6 key

119
---
number 2 key?

120
---
number 5 key

121
---
number 1 key

122
---
number 7 key

123
---
number 3 key

126
---
signal strength

133
---
discrete code for second PIP (scan) mode

134
---
discrete code for 4:3 aspect ratio

135
---
pipch - (This feature is not available now -- ?)

137
---
pipch + (This feature is not available now -- ?)

138
---
discrete code for 16:9 aspect ratio

164
---
Enter (brings up just the little upper right box, and a time display lower right?)

165
---
up arrow

167
---
menu

169
---
down arrow (when in menu, discrete code for time category)

171
---
menu

173
---
ch +

174
---
discrete code for DVI

175
---
vol +

176
---
discrete code for power off

177
---
ch -

178
---
video source toggle

179
---
vol -

180
---
up arrow

181
---
ch +

182
---
right arrow

183
---
vol +

184
---
down arrow

185
---
ch -

186
---
left arrow

187
---
vol -

197
---
PIP mode toggle

200
---
freeze

201
---
PIP input toggle

203
---
PIP swap

210
---
???

231
---
discrete code for Video 1

232
---
component/DVI source toggle

235
---
exit

245
---
number 8 key

246
---
surf

247
---
flashback/recall

249
---
number 9 key

253
---
component/DVI source toggle


And here are my original service menu settings (well, after 015 :-):

1. Raster,Center,H/V_Size ->

Raster,Center,H/V_Size
1. V-Position 27
2. V-Size 29
3. H-Position 36
4. H-Size 52
5. UP-VLIN 0
6. LO-VLIN 0
7. Pin_Amp 39
8. Pin_Phase 29
9. Up_CPin 40
10. Lo-CPin 41
11. AFC-Bow 31
12. AFC-Angle 30

same menu for 2. Pin-Cushion

no choices under 3. Cut-off

4. White-Balance ->

White-Balance
1. R-DRIVE 38
2. G-DRIVE 31
3. B-DRIVE 36
4. R-CUT 37
5. G-CUT 31
6. B-CUT 40

5. Sub-Bright ->

Sub-Bright
1. SUB_Bright 21

6. Sub-Tint/Color -> (warning -- tint changed on entry!)

Sub-Tint/Color
1. SUB_TINT 12
2. SUB_COLOR 19

no choices under 7. White-Pattern

no choices under 8. DVCO_Set

9. AD9883A_Set ->

AD9883A: Failed! 'CHECK INPUT IMAGE'

10. VPX3226 ->

VPX3226
Contrast(m) 31
Contrast(s) 31



You've already seen my custom settings, but just for completeness:

Custom settings:

Raster,Center,H/V_Size
1. V-Position 27 -> 30 (note: big changes here tilt everything)
2. V-Size 29 -> 20 (eliminates nearly all overscan)
3. H-Position 36 -> 32
4. H-Size 52 -> 40 (eliminates nearly all overscan; note: values too small cause pincushion???)
5. UP-VLIN 0
6. LO-VLIN 0
7. Pin_Amp 39
8. Pin_Phase 29
9. Up_CPin 40
10. Lo-CPin 41
11. AFC-Bow 31
12. AFC-Angle 30

White-Balance
1. R-DRIVE 38 -> 31 (trying to reduce red push)
2. G-DRIVE 31
3. B-DRIVE 36
4. R-CUT 37 -> 31 (trying to reduce red push)
5. G-CUT 31
6. B-CUT 40

[Bremerton]

Finally got it working much thanks shroomus, One quick question -- So your saying that 015 does a reset to factory settings? so in case you mess up and didnt write your values down it reverts to the factory??????

Thanks man and please keep us informed on the "Must" change settings that will give us improvement!:p

Also and what has helped you the best!

[qqqqq]

Anybody got an explanation or a link that explains how QAM channel numbers are assigned?

I'm using the C32V37 tuned to CADTV. I get channels like 82-610 and 100-613. The 610 and 613 parts correspond to the numbers my cable co publishes, i.e. if I had their box that's what I'd punch in for that channel. I'm thinking the first part is where those channels fit in some other channel numbering scheme. I'm curious as to how.

This impacts things in a couple of ways. First I'll call these channels sub-channels since I don't know the correct term. The TV lets you add or delete channels from the list of those that the ch+/- buttons stop on. But if there are 3 sub-channels in one channel you're stuck adding all 3 or none. Similarly you can only associate one icon (e.g. the NBC peacock or CBS eye) with the channel not the sub-channel, so if those two stations are on one sub-channel you have to pick which icon to use for both. Finally the surf button only stops on the first sub-channel in a channel.

So far this isn't a big problem but as more channels get added I'll expect it to get bigger. My remote lets me program in a list of 10 channels, and I think I can us the full xx-yyy channel number so I can get around some of the issues that way, but I'd like to understand some of the background to what's going on and what these numbers correspond to. I can't figure out any straightforward pattern to them.

[TIC]

Howdy All,

Can any of you Zenith owners confirm operation of the QAM CATV built-in tuner using Time Warner Digital Cable?

I currently subscribe to TW Cable and would LOVE to stop paying them for the STB that they say is required for Digital Cable reception. Of course, if it also allowed me to receive additional channels that are not included in the base digital tier, well, that would be just fine!!!!

Enjoy,

TIC

[qqqqq]

TIC:

For me (not TWC) almost all of the channels in the digital tier are reported as scrambled by the C32V37. The HD channels are not (at least not yet!). I don't subscribe to the digital tier or the HD pak, just the expanded cable. I don't know if I'd be able to get any others w/o a STB even if I did subscribe. I think probably not - since the channels are showing up as scrambled some signal is getting through (o/w the TV would report no signal) and the STB is required to descramble it.

The few digital tier channels I get are: TV guide, the in-demand previews channel, and a couple of sports channels, nothing interesting.

[pcdvdguy]

Originally posted by Bremerton
[B]just want to say i have the Zenith C32V37 and this Television is amazing and by far the best of the bunch in the $1000 dollar Best Buy (899.99)
price range. The Tv is a 32 inch television equipped with a Faroudja Chip.

NO. The Zenith C32V36 (and C27V36) have the Faroudja DCDi, but no integrated (ATSC/QAM unscrambled) Digital tuner. The "V37" series (C32V37) has the integrated tuner, but no DCDi. This is clearly stated on Zenith's website (and the owner's manual.)

Having said that, the DCDi only affects 480i sources (composite, NTSC/RF tuner, S-Video, and 480i component input.) If you watch a lot of standard-def cable/satellite, or haven't upgraded to a progressive-scan DVD-player, the DCDi may offer a worthwhile improvement to picture-quality.

[Jet Champion]

How many direct-view TVs are there that can stretch a HD 16:9 picture to 4:3--I find this to be an amazing and worthwhile feature.

[Budget_HT]

I have 2 HD STBs that both stretch or zoom a 16x9 picture to fill a 4x3 screen on any TV, whether HD-ready or NTSC. This feature has been around for a long time in my RCA DTC-100 and more recently in my Hughes E-86.

That said, I owned a 4x3 HD-ready 36" TV and was sorry I bought it. I now own a 48" 16x9 HD-ready RPTV, which is the ideal size for my small room viewing. Highest resolution HD and DVD 16x9 programs fill the screen, while lowest resolution NTSC 480i 4x3 programs are viewed in a 4x3 window within the 16x9 screen. Viewing the lower resolution 4x3 programs at reduced size minimizes the effect of the poor resolution, while watching higher resolution 16x9 HD and DVD programs in full screen maximizes the benefits of the greater detail, especially on the HD programs. YMMV!

But, even with my bias, this new Zenith would be a great starter or second HDTV for a bargain price.

[edogg]

hey shroomus,

what ofa remote are u using??

[Dave W]

I have 2 HD STBs that both stretch or zoom a 16x9 picture to fill a 4x3 screen on any TV, whether HD-ready or NTSC. This feature has been around for a long time in my RCA DTC-100 and more recently in my Hughes E-86.

If a 4x3 TV forces 16x9 mode with any high-def signal, like many do (including the C32V36), there's nothing the STB can do to fill the 4x3 screen, other than downconvert the signal to 480i. The C32V37 has a zoom feature which zooms the center of the 16x9 image onto the full 4x3 screen, while staying in 1080i mode. The C32V36 does not offer this feature. It's useful when 4x3 programs are pillarboxed inside a 16x9 high-def carrier.

Dave

[shroomus]

The C32V37 (with the built-in terrestrial and QAM tuner) has the following scaling functions -- "Set by Program", "4:3", "16:9", and "Zoom". Please note that as someone has already pointed out, the C32V36 is different.

My DVD player actually has the Faroudja DCDi deinterlacer, and I don't see a lot of difference between progressive mode (480p from the DVD player) and non-progressive (480i) mode. If you're extremely picky, you can notice slight differences, but the 480i picture is more than acceptable. I think this is one reason why analog reception looks so good when compared to some other HDTVs -- and some HD cable boxes I won't mention.

The "Zoom" setting, in my opinion, is perfectly suited to a 720p signal within 1080i -- someone please correct me if I'm wrong, but the C32V37 seems to preserve pixel resolution by centering the 720p image in a black frame -- using zoom gets rid of the black frame, and still looks good.

The "4:3" setting is great for taking signals the broadcasters have squashed into widescreen or incorrectly tagged -- or from HD cable boxes that don't seem to tag the display aspect ratio? -- and putting them back into 4:3. This seems to happen often with ESPN HD for me. It's also great for the computer that's hooked up on the DVI port, now that the overscan is reduced to an acceptable amount.

I find I never have to use the "16:9" setting because "Set by Program" always seem to work for anything that would use it.

I have an old Cinema 7 remote which, sadly, has lost the use of its learning LED and thus lost its position as the single remote of choice. I replaced it with a Philips PMDVR8 remote -- good, but not quite as flexible. The wife has vetoed a Pronto, sob :-)

We sit about 15 feet away from our C32V37, and for 4:3 video it's a good size for me. For 16:9, the picture looks to be about the same size as a 30" widescreen -- which is the other option at the sub-$1000 price point -- and I think that's a good size. Not saying bigger wouldn't be better, but the C32V37 fits into our furniture, and nothing even a smidgen wider could.

Any HDTV that can't display 4:3 standard-definition analog without looking grainy is totally unacceptable IMHO regardless of size. Thus I am apparently an anachronistic elitist :-)

The channel numbers seem to represent the EIA channel number, followed by either the service number or the program number, not sure which. The C32V37 makes the terrestrial HD assumption that the different programs on the same channel are related, which is understandable. Annoying for us cable folks.

[MikeWhitis]

Originally posted by shroomus
The C32V37 (with the built-in terrestrial and QAM tuner) has the following scaling functions -- "Set by Program", "4:3", "16:9", and "Zoom". Please note that as someone has already pointed out, the C32V36 is different.

My DVD player actually has the Faroudja DCDi deinterlacer, and I don't see a lot of difference between progressive mode (480p from the DVD player) and non-progressive (480i) mode. If you're extremely picky, you can notice slight differences, but the 480i picture is more than acceptable. I think this is one reason why analog reception looks so good when compared to some other HDTVs -- and some HD cable boxes I won't mention.


Shroomus,

Help me out here, as I didn't quite get what you were saying in the highlighted sentences.

If I'm reading right, the 37 comes with the tuner, but without DCDi. But, you're saying it isn't really a big deal because 480i quality is good enough that the DCDi on your DVD player is only marginally better. Did I get that right?

Correct me if I'm wrong, though, as I'm another of those anachronistic elitists that's concerned about SD quality as well... ;)

Thanks,

Mike

[eric.krieg]

I just got my 32V37 last night. It set up beautifully. I scanned for channels... AND GOT 46, NOT INCLUDING SUBCHANNELS!!!

Okay, so one is polish, two are korean, 4 are spanish, one is PAX (with 5 subchannels!) and one is Christian.

Hey, I can't wait for Telemundo in HD! I love that show with the fat guy who gets in the hot tub with the gorgeous chicks in string bikinnis. Okay, I have no idea what they're talking about, but does it matter?

Even my wife thinks the picture on digital material is impressive. She knows nothing about anything electronic, and cares even less.

This is the perfect TV for the person who has been chased away from Cable by Comcast price increases. I get tons of channels with a rooftop antenna, the reception is perfect, and it is only incrementally more expensive than the flat screen 32" analog TVs from the top tier manufacturers (Sony and Toshiba, in my opinion).

[Bremerton]

Mikewhitis I think he meant that Alll the other HDTVS on regular TV the quality sucks but with the Zenith its amazing! I will also vouch for this as I have seen the Samsung TXN models and on regular television its like streaming Windows Media Player on Dialup!!! Not joking either!

I am happy with my C32V37 after returning 4 TVS I finally found the TV of my dreams! This TV has so many features its ridiculous all for less then a grand!!!

[timmy1376]

Anyone that have this TV also have Cox cable?? I want to see if it will pickup their HD channels. I think they are scrambeled though.

[Bremerton]

I know I have Comcast cable and the NBC, ABC and ESPN are all scrambled you dont get it with the tuner which sucks cause you need the cable box!

[edogg]

upon trying to get into the sevice menu on my 32v37..... i could get the ezset menu up(018) but it would switch to the analog tuner when i tried to enter any of the sub menus. any ideas as to how i'm goofing this up would be greatly appreciated.


btw i'm using the urc 8911

[shred5]

I have a question... Right now i have a 30" wide screen on order because It is the only siz that will fit in my entertainment center. if i go to this 4:3 tv I can save some money. I was a little leary about loosing 2 " off the top by going wide screen, but I really wanted to play my xbox games in wide screen. My current 4:3 tv will stretch the picture on wide screen to fill up the tv screen. I really hate this. Will this 4:3 put black bars on the top and the bottom if i set my xbox to wide screen hdtv or will it stretch it..If it puts bars on I might buy this instead of the wide screen I have on order for my xbox.
One more question does this tv handle 720 input? I know it dont display it , but if I set my xbox to 720 will it up or down conver it or show a blank screen like some hdtv's?

[Bremerton]

I can confirm that it goes in True Widescreen (Bars on top and bottom)
for all Xbox games Wideformat. Dont worry The C32V37 has an Awesome feature that does not lock you in 4:3 mode so you will never have a problem, For Instance there are 4 modes you can specify as follows "Set by Program" which is truly amazing inovation and handles itself perfectly (btw all the other models I have not seen this inovation in no wonder why you were leery) this is the kinda like set it and forget it mode it handles all content automatically when it recieves the signal 4:3 for 480i content and 16:9 (black bars on top and bottom) for hd content, You can also specify "4:3" mode no matter what the content is (Yes even HD signals), and " 16:9" mode which is a force 16:9 on any HD content (you would do this on the rare occasion that the xbox game or movie did not automatically switch to 16:9 mode or if you just want to force a 16:9), and last but not least "Zoom" modes oh and by the way the Zoom mode works Perfect if you want to watch with no black bars. You cant go wrong with this Televison and I have went through 4 models of HDTVS to see that ive found the TV of my Dreams and believe me man I dont wish going through that on anyone. I hope this helps you man, and if you do get this TV you will be making the best choice you have ever made as its the best on the Market for the money from my expirience and is packed with features! I have about 120 Xbox games and I truly enjoy every minute of em on this TV:)

[shred5]

Thanks alot that was what I was looking for.. How about 720? does it go to a blank screen .. I see the inputs on the back take 720 so I would imagine it up converts to 1080....

[Bremerton]

Yes 720 P Xbox games and HDTV look amazing and the set would upconvert it to 1080i, Looks good nonetheless! No lol you dont get a black screen like other TVs:D

[shred5]

Does anyone have this hooked up to a receiver. I was reading some of the reviews and someone had mentioned a delay tbetween the video and the reciever when hooked up to a dvd player...

Here is actually what he said quote:

Well, instead of plugging that DVD audio output into the TV, you can just run it to your receiver and cut out the middleman, right? Ahhh, that's right - there's a delay in the time it takes to display the video signal! All the audio coming in to your receiver comes out earlier than the video signal..


anyone experience this:

This was with the model C32V23 and not actually this model.

i have actually heard about this with other tvs too.....

[dayvo]

Shred5 -

I have a C27V22 with a Yamaha integrated receiver / progressive scan DVD player connected to it via the component inputs. The DVD audio is not routed through the TV in my set-up and there is no delay of the video compared to the audio.

[beethoven]

I recommended this TV to my parents and they picked it up last week. It's considerably better than my Samsung TXN. :(

Anyway, I have them setup with DTV on RF input 1 and digital cable on Video 1. I only have DTV channels programmed as they watch any analog content through their cable STB.

The odd thing I noticed is that when you hit TV/Video, it got from DTV to TV to Video 1. The problem is, I have no analog channels on the antennae so they instead get loud static on TV 2-0.

Is there anyway to remove this so the TV/Video button flips from DTV - Video 1 - Video 2, etc.?

[Bremerton]

Absoluteley, There are discreet codes which you can map and there are coded for each input, Component 1, Video 1 etc., Pick you up a One for all remote and you should be all set, they can be had at any radio shack!
what you do is simply type the 3 digit code in and map it to any button on the one for all!

here are a few as there are way too many to list:

126 DTV Signal Strength
133 PiP related
134 AR - 4:3
135 PiP related
137 PiP related
138 AR - 16:9
164 Digit ? Or Channel Diplay
167 Menu
171 Menu
173 Ch +
174 Input - DVI
175 Vol +
176 Off
177 Ch -
178 Input - TV, Video Cycle Button
179 Vol -
181 Ch +
183 Vol +
185 Ch -
187 Vol -
197 PiP related
200 Freeze frame
201 PiP related
203 PiP related
231 Input - Video 1
232 Input - Component 1,2, DVI toggle
245 Digit ? Or Channel Diplay
246 Surf
247 Last
253 Input - Component 1

[shred5]

Originally posted by dayvo
Shred5 -

I have a C27V22 with a Yamaha integrated receiver / progressive scan DVD player connected to it via the component inputs. The DVD audio is not routed through the TV in my set-up and there is no delay of the video compared to the audio.

Dayvo

the c27v22 does not have a built in tuner right? I think it takes longer for the video to be uncompressed by the built in tuner and that is why the is a gap between the sound and the video. I think there might be a way around this tho if there is a problem with this. I have not confirmed there is a problem yet tho... Can someone confirm yes or no that they have there DVD player hooked up directly to their receiver for sound and a seperate connection to the tv for video...

possible solution: There is a optical (toslink) output on this tv to go to a amp/receiver and a optical input for component 1. You put a switcher on the optical input for component 1 and hook everything up with optical to this switcher and everything to component 1 thru a switcher to. Then you can listen to everything on your receiver thru the tv's optical output to your receiver. i know this is not ideal but should work....

[shroomus]

I have a Yamaha DVX-S100 integrated receiver and DVD player, both composite and component video sent to the C32V37; audio stays in the Yamaha, and I do not perceive any noticeable A/V delay in this configuration. Same for HTPC via DVI, Gamecube via composite, etc.

Don't know if you can make the C32V37 skip the TV band when changing video sources (doubt it), but as others have pointed out, there are discrete remote control codes for all the video inputs, so if you have a smart enough remote you can direct dial the video sources.

[Bremerton]

Ya Dont get the newer C32v37 confused with the other Zeniths such as the
C32V22 and the C27V22. This TV has no Delay with the reciever whatsoever. Yes I have seen people complaining about the other lesser quality models. But not to worry the newer C32V37 doesnt have those issues!;)

And yes most set top boxes and even the Motorolla (Comcast Cables Boxes) have the option to compress the audio or not compress the audio
in LIGHT,MEDIUM or HEAVY intervals! Probably just a mere setting error on the people having those problems as i think it defaults to compressed hence the delay!!!!

[shred5]

THANKS or the replies. I have on order right now at best buy the toshiba 30HF83 . I might go cancel it and get this tv. I do wory about the Zenith brand but since lg bought them they seem to have got things in order.. I can save some money and dont compermise the size of a 4:3 picture and get close to the same size 15:9 and built in tuner. Sounds like a great deal. but now I will have to get rid of my entertainment center and get a tv stand and audio rack. The reason I orderd the toshiba was it fit in my entertainment center.

[jomedusa]

I have an LCD Phillips Pronto remote...does anyone know how to use the discretes posted in the above threads with this remote...how do you enter the 3 digit code...can you covert it hex?...

Joe

[eric.krieg]

What is the consensus on red push on the V37?

I have mine set on "cool", and I still notice it. Skin tones are RED.

I am NOT a videophile, and I have not tweaked any video settlings since I got the thing.

[Bremerton]

I suggest going into the Service mode and lowering the reds slightly that should eliminate your problem, I havent noticed that much of a red push only slightly when I first got it and they had the color way up I keep my color no higher then 39 ever!


And you are saying you havent tweaked any video settings? well thats your problem set brightness to 61 and Color to 39 and see what you get!
also might wanna put the contrast a little above 50!

[shred5]

By the way I bought this tv yesterday. I have to pick it up yet, but bestbuy had it in stock last one...

[eric.krieg]

Good you you. It is a nice set, I really enjoy it. I bet you will too.

I got Best Buy to throw in free shipping. It weighs 158 lbs! It took 3 guys to get it into my house.

[edogg]

i have figured out thaqt i cannot use my ez set menu. it seems like it has been rendered useless at the factory. when i try to make any adjustments it changes the input to the analog tuner channel 13. it also resets all of the settings to factory....really annoying. the only saving grace is that all of the adjustments in the ez set menu are in the exdtended menu. but they are a little hard to find. If i enter code 019 there are 6 submenu items...all of them obscure chip model#'s i believe. i am an electronics technician and had some tv theory in school but the mnemonics and abbreviations used for the different adjustments are not all very familiar to say the least. there are at least 200 adjustments. scary. any zenith or other tv techs or cryptologists out there that can help me decypher the essentials would be greatly appreciated.

so far i am just happy i can adjust the overscan and red gain. I havent been able to get used to the ofa 8910 remote for use other than settings ajustments though. i still like my sony vl900. i can always teach the settings menu code to my sony though.

[Physics700]

How exactly did you adjust the overscan??

[edogg]

when i use the ez set menu the tv seems to automaticly switchto analog tuner channel 13. i didnt even have any analog tuner channels enabled in the channel setup. but i hooked up my cable tv to the set and i could then make adjustments to: v position; v size; h position; h size; etc. when i played a 720 p video game on my xbox(freedom fighters) it had alot of overscan so much so i could not see important parts of the osd. i dont have any 720p games or other sources to test right now but i believe i'll be able to clean that up.

[STEELERSRULE]

Bump

[Ahn]

I need help!

I've totally satisfied with my C32V37....Thank you for all useful information here!!

So far, my story;

Actually, I'm returning my SA 3250HD box to TWC, today. I compared the PQ from both Cable HD feed and OTA HD feed. OTA HD wins( It's like VHS vs. DVD)!!!
Last Sunday, NBC Shrek was amazing!!!!Textures were almost touchable...!

About the integrated tuner, the tuner is really nice...better than my MyHD. I can get every local DTV channel with double bow-tie antenna.
CADTV scan shows.....most channels are scarmbled except...some in-demand movie channels....channels are drifting(?). No free HD feeds.
I decided just stick to the OTA HD only thou Discovery HD was really good.

I'm struggling to connect C32V37 by DVI....I tried SA 3250HD DVI output....no luck..It says not compatible. Connected with HTPC equipped with Radeon 9700 DVI....no luck(I'm getting sigal....but letters are shaking).....I'm in the middle of learning how to use Powerstrip....but DESPERATELY need you gurus' help!

Anybody succeeded with DVI with HTPC? I read a reply from who could successfully could get 720p with his LINUX based HTPC...but can't find it again.

[eric.krieg]

>>I'm struggling to connect C32V37 by DVI....I tried SA 3250HD DVI output....no luck..It says not compatible.

That would be something to contact Zenith about, don't you think? A cable box with DVI is exactly the sort of source that the DVI input should handle (not so with the Radeon, more than likely). There may be something wrong with the TV.

[kevlo9]

What is the consensus on red push on the V37?

I have mine set on "cool", and I still notice it. Skin tones are RED.

I am NOT a videophile, and I have not tweaked any video settlings since I got the thing.

I find that I get the best picture on the WARM setting. Also you really need to get a setup disc and use it to properly setup your colors.

I suggest going into the Service mode and lowering the reds slightly that should eliminate your problem, I havent noticed that much of a red push only slightly when I first got it and they had the color way up I keep my color no higher then 39 ever!


And you are saying you havent tweaked any video settings? well thats your problem set brightness to 61 and Color to 39 and see what you get!
also might wanna put the contrast a little above 50!

Did you use a setup disc to get those levels??? Your contrast is set WAY TOO HIGH! My settings using Sound & Vision's setup disc...

4:3 mode
contrast-15/100
brightness-68/100
color-75/100
tint-2(in the red)
sharpness-10/100
SVM-off
ACC-warm

16:9 mode
contrast-15/100
brightness-60/100
color-65/100
tint-2(in the red)
sharpness-15/100
SVM-off
ACC-warm

I find that with setting I get a GREAT picture, espically on dvds.

I do notice "red push"(sometimes), just can't get in the service menu.

[cdcooker]

The power cord is attaching on the front side edge of this TV, instead of on the back. Does any one think this is a very bad design too? It is an eyesore to have the cord hanging around if the TV is on a TV stand instead of entertainment center. It shortens the reach to a power outlet too. I don't see any benefit here.

[shred5]

I don't have a problem I just run it along the side of the TV so it is not seen. It is not like it is on the front now that would be bad. Yes it does seem like a poor place to put it tho. Might be the only spot to put the power supply so it don't interfere with anything else..

[cdcooker]

For a TV in this size, with a power cord hanging on the front side edge, this is absolutely a design fault. May be this is what I got for for I paid. I was kind of surprise to not see a single message mentioning this problem in this forum. However, for all future TVs from all manufacturers, please please keep the power cord on the back of the TV. It would be even better to use those detachable power cord found on computer monitor, so we can buy longer or shorter cord to fit our needs.

[eric.krieg]

The side cord works great with a corner stand.

It is a strange place to put it, though, and not one that you would be looking for

[STEELERSRULE]

Originally posted by kevlo9
I find that I get the best picture on the WARM setting. Also you really need to get a setup disc and use it to properly setup your colors.



Did you use a setup disc to get those levels??? Your contrast is set WAY TOO HIGH! My settings using Sound & Vision's setup disc...

4:3 mode
contrast-15/100
brightness-68/100
color-75/100
tint-2(in the red)
sharpness-10/100
SVM-off
ACC-warm

16:9 mode
contrast-15/100
brightness-60/100
color-65/100
tint-2(in the red)
sharpness-15/100
SVM-off
ACC-warm

I find that with setting I get a GREAT picture, espically on dvds.

I do notice "red push"(sometimes), just can't get in the service menu.

Kevlo9,

I used both the AVIA and DVE discs to do my calibrating and I came up with almost the same exact settings as you did. Your 4:3 settings are almost identical to mine. My brightness is about 5 to 6 settings higher than yours. My biggest difference though is in the contrast and sharpness. My sharpness is 15 higher, and my contrast is set at 40. I will use your settings and see if I like the pic better or not. Just seems that contrast is set way low.

Quick question about SVM. Does it really make any diff whatsoever? If I have it set to HIGH, LOW, or OFF I don't really notice anything different. Am I just going blind, or is there really something to this feature, that by all accounts on the forum, nobody seems to like and maufacturers would be better off just eliminating it all together and adding something else?

[Jim_West]

Turn off SVM it adds artificial edge enhancement, you can observe it on//off with the AVIA or VE needle-pulse test pattern.

[kevlo9]

STEELERSRULE,

I'll give your settings a run and see how I like it. One thing to note that when the set is in 16:9 mode it has a brighter picture.

I would recommend lowering your contrast, that is if you plan on watching ALOT of HDTV and dvds with the black bars. Don't want to get the dreaded 'BURN IN".

[Bremerton]

sounds like we are talking about 2 different models!

You do know this is a C32V37 thread right??

set mine to what you recomended and it was outright lousy!

[Q of BanditZ]

Ok,. I think I am confusing myself. I notice there's a V series of TV's and W's, right? WAs I looking at the C34V37 or was it C34W37? Same thing? Something different?

Ah, Zenith. I remember a day when their TVs would last an eternity. Then they dropped off the face of the planet. Suddenly, I see them coming out with nice products like the TV's we are talking about here, and I have a Zenith dealership show up out of nowhere five minutes from where I live.

I want to get their best 16:9 24 inch tube possibly. I'd like to compare it to the Sony XBR910, since the Zenith dealership here really seems to have some nice prices going.

So, I would appreciate whatever help you all can give me on this subject. I was under the impression these TVs didn't bother with 720p at all. That's the way literature on it reads. Do they, in fact, handle 720p?

[Bremerton]

Yes the Zeniths DO all HD Formats 480p, 720p and 1080i

[eric.krieg]

When you say "do 720p", what do you mean?

On one hand, the Zenith can handle a 720p HD signal like ABC broadcasts. It displays it no problem.

I think that it can also accept a 720p signal over the high bandwidth component and DVI inputs.

However, be advised that the actual display is 1080i (or, more precisely, that is what the internal circuitry can handle. The actual display is something less, being a 4:3 CRT and all).

So you aren't actually going to see 720p natively, not like you will on some of those high end plasmas or DLPs.

What is 720p that people want to display? XBox?

[Q of BanditZ]

Yes, Xbox in my case.

So, overall, how do you all feel about these Zeniths and is the c34v (or w?) 37 their best widescreen TV? And how do you think it matches up against the Sony XBR910 TV?

I have a Zenith dealer that'sa about five minutes away who's willing to whip me up a pretty nice deal, so this could get interesting...

I just want to hear more about this. Is Zenith back to being a good company with a good product now? I liked the picture I saw a lot int the store yesterday. I was tempted...

[Nashville Cat]

When you say Zenith store, what do you mean? Does it sell only Zenith?

[Q of BanditZ]

It's a dealership that handles exclusively Zenith. I was really surprised, but sure enough...

[eric.krieg]

The 34" widescreens from Zenith are no better than any of the other "mainstream" 34" widescreens (Toshiba, Phillips, and the Sony 510). They don't come anywhere near the resolution of the 910. That's why the 910 costs $2500 and the others are less than $2000.

The Zenith is a superior TV simply because of the integrated tuner.

Zeniths are actually made in Korea by LG these days. I couldn't tell you if that is a good thing or not. I had an old Zenith 25" TV, circa 1995, and I think my 32V37 is much higher quality. Of course, it cost a lot more!

If I were you and were concerned with 720p, I would take my Xbox down to the store, hook it up, and see how it works. I honestly couldn't tell you how 720p looks, because I don't have a 720p source (I don't do games, other than Atari 2600 on my Ipaq and Tetris on my circa 1990 Gameboy).

[Q of BanditZ]

Ok, then, so we're all set on the idea that XBR910 is the king of the mountain. Gotchya. The integrated tuner on the Zenith is nice, so you can't argue the prices in light of that. Since I already have digital cable, I am not sure how much of an imperitave that feature is for me.

This is interesting and I hope this thread continues for a while, as I'd like to learn more about this product line and peoples' experiences with it.

[eric.krieg]

Yeah, I have to agree that an integrated tuner is no big deal if you have digital cable and the cable company is going to give you a box for $5, or whatever.

Of course, the Zenith with the tuner is no more money that the mainstream 34'ers without the tuner. You get a tuner for free, essentially. That tuner IS compatible with digital cable, if the cable companies would unencrypt their signals. I have access to Comcast and WOW in my neighborhood, neither of which has unencrypted digital.

Keep in mind that the Zenith has 2 coax inputs. You CAN do cable AND an antenna, which would give you the most options.

[Q of BanditZ]

Intruiging... But still may not be compelling enough for me to take my eyes off the XBR 910... ;-p

[maifimd]

I've just purchased the C32V37 and have only Comcast extended basic service (Cary, IL 60013). Did you find that the built-in QAM tuner would not access your HD channels? Apparently they are as follows in the Chcago area:
173 - ESPN
174 - INHD
175 - INHD2
185 - Showtime
186 - HBO
187 - ABC (WLS)
188 - NBC (WMAQ)
189 - CBS (WBBM)
190 - Fox (WFLD)
191 - PBS (WTTW)
195 - Cinemax
196 - Starz!

As I recall, the EZ-scan didn't go beyond channel 133. Can I access the higher channels with the Zenith tuner? I guess I may need the HD cable box for the HD channels.

[eric.krieg]

Look in the local HD area. There is a thread about Comcast in Chicago.

[maifimd]

Thanks. That's the thread I got the local channel info from, but there wasn't much applicable to the QAM tuner. The local HD channels are apparently not scrambled, but may be outside the range of the Zenith tuner. Many apparently get basic local cable with HD and a cable box (Motorola 6200?) to access these unscrambled channels.

[pfphipps]

I have the Zenith 32V37 and it is great as far as I am concerned. I also have Comcast and here in Albuquerque, all HD signals must be encrypted or something because I can get none of them. However, I can get a bunch of digital stations direct with a very simple antenna. With rabbit ears, it was pretty good but I bought a little Zenith log periodic and they all come in great. On the other hand, the HD program content leaves a lot to be desired. Very few true HD programs on the networks although here, CBS seems to have the most.

Yes, Zenith is now owned by LG from Korea. However, my TV says "Made In Mexico". I would bet that a lot of parts are from Korea but it was shipped from south of the border.

[Q of BanditZ]

So, what's the deal with Zenith now? They disappeared off the face of the Earth for a while it seemed.

Now suddenly, they come back with an attractive lineup of good and reviews around are pretty positive.

[Jet Champion]

I wish Zenith made a 36-inch version of the C32V37--it would be quite a versatile set and I believe alot of people would buy it. Is Zenith out of the 36-inch 4:4 buisness forever?

[cdcooker]

Just got this TV today. I am very impressed with this TV so far. HDTV tuner receives all local channels except FOX, which is a well-documented station problem (learnt from another thread). The HDTV sigal is million times better than the analog signal. I am using the silver sensor. HDTV tuner was the top reason I purchased this TV. It sure didn't let me down.

Here are what I don't like so far:
1. The power cord is on the front side edge.
2. The S-Video 1 and 2 jacks are not align with AV 1 and 2. I didn't realize it until I read the manual. I thought the S-Video jacks were swapped. They are clearly labeled on the back, but the placement of the TV in my house just won't let me see it clearly. Anyway, they should align S-Video 1&2 with AV 1&2.
3. Red push. I think I may go get a OFA remote to correct it.
4. The speakers are not powerful enough. Well most of the TVs have the same problem.
5. There is no way to activate cc automatically when I press the mute button. This is a very useful feature that I found it on a lot of cheap models nowadays.
6. There is no way to assign a blue screen to replace the noisy screen on analog channel.
7. Only one antenna are DTV ready.
9. I wish this TV can output HDTV signal also.
10. I wish there is some quick access button for each input mode.

[palebluedot]

Presently you can get a free TV stand with the purchase of this or any 30-36" tv at Best Buy. Plus the TV is only $899.99 according to their web site ($100 off) and free shipping.

Stand (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?id=1051806244068&skuId=5319871&type=product&productCategoryId=cat03116)

TV (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?id=1056899389877&skuId=5747203&type=product&productCategoryId=cat03002)

[Q of BanditZ]

I don't see any real earth shattering complaints against this TV, although I'd still like to hear more about the widescreen v34v (w?) 37's as well...

[thess]

Originally posted by palebluedot
[B]Presently you can get a free TV stand with the purchase of this or any 30-36" tv at Best Buy. Plus the TV is only $899.99 according to their web site ($100 off) and free shipping.


Unfortunately, the $100-off ended at midnight Saturday, the television is back up to $999. You might have to reload the page.

[Q of BanditZ]

Still ain't a bad price for a pretty good HDTV.

[palebluedot]

Yeah I saw that, then I saw that Ultimate Electronics has it on ad for $100 off this week so :) Price matching time! Just ordered mine today, unfortunately I won't be able to take delivery until this coming Saturday :(. Maybe I'll call in sick to work.

[Q of BanditZ]

I look forward to hearing your impressions.

Anyone know where I can get (free) information as to how Zenith as a company is actually doing these days? Thanks!

[STEELERSRULE]

cdcooker,

On my C27V36, you can set the CC to come up automatically when mute is hit. Just hit the CC button(if your model has one) until you see "EZMUTE". This automatically activates the CC when the mute button is hit. Also, make sure you have your CC set to CC1. I believe this the most used by TV sources.

[Q of BanditZ]

I have to give Zenith props on something: They definitely seem to have a few more user friendly quirks/convenience going for their TV's.

Only thing missing is, according to their literature, they skip 720p outright on all the HD sets. Someone care to double check me on that?

[STEELERSRULE]

Originally posted by Q of BanditZ
I have to give Zenith props on something: They definitely seem to have a few more user friendly quirks/convenience going for their TV's.

Only thing missing is, according to their literature, they skip 720p outright on all the HD sets. Someone care to double check me on that?

Q,

If you mean that it does not display 720p natively, then you are correct. It does however convert it to 480p or 1080i. I've always said that it converts it to 1080i, but it might downconvert it to 480p. I'm not sure about this, and if someone knows for sure please fill us in.

My only quirks with this TV(I have a C27V36, not the V37) is that the remote needs more user friendly controls(direct input buttons, all buttons labled on their surface for illumination, V36 prob of auto squeeze with high def sources 16:9 only, and individual user setup for each input)

[Bremerton]

Yes the Zenith upconverts all 720p to 1080i, whoever said it skips 720p altogether is wrong it does indeed display all formats 480p, 720p and 1080i
with 720p upconverted to 1080i.

which by the way is something that the Samsung and most others DO NOT do they wont even display 720p upconverted at all!

[cdcooker]

I have an Apex DVD player. The model is AD-5131. The remote control of this model and the Zenith conflict with each other. Some of the buttons on my DVD's remote will control the TV instead, vice versa. Is there anyway to change either on of these remote to avoid this problem. Some of the menu setup buttons of the DVD's remote are not accessible now. The buttons are not found on the DVD player itself.

Please help.

Thanks

[cdcooker]

Originally posted by STEELERSRULE
cdcooker,

On my C27V36, you can set the CC to come up automatically when mute is hit. Just hit the CC button(if your model has one) until you see "EZMUTE". This automatically activates the CC when the mute button is hit. Also, make sure you have your CC set to CC1. I believe this the most used by TV sources.

There is no such feature on the setup menu.

[Q of BanditZ]

Thanks for the info about the 720p...

[hdphil]

i purchased a c32v37 few weeks ago,it also has "red" problem,and so did the
display model.i have to use the video preset "off" in order to watch it on all inputs,digital preset it got worse.(poor quality control in the Mexico plant i guess). so i went to radio shack picked up their 2116 remote to access the
service menu (018) , tweaked the values looks alot better now. as mentioned b4 ezmenu goes to ch 13 which is beyond me why they did that.
I really like the TV, it'll just take a few weeks to get it adjusted, ordered DVE DVD to help with the process.
hdtv looks stunning! the ota tuner is sensitive.

I understand you had to adjust the very first color sets when they came out
in the 1960's

[hardwired]

Interesting. Best Buy now has the 32V36 for $100 less. Has anyone done a good comparison between the V37 Integrated HDTV and the V36 Monitor for HD and SD? The V36 had the Faroudja DCDi chip which is known for excellent upconverts. But I think the V37 has better zoom options, features and maybe Invar masked tube to go along with the built in tuner.

I'm wondering how good the manufacturing recipe mix is between Korea and Mexico. I guess I thought they would be assembling in Korea. Where are the tubes made?

[hdphil]

i'll take the v37. 100 bucks for a HDTV tuner is a good deal if you live in a area
with ota HDTV. i get all the networks and PBS HDTV. it also received the digital radio services on my cable. PBS has some fine hd programs which really surprised me. can't wait till the pledge drive to support it
my v37 was assembled in Mexico Jan2004 so who knows where the tube was
made maybe china i hear they have cheap labor (all of my computer stuff is made their) no complaints their .

[Q of BanditZ]

I don't mean this as a smart aleck question. Straight up: How's come you all choose Zenith over, say, Sony, or anybody else? Just curious... :)

BTW, I think everything is either made in India, the Orient (esp. China) or Mexico now. Very sad.

[shred5]

Originally posted by Q of BanditZ
I don't mean this as a smart aleck question. Straight up: How's come you all choose Zenith over, say, Sony, or anybody else? Just curious... :)

BTW, I think everything is either made in India, the Orient (esp. China) or Mexico now. Very sad.

Well the tv looks as good as the Sony's, Has as good of a picture to me as the Sony's and cost allot less with a tuner. I was a little worried about the zenith name tho...But LG is a reputable company....

I will have more to report once I have more time to spend with the tv... I have had it for two weeks now But I have been real busy.. so far I am impressed.

[cdcooker]

Price/features ratio! The price of C32V37 is cheaper than the cheapest 32" HDTV from Sony. With the integrated ATSC tuner, this is a no brainer choice for me. The out of box PQ may not be as good as Sony. As long as the picture quality can be fined with an OFA remote, this is not a big deal. (I must emphasize that it is not bad at all even without messing the service menu.) Also, the design of this TV looks as good as any TV from Sony, and it is very easy to be mistaken as a Sony too:)

I think most of the Sony TV's are not made in Japan either.

[eric.krieg]

I got the 32V37 for price and features. I wanted a digital tv, and my wife wanted a 32" flatscreen. The fact that the Zenith has an integrated tuner helped sell her on it, because that's one less remote that we need.

In a perfect world, we would all own Sonys. But not all of us can afford the price premium to get one. I'd probably own a 910 if I could afford it.

[Bremerton]

Just thought I would throw this in:

Zenith invented the VSB digital transmission system adopted by the Federal
Communications Commission as part of the ATSC DTV standard!!!! as well as semiconductors for the digital high-definition television (HDTV) terrestrial broadcast transmission system!

Sony, Toshiba, Phillips as well as all the major HDTV manufacturers are using Zeniths own standard for HDTV and DTV!

Ask yourself this question What better HDTV to own then to have one straight from the people who has Invented the standard???? :p

Who would know their own system better and be able to optimize it better?

I will tell you: Z-E-N-I-T-H THATS WHO

Look for Zenith to start making some big pushes in the market after them laying low for awile so far the C32V37 is Jaw dropping and leads the way in its class, anyone looking for a 32 inch HDTV cant go wrong with this Awesome TV!

[eric.krieg]

I wouldn't go that far. How much of Zenith was transferred to LG? I know for a fact that most of the former Zenith engineers involved with HD have started their own company here in the Chicago suburbs and are coming out with their own STB soon.

From what I have seen, my Zenith is up to the standards of the top tier of CE manufacturers (Sony, Toshiba, etc.). This is no Akai, or Daewoo, or even worse, some no-name Chinese brand, or some rebranded thing sold under Gateway or Dell.

I predict that the V32V37 is going to outsell all the other HDTVs combined. The price point is just too attractive. There is no reason NOT to get one.

[Q of BanditZ]

Wow. How do you all feel about the c34v37, the latest widescreen tube from Zenith? Seem pretty good to you?

What's an OFA remote please?

[STEELERSRULE]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Q of BanditZ
[B]I don't mean this as a smart aleck question. Straight up: How's come you all choose Zenith over, say, Sony, or anybody else? Just curious... :)

I chose the 27 inch because of all the features you received for the price. Best bang for the buck. I know Sony, Panasonic, Toshiba, etc... will all be coming out with 27 inch sets soon, but I didn't want to wait. They will probably be way overpriced(especially Sony, as usual). But then again, if Sony came out with say a 27xbr910, good buy zenith, helloooooooooo SONY!

[STEELERSRULE]

Q,

OFA stands for One-For-All Remote. Most people who want to enter the zenith service menu use the Radio Shack 2116 Remote. Go to the RS website and type in the Product Number and you'll get info on the product

[Q of BanditZ]

c34W37. That looks like Zenith's newest CRT Widescreen, 34 inch. I have my eyes on it. Anyone have it or any experience with it?

Thanks for the info on the remote!

[hdphil]

ofa is a "one for all" remote ,i use the radio shack 150-2116 to access the service menu the TV code 0178 which doesn't operate the TV real well ,but it
works great as a service remote. just press "P" then the discrete code (mention earlier in the thread) write down the value before changing.

[cinemagotham]

You have thrown a serious monkey wrench in my plans! I was planning on getting the Samsung TXN3298HF this weekend until I read this thread. Now I'm wavering. I was planning on getting DTV with HDTV and using their HD receiver so a built in OTA receiver wasn't important, but it's not a bad thing to have. And some folks here who have seen both the Sammy and this model say the Zenith is far better. Oh, what to do??

[cdcooker]

Why you bother to buy an external settop box HDTV tuner + Samsung while Zenith C32V37 comes with an integrated one? It will cost at least $300 more. Judge the PQ on the display models at BestBuy, Zenith wins easily.

[cinemagotham]

Well, the idea was to just use the receiver that the cable company provides, not to buy a new one. But if this thing has an internal cable box and I can get regular HD channels from my standard cable (at least some of them, don't care about ESPN but would love ABC, CBS, etc...) then it might be worth it. Arg!

Also, it's about 3 inches wider than the Samsung which for my space is tricky. Oh lordy!

[eric.krieg]

I think that using the V32V37's internal tuner for HD cable is tricky. I mean, the potential is there, but I haven't read of anyone having real success with it. There are 2 issues:

1) are there any unscrambeled HD channels on your cable system?

2) can the 32V37 tune in the higher channels (higher than channel 120)?

God knows how you could answer these questions without buying the TV and hooking it up to the cable system. The monkeys that work at the cable companies and Best Buy certainly have no answers.

[Q of BanditZ]

Allow me to ask an appallingly ignorant question: ;)

If you have a TV with a built in HDTV tuner, like the Zeniths, do you have to hook to an antenna or anything, or do you literally just turn it on and you're off to the races?

[cdcooker]

Well, if your cable company will provide you with a CADTV box, then C32V36 may be more suitable for you. However, there is only $100 between 36 and 37, there no way not to consider 37. Actually, I think an HDTV recording device is more important. I used to record and watch TV on tape. With HDTV, I have to watch it at the showtime.

[Carl Sims]

Originally posted by Q of BanditZ
Allow me to ask an appallingly ignorant question: ;)

If you have a TV with a built in HDTV tuner, like the Zeniths, do you have to hook to an antenna or anything, or do you literally just turn it on and you're off to the races?

If you are talking about OTA signals, then yes, you will need at least an indoor antenna.

[Bremerton]

to answer your question Yes the built in HD tuner can access channels higher then 120! you get the whole package when they say built in HD Tuner they mean built in HD tuner which is the entire differnt spectrum with a possiblity of over 1,000 channels. I have mine hooked up with a splitter and a amp which comcast gave me because i have internet too. The C32v37 has 2 antenna inputs in the back for Picture in Picture and Picture out of picture.

Since it is illegal for a cable company to block locals, I recieve all the locals in HD without the cable box, and all the DMX channels as well as some channels you cannot get without the cable box!

i see numerous advantages of having a built in HD Tuner, the most important being able to record HD channels with a D-VHS while watching something on the cable box. And you can get all the locals in HD some people would just want that and say screw the box!

Oh by the way to anyone considering the Samsung CRTs id stay far away from them unless you want to watch analog and digital tv look worse then streaming over the net with Windows Media Player, Ive went through 4 of them save yourself the trouble:mad: all i been hearing is bad reports about em on every thread so im not alone!

[eric.krieg]

Sombody reported on this thread not being able to tune a HD local that was in the 190s.

But if you have Comcast and are getting HD channels from them without a box, I think that that answers both questions for me. I have Comcast in my area, but don't subscribe to cable.

[eric.krieg]

The only problem w/ the 32V37 is that it doesn't have firewire out for D-VHS.

Of course, I am considering the LG LST-3410A high def DVR. It has its own tuner, so that you can record while watching something else. And it has firewire, so you can use D-VHS to archive. The 32V37/ LST-3410A/ D-VHS is a pretty complete combination.

[cdcooker]

The price of LG + D-VHS recorder will be like another HDTV set. If people really want to record and archive the HD contents, I would suggest go for the HTPC route. I think it costs about the same as LG + D-VHS. Check the HTPC forum.

[eric.krieg]

Yeah, I have been wrestling with that myself. No doubt, the LST-3410A ain't cheap ($1000). D-VHS is around $600 on Amazon.

I don't think I am getting anything soon. The price has to drop a bit.

My concern with a HTPC is just the complexity of the thing. I would like my wife to be able to use it. A CE solution is going to be SLIGHTLY more user friendly than a PC one.

[maifimd]

I queried Comcast after not being able to tune the unscrambled HD channels with my new C32V37 and they tell me that HD is not yet available in my area (Cary, IL 60013 - Carpentersville local office?). They also said that the new Motorola 6208 PVR HD tuner is not yet available here.
So now I'm considering an antenna for OTA HD, but it'll be no picnic at ~40 miles from Chicago transmitters.

[Q of BanditZ]

Ok. Here's my setup. I have Time Warner Cable with an HD box that does both DVI and component.

If I get the Zenith c34w37, their best widescreen with the built in HD tuner, how would I go about taking maximum advantage of this situation? I'd like to be able to use PIP and everything else. Note: I do not have any antenna on the house whatsoever.

[eric.krieg]

Q, you are sitting pretty. Get the tv, hook up the cable to the back, turn it on, go to the menu and do the channel scan, and start watching HD!

Send the box back to TW, you don't need it. That should save you $5 a month on the rental.

[Q of BanditZ]

Wow! No kidding! Just the cable itself, and nothing else?! I currently have their best programming package. Will I get more channels or less doing it with channel scan and just the cable? Thanks!

[eric.krieg]

maifimd, an antenna is going to work great for you EXCEPT for CBS. More than likely you will have some trouble getting CBS (I am 21 miles out, and I get CBS, but not perfectly. And I have a BIG antenna sitting on my roof).

I am surprised that Comcast hasn't upgraded out in Cary. It was my impression that most of the homes out there are very new. Why didn't Comcast install the latest and greatest when the subdivisions were built?

[Q of BanditZ]

Eric, don't miss my last post on page 7! ;)

[eric.krieg]

Q, I don't think you will be getting MORE channels than now. You should get the same as now (you have the HD cable box, right?).

Oh, wait, it just occured to me. If you have the best package, that probably means that you have premium channels like HBO-HD and ESPN-HD. Those are usually scrambeled. The Zenith only tunes in unscrambeled HD channels. So you would be getting your local HD channels, more than likely.

You would need to use the box through the DVI or component to tune the scrambeled channels.

Sorry for the misinformation, I wasn't thinking. I'm not doing cable, so I just forgot about all the premium channels that you get.

[Q of BanditZ]

Ok. That's fine then. Is there a way I can do both at the same time? That would be sweet if I could use PIP for my cable and other inputs. I just don't want the integration to go to waste! ;)

[eric.krieg]

Yeah, no problem. PIP can use the internal digital tuner for one image and the DVI input for the other.

PIP is pretty sweet on this thing, too. Lots of different configurations.

[Bremerton]

If you have internet through cable I highly suggest that you get a AMP the cable company will give you one free that way you can run a splitter for PIP and POP, they gave me one free. that way you can run splitters one line going directly to cable box and the other going to one of the antenna inputs!

Your feed must go from the wall/splitter and go directly to one of the 2 antenna inputs that way you can get the PIP and QAM tuner to work its the only way because you cant feed off the cable box!

Best Buy also sells PIP kits! to get you up and running on PIP

[Q of BanditZ]

Ok. I already had to have an AMP installed for some other reasons. I have everything ready to go. All I need, it sounds like, is one of these PIP kits. Would you mind providing me a link, or a brand name, or a serial number, or anything like that? Sounds like I can do this! :)

[cinemagotham]

Sorry if this is a repeat but I've gotten confused: If you buy this TV and hook your cable directly to it you:

1) do not need a cable box
2) receive any unscrambled HD channels on your cable system, even if you have standard cable.

Is that correct?

[Q of BanditZ]

It sounds to me like you still need the cable box for any of the premium and extra stuff you signed up for with the company. As I understand it here, and please correct me if I am wrong somebody, you should be able to receive a lot of unscrambled HD channels on one of these TV's.

[shroomus]

FYI:

- when the cable box says something is on channel 190 that doesn't mean that it's really on channel 190 if you use the QAM tuner -- the cable channel are remapped, which is how for example HBOHD can be at both 300 and 179 while only being transmitted once.

[Q of BanditZ]

Understood.

I hope someone addresses my other questions from earlier:

Ok. I already had to have an AMP installed for some other reasons. I have everything ready to go. All I need, it sounds like, is one of these PIP kits. Would you mind providing me a link, or a brand name, or a serial number, or anything like that? Sounds like I can do this!

[Bremerton]

Here is one of the brands they sell at best buy regarding the PIP kits, there are also some cheaper ones but this is all i could find as far as online:

http://www.monstercable.com/productPage.asp?pin=269

http://www.monstercable.com/home_av/av-kits/pip.asp

http://www.monstercable.com/productPage.asp?pin=268

[Q of BanditZ]

Wow. NICE!!! Thanks! :) :) :)

[cinemagotham]

Question: How does this 4:3 set handle widescreen? Does it dot hat nifty thing where it squeezes to use the full resolution in the wide-screen image or does it waste resolution on the black bars?

[Q of BanditZ]

My sister is going to buy it today and I am going to get the c34v37 for myself. Both are awesome!

Right now the 32 is going for $1295!!! Get it!!!!

[eric.krieg]

There are 3 ways to handle widescreen.

1) Show it as 16:9 with black bars above and below.

2) Stretch the 16:9 vertically to fill the 4:3 space. The image is distorted.

3) Zoom the 16:9 image to 4:3. The left and right sides of the image are cut off.

I usually watch 16:9 programs zoomed.

[cinemagotham]

Originally posted by eric.krieg
There are 3 ways to handle widescreen.

I would never watch a widescreen program in any format other than widescreen. Zooming and cropping is insane. (No offense)

My question was more about whether in 16:9 mode if the TV draws the black bars or redirects the image entirely to within the 16:9 frame to take full advantage of the full resolution (rather than spending 1/3 of the resolution drawing black bars. Anyone know the answer? Sony and Samsung do this (I believe)

[eric.krieg]

Yeah, it draws the black bars.

There are Sony and Toshiba sets that don't draw the black bars. I think that Sony calls it "V compression" or something. I don't quite understand the advantage.

Well, that's not the first time I have been called insane. Just the first time for how I watch television!

I figure that in Zoom mode, you are getting closer to actual HD resolution.

[cinemagotham]

:D As a fan (and occasional creator) of film I can't imagine cropping off part of the image. That's what was so great about DVDs and laserdiscs in the first place! That they finally gave us the full image. Here's a good page about widescreen-versus -fullscreen: link (http://www.rexer.com/cine/oar.htm)

As for the advantage of the "squeeze" method, if you have X horizontal lines of resolution and you spend y of them drawing black bars your image is only x-y lines of resolution. If your TV is clever enough to not actively draw the black bars but just leave that part oft he screen blank and redirect the scan lines entirely to the image you are at full X lines of resolution for the image. The fact that Zenith doesn't do that is annoying. It's all give and take with these machines!

EDIT: Fixed the link

[eric.krieg]

My understanding is that the shadow mask (or appeture grille) set the resolution. V compression might increase the number of scan lines within the 16:9 window, but the number of openings in the shadow mask doesn't change, thus the resolution doesn't change.

[cinemagotham]

That's interesting. I don't know about that.

BTW, I fixed the widescreen link above. It was wrong.

[Q of BanditZ]

That link to the widscreen info is a gospel that I couldn't agree with more.

Widescreen > *

;)

[Bremerton]

No the sets not drawing the black bars!

[eric.krieg]

One day 42" 16:9 HDTV plasmas or LCDs will be $1000 and have black levels that rival CRTs. At that time I will get a widescreen. Until that time, I'm zooming to 4:3!

I worry too much about burn in.

I occasionally will do widescreen, mostly for PBS documentaries. There was some show on sperm whales (huh... huh... he said sperm) in the Azores last night, I watched that in widescreen. Totally awesome. The picture was just beautiful.

[cinemagotham]

Hey, to each his own. But I don't think burn-in is a problem on tube TVs.

Originally posted by Bremerton
No the sets not drawing the black bars!

How do you know that? Is there something in the specs? I can't find it...

[edogg]

In reply to the question about fixed resolution of aperture grills:I believe the horizontal resolution is fixed but the vertical is not neccesarily of a fixed resolution. if the tv is like a sony it would use a striped triad aperture, allowing for different resolutions. if however, if the tv uses a dot triad the resolution would be fixed. this is how i understand it, i could definetly be wrong here. help from the more knowledgable would be greatly appreciated!

[Q of BanditZ]

I just bought the c32v37 and feel really good about it. I don't mind letterbox bars and the price difference is monumental...especially now that I won't need a $300 stand! I can use some furniture I already have.

It gets installed Friday! :)

[Q of BanditZ]

I'll probably spring for DVE. Is that the best to buy?

I'll buy it for laughs, even though I thought the picture was already so good, even in the store, I don't see myself going through service menus and marathons to get this thing optimized.

Yes, that's how good it looked to me. ;)

[cinemagotham]

This is from Amazon, regarding the 16:9 "squeeze" feature:

Special 16:9/4:3 aspect-ratio correction lets you view feature-length movies in either their original widescreen format (16:9) or in regular TV format (4:3), with no loss of resolution--the set devotes all available lines to the letterboxed image, wasting none on the black bars above and below.

If that's correct that's great! I'm one step closer to going and getting this sucker.

[eric.krieg]

Interesting. Well, all I can say is that the picture LOOKS better in 16:9 letterbox. But I attributed this to the fact that smaller images on TVs usually look sharper.

You know, tonight when I watch TV, I'm going to put it in letterbox and stick my nose against the screen, and see if there is any glow to the letterbox area. Maybe it isn't being scanned.

[shred5]

Originally posted by cinemagotham
This is from Amazon, regarding the 16:9 "squeeze" feature:



If that's correct that's great! I'm one step closer to going and getting this sucker.

I just have to say the digital cable and hdtv on this tv are incredible... when I saw this set in the store I ended up canceling an order on a toshiba for this tv...

[cdcooker]

Can I use any OFA remote to access the service menu? Or i must use the RadioShack's remotes. Also, there are several OFA remotes under the RadioShack brand. They look similar, the difference is the number of devices that it can control, 4-in-1, 5-in-1, 8-in1, etc. Can I just buy the 4-in-1? I saw a brand called One-For-All at Walmart. It is pretty cheap. Can I use this?

Thanks

[cdcooker]

Originally posted by kevlo9
I find that I get the best picture on the WARM setting. Also you really need to get a setup disc and use it to properly setup your colors.



Did you use a setup disc to get those levels??? Your contrast is set WAY TOO HIGH! My settings using Sound & Vision's setup disc...

4:3 mode
contrast-15/100
brightness-68/100
color-75/100
tint-2(in the red)
sharpness-10/100
SVM-off
ACC-warm

16:9 mode
contrast-15/100
brightness-60/100
color-65/100
tint-2(in the red)
sharpness-15/100
SVM-off
ACC-warm

I find that with setting I get a GREAT picture, espically on dvds.

I do notice "red push"(sometimes), just can't get in the service menu.

I tried these settings and the PQ is terrible on my C32V37. Color is weird. I don't have any DVE disc to test. My settings are:
Contrast: 40
Brightness: 60
Color: 35
Tint: 0
Sharpness: 40
SVM: Low
ACC: Medium


Also, how to save video settings for 4:3 and 16:9 separately?

[Q of BanditZ]

The picture is drop dead gorgeous. Amazon is correct.


You know what you have to do... ;)

[Bremerton]

Yes cdcooker some people are posting about the other older model Zeniths, LMAO those settings are not for the C32V37! Dont know why they are posting settings for V22s when this is clearly a C32V37 topic!

Dude I dont even think you have a C32V37 you might be a little confused man i think you mean C32V36 or C32V22, some of those abbreviations you gave are not even in the C32V37 you better go and double check your TV:confused:

Dont use those settings if in fact you have a C32V37:

Use these:

Contrast: 51
Brightness:61
Color:40 (you can go as low as 38 still looks great)
Sharpness: 39
Tint: R1
Color Temperator: Cool
Z View: On

And yes Any OFA (One For All) Remote will work I bought mine at Rite Aid
they sell OFAs just about any drug store! As long as it says OFA then it will work!
Those are just the basic settings you also you might want to Use the Avia Test Disk or similar if you want your color and contrast, Saturation absoluteley perfect, And whats cool is you dont need a red, blue or green filter because in the service menu you can have red only, green only and blue only which is perfect to set Contrast,Tint, Saturation and Color levels. I didnt find the factory settings off that much at all (never more then 10) and indeed the factory settings are above average for any CRT so you dont even have to change any advanced settings and this Tv still looks outrageous!

[dman78]

Just bought my C32V37 from BB. I got the manager to match the price from the hdtvtime website, $821.29 + tax w/ free shipping, can't beat it. It gets delivered on Sunday and I can't wait to start tweaking it. Time to get my DVE setup disk and an OFA remote to get into the service menu. Thanks to everyone on here who helped guide me to the light on this TV. HD, here I come.

[cdcooker]

Originally posted by Bremerton
Yes cdcooker some people are posting about the other older model Zeniths, LMAO those settings are not for the C32V37! Dont know why they are posting settings for V22s when this is clearly a C32V37 topic!

Dude I dont even think you have a C32V37 you might be a little confused man i think you mean C32V36 or C32V22, some of those abbreviations you gave are not even in the C32V37 you better go and double check your TV:confused:

Dont use those settings if in fact you have a C32V37:

Use these:

Contrast: 51
Brightness:61
Color:40 (you can go as low as 38 still looks great)
Sharpness: 39
Tint: R1
Color Temperator: Cool
Z View: On

And yes Any OFA (One For All) Remote will work I bought mine at Rite Aid
they sell OFAs just about any drug store! As long as it says OFA then it will work!
Those are just the basic settings you also you might want to Use the Avia Test Disk or similar if you want your color and contrast, Saturation absoluteley perfect, And whats cool is you dont need a red, blue or green filter because in the service menu you can have red only, green only and blue only which is perfect to set Contrast,Tint, Saturation and Color levels. I didnt find the factory settings off that much at all (never more then 10) and indeed the factory settings are above average for any CRT so you dont even have to change any advanced settings and this Tv still looks outrageous!

I sure got C32V37:p

I used the abbrv from the original poster. What Z view is used for? No explanation on the manual at all.

I will try your settings tonight.

I think the red push is more noticeable when it display true HDTV broadcast. Last week, when I watched Cast Away, Tom Hanks face was really red.

BTW, I have a question regarding antenna hook up. I have a regular VCR. If I want to hook up the VCR to this TV, should I hook it to Ant1 with RF coaxial calbe and have another terrestrial antenna to Ant2 to receive DTV? Or hook up the antenna to VCR, and then use a RF coaxial cable to connect to the Ant1. That's what the manual suggests, but I haven't tried. Does it mean I still get DTV signal if the antenna is conneting to a regular VCR?

Thanks

[cdcooker]

Originally posted by dman78
Just bought my C32V37 from BB. I got the manager to match the price from the hdtvtime website, $821.29 + tax w/ free shipping, can't beat it. It gets delivered on Sunday and I can't wait to start tweaking it. Time to get my DVE setup disk and an OFA remote to get into the service menu. Thanks to everyone on here who helped guide me to the light on this TV. HD, here I come.

Did you get the free TV stand also?

[dman78]

No, I didn't get the free TV Stand. Honestly, I didn't notice that they were running that deal, and the sales guy didn't mention it. I just called them though, and they said that they would still give it to me if I brought my receipt back in today. I guess I might as well pick up a free TV stand.

[cdcooker]

If you get this free TV stand, you really get a hack of a deal. This TV stand is kind of cheap looking though. But it is free!

Best Buy usually won't price match online store. Your store manager probably need to meet some sales target by the end of this month.

[hdphil]

what ever you do don't go through dvdsseller at amazon.com for your dve
disk i'm still waiting 4 mine ,been bout 2 weeks since i ordered it!
FYI

[dman78]

Originally posted by hdphil
what ever you do don't go through dvdsseller at amazon.com for your dve
disk i'm still waiting 4 mine ,been bout 2 weeks since i ordered it!
FYI

Thanks for the advice. I'm thinking about just paying the retail $24.95 and picking it up at my local Barnes & Noble. They have it in stock and I hate waiting.

[Q of BanditZ]

http://store.yahoo.com/dvdinternational/dve.html How 'bout straight from the source?

Question: Do I have to have an OFE controller and worry about going into the setup menu with this TV, or will chances be that I'll be pretty happy with it up front.

[hdphil]

good question, a guess it seems most people are happy with their picture,
at least if you have to "tweak" your picture it is possible and that is
important to consider.
some of us are a little picky, and we have to adjust everything we buy. i have
noticed that some cable programs are better than others for color controls.
shopping channels seem to be a little crisper than others.
we need a another thread just devoted to the service menu setting and adjustment and interaction.

i wished i had knowed barnes had it

[dman78]

Originally posted by cdcooker
If you get this free TV stand, you really get a hack of a deal. This TV stand is kind of cheap looking though. But it is free!

Best Buy usually won't price match online store. Your store manager probably need to meet some sales target by the end of this month.

I picked up the free stand tonight without a problem. All in all, that worked out really well. The stand looks alright in the picture, but we'll see once it's put together. You may be right about the manager. I guess you just never know when you're going to run into a really cool one.

[Q of BanditZ]

That's the one advantage of buying from a huge, national chain like a Best Buy: They can mark down the prices down a lot. I would have loved to have gotten by at that price, but I guess in my case, I live in a smaller town where Best Buy is an hour away, so I am paying for the personal touch and basically lifetime coverage.

That is a STEAL at $999, especially with a stand! And the stand looks really good with the TV. It looks like one seamless unit. You won't be disappointed.

[cinemagotham]

Are people buying the in-home service plan? It's $250 from Best Buy. What's the deal with warranty?

[kevlo9]

Just picked up this set today at Best Buy.

Right out of the box the picture settings looked BAD. After a few minutes with S&V setup disc picture looks ALOT better.

Curious...

what are everyones picture settings. Just want to make sure mine aren't way off.

THANKS.

[Bremerton]

I posted mine and they are somewhere in this thread i think a page back;)

Contrast: 51 (high 40s is good)
Brightness:61 (60 is borderline)
Color:40 (you can go as low as 35 still looks great)
Sharpness: 39
Tint: R1
Color Temperator: Cool
Z View: On

And in Option I have tilt at +3

note: Color Saturation and Tint was a little itty bitty off in Service menus
You can set a Blue,Red or Green Filter in service menu 019 code, 018 code is for Over the air only!!!!

[dman78]

Originally posted by cinemagotham
Are people buying the in-home service plan? It's $250 from Best Buy. What's the deal with warranty?
I didn't buy the warranty. Since I only paid $820 for it, I couldn't justify 30% of the TV cost for 3 years of extra warranty. I have a feeling that if my TV goes out after more than a year, I'd rather just spend the $250 on upgrading to a new TV. I think it would be different too if we were talking Plasma, LCD, or DLP. Those TVs all have new technologies that I would think are more likely to go bad. Plus, if you're spending $3k on the TV, then the $250 is only 8% of the price. Even projections often need to have the bulbs replaced and might deserve a warranty. I've had several Tube TVs though, and none of them has ever gone bad. The basic technology is very solid. I guess if it dies in a year and one day from now, I might regret my decision, but I don't think that's likely.

[dman78]

Originally posted by kevlo9
what are everyones picture settings. Just want to make sure mine aren't way off.
I think we should start a Zenith C32V37 picture settings thread. Once my TV is delivered, I'm going to tweak it with an OFA remote and the DVE calibration disk. I'd be happy to post my results once I'm finished, and I'd love to see other peoples' to compare.

[Bremerton]

LMAO it would be cheaper then 250 bucks to get it repaired, Because the CRT Tube is Covered for 2 Years already.

Dont get that Warranty its a rip!

[Bremerton]

Alright ill post the major settings once the thres is started!

[dman78]

Originally posted by Bremerton
Alright ill post the major settings once the thread is started!
The new settings thread is started. It is called Zenith C32V37 Settings (Standard and Service Menu). I've posted copies of a couple of the posts from this thread to get it started.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=372604

[Q of BanditZ]

Bremerton, I used your settings as my base. Nice! I find that I like to have my sharpness in the mod 50's. Guess it's just personal tastes.

I have had the TV on for four hours straight so far, tweaking, adjusting, burning in...and I am simply in awe. Perfection! :) :)

[Bremerton]

Ya I found those settings after many hours of tweaking and adjusting, If you can find a better combination let me know, or post the exact settings your using ill try em out!

[Q of BanditZ]

Basically I did yours exactly except I put sharpness up to 55. Text is nice and clear, but it isn't overdone.

[hdphil]

i just picked up a zenith xbs344 home theater system, to go with the v32v37
sweeet!
the only thing that is lacking is setting the clock on the VCR

[Q of BanditZ]

How do you like that home theater system? I currently have the Sony HT5500D that came out before there was progressive scan. So, it's a good 600 watts. Interestingly enough, the DVD component output on it went haywire on me a while ago, so I knew I'd need a new DVD player.

Now that I have the Zenith c32v37 and found out about their forhcoming DVB318, I'll simply connect that to the HT5500D. It's a tad round about, but the sound system part is fine so I don't need to replace that.

Best home theater Zenith had was only 350 watts, which didn't blow me away vs. the 600 I have.

I am sure it's a quality product nonetheless...

[hdphil]

the xbs344 has only 225 watts which is fine 4 my small room,i could see if you had a living room setup you would need 300+ watts.

[Q of BanditZ]

Heh. I have 600 watts in a bedroom. Works for me! ;)

[thess]

Just put in my order for my C32V37 using Best Buy's current weekly special, which is a $100 Gift Card rebate. Have to wait a few weeks for that to arrive, but it's better than the TV stand, which we didn't need.

Delivery Friday. Can't wait!

[Q of BanditZ]

Excellent. You won't be disappointed! :) Enjoy!

[cinemagotham]

Just bought the TV at Best Buy + the stand (which I do need, even though I think it's ugly) and a JVC XV-N50BK. Everything is all set up and ready for the TV, which won't arrive until Saturday (so I can be here when they arrive) I'm pretty damn psyched. They wouldn't price match me for that HDTV website (oh well) and I wanted the free stand, so it wasn't the deal I wanted but it still worked out. Now I have to wait 6 days... Arrrghh!!!

[Jon7athan]

Cinemagotham,

You are in for a treat! I had no idea Sean Connery's teeth were so bad:) Oscar's in 720p is pretty spectacular. My local BB did price match the hdtvtime.com site. I took my Dodge Dakota with me and drove the set home. Zenith has an indoor Digital HDTV antenna they have at best buy and I got that as well. So, 5 minutes after unboxing, hooking up receiver and antenna, and letting the set EZ Scan I was watching over the air HDTV. This has got to be the best set in it's price range.


P.S. Q of Banditz, Your settings were perfect for my 5 disc DVD changer on progressive using Component 2.

[hdphil]

how were the settings, between "off"-your preference "normal" and "digital preset" just curious

[frakyle]

I know the zoom will bring the HD material to the 4x3 format, but does it zoom the non HD channels? I have a Dish 6000 receiver, if I turn on the HD mode on the receiver, I was wondering when I switch to the non HD channels will they fill up the whole screen too?Anyone care to comment? Thanks

[Jon7athan]

By default the SD channels fill the 4X3 screen. The thing is that a network will broadcast their 4X3 camera shots across the HD channels. Like all the morning news shows on CBS, NBC, & ABC this AM. So, you have this funky 4X3 box in a 16X9 feed. It looks really ridiculous. At this point, you have 3 settings. 4X3 which tries to squeeze the HDTV 16X9 signal into a 4X3 form while the 4x3 feed sits in the middle, really ridiculous looking. 16x9 or set by program, the default of the major networks is the 16x9 format but then you have black bars on the top, bottom, and sides. Or zoom which fills up the screen like it was a SD channel. I have a UHF/HDTV antenna hooked up to Antenna 2 input. And the cable signal split to Antenna 1 input. You can switch over to your non-scrambled cable channels at this point and watch an 'unaltered' 4X3 signal. Again, there's no zooming of Standard Digital cable channels. It displays the channels in there native 4X3 format. The set groups the channels and you can easily see which feed you're watching.

[cinemagotham]

Those of you plugging the cable directly into the TV and getting unscrambled HD channels, here's a question for you: What cable do you have? DTV or standard?

Also, if you're going straight to the TV with cable how to you have your VCR hooked up? Composite out from the TV? I'm thinking Composite out from the TV to the VCR and optical out to the stereo receiver with stereo A/V to the VCR.

[Q of BanditZ]

I haven't bothered with a VCR in years. I never recorded much to begin with, and I still don't.

My rule of thumb: Always optimize connections wherever possible. VCR? Go S-Video if you can. Sounds like your audio will be just fine, but go ahead and connec the analogs to the TV in addition to the optical to the stereo. Just so you can have it both ways for convenience. ;)


I have Time Warner Digital Cable. I have it hooked in with component video and I am cranked at 1080i and 720p. Everything looks great, including "normal", non HD material. Awesome!

For laughs, I have a PIP splitter so I can have the cable directly hooked into the TV as well and therefore can use my PIP. That's going to be a must when football season starts up again. Nice set at Radio Shack for a good price.

The Time Warner HD box I have does have a DVI output...but inexplicably no digital sound out, so I don't want to bother with it. Plus, I am saving the DVI for the new DVB318 Zenith DVD player I intend to buy soon. ;)

[hdphil]

i get my HDTV primary from DTV (all the networks thru a UHF ant) if i scan my
comcast cable (in CADTV mode) i get ESPNHD ,INHD and a bunch of digital
radio channels.
but the problem is i can't do a TV/CATV/CADTV/DTV mode on the setup screen.
and no i don't have any cable equipment!

[edogg]

i wish there was a way to get around that problem but something tells me we're screwed.

[cinemagotham]

I'm not sure I understand the problem you're talking about. What is it?

[newRTVuser]

In chronological order

Originally posted by hdphil
the problem is i can't do a TV/CATV/CADTV/DTV mode on the setup screen. and no i don't have any cable equipment!

Originally posted by edogg
i wish there was a way to get around that problem but something tells me we're screwed.

Originally posted by cinemagotham
I'm not sure I understand the problem you're talking about. What is it?

[dman78]

I was wondering about this when I tested my TV with an antenna last night. My normal mode is to get my HD channels from my cable feed, and I'm fortunate that ABC, CBS, NBC, and PBS all come through unscrambled. I wanted to try it with an antenna though, so I hooked it up to the other RF input and had to rerun EZ Scan. As soon as I saw the options, I knew I was going to lose my CADTV channels after I did a DTV scan. I don't really know, but I'm guessing it has to do with the fact that the one internal HD tuner can only be accessed by OTA or QAM, but not both without being reconfigured. Just a guess though.

[Jon7athan]

Which feed do you have going to which Antenna input?

[dman78]

I've had it hooked up both ways. Depending on which feed is on which antenna input, it determines where it will search for the HD channels. I believe it was basically TV/CATV + CADTV one way and TV/CATV + DTV the other way. The key though is that there is no way to do a scan that includes both DTV and CADTV.

... not that I'm complaining about my TV. I'm not even going to keep the antenna hooked up because I have no need. I can see it being a little frustrating though for someone who wants to get their network HD channels OTA and other HD channels through CADTV. Really, it's all a bonus since not many TVs have an HD tuner built in, let alone a QAM tuner.

[Jon7athan]

I'm not really sure where you are. But our Time Warner doesn't charge extra for the HDTV Box. Just pick up the box and feed it to the DVI input. And leave your virgin cable feed & OTA feed setup to Antenna 1&2. I know that we don't carry our local ABC & FOX feeds yet through the cable system. So, I'm kinda left to this combination until they get their act together.

[dman78]

Yeah, my problem is that you have to throw DVR into the mix. I can't live without my DVR box, and I don't want to have a separate DVR and HD cable box. I'm on TW too, and they're beta testing the combo DVR/HD box in some areas, but until it's available here, I'm happy getting my HD signal from my TV's HD and QAM tuner. To be honest with you, it feels really good to plug in my virgin cable feed and be watching HD... I love this TV.

[eric.krieg]

I fail to see why there would be 2 antenna inputs, labeled "antenna" and "cable", if the channel scan can't do OTA and QAM at the same time.

Could it be that some of the frequencies are overlapping between the antenna and cable?

I wonder how it would work if you had 2 antennas pointing in different directions hooked up. Then the frequencies wouldn't overlap. Or a UHF antenna on one and a VHF antenna on the other.

[Jon7athan]

Yeah, I know where you're coming from. I split the signal at the wall and feed a Panasonic E80H and output the DVR through component out to the component 1 of the 32V37. I haven't tried to record HiDef material, yet. But, I have a feeling I'll be wasting my time until the new models have DVI in and out. This fall if I remember correctly.

[dman78]

Originally posted by eric.krieg
I fail to see why there would be 2 antenna inputs, labeled "antenna" and "cable", if the channel scan can't do OTA and QAM at the same time.

Could it be that some of the frequencies are overlapping between the antenna and cable?

I wonder how it would work if you had 2 antennas pointing in different directions hooked up. Then the frequencies wouldn't overlap. Or a UHF antenna on one and a VHF antenna on the other.
They were probably figuring that a common configuration would be to get SD cable from one feed and the OTA HD from the other. I'm not sure technically why it won't work, but generally, they probably assumed that if you were going to get HD over cable, you'd be using an HD box from the cable company. That doesn't really explain their thought process on the QAM tuner, but I just look at it as a bonus because it will pick up any digital cable signal that happens to not be scrambled.

[Jon7athan]

I can vouch for that. I wasn't paying attention to the feeds the first time I hooked them up. And the channels it picked up were the pay per view channels the first time using EZScan.:) Unscrambled of course.

[dman78]

Originally posted by eric.krieg
I wonder how it would work if you had 2 antennas pointing in different directions hooked up. Then the frequencies wouldn't overlap. Or a UHF antenna on one and a VHF antenna on the other.
That's an interesting question. It would be hard to test though because typically all the TV towers are in one direction. If anyone has two antennas and can pick up HD from two different directions, I'd love to know what the results are. I think it would work though, because, as you said, it would all be coming from the same frequency range.

[eric.krieg]

>>They were probably figuring that a common configuration would be to get SD cable from one feed and the OTA HD from the other.

Duh! That's the answer. Why didn't I think of that.

Can we confirm it? Anybody out there got an antenna hooked up for HD, with analog cable? Does EZ-scan get all of the channels?

[dman78]

Originally posted by eric.krieg
Can we confirm it? Anybody out there got an antenna hooked up for HD, with analog cable? Does EZ-scan get all of the channels?
I can confirm that the configuration works. When I hooked up my cable to antenna1 and an antenna to antenna2 and did EZ-Scan, it found basic cable channels (TV), expanded cable channels (CATV), and OTA HD (DTV), just no digital cable channels (CADTV).

[Jon7athan]

That's my config as well. I put a DVI cable from my Pioneer cablebox to get the digital as well as cable HDTV channels to the 32V37.

[eric.krieg]

I guess that Zenith/ LG gambeled that the number of people with QAM and OTA-HD was negligible.

In the future, I suppose, QAM will be just like analog cable. No one has analog cable and an antenna for SD.

[edogg]

being that everything my cable co puts out digitally is scrambled except the music channels, its of little importance to me in my current residence.

[Q of BanditZ]

Interesting.

I plugged the cable straight from the wall to the c32v37 (I have Time Warner Digital Cable) did EZ scan and I pretty much have everything that you can get legally that isn't scrambled.

Once I did that, I bought the splitter and sent the other cable back to the box, so now I have both things going for me at the same time. PIP is critical for me when football arrives again and just for convenience! ;)

[hdphil]

here's how I deal with the CADTV DTV issue
sense my normal HDTV is OTA where I have the nifty icon's plugged in for channel description. and I want to change to CADTV I goto ez scan, press 2,then I press the "center" button, (stop scan) very fast 4 times, exit menu.
manually press in the channel numbers.
I repeat the process to go back to dtv,and all the icons are still their!!
kinda of a hassle but it works without doing a full scan.
note:i don't use the icon's in CADTV mode (I haven't try it yet)
maybe I could use these remote control macros to do it for me! now that would be a Joy to figure out.

[kevlo9]

Interesting.

I plugged the cable straight from the wall to the c32v37 (I have Time Warner Digital Cable) did EZ scan and I pretty much have everything that you can get legally that isn't scrambled.

Once I did that, I bought the splitter and sent the other cable back to the box, so now I have both things going for me at the same time. PIP is critical for me when football arrives again and just for convenience!

Where can you pick up a splitter? Is this the ONLY way to get PIP? THANKS.

[edogg]

itsthe only way to get pip on 2 cadtv or dtv channels. all other pip works without splitter.

[happy1127]

I picked up this TV last night. I'm really impressed with the picture with my OTA HDTV. It really compliments my X1 nicely for everyday viewing.

Can someone post the true native resolution for this set? I read this entire thread and some posts say 1080i and some say nay.

Thanks

[Q of BanditZ]

I went to Radio Shack, got a nice gold plated PIP splitter package, a cable included...for about $30 or so. High quality. Takes care of everything. Just walk in and ask them if they have any Picture in Picture splitter packages.

Basically, it works perfectly for me and I have the best of both worlds all the way around.

Far as I know, 1080i is the native resolution, but this TV will do all the others.

[cdcooker]

Originally posted by cdcooker
I have an Apex DVD player. The model is AD-5131. The remote control of this model and the Zenith conflict with each other. Some of the buttons on my DVD's remote will control the TV instead, vice versa. Is there anyway to change either on of these remote to avoid this problem. Some of the menu setup buttons of the DVD's remote are not accessible now. The buttons are not found on the DVD player itself.

Please help.

Thanks

I bought another DVD Player, Aspire Digital AD-1100 at buy.com. I have similar problem again. This time, whenever I press the Menu button on the TV, the movie will jump back to the beginning of the disc. This is a cheap brand of DVD player also, but I don't know why this TV has conflicts with so many cheap brand DVD players:confused: At least two in my case. I like this TV, but I will watch a lot of DVD/VCD and karaoke also, and only cheap brand can play all kinds of video format (VCD, SVCD, etc) and karaoke. I may exchange this TV for something else, as CRT RPTV is so cheap now. Yike!

[eric.krieg]

I have a Samsung branded DVD. No conflicts. With DVDs being so cheap these days, it would make more sense to dump the DVD player.

You might take the opportunity to pick up one with DVI.

I know CRT RPTVs are cheap, but with the digital reciever they are at least twice the price of the 32V37.

On the other hand, they're widescreen, and a lot bigger too.

On the other hand, they don't seem to last as long as tube based TVs.

Decisions, decisions.

[cinemagotham]

I just picked up the JVC XVN50BK for $89.99 at Best Buy. It seems like a very nice machine and has great reviews at epinions.

[cdcooker]

I need a DVD player that can play all kinds of formats + karaoke feature. Only a few of cheap brand DVD players offer these kind of all-in-one solution for my very specific needs, and none of the major brands offer karaoke feature.

Also, I don't know if my TV is defective. I will verify it one more time tonight. If you have time, please help me to verify yours also. If I change the device control mode to DVD, leave the DVD players off, and press the fast forward button on the TV's remote, it changes the channel of the TV to 4 for each press of the button. If it was my mistake, I will clarify it tonight.

A conflict with other remotes is the last thing I could think of for a new AV equipment.

Thanks

[Q of BanditZ]

I am going to take the high road on this. I am waiting for Zenith's own DVB318 DVD player with 1080i output and DVI output.

Go to www.zenithservice.com and you can download the manual to it and check it out!

At that rate, matching a Zenith DVD player with the Zenith c32v37 TV I already own sounds like an easy way to not have to worry about any conflicts... ;)

[cinemagotham]

IR conflicts are not a big problem as long as you stick with most major brands, as far as i can tell.

The nice thing about the JVC is it's cheap enough that upgrading to a DVI player in a year or so won't hurt so bad. I was originally going to get the Denon 910 but at triple the price and no DVI i figured this was the way to go. I haven't used the JVC much yet - waiting for the C32V37 to come in (did I mention it's coming Saturday? ;) ) - but a few cursory tests show it to be a solid performer (no karaoke, tho)

Saturday will be a big day: The TV is coming plus I'm going to go swap the old stndard cable boxes for DTV boxes. Can't wait.

[cdcooker]

Tonight I confirmed that my TV's remote has very strange performance. As I have mentioned in my previous messages, I have a lot of IR conflicts with my TV and DVD players. And I found out the TV remote has conflict within itself.

I turn off all my other components except my TV. I set my TV to antenna input. I switch the TV remote control control device to DVD mode, and mess around the buttons. Here is what I have found so far: the fastforward button acts like number 4 button; down button acts like number 8 button; surf button acts like video mode button, volume down button acts like power button; all the number buttons doesn't represent the correct number. This is not a complete list of wrong button assignments.

Can someone who own the C32V37 to test it out on your TV also. If you don't have any problem as I stated here, I am sure my TV's IR receiver has a problem.

Thank you very much.

[Bremerton]

dude you somehow got it to do discrete codes, you must have been pressing a bunch of buttons and somehow accidently programed the remote!

[eric.krieg]

ctrl-alt-delete

Seriously, take the batteries out for half an hour and see what happens.

[cinemagotham]

If you're interested, I've had a great experience so far with the Harmony SST-659 programmable remote. Provantage.com has the best price I can find on it.

[cdcooker]

I requested an exchange, hopefully this will solve all the problems.

[palebluedot]

My own little mini-review

I've had about 4 days now to play around with my new set and I love it! I believe Zenith has filled a desperate need for people who are looking for a transitional TV set. Many aren't ready to pay the high prices of RPTVs, don't have room for a 16:9 screen, and don't want to sacrifice quality on legacy content. Such buyers may be like me who are wanting to jump on the HDTV bandwagon yet may be waiting for the bigger screens to become cheaper, lighter and include DTV tuners.

First and foremost, unlike most projection screen TVs and many direct-view TVs, 480i content looks great. I compared analog cable signals on both my old Hitachi 27” 27GX01B set with my new Zenith C32V37. The quality was better on the Zenith. The Hitachi has a bit darker tube which helped with the blacks, but I have no complaints about the Zenith’s ability to show analog signals. While cable companies take their merry old time providing HD content, it is of great piece of mind to know my viewing experience won’t be hindered in the mean time.

In terms of inputs, the Zenith C32V37 has everything you could ask for. DVI, Component, S-Video and Compsite. I would love another Component connection or two on the back, but finding a set with more than two is a rarity on most TVs. With the built-in HDTV tuner, you are already saving yourself a set of inputs.

Color, as many noted, is pretty horrific out of the box, but tweaking settings with Avia or the C32V37 settings thread will cure that pretty easily. Red push, which most sets seem to suffer from, can be further reduced by those brave enough to play with the service menus.

DVDs through component inputs look spectacular. With the exception of the black bars, DVD viewing is everything you’d expect from a 480p monitor. The actual size of the widescreen letterbox is actually only about half an inch smaller compared to, say, a comparably priced 30” 16:9 set from Samsung. Of course the 4:3 format of the C32V37 will give you a 5” taller picture than a 16:9 set watching standard formatted material. Like I said, this is an excellent “transitional” TV.

Hooking my Zenith up to a Zenith Silver Sensor indoor antenna in the Twin Cities, MN metro area pulls in beautiful, stable HDTV signals even from my basement. I was so happy I didn’t have to start drilling holes to get an antenna mounted on the roof. This is in the same location I could only get a handful of analog broadcast channels on my old set.

My only complaint is the lack of direct input switching, the power cords position on the left side of the cabinet, and the fairly large remote. My set has a slight geometry problem with the VMoire settings, but hopefully I’ll be able to iron that out in the service menu.

Regardless, I am very pleased with this purchase and highly recommend this set to anyone in the market for a 4:3 TV, something for transition to a larger 16:9 TV, and certainly for anyone unwilling to sacrifice quality on legacy analog signals.

[edogg]

great review!

i agree wholeheartedly with your transitional television theory. I would really like to get a front projecton setup but the cost of lamps and the logistics of mounts and cables has me tentative. I wanted to have a good day-to-day display that I could live with until I finally breakdown and choose a projector. I see no reason to watch the six o'clock news on a projector when lamps cost what they do. The Zenith has exceeded my expectations. For the price it cannot be beat. While The sony has blacker blacks the zenith has a ota and qam tuner. If you get an OFA remote you can use it to discretely select inputs. I taught the commands to my sony vl 900 learning remote which i like better than the OFA I bought to get into the service menu. Even if you don't want to fool with the service menu a OFA or radioshack remote is worth the purchase for the discrete codes alone.

[Q of BanditZ]

Forget transition: I intend to keepo this Zenith for many years. What more do you really need; when you get down to it?

[hdphil]

same here, i hope to get 10 years out of mine. spent enough money on it