New "HS420" line from Sony... under the radar?

[1212patatepoil]

Hi,

With all the talk about the 34XBR960 (and also the 34XS955 to some lesser degree), it seems the cheaper Sony 2004 lineup -- the KV-**HS420 line -- went under everybody's radar...

From a twice.com article:

http://www.twice.com/article/CA402154.html?display=News

"New Hi-Scan series FD Trinitron WEGA HDTV monitors feature a solid silver tone with rounded corner cabinetry. This year's line is highlighted by the company's first 27-inch Hi-Scan model – the KV-27HS420 ($749). The HS series will also include the 30W-inch widescreen KV-30HS420 ($999), the 32-inch 4:3 KV-32HS420 ($999), 34W-inch 16:9 KV-34HS420 and the KV-36HS420. All Hi-Scan models include dual component video inputs and HDMI/HCDP interfaces."

The 420s appeared today on the website of Canadian retailer Dumoulin:

http://www.dumoulin.ca/sections/electrProd.asp?send=eng&codPrd=KV34HS420&codFab=SON
http://www.dumoulin.ca/sections/electrProd.asp?send=eng&codPrd=KV30HS420&codFab=SON

The 34HS420 is 500CAN$ cheaper than the canadian MSRP for the 34HS510.
The 30HS420 is 300CAN$ cheaper than the canadian MSRP for the 30HS510.

-- Patate

[Matt_Smi]

Thanks for posting the link, I am looking to buy a new 27” TV and was wondering/figuring that Sony should be coming out with a 27” HD WEGA soon. I am defiantly interested in the KV-27HS420, I wish it told when it was coming out. I hope over this summer. Does anyone know how long the current 27” WEGA’s have been out?

[1212patatepoil]

Most of the 2004 lineup is expected around August/September (except for the KV-34XBR960 which is expected in June).

-- Patate

[RandyWalters]

Patate - thanks for posting the link to that press release. This is more thorough than Sony's own press release as it has more info about their lineup of direct view tube TVs. It kinda jumps around a bit so i've broken them down by group, but from what i can gather there will only be one XBR now (the 34") and it's the only one to have their new "2nd generation Super Fine Pitch" picture tube where the SX series has the regular Super Fine Pitch picture tube. These are the four models that will have the integrated ATSC/NTSC/QAM tuners, cable card slot:

KD-34XBR960 ($2,200, June)

KD-34SX955 ($2,000, August)
KD-30SX955 ($1,400, August)
KD-36SX955 ($1,900, October)

Then it appears their new non-integrated HD-ready lineup will have a new rounded-corner cabinet design and are all solid silver in color (yuck). The good thing is their 27" has two component inputs unlike Panasonic's new 27" that has only one:

KV-27HS420 ($749)
KV-32HS420 ($999)
KV-36HS420 (no price)
KV-30HS420 ($999)
KV-34HS420 (no price)

Lastly the two new FS series models in 32" and 36" look like they might be analog sets since they appear after all their "Hi-Scan" models that are said to have dual component video inputs and HDMI/HCDP interfaces. I presume Sony will continue their line of smaller-than-27" analog TVs but i wonder if the TV manufacturers should continue to make analogs now that all broadcasts will be digital in a few years? I would think any new small TVs should need to be digital, or at least have the ability to recieve a digital broadcast.

[1212patatepoil]

FYI, as noted in another thread, some of the HS420 models are on Sony's website.

It appears the main difference between the HS510 and the HS420 line are:

HS420 is cheaper.
HS420 has a new cabinet.
HS420 lineup includes a 27" set.
HS420 lacks dual tuner/Picture-in-picture function.
HS420 lacks "subwoofer" (if you can call it that?)
HS420 has HDMI instead of DVI (HDMI is like DVI but with audio as well - very minor difference)

Not all models are online yet (the 27" and 34" are still missing) but check out the others here:

KV-30HS420 30" 16:9 -- 999$ (http://www.sonystyle.com/is-bin/INTERSHOP.enfinity/eCS/Store/en/-/USD/SY_DisplayProductInformation-Start;sid=5KXXFnfE14vXBDdqdmvdHTjKncZhox2AxeE=?CategoryName=tv_27%22to32%22TVs&ProductSKU=KV30HS420&Dept=tv)

KV-32HS420 32" 4:3 -- 999$ (http://www.sonystyle.com/is-bin/INTERSHOP.enfinity/eCS/Store/en/-/USD/SY_DisplayProductInformation-Start;sid=5KXXFnfE14vXBDdqdmvdHTjKncZhox2AxeE=?CategoryName=tv_27%22to32%22TVs&ProductSKU=KV32HS420&Dept=tv)


-- Patate

[Billy Biceps]

Is it known (or expected) that the picture quality of these 420 models will at least equal (if not surpass) that of the 510s? If the only thing missing is a sub and PIP, this sounds like the best deal out there right now...

[WOLVERNOLE]

Originally posted by Billy Biceps
Is it known (or expected) that the picture quality of these 420 models will at least equal (if not surpass) that of the 510s? If the only thing missing is a sub and PIP, this sounds like the best deal out there right now...

Yea, Billy, I agree. I wonder what level of technology/ quality the 420 series will bring. It would "make sense" that P.Q. would be "in there" with the 510 series (aside from the whistles and bells...I reiterate, the P.Q.) But again, we will just have to wait and see. Personally, I'd love to see a 27" (4:3) in the 910 series, w/ "Super Fine Pitch" (?), but am excited to find HD w/ Sony quality in a 27".:)

[1212patatepoil]

I'll bet you guys a nickel that the 420s are *exactly* the same as the 510s (except for the differences stated above). It would make no sense for Sony to develop yet another tube. The tube in the 420s is very very likely to be identical to the one in the 510 (which was identical to the one in the XBR800).

As for a Super-Fine-Pitch 27", unless watching from 1 foot away or less, you probably couldn't see the extra definition a Super-Fine-Pitch tube would give you...

--Patate

[WOLVERNOLE]

Originally posted by 1212patatepoil
As for a Super-Fine-Pitch 27", unless watching from 1 foot away or less, you probably couldn't see the extra definition a Super-Fine-Pitch tube would give you...
--Patate [/B]

You missed my point. I was saying that when you sit 4 1/2 feet from the 510, you WILL see scan lines...with the super-fine pitch, you will NOT. Nobody should sit close enough to see scan lines. The 510 and I'm sure the 420 (because they are HD) will have finer scan lines than analog (of course).

[Dougaha]

Thanks for all the info. This helps a lot.

Doug

[Sanborn]

is a 30" widescreen still too small if im viewing it from 8 feet away ?


i dont have money to go any larger

[Sanborn]

sorry dont know how this got posted twice

[WOLVERNOLE]

Originally posted by Sanborn
is a 30" widescreen still too small if im viewing it from 8 feet away ?


i dont have money to go any larger

It doesn't meet the "ideal" under the formula for the point that scan lines "disappear"...in other words, the scan lines disappear at what...around six or 6 1/2 ft for a 30"...which simply means that you could go bigger at that same distance, and cover a bit more of your periphial vision (more immersive viewing). ;)

[1212patatepoil]

Well, the lineup is now almost complete on sonystyle.com. However, we now have MSRPs for the entire HS420 lineup.

KV-27HS420 ($749) <-- still missing.
KV-32HS420 ($999)
KV-36HS420 (1499$)

KV-30HS420 ($999)
KV-34HS420 (1599$)


-- Patate

[SoundMeister]

This evening I went to my local Fry's Electronics to look arround/compare the new TV 's out there.
In the Direct View area they had a lot of HD Capable tube sets-4:3 as well as 16:9, all showing an HDNet signal.
While the picture on the 16:9's was great, on the 4:3 sets that were displaying in the "fill all screen mode" (no horizontal black bars) the image was rather terribly distorted-the heads of people on the screen were horrible, same for writing as well as all other things showing...none had their natural shapes.
Well, not until you looked at the new 32HS420...It just looked fantastic in the "fill" mode. All shapes and forms on it, looked just as good as on the 16:9 sets, only bigger.
Right next to the 32HS420 they had a KV-32FV310 displaying the same HDNet programme in the very same "fill" mode, and the difference was night and day. While the image on the 420 was very natural-just like the normal image a 4:3 set would display, the image on the FV310 was downright awful-very badly distorted. It's really worth it to try and have this comparison done before springing for a new tube set. Sony did a great job at improving the "fill" mode on this new set, and I assume on all other 4:3 sets in the 420 generation.
So, one can add this improved " fill" mode to the list of new features for the 420's.
Cheers, SM

[Mathesar]

Just an FYI,the KV32FV310 isnt even an HDTV model , It's Analog.

[WOLVERNOLE]

Originally posted by SoundMeister
This evening I went to my local Fry's Electronics to look arround/compare the new TV 's out there.
In the Direct View area they had a lot of HD Capable tube sets-4:3 as well
Well, not until you looked at the new 32HS420...It just looked fantastic in the "fill" mode. All shapes and forms on it, looked just as good as on the 16:9 sets, only bigger.
Right next to the 32HS420 they had a KV-32FV310 displaying the same HDNet programme in the very same "fill" mode, and the difference was night and day. While the image on the 420 was very natural-just like the normal image a 4:3 set would display, the image on the FV310 was downright awful-very badly distorted. It's really worth it to try and have this comparison done before springing for a new tube set. Sony did a great job at improving the "fill" mode on this new set, and I assume on all other 4:3 sets in the 420 generation.
So, one can add this improved " fill" mode to the list of new features for the 420's.
Cheers, SM

Thanks for the great update, SoundMeister. Very encouraging. This looks like thee bedroom TV for me! (27" version) Any other comments about this unit (e.g. geometry, color-red push?, etc.) Also, I have been wondering how it "handles" NTSC / 480i material?

[RLVTEC]

ill be getting my kv32hs420 this wednesday. hopefully it wont have the same problem as my kv32hs510, the scrolling white line

[WOLVERNOLE]

RLV-
Please give us a review of the 420 when you get it set up. I'd sure like to know how you like it, and any comparison with the 510 P.Q.;)

[RLVTEC]

Originally posted by WOLVERNOLE
RLV-
Please give us a review of the 420 when you get it set up. I'd sure like to know how you like it, and any comparison with the 510 P.Q.;)

i definitly will, im just praying that it doesnt suffer from the scrolling verticle line syndrome

[Timmy349]

http://www.goodguys.com/adtemplate.asp?invky=823766

In stock at the Good Guys

[WOLVERNOLE]

Well I spent a LOT of time in front of the KV-32HS420 today, over at BB. I was able to alternately view the 510, and the 32" Toshiba HD as well. First off, I did NOT see ANT verticle white line drifting "from right to left" whatsoever, on any Sony units. This is one smokin' direct-view unit. The stretch looked great (4:3) on wide material (to fill the screen). I could not get a true 480i / NTSC, or SD signal, but the BB ads looked real nice, indicating that this TV can do a fine job with that sort of material. I think Sony has a winner with the 2 components.;)

[Timmy349]

Has anyone seen the 30" (30hs420)? I can preorder it for ~$850, but today would be the last day of that deal. So far the 32" sounds good but I'd really like to know how the 30" scales SD signals. I'm so close to just ordering it but I'd like to see some kind of a review first

[Timmy349]

nt

[celtsfan44]

I tend to think the KV-32HS420 will be a big time winner as well. Sony has priced this set competitively with the forthcoming introductions from Toshiba and Panasonic. In person, the set looks pretty good as well and not like some of Sony's analog 32 inch set whose design has grown stale.

I just wish the upcoming KV-34HS420 was priced a little lower as well and had small dimensions. If I go with a 34 inch widescreen, I may end up going with Toshiba or Panasonic. I like the Toshiba's small dimensions and the Panasonic may end up being the best price/performance widescreen set.

[WOLVERNOLE]

Just wondering if anyone has heard when Sony intends to release the 27" version of the 420 series...the KV-27HS420 ?

[RLVTEC]

i just took delivery of a 32hs420. Not hooked up yet, but looks pretty good, not as appealing as my now returned kv32hs510. The New 420 does indeed have a HDMI input, and has all the same features as the HS510 models except Picture in picture. It has the Wideband video amplifier as well as the HD detailer. I hope the dreaded sweeping bar problem when receiving a 1080i source isnt the same with these new models

[XP-Elwood]

I plan on purchasing a 36HS420 when it becomes available. I talked to a rep at Sony and he indicated that it will be available "on or around" July 2, 2004.

Here's hoping ;)

XP-Elwood

[RLVTEC]

WEll here is a review of the set, its great, picture quality is as good as the 510 obviously. Here is the problem though, the vertical scrolling bar is back, but u cant even see it, u can barely make it out when I turn the cable box off and leave the tv on. On the 510 i could see it from far away on this set i have to get literally inches from the set to notice it. But sometimes its not even present. For those of you that know about this problem and were thinking about this set, dont fret, its not even an issue on the 420 like it was on the 510.

[KyPeN]

Question about these sets:

Can the service menu be found and do I have to be knowledgeable in converting binary to latin to english in order to understand it? I.e., could a semi-knowledgeable user be able to adjust, say, geometry?

[WOLVERNOLE]

Originally posted by RLVTEC
WEll here is a review of the set, its great, picture quality is as good as the 510 obviously. Here is the problem though, the vertical scrolling bar is back, but u cant even see it, u can barely make it out when I turn the cable box off and leave the tv on. On the 510 i could see it from far away on this set i have to get literally inches from the set to notice it. But sometimes its not even present. For those of you that know about this problem and were thinking about this set, dont fret, its not even an issue on the 420 like it was on the 510.

THANKS FOR THE UPDATE, AND THE REASSURANCE ON THIS, APPARENTLY GREAT SONY ADDITION !;)

[WOLVERNOLE]

Just wondering if anyone has seen the 27" version of the Sony 420 line yet, i.e. the KV-27HS420 ?

[Bionic_Tuna]

Does the 30HS420 accept 720p?

[RandyWalters]

Originally posted by Bionic_Tuna
Does the 30HS420 accept 720p?

All the HD Sonys accept 720p and upconvert it to 1080i.

[Bionic_Tuna]

Great, thanks. I'll be picking up this TV next week I hope.

[KyPeN]

FYI: The 30" Widescreen model is on sale at Circuit City for either $899.00 or no interest for 18 months. I'm considering doing it. Any reason not to (32" is just too massive)?

EDIT: Question: Does each input have its own brightness, color, etc. settings or is it one for all? Also, no one has answered my question about the service menu.

[UncD2000]

Originally posted by WOLVERNOLE
Just wondering if anyone has seen the 27" version of the Sony 420 line yet, i.e. the KV-27HS420 ? Nothing yet at sonystyle.com. I am very interested in this model as well. Anyone know the projected release date?

[UroMan]

I went into CC yesterday with full intention of buying the 30HS420 at 10% off list price plus free shipping, until the very nice salesman pointed me in another direction. Right around the corner from that set was the 30XBR910 on clearance with free stand for $200 more than the list price of the 30HS420. That effectively makes the base price of the TV the same price as the 30HS420. At first I thought that it was an open box buy, but the salesman said that he had 2 brand new units in stock at that price. There was no way I was going to pass that deal up, so I bought it. He then proceeded to offer me the $299 5 year CC extended warranty. I had a 10% off TVs coupon that I got when I moved to my new place and decided to see how much I could bargain if I got the extended warranty. Just for kicks I told him I would buy the warranty if he could take 10% off the TV, give me 18 months interest free financing, and free shipping. He said he'd talk to his manager to see what he could do. 5 minutes later he comes back and floored me when he said it was a deal. He said he was amazed that the manager approved it because the 10% off coupon and 18 mo no interest financing normally exclude the XBR series. Now I await with great anticipation for the delivery of my new XBR910 with free stand and extended 5 year warranty tomorrow. This great clearance price on the 30XBR910 can only mean the very near release of the 30XBR960. I love CC!

[Matt_Smi]

Wow Uroman, you got a very nice deal!

[RJB in Phila]

I just returned from my CC in suburban Phila and they still don't have the 34xbr960 in the computer and the 910 was only 10% of list price. I also noticed the 30HS420. Although I played with the menu for a while, I couldn't get the picture to look as good as I thought it should. Big difference between the PQ of the 420 and the 910. It didn't seem to be as good a picture as the 510.

Has anyone else thought the same thing about the 420? I expected it to look better.

Uro, where was this CC?

[raisin]

Originally posted by KyPeN

EDIT: Question: Does each input have its own brightness, color, etc. settings or is it one for all? Also, no one has answered my question about the service menu. [/B]

No, each input does not have it's own video setting. However, the remote has a picture button that allows you to cycle through four video options - vivid, standard, movie, and pro. You can fully customize the settings on each of those alternatives, and there is a reset button to return to the original factory modes.
There is no mention of the service menu in the factory manual.

[WOLVERNOLE]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by RJB in Phila
[B]I just returned from my CC in suburban Phila and they still don't have the 34xbr960 in the computer and the 910 was only 10% of list price. I also noticed the 30HS420. Although I played with the menu for a while, I couldn't get the picture to look as good as I thought it should. Big difference between the PQ of the 420 and the 910. It didn't seem to be as good a picture as the 510.

Has anyone else thought the same thing about the 420? I expected it to look better.

NO, I did not think the same thing. I could SEE nothing different in the picture quality between the 510 and the 420...and I doubt that you could either- if both had the same signal, had the same connections and were equally "tweaked."
I actually looked at a 510 and a 420 two sets apart, and aside from obviously being "set up" a bit differently, these sets were as close as could possibly be ( I don't think two 510's would even look exactly the same re. P.Q.-wise).

[RJB in Phila]

Thanks, Wolvernole. I thought I was allowed to have my own opinion. I guess not.:)

[KyPeN]

Well, went to Circuit City today. Bought 2 of the 30" Widescreens. One for me, one for my mom. Because we bought 2, the very nice and cooperative manager gave us 18 months no interest, 10% off, and free delivery on both sets. We also bought the extended warrenty on 1 set, because they don't need to know which set screws up (assuming it happens) do they?

[RandyWalters]

Originally posted by KyPeN
We also bought the extended warrenty on 1 set, because they don't need to know which set screws up (assuming it happens) do they?

The CC EW is tied to a specific serial number. You won't get away with pulling a switcheroo if you try to get the one that isn't covered repaired for free.

[WOLVERNOLE]

Originally posted by RJB in Phila
Thanks, Wolvernole. I thought I was allowed to have my own opinion. I guess not.:)

RJB-
Of course you have a right to your opinion and I spent a certain percentage of my life defending that right. If you meant a difference between the 910 and 420, I do not think you would see ANY disagreement. You previously asked for other's opinion, and I gave mine. But when you compare the 510 with the 420, I see NO real P.Q. difference and I gave explanation. This 420 is being offered at a relatively "bargain" price. I (we're back to I.M.H.O. ) think the 420 equals or exceeds my and others original expectations, at this price. If you look at the Panasonic of about $150. less, you will note that it's P.Q. is not quite as good and it only has ONE component.
Well, we might just have to agree to disagree. I noted that KyPeN must have thought pretty highly of the 420 ! ;)

[DDisney]

Originally posted by RJB in Phila
Thanks, Wolvernole. I thought I was allowed to have my own opinion. I guess not.:)

Sure you do. Fortunately, however, the quick comparison for me between the two side by side at my local CC today indicated that I couldn't really tell a difference between the two, meaning that I would likely be pretty happy with the HS420 at the lower price. However, I don't think I am pulling the trigger on anything in this size range yet. I would be looking at this size range for the bedroom but already have HD in the main room so I will wait for a while. But I did like what I saw today.

[jason978]

randywalters mentioned in the panasonic thread that the sony(30") had that screen door/ scanlines look even 8 ft away. Did anyone else see it that way too? 8ft away is too far to watch 30" TV(in my opinion). thanks,

jason

[DDisney]

Originally posted by jason978
randywalters mentioned in the panasonic thread that the sony(30") had that screen door/ scanlines look even 8 ft away. Did anyone else see it that way too? 8ft away is too far to watch 30" TV(in my opinion). thanks,

jason Nope. I was within 5 to 6 feet and saw no screendoor effect, just a great picture.

[kyleschaffer]

I'm in a very similar position.

I went in to my store yesterday fully expecting to purchase a 420 too. Got the same response as the poster above- an attractive offer for the 510; mine was the 510 for only $100 more (no stand, but don't need one). That threw me for a loop because I hadn't researched the 510 as much- so I walked out empty handed to regroup and do more research. Note I was looking at the 32"s mostly, so that makes a difference. Not sure how much I'm allowed to say about prices. The 420 was at list minus the 10% off TVs sale. The 510 I could get for the list of the 420.

As near as I can tell, going with the 510 gives me: PIP (don't care), better sound (don't care).... 420 gives me (HDMI - don't care, yet), $100 cheaper, sense I got the "newer" model for whatever that's worth.

I didn't have the ability to view side by side in the store. If picture quality is truly equal, I still think I'm leaning to the 420, just wasn't ready to pull the trigger after that last minute surprise. I guess my conclusion is that even if they were the same price, I'd get the 420. Is that crazy?

Any more opinions on the differences would be welcome!

[KyPeN]

Initial Impressions - 4 hours after delivery

The first thing I did after connecting everything is pop in Ninja Gaiden on the X-Box. WOW did it look crappy! Colors, contrast, the works were AWFUL.

So I calibrated it. MY GOD did it need it. I have NEVER seen a TV with the factory settings THIS far off.

I'm now watching Terminator 2: EE through the X-Box (don't have another Progressive Scan DVD player as of yet, my first HDTV). Its beautiful. The details are staggering.

Regular TV looks no better than can be expected. The line doubler does its job quite effectively.

The overscan is quite good. All edges were at ~5%, except the top, which was considerably worse. However, in the menu, there is a setting for vertical alignment, and since my overscan at the bottom was considerably better than all edges (~2%), I simply compensated, and they are all at about 5%.

Overall, as of now, I'm very happy. More to come.

[WOLVERNOLE]

Originally posted by KyPeN
Initial Impressions - 4 hours after delivery

The first thing I did after connecting everything is pop in Ninja Gaiden on the X-Box. WOW did it look crappy! Colors, contrast, the works were AWFUL.

So I calibrated it. MY GOD did it need it. I have NEVER seen a TV with the factory settings THIS far off.

I'm now watching Terminator 2: EE through the X-Box (don't have another Progressive Scan DVD player as of yet, my first HDTV). Its beautiful. The details are staggering.

Regular TV looks no better than can be expected. The line doubler does its job quite effectively.

Overall, as of now, I'm very happy. More to come.

KyPeN :

Could you be more specific about the NTSC being "no better than can be expected." ?? Does it make analog or SD material look as good or better than a good analog set ? That's my concern. I'm sure 480p and 1080i looks great.

BTW, don't be too surprised that your set looked like dog meat out of the box. It was probably set on "torch mode" to scald the eyes out of customers in the store. Isn't brighter ALWAYS BETTER ?? (tongue in cheek).
The great thing is that it sounds like you tweaked that baby into hi-def nirvana and you're enjoying it. Thanks for the review...and give us more updates! Enjoy! :cool:

[Dunbar]

Originally posted by kyleschaffer
Any more opinions on the differences would be welcome!

I've actually seen the 420 on top of the 510 (32" over 36") and couldn't see a picture difference playing HD. But honestly for $100 more I'd probably get the 510, as long as it wasn't a demo. Why? Because the 510 looks more attractive. Sony defininitely saved some money on the case of the new 420 line.

Heck, if you bargain hard you can probably get the 510 for the same price.

[KyPeN]

Honestly, NTSC does look noticably WORSE than an analog television. Oddly enough, cartoons look quite good. The lack of detail can PARTIALLY be attributed to the zoom/stretch in order to make 4:3 fit the 16:9 screen. It does look comparable to analog w/out the strech mode turned on, so I wouldn't worry about that if you are looking at the 32" 4:3 model.

I got some Soul Calibur 2 working on 720p today. I thinked I pee'd my pants 3 times each match. OMFG IT Ro><OrZ (@#%^(@!!!!

[WOLVERNOLE]

Originally posted by KyPeN
Honestly, NTSC does look noticably WORSE than an analog television. Oddly enough, cartoons look quite good. The lack of detail can PARTIALLY be attributed to the zoom/stretch in order to make 4:3 fit the 16:9 screen. It does look comparable to analog w/out the strech mode turned on, so I wouldn't worry about that if you are looking at the 32" 4:3 model.

I got some Soul Calibur 2 working on 720p today. I thinked I pee'd my pants 3 times each match. OMFG IT Ro><OrZ (@#%^(@!!!!

KyPeN :

Yea, I thought so. You are one of the few truly honest people about these direct-view units STILL not doing NTSC as well as analog. I plan on getting the 27" 4:3 KV-27HS420...and maybe w/ the 4:3 and smaller screen, it will handle 480i a little cleaner looking.
OK, I was wondering how some of the X-Box 720p games out would do with this unit. I thiiiiink you answered THAT one pretty succinctly !:D
Hey, I heard that "True Crime," and "Freedom Fighters" were also 720p. Have you had any experience w/ these? I bet your new units really screams with those as well !

[KyPeN]

I knew about Freedon Fighters (wasn't a huge fan of the game on the PC) but not True Crime in 720p. Blockbuster may be getting a visit! Thanks buddy!

About the 27" 4:3 screen, I agree. I think 480i will look cleaner.

I would also like to comment on 480i as a whole, not necessarily just cable. Hooking up my Gamecube through S-Video was very impressive. Jaggies were noticably reduced over an analog TV, which is impressive being I'm comparing to a 20" analog TV (smaller TV, smaller jaggies). I would comment on PS2 games in 480p, but my Monster Cable is falling appart (how typical). I will do a replacement through the company, which will probably take weeks, and then comment on this system as well.

BTW: My reference game for Gamecube was Mario Cart: Double Dash

I also have a question. My computer, which is no more than 5 feet away from my TV, has a DVI-out jack. This TV has HDMI-in. If I get a DVI-to-HDMI cable (can be had online for ~$50 from what I can tell), and set the resolution to 1280x720 @ 60hz (I can get powerstrip up-and-going if need be), will I be able to have 720p from my computer on my TV? And yes, I know the TV will convert it to 1080i.

[Venkman]

I've been watching this thread with interest. I took back my Zenith C27v36 (buzzing, blown out whies) and wouldn't mind plunking down for a Sony if they are that much better.

If you want HD Xbox games, try the latest Tony Hawk (either 720p or 1080i), Dragon's Lair (1080i and 720p), Freedom Fighters, and any of the sega sports titles (all 720p on Xbox).

Wait till Sega's next generation of Sport's titles on Xbox to be blown away. Normal mapping, like the Chronicles of Riddick game. Suh-weet.

[Sanborn]

^^ Segas new NFL Football 2k5 game is rumored to be released at only $20 new. And the game looks amazing.

2 best looking xbox games comming out soon:

NFL 2k5 (sega)
Burnout 3

[Bionic_Tuna]

I just picked up the 30HS420 today, it looks fantastic. Mine didn't need any tweaking at all, picture looks great right out of the box.

[Venkman]

I always thought the TV's look great out of the box too, but so many people here extoll the virtues of calibration. It ends up looking better!

[KyPeN]

Bionic_Tuna & Venkman:

You may think it looks fine out of the box. Thats your perogative. But, for the sake of your new HDTV, buy a $20 calibration disk, and FIX THAT CONTRAST.

[WOLVERNOLE]

Originally posted by KyPeN
Bionic_Tuna & Venkman:

You may think it looks fine out of the box. Thats your perogative. But, for the sake of your new HDTV, buy a $20 calibration disk, and FIX THAT CONTRAST.

Yea, AMEN ! ;)

[Draccius]

Has anyone seen the KV-32HS420 in-store at Circuit City or Best Buy? Neither have been posted to their websites, yet... I would really like to buy this set before I move in to my new place. Otherwise, I am going to have to order through an online site like Goodguys.

[Sanborn]

its on both of their websites, U cant type in 30HS420 to find it tho, i have to look in the 30"+ TV sections

[Draccius]

Oh, well, sorry for the ignorance then. ;)

Thank you!

[Draccius]

Hmm... I found the 30HS420 on Circuit City's website through your method, but not the KV-32HS420, which is what I am looking for. I couldn't find either of them through BestBuy's website. I'll have to look in-store Saturday when I go down to sign my lease on my townhouse.

[Tigerriot]

I saw the new Sony 30" tube HDTVs at my local Best Buy and Circuit City stores just the other day. It was a nice looking set and it was retail priced at $999.99. The picture was quite impressive as expected from a Sony tube tv. :)

[wantmorepower]

30hs420 at CC is the best deal out there! I will be going to the store soon and if I don’t see the scrolling bar and the HDPT is set to 1 from the factory then, I am most likely buying this TV. I know that 34xbr960 or the 30 955 are better but at a cost of 50 to 100 % more than what I will be paying for the 30hs420. What do you guys think?

[UncD2000]

I was favorably impressed with the KV-30HS420 on display at CC. I see they are already backordered at Abt. I'm waiting to see the 32" model (for a bedroom), but they only seem to be available in the eastern U.S. so far.

[RLVTEC]

Originally posted by wantmorepower
30hs420 at CC is the best deal out there! I will be going to the store soon and if I don’t see the scrolling bar and the HDPT is set to 1 from the factory then, I am most likely buying this TV. I know that 34xbr960 or the 30 955 are better but at a cost of 50 to 100 % more than what I will be paying for the 30hs420. What do you guys think?

The bar is there however its not as pronounced as the previous model. Youll only be able to see it, if your nose is touching the screen and even then its hard to see, but its there. Also HDPT is 1

[Dunbar]

Ya I saw the 30HS420 at BB yesterday playing HD and it was very impressive. Definitely has that wow factor, makes you question the premium for the XBR.

[Gobber]

Sears has the new KV-32HS420. Its been in stock for about a week now. NO MORE BLACK BARS if you chose. In its menu settings it will zoom in on the picture to get the bars away but it works really poorly. You will loose a lot of the picture and I mean a lot.

[Draccius]

Gobber, thanks for the heads up! You may have very well made my weekend that much better! :D

[wantmorepower]

I don't know why Sony did not completely eliminate this stupid bar issue with the new 30hs420:mad:

Does anyone know if there are HD component connections in the back of this tv?
Thanks

[RandyWalters]

Originally posted by wantmorepower
Does anyone know if there are HD component connections in the back of this tv?

If you mean component inputs, i'm fairly sure it has two in the rear like most other widescreen HD-ready TVs :D

http://www.sonystyle.com/is-bin/INTERSHOP.enfinity/eCS/Store/en/-/USD/SY_DisplayProductInformation-Start;sid=Vrij91xYPUCjxRyKrW6p_BNUwWdSukUQU1k=?CategoryName=tv_27%22to32%22TVs&Dept=tv&TemplateName=item%2fsy_item_b&ProductSKU=KV30HS420

[XP-Elwood]

FYI - SonyStyle now has the KV-36HS420 for sale, no longer on pre-order. Looks like they may be in the stores soon.

I'm stoked.

[RJB in Phila]

Goodguys has the KV-34HS420 widescreen available for shipping within 24-48 hours per their website, but Sonystyle still lists it as coming July 2.

[WOLVERNOLE]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by RandyWalters
[B]If you mean component inputs, i'm fairly sure it has two in the rear like most other widescreen HD-ready TVs :D

IT HAS TWO.;)

[TS45]

Can the "Fill" mode work with 480P?

Or just 720P and 1080i?

[jeffwdc]

I've been holding off purchasing an HDTV to wait for the new models. I wonder if the HS420 model really is as good as the HS510 Model. On the Sony site it list the following in the HS510 specs:
HD Detailer™ Wideband Video Amplifier

That is not listed for the HS420. But does a Wideband Video Amplifier make much difference anyway?

Also I agree with others that the HS510 case looks better. I don't expect I would use PIP or care much about the better Bass on the HS510, but I think I like the HS510 better overall than the HS420. I'm beginning to wonder if Sony will continue to sell the HS510 models for another year. It seems that the HS420 isn't really a true replacement but another price point in the model line-up.

Thanks, jeff

[KyPeN]

Originally posted by TS45
Can the "Fill" mode work with 480P?

Or just 720P and 1080i?

If you are talking about the widescreen models of the TV (30" for example) then the "fill" works with 480i/p only, 720p and 1080i are both widescreen formats.

[Sodbuster]

Just today I purchased this set from GG for 9 bills, thanks to competition from their neighbor CC. Naturally, I was strongly urged to buy the extended warranty at a cost of $50/yr for either three or five years. I was regaled with stories of the fragility of the CRTs of this size and shape, and the salesman checked his computer to see how many failures of Sony CRTs had passed through the company's hands, etc. When I asked if the Sony product was any more likely to fail than any other manufacturer, they said no.

Considering that color CRT sets of yore would routinely live for many, many years, I wonder if the sets today are indeed more failure prone. It is true I wouldn't care to wrestle this thing out of my lower level and into the van for a trip to the shop. I was told that the power supplies of today are less robust, and reminded that a static discharge could destroy a chip, etc...I suspect this is true enough.

So are other buyers going for extended warranties? I have always understood these are huge profit centers for the seller, which means they don't often get used.

Your advice? I can add the coverage up to 40 days of purchase.

Bill

[DDisney]

Originally posted by Sodbuster


Considering that color CRT sets of yore would routinely live for many, many years, I wonder if the sets today are indeed more failure prone. It is true I wouldn't care to wrestle this thing out of my lower level and into the van for a trip to the shop. I was told that the power supplies of today are less robust, and reminded that a static discharge could destroy a chip, etc...I suspect this is true enough.

So are other buyers going for extended warranties? I have always understood these are huge profit centers for the seller, which means they don't often get used.

Your advice? I can add the coverage up to 40 days of purchase.

Bill

I would probably be more inclined for the extended warranty on an RPTV that cost $1500 or more, and don't generally like extended warranties on items costing less than $1000, but everyone's risk tolerance is different.

I think that the combination of the basic warranty plus the brand quality and the fact that this is a tube based CRT would lead me to take my chances with this set. Hard to put a price on peace of mind however.

[WOLVERNOLE]

Yea, I usually "hold my nose" and pay for the extended warranty...and then hate myself the next day...and especially when 90% of my equipment goes on and on and on. It's that 10% that I keep getting the warranty for. But then...a lot of stuff of mine usually goes "bad" either right out of the box, or shortly thereafter. Odds-wise, extended warranties are NOT a good bet.
Good luck to you.

[jason978]

I just ordered this tv on friday from circuit city, I got the 5 year plan for $199. the warranty it comes with sucks, only 90 days labor and you have to bring it to a shop.

Can someone tell me where the jacks are on the back of the tv. if I'm looking at the back, are they on the left side, right, or middle? thanks,

Jason

[KernelG]

Right side, if you are looking at the back. (Left side from the front.)

I bought mine from Circuit City on Thursday. The huge box wouldn't fit in the car, so I went back to Customer Service to setup delivery for Saturday morning. Their guys showed up at 7:30 am, broke the box down on my front lawn, carried it into the house, hooked it up, and even showed me some shortcuts on the remote.

Thing is, ordering online gets you the same 10% off price + free delivery. I found out that ordering at a Circuit City store does not ($40 delivery), so I had to argue for it. I would never buy a TV without seeing it in person first, but I'd already seen it alongside others at Fry's a week earlier. Buying it online would have been a lot more pleasant. The $199 5-year coverage is the same as well.

But it's here now, and it's beautiful.

[KernelG]

Anybody else tried registering online yet? Their web site keeps insisting that I must have a '510 because there is no such thing as a KV30HS420. :rolleyes:

[SixIron]

I picked up the KV32HS420 last night at Sears. Overall I'm very pleased. I'm currently running thru component and refuse to pay thru the nose for a DVI-D to HDMI cable. A website I've done biz with in the past, pccables.com had them for 33% of what you typically pay in retail stores. Needless to say, I ordered one.

[KyPeN]

No one has yet found the service menu?

[TS45]

Originally posted by KyPeN
If you are talking about the widescreen models of the TV (30" for example) then the "fill" works with 480i/p only, 720p and 1080i are both widescreen formats.


No, I am talking about the 32HS420. There is a "Fill" mode that will (I believe) "fill" a 178:1 HD 1080i image on the 32" removing the bars at top and bottom.

Wonder if this can be used for a Letterboxed DVD movie, in 48i or 480p?

[TorEalis]

Well I finally got my 32HS420 last friday and must say I am very impressed. The picture is simply gorgeous when watching DVD's and playing games, and even normal analog T.V looks better.

I was also very relieved to find that the set I got dosent seem to suffer from the terrible geometry my 27" wega did. My only complaint is that the delivery people kept the damn box which will make it a real pain to move.

[Sodbuster]

The local GG just called to say my set (KV-30HS420) came in on today's shipment from the regional warehouse, and delivery could be accomplished later this afternoon. When the salesmen asked if I wanted to change my mind about the extended warranty, I said what the hell and signed up for three years. So I don't have the mental discipline to act on my convictions that the warranties aren't worth the money. I rationalized that I was just giving them back their 10% discount on the MSRP.


Bill

[RJB in Phila]

Tweeter has the KV34HS510 34" Widescreen model on sale at 25% off. Probably because of competition from the new 420 line, including the 34" widescreen version. JandR sent me an email saying the KV-34HS420 is now available for shipping. The price for the new model is the same as that being offered by Tweeter.

[Sodbuster]

My KV-30HS420 was delivered and installed this afternoon. The young man setting it up was surprised that he couldn't invoke a stretch mode of some sort to alter the standard 4:3 AR and eliminate the pillar-box gray bars. I told him not to worry about it, as I was good at reading the manuals. But now I wonder if I'm missing something.

The input is from a Motorola 6200 cable box set to deliver 1080i via component connections (my DVI-HDMI cable is on order). The "480i override" (whatever that is), is set to "off".

When the program isn't HD, then the AR remains 4:3. When it is HD, the set switches to 16:9. Any attempt to change the 4:3 mode by pushing the "screen mode" button on the remote has no effect.

This is ok with me, as the pillar box arrangement doesn't offend me. When the manual is scrutinized, the instructions suggest that mode changes are possible in the 27, 32, 34, but there is no mention of the 30. Maybe this just means that the manual was written before the appearance of the 30-in set, but maybe not.

Anyone know about this?

I haven't even tried watching a DVD yet.

[DDisney]

Originally posted by Sodbuster
My KV-30HS420 was delivered and installed this afternoon. The young man setting it up was surprised that he couldn't invoke a stretch mode of some sort to alter the standard 4:3 AR and eliminate the pillar-box gray bars. I told him not to worry about it, as I was good at reading the manuals. But now I wonder if I'm missing something.

The input is from a Motorola 6200 cable box set to deliver 1080i via component connections (my DVI-HDMI cable is on order). The "480i override" (whatever that is), is set to "off".



The 4:3 override setting affects the signal sent for 4:3 programming. Other choices are 480i and 480p, both of which should allow for you to stretch the non-HD 4:3 programming.

[raisin]

bill, all the stretch modes work fine on my similar setup, so something is wrong on your end. It could be something simple. I lost fullscreen display on HDTV until I discovered that I had hit the tv/video button.
Is your cable provider ordering the DVI cable for you, or are you buying it on your own?

[Sodbuster]

Thanks, guys, I'll activate the override setting and see what happens. It sounds like that will make the difference.

As for the DVI cable, I took SixIron's advice from a previous post and ordered a 6-ft DVI to HDMI cable from pccables.com for $30 including shipping. I didn't shop around at all, but did notice some priced at multiples of that number.

[Reagan]

The manual for the entire 420 line is available online at one of the Sony websites. I'm no good at html stuff so check out the "xbr920 manual now online" thread going on here in the hardware forum for the link.

-Reagan

[zebmaster]

Anyone made any tweaks to their new HS420 that they want to share?

I have the 34HS420.

Service Menu: [Pwr Off], [Disp], [5], [Vol+], [Pwr On]

[tilt3daxis]

Just got back from Best Buy..

They had the 30HS420 on display. It was being fed a rather crappy analog signal(at least I hope it was analog), but what can you do? :) They had it regularly priced at $924.99, which I thought was weird, plus the free TV stand deal that they advertised.

I'm not too sure on the purchase yet, but the cheaper-than-expected pricetag certainly has a strong aura of influence :D

[SixIron]

Originally posted by Sodbuster
Thanks, guys, I'll activate the override setting and see what happens. It sounds like that will make the difference.

As for the DVI cable, I took SixIron's advice from a previous post and ordered a 6-ft DVI to HDMI cable from pccables.com for $30 including shipping. I didn't shop around at all, but did notice some priced at multiples of that number.

I received and hooked up my cable last night Sodbuster. It works fine. I haven't tried any switching between HDMI and component yet to see if it actually makes any pq diff.

[BMLocal175]

Just got off the phone with the BB in Syracuse NY and they have it listed for 999.99 with the free stand. Wonder why it is cheaper at your BB?

I have a $50 gift card I have had since Christmas. Should I get this set for my bedroom?

[Sodbuster]

I noticed that CC's website had the 30-in set for just under $900 plus free delivery (delivery may have been a weekly special). This is without a stand.

Of course delivery is off the truck to your "curb" and then you're on your own. After watching two young men wrestle my set around the house on a dolly and then heft it into the house for installation, I was glad I opted for the local delivery fee and installation (this was from Good Guys, but CC had a similar deal).

I also had some insight into the usefulness of cables longer than 3-ft. My set was installed in one of those niches that's part of a larger wall unit consisting mostly of bookshelves. Below the surface upon which the set rests is a 2X2 array of shallow cubicles, suitable for the cable box, VCR, and DVD player. Because the set fits the recessed space with only a couple of inches to spare, trying to use the short cables was difficult if not impossible.

The Comcast installer had left a component cable that was 6 feet long...too long, really, but better too long than too short. When my DVI cable arrives, I will use it to connect the Comcast cable box to the TV, and move that component cable to the DVD player (currently connected with a composite video hookup). If the DVI arrangement proves clearly superior, I will consider moving on to a DVD player with DVI out...but then I will need a switch, etc.

One damn thing leads to another.

[Byrns]

These are now starting to show up on the Canadian Sonystyle website.

Woot!

[raisin]

sodbuster,
Did you ask comcast if the DVI connection is enabled? My local comcast doesn't recommend that connection.

[KernelG]

Originally posted by Sodbuster
I noticed that CC's website had the 30-in set for just under $900 plus free delivery (delivery may have been a weekly special). This is without a stand.

Of course delivery is off the truck to your "curb" and then you're on your own.

I thought so too, but check CC's delivery options on their web site. Even the basic (free) method includes bringing the set into your house, hooking it up and getting a picture. I suspect that last bit might protect them from liability, since they know the set was working when they left. The guys who delivered my 30" last Saturday actually recognized the component cable I had hanging from my DVD player, hooked it up along with everything else, and tried showing me how to use the remote before I shooed them out of my house.

[Sodbuster]

Thanks for the correction...that does make sense from a liabliity standpoint. My delivery guys also hooked up everything that was within their sight, consulting me about what option to choose and what cables were available. The only place the one who programmed the remote fell short was not knowing enough about the cable box to find the menu (I had been shown by the cable installer), and what setting to leave the "480i override" on....but that wasn't really his responsibility. That's why he couldn't get the set into any of the stretch modes. Too bad I didn't have the info from this thread at the time, he would have welcomed the information as much as I did.

[tilt3daxis]

Is there much of a difference between this and the Sanyo (minus the tuner, which has no bearing on my decision)? Is the extra money really worth it? It's pretty well known that Sony charges a premium for the namebrand...just a slight concern :)

[KernelG]

Some of the differences might be subjective, so your best bet is to see them in-person if you can. I was able to compare the Sony and Philips 30" widescreens side-by-side at Fry's and came to the conclusion that the Sony is absolutely worth the extra $120 ($999 vs $879 MSRP). This was based on picture quality, menu navigation, and plain old look & feel.

I also read about some problems getting Philips sets repaired, where people were without their TV for 6+ weeks while they waited for replacement parts. I've had good luck with Sony in that regard, so that was another plus for me.

I saw that thread about the Sanyo widescreen at Walmart, with some people saying their old Sanyo sets were still alive and kicking. That's positive, and I was very interested, but we don't have a Super Walmart around here, afaik. The electronics department in my local (Union City, CA) Walmart is only slightly bigger than my living room.

So in my estimation, recently re-evaluated, Sony still wins in the TV department.

[PTgraphics]

I just bought the 30" set today from Tweeter. It will be delivered this week. Don't have HD cable yet but I am looking forward to watching DVD's on this set. Should be much improved over my 27" magnavox. I was going to get the Toshiba on clearance from Amazon but decided on the Sony. The last Sony I had lasted for about 15 years. I know they don't make them like they used to but I still hope it lasts for a while and I get my money's worth!

PAT

[Sodbuster]

My DVI-HDMI cable arrived today from PC Cables. It's described as a DVI-D-M to HDMI model.

Hooked up and got picture, but no sound. Do I need the DVI-I type instead for it to carry both video and audio?

[snclawson]

Ah... You need to have an all HDMI connection to get sound. DVI only does video, so since you're going from DVI-HDMI you'll have to hook up the analog audio also.

[happybob]

i'm very interested in getting one of the new sony 420s, either the 30" or the 34". one thing i'm interested in knowing is if anyone of you is connecting it to a htpc through dvi to hdmi cable? does it work? how well?

thanks.

[Sodbuster]

Ok, thanks. I just took another look at the input panel on the back, and there is indeed a set of audio inputs for input #7 (#7 being required for the HDMI). Hooking them up got everything working for the cable box with optimal video management, and freed up the component cable for use with my cheap DVD player.

So everything is satisfactory. I'm very out of date on TV technology, and find the array of inputs and the implementation of their management to be quite amazing. The only other input to the set is from a VCR. Having the set able to cycle among the three hot inputs without ever hitting on any of the tuner channels is wonderful. In my location, there is no way to pick up any OTA transmissions.

Thanks to contributors to this thread for not only calling my attention to this Sony model, but for helping with the setup.

[1212patatepoil]

FYI everybody, Crutchfield's have very good photos of the 34HS420, including the jacks at the back, remote and front panel:

http://www.crutchfield.com/S-ZtOY1LMqClE/cgi-bin/ProdView.asp?a=0&s=0&cc=01&g=154350&id=morephotos&i=158KV34HS4#Tab

[weetoots]

Why doesn't someone turn this into "The Official KV-27/32/36HS420 thread"? There should be enough of them out to start reporting on them, specifically.

[tilt3daxis]

I agree...Information on this set is somewhat lacking in comparison to others (*cough*Sanyo*sneeze*) :D

[weetoots]

Well I finally made up my mind and bought the 36HS420. I had been interested in the 34XBR960 but shyed away because of some problems reported on the "Offiical" thread.
With the 36" 4:3 set, I'll still get 33" widescreen and can enjoy the 4:3 programing . 80% of this households viewing is SD/Digital cable, with some DVD's and I'll add the HD STB this week.

I had been waiting for the 960 to come to Hawaii, at CC but that wait allowed me to read more posts and change my mind. Man this forum is great for info.
CC had just received the 420's and had it on display. Only 4 in stock so I had to move fast. I went down today, 3 instock and I noticed a guy buying one while I waited for a salesman??? to approach me. Well most of the "kids" just stand around and wait for you to say "I want to by something". Please don't ask any questions cuz they don't have a clue. I asked him if I could get a better price than the MSRP listed. NO. I told him I had seen the 420 on their site last week for $100 less, but they didn't have any stock then. Blank look. I told him that Sears had them for less than CC. Blank stare. I asked to see the manager. Duh, a what? I finally spied an old CC guy like me and explained my story to him. He said he could do the $100 less no problem. I asked about the stand. No stock. How do you sell a big TV with no stand"? CC apparently does. So I remembered a post about a Z-line stand for the 960. I asked what he had and he led me to the Z-line. Nice stand and a very nice price @ $100 less than the Sony. I took it.
When he wrote up the order he knocked another $50 off the TV, so I got a 10% reduction, a great stand. Now I am a hapy customer. Haggle, Haggle. Name of the game. Know what you want up front and settle for nothing less.
It will be delivered tomorrow, ya on Sunday!
This coming week is going to be a blast. I will finally get to use my Zenith DVB-318 DVD player, order a HD stb from TW Cable, it's nice to live less than 1 mile from the cable co.
Al

[RandyWalters]

Originally posted by weetoots
Well I finally made up my mind and bought the 36HS420.

.....With the 36" 4:3 set, I'll still get 33" widescreen and can enjoy the 4:3 programing . 80% of this households viewing is SD/Digital cable, with some DVD's and I'll add the HD STB this week.

.....It will be delivered tomorrow, ya on Sunday!

Please give a report once you get it up and running. My boss is looking to get a new 36" set and i recommended the 36HS420 since he watches everything through DirecTV Tivo and wouldn't be needing 2 tuners or PIP. I think you might be the first one on the board to get the 36-incher :)

[weetoots]

Review of the 36HS420 Serial #9003XXX
It looks a lot bigger in my little apt than in the store, but I've always had big TV's.
My equipment:
SA Explorer 2000 digital STB
Series 2 TIVO 80hr
Zenith DVB318
Pioneer SE-DIR800C wireless Dolby Headphones

First I must say I am lucky to live within 1 mile of the cable headend. Great signal on SD and Digital. I will call for a HD STB tomorrow.

I have my cable split, one side (coax) going directly to the TV RF in. This gives me "basic cable " channels through the RF in.
The other side (coax) goes to the cable STB, this includes "basic and digital channels". From the cable box I run S-video and audio to the TIVO. From the TIVO S-video and audio is passed to the TV through the Video 1 input.
The DVD is component cabled to the Video 6. I am going to use Video 5 when I get the HD STB and route the TIVO to Video 1, since the TIVO doesn't have component out connector.

I turned on the TV and let it warm up for 30 minutes. I then made video correction with the DVE dvd. Some correction was needed. Unfortunately there are no numbers shown to help you know where you have corrected to, just a sliding scale of little bars. So if you want that info, you'll have to back all the way down and count each and every click of the bar.
Nice clean picture.
I left the picture in Standard mode.
Color temp "Neutral".
Clear edge VM "Low ". I need to experiment with this one. It will either be "Low" or "Off".
DRC mode "CineMotion".
If you mess up and don't like what you did, The factory default settings for Picture, Brightness, Color, Hue, Sharpness, Color Temp nad ClearEdge VM can be reset by pressing the "reset" button on the remote.
The manual is pretty easy to follow, but watch for specific notes highlighted in Blue. Also watch for instructions that only apply to the KV-27/3/36HS420 or the KV-30/34HS40.
One thing I liked was the ablility to "skip" video inputs that aren't used.

The picture - Fantastic!!!!
Basic cable through the RF in. It depends on the station (channel) some came through very clear and a few looked grainy, like looking at a newspaper to close. I found most of these were from old reruns that were shot with film, like Quincy. They also looked less than clear from the STB so it is probably poor before it gets to the cable co.
Digital cable is very nice, clear, great color , no artifacts. About what I would expect from S-video. The HD cable STB has component out so I expect much better pictures on SD and Digital channels.

DVD input through component.
I watched the Last Samurai tonight. 1080i out from the DVD player, Letterboxed 2:40, this is what it's all about. Great color, clear detail. WOW.
Zoom works but I like it boxed. at this ratio. 1:78 and lower would zoom out better, filling more of the screen.

Am disappointed that I didn't get the 34XBR960, no. I get that screen size anyway on 16:9.
This set can only get better with some burn-in time.
IMHO this is a very good TV, maybe the 36" isn't your size but the "420" is a winner.
Al

[Rich B]

My 36hs420 was delivered on Saturday, we will use as a bedroom set [I have MTV Cribs envy :)]. I an a Dish customer and plan on getting HD later this year. I had no plans of buying a digital set as we watch LOTS of SD material and most digital sets that I've seen over last few years didn't have the greatest built in line doubling. But when I saw this set in a showroom playing ESPN (SD version) I was sold.

Pros:
* Very good picture - I use the set's 3d filter w/ composite cable for my sat box. SVideo cable actually inferior for my sat system - this is not the TV, it's always been this way.
* I have very minimal geometry or convergence problems - no tube set is perfect, but I had to really hunt to find any - best 36" tv I've had or seen for geometry and convergence as I have a critical eye - this makes me VERY happy, and I realize I an extremely lucky on this one.
* Good sound.
* 7 inputs!
* Very nice selection of USER adjustments include turning off VSM if you want.
* You can also zoom 16:9 material (crop to 4:3 screen) on the component inputs.
* No "blobs" or other screen imperfections - I was a little nervous after reading all those 40xbr threads.

Cons
* 7 video inputs and picture settings are GLOBAL?!!! They gotta be crazy.
* We purchased a Sony-ish stand to match the Sony silver, except this TV has a new blueish silver color to it, so the stand is off a little. Minor gripe.

Overall, we LOVE the picture and all other TV's in the house now look stinko in comparison.

Rich B.

[RandyWalters]

Originally posted by Rich B
Cons: 7 video inputs and picture settings are GLOBAL?!!! They gotta be crazy.

By Global do you mean all the inputs share the same picture settings ? My Panny does this so for the Video 1 and Video 2 inputs (TWC DVR and a VCR) i use the Standard picture mode and set my color/hue/brightness settings till they look good. Then for Component 1 and Component 2 (DVD player and HT STB) the screen is darker than the Video inputs so for Component i use the Vivid picture mode and set the brightness/contrast higher till these look good. You should be able to do this as a work-around no?

[Mod-Mod-World]

I just wanted to post some service menu changes I made to my 36HS420, in case anyone wants to try them too. (also after an Avia calibration). So far this set is fantastic. I have not had a chance to view the HD source yet. I just have regular cable (not bad on most channels), and DVD (gorgeous!! Progressive did not improve the picture at all, so I just let the TV handle the upscaling and used an interlaced mode from the DVD player, with spectacular results)

Anyways, here goes: and remember I have the, 36HS420, if your orginal SM values are different, you may not have the same results as me.

From set 2170P-1: (color/grayscale)
GDRV - 34 (originally 45) green amp — used with BDRV to adjust D65 white
BDRV - 29 (originally 42) blue amp — used with GDRV to adjust D65 white
GCUT - 10 (originally 14) green bias cutoff — used w/BCUT to adjust D65 dark gray
BCUT - 10 (originally 11) blue bias cutoff — used w/GCUT to adjust D65 dark gray

From set 2170P-4 (to correct red push)
RYR - 13 (originally 8)
RYB - 15 (originally 9)
GYR - 5 (originally 9)
GYB - 6 (originally 4)

I needed to also adjust some geometry and adjusting and experimenting with items from the following sections:
2170D-1 (horizontal line settings) There are 16 items here, but I only used a few, specifically VCEN and VPIN

2170D-2 (vertical line settings) I didn't end up using any of the 19 items here.

Convergence of vertical lines (I hear you can't really correct horizontal line convergence problems in the SM) from the following section:
D-CONV (there are 15 items here from 0-14, I only made one tiny adjustment from YBWU — 32 (originally 30). My convergence was pretty ok right out of the box.

I corrected the overscan a bit with items from the section:
MID1 Your numbers will probably vary here and as far I can tell, they are input-dependent so if you adust it for 480i or p, you might also have to do it for 1080i seperately. Specifically from MID1 I used:
DHPH- horizontal position
DVPH - vertical position
MDHS - horizontal size
MDVS vertical size

I just went back and forth adusting those 4 parameters (they're all in a row) using Avia's Overscan and/or the Circles Grid Pattern until it looked right and the circles were perfectly round. I don't know if there is a better way, if you know of another, please post it because there are several other areas that adjust horizontal/vertical position and picture size.

Ok, that's about all I did, I'm happy with the results (so far).

[Tigerriot]

Has anyone noticed color uniformity problems with this tv as mentioned in the Cnet.com review? They said the right side of their review tv had a "green haze" to it.


Has anyone noticed such a problem on their set? I'm strongly considering picking one of these up tonight but I just want to know if I should be warned of any potential problems others have seen so far. Thanks!

[UMDMatt]

I just bought my first home and I'll be moving in in a couple of months. I already know where my hypothetical home entertainment room will be, but I just don't have a hypothetical television set to go in it. I definitely want a CRT, and almost definitely want a 34" Sony. The question that remains is at an 11' view distance is the extra resolution from an XBR/XS model worth the cost? I've compared them in the store and I have mixed feelings. $2200 for the new XBR isn't bad, but I could pickup the HS for 800 less. Any other HS owners have this dilemma?

[Reagan]

I haven't noticed a green haze with mine (34HS420) - just the expected white ghosting problem.

-Reagan

[Tigerriot]

Could you please explain the white ghosting problem? I haven't heard of this.

[Reagan]

Hi,

When a bright part (white or bright yellow) of the picture is next to a very dark part of the picture (black only) and moves, a faint afterimage is left. It's kind of annoying and has been a problem for at least a year. Word is that Sony did this on purpose in order to reduce flicker.

-Reagan

[Tigerriot]

I think you're talking about phosphor trails. I've never heard of it described as "white ghosting" before. Phosphor trails are normal for any good crt. They can be annoying but they may improve as the tv ages.

[Reagan]

Hi Tiggerriot,

Terminology aside, this problem is a real problem for Sony current direct views and has been documented for at least the last year. It's far worse than anything I've seen on any other CRT. I knew about it going in and am happy with my set.

-Reagan

[Tigerriot]

Yeah, it is a problem. I've got a Sony 34" XBR910 already and it's definitely got phosphor trails on white objects over black backgrounds. :)

[weetoots]

I don't see a "green" or "white" problem on my 36HS420. Just a great picture.

[zebmaster]

I have the 34hs420 in my bedroom and I dont see the white line/phosphor trail problem. I do see it when I am testing out stuff in the torch modes like Vivid.

I Use the Pro Mode with Brightness a little less than half way and picture a couple notches above quarterway.

[yshin]

i've noticed a phosphor trail (white lines like wind at certain spots) but only on some channels - cable tv. and it was rare... i don't remember seeing it in a while so not sure what it was about.

anyway, i just hooked up my momitsu dvd player via a dvi-hdmi cable. and it looks fantastic on my 34hs420.

w/ a quick comparison, imo, the 1080i looks the best, then 720p and then 480p looks downright... poor. odd b/c a few days ago, i thought that that was the cat's meow!

[jedi29]

Hi Guy`s,
I`m new !! (at least new here LOL)
Hey Mod- Mod- World , does the new HS have seperate drive & cut-offs for component inputs like the other Sony`s ?
I have an XBR 200 and there are seperate drives & cut-offs for the component input , just curio . Also is it possible to "tilt" the picture in the service mode ? Thanks for your help !! Sometimes you have to go to the max , in the user "tilt" mode. I`m hoping that has been fixed. Thanks again !
Gary

[forcemac]

Picked up a 32HS420 today for my HTPC setup....pretty nice right out of the box. I am currently using a GF5200 that doesn't have DVI so I am on Svideo right now, but it is pretty darn good. Very nice set. No tweaks other than with the Nvidia TV panel to slip the picture down so it filled the screen.

I am a new Sony convert for TVs, (currently have a 34HS510 for the DVD viewing room) and now the 32" for the HTPC. I have to upgrade the video card, and get a DVI->HDMI cable to take full advantage of it. I really love em.

[Mod-Mod-World]

Gary,
I believe the the changes I made to GDRV, BDRV, GCUT, and BCUT are universal, but I can't promise that I'm right, I'm no technician.
All I know is that color from my DVD (connected by component), and regular TV are both improved from the changes.

As far as tilt inside the service menu: Yes, there is: In section 2170D-1 , try NSCO.
Chris

[forcemac]

New Update, I am having problems with the 32HS420 "jamming" my wireless keyboard and mouse combo. Its funny, but the ATI Remote wonder works fine, but my Lite-ON RF Keyboard and mouse stop working when I turn the TV on.

Work fine when the TV is off.

[RandyWalters]

Originally posted by forcemac
New Update, I am having problems with the 32HS420 "jamming" my wireless keyboard and mouse combo. Its funny, but the ATI Remote wonder works fine, but my Lite-ON RF Keyboard and mouse stop working when I turn the TV on.
Work fine when the TV is off.

Electronic devices put out a little RF to some extent, maybe the Sony's frequency is close enough to the keyboard's frequency that it's cancelling it out?

I've heard of LCD TV screens blinding IR remotes, but never a TV interfering with an RF device.

[jedi29]

Hi Chirs,
Thanks for the info :D
Thats great news that they finaly ( maybe ) combined the drives & cut-offs. It is a pain to have to set up the drives on my XBR200 and then have to do the same for the 1 component.
A "tilt" in the menu is VERY welcome news :)
Thanks again , O-BTW . I know there is a "hand hold" to the side of the tv , but how do you grab the front without scratching it or dropping it !! The 910`s and new 960`s have a nice "hidden" ~~~~"hand hold" in the front. Just curio !
Take care ,
Gary ;)

[forcemac]

Originally posted by RandyWalters
Electronic devices put out a little RF to some extent, maybe the Sony's frequency is close enough to the keyboard's frequency that it's cancelling it out?

I've heard of LCD TV screens blinding IR remotes, but never a TV interfering with an RF device.

I thought so, but it obviously does. Keyboard and mouse range are effectively halved by turning on the TV.

[MarkAtHome]

Originally posted by Tigerriot
Has anyone noticed color uniformity problems with this tv as mentioned in the Cnet.com review? They said the right side of their review tv had a "green haze" to it.

Has anyone noticed such a problem on their set?
FWIW, I just had a KV-32FS320 delivered which had the same problem after turning it on after its delivery. While waiting for a call back to exchange the unit, I guessed that maybe it had an auto-degauss procedure, so I turned the TV off and on a couple of times and it disappeared. Hasn't returned in 3 days. Either way, I'm considering going the HS route instead, but am now hesitent due to the global settings (color, hue, contrast, etc.) issue.

[ay221]

I got my 32HS420 yesterday. Maybe cause my old tv (27inch wega) was far inferior to this new one, but it looks just so fantastic. I played part of LOTR and I guess it does that upconvert, cause it almost looked like high def. The background details was just incredible and colors were great. I just wonder if I hooked up a hd-dvd (I know there not out yet) to it, if it can actually look much better.

I only get cbs hd right now, and didn't get to watch any. But I was suprised by how good this tv actually looked.

[bradyusi]

Hi. I HAVE the 27HS420 sitting in the other room. I am a novice when it comes to reviewing television, but I will try to help everyone out.

Background: I had the Zenith C27V36, but it developed what looked to be a sync glitch on the component video side when the set was cold. Either Zenith or CC discontinued the model. CC replaced for store credit.

Honestly, I don't know what to tell.. if you have any specific questions, just ask.

Can I get a DVI to HDMI cable to connect my cable box to my TV? Do they make those?

[RandyWalters]

Originally posted by bradyusi
Can I get a DVI to HDMI cable to connect my cable box to my TV? Do they make those?

Yes. It's shown in the HS420 manual too :D

[bradyusi]

Originally posted by RandyWalters
Yes. It's shown in the HS420 manual too :D

Damnit.. I knew I forgot to learn something when I was in college. That whole 'read the manual' thing. Psh.. who needs to! Oh, guess I do.

[wilked]

If this is not kosher let me know, but...........I am about to buy the KV-34HS420. Best I can find is $1400, from CC, can I get a better deal on this or is it time to pull the trigger? PM if needed. Thanks

[Tigerriot]

Thats about as good a price as your gonna see right now.

[jnyquist]

I just picked up the 27" HS20 this past weekend, and can I say I am reasonably satisfied with my purchase. I haven't had a chance to run through a calibration, but tuned it a bit out of the box and the pictures looks great with DVD. I bought this for the master bedroom and I don't have an HDTV dish receiver for it yet, so I can't comment on the HD PQ yet. I haven't noticed any green hues yet either. On NTSC signals, the PQ looks fine from a distance, but closer than 3 or 4 ft, I think it looks kind of crappy (looks like a lot of compression artifacts) as compared to my old 27" Mitsu NTSC TV.

Oh, and the cabinent of this thing is huge compared to my old 27".. At least 3 inches deeper, and due to the speakers on the sides, at least 4 inches wider.... plus, I think the thing must weigh at least 30 pounds more.

Hooked up my PS2 w/ component cables and played SSX3 for a bit in progressive mode... I thought it looked very good.

Jeff

[yshin]

Originally posted by wilked
If this is not kosher let me know, but...........I am about to buy the KV-34HS420. Best I can find is $1400, from CC, can I get a better deal on this or is it time to pull the trigger? PM if needed. Thanks

not too bad... i got a little less than that after taxes and delivery after i haggled w/ them a little bit. the salesguy chased me down as i was leaving after i told him i'd think about it. :D

[fcaico]

Hey gang,

I just picked up a 34HS420 and so far I love it. But this is coming from a crappy (well not too crappy) 14 year old 27 inch Magnavox. I've sort of wanted a new TV for years and saw the new SONY line and bought it almost on Impulse ( I tried to research it, but found no real reviews of the set).

Anyhow I love the set so far, but I am not exactly using it to its potential yet (No HD source, and my DVD player isnt even progressive).

I do have some questions about this set that I hope you guys can help with: You guys talk about watching dvds "in 1080i". How do you know what mode the set is in when you are watching? Do you mean that the DVD player is set for 16x9 mode? Also, I have inferred from what I have read here that this particular TV does 480p and 1080i, but 720i or 720p are "upsampled" to 1080i.... is that a bad thing? Would a 720p picture look brighter or more steady? I'd like to know these things just as a means of comparison and for diagnosis in the future.

Also, a question about convergence; I think in general the TV has the best overscan (I should say the least overscanned :-) ) of any TV I have owned, but I do notice that the left edge of the screen is very slightly not straight - About halfway up the screen (and for about a third of the screens height) the picture is *very slightly* concave. It is very slight (and since it is only that one spot of the picture its not uniform) and doesnt bother me really, but I wonder if this is something that could/should be adjusted....

Also - I do have a very recent Playstation 2, which I understand *does* do progressive DVD... Does anyone have any experience with this configuration? Does it output 720p or 480p? Anyone?

If I am asking things which are in a FAQ, please direct me as I havent been able to find easy answers to these questions.

Thank!
Frank

[ay221]

Originally posted by raisin
No, each input does not have it's own video setting. However, the remote has a picture button that allows you to cycle through four video options - vivid, standard, movie, and pro. You can fully customize the settings on each of those alternatives, and there is a reset button to return to the original factory modes.
There is no mention of the service menu in the factory manual.


This might be a dumb question, but if you set all the settings identical on vidid, pro, standard movie on the hs420, will they look the same? or do they have different variables aside from the color, brightness, etc, on the menu that cannot be changed?

[pkwjr]

Originally posted by ay221
This might be a dumb question, but if you set all the settings identical on vidid, pro, standard movie on the hs420, will they look the same? or do they have different variables aside from the color, brightness, etc, on the menu that cannot be changed?

You will get a different picture setting. Pro and standard would be close, then cinema followed by vivid. You would have to go into the sm and adjust settings there and then you still may not be able to match every setting exactly.

[yshin]

Originally posted by fcaico
I do have some questions about this set that I hope you guys can help with: You guys talk about watching dvds "in 1080i". How do you know what mode the set is in when you are watching?

for me, my momitsu 880 dvd player, allows me to select the video output - 720p, 1080i, etc. to my eyes, the 1080i looked the best so that's what i use.

for the xbox, i just enabled all the various modes in the dashboard (except 1080i which, afaik, no game supports).

[KyPeN]

A couple games do support 1080i, but chances are you don't need it. Enter the Matrix is one.

[yshin]

Originally posted by fcaico
Also, I have inferred from what I have read here that this particular TV does 480p and 1080i, but 720i or 720p are "upsampled" to 1080i.... is that a bad thing? Would a 720p picture look brighter or more steady? I'd like to know these things just as a means of comparison and for diagnosis in the future.

Also, a question about convergence; I think in general the TV has the best overscan (I should say the least overscanned :-) ) of any TV I have owned, but I do notice that the left edge of the screen is very slightly not straight - About halfway up the screen (and for about a third of the screens height) the picture is *very slightly* concave. It is very slight (and since it is only that one spot of the picture its not uniform) and doesnt bother me really, but I wonder if this is something that could/should be adjusted....

Also - I do have a very recent Playstation 2, which I understand *does* do progressive DVD... Does anyone have any experience with this configuration? Does it output 720p or 480p? Anyone?

If I am asking things which are in a FAQ, please direct me as I havent been able to find easy answers to these questions.

Thank!
Frank

as to the rest of your questions:

no, in general, i don't think it is a bad thing that 720p is upsampled to 1080i.

i had a slight overscan problem on the left side which i corrected. as for geometry, being pretty demanding, i did correct as much as possible to a point where i can live w/ it. mainly, when i was looking at a menu that had a bar at the bottom, it curved down on the right hand side. i couldn't deal w/ that. once you sort of get the hang of adjusting the geometry, it's not too bad.

here's a site that has the more info on progressive games
http://www.hdtvarcade.com/ps2list.htm
ps2 can do 480p. i think the progressive ps2s can do progressive dvd output.

[bradyusi]

Originally posted by yshin
i think the progressive ps2s can do progressive dvd output

ESPN 2k4 Football has a progressive scan option burried in the Presentation Menu. Hooked through component cables, it looks A-MA-ZING! But, the graphics are amazing to start with, so it just makes it look better.

I am awaiting the arrival of Madden 04. Maybe there is a progressive option.

[Dan203]

If anyone is looking for the 27" model ABT Electronics has them for $679 with free shipping.

Dan

Edit: I posted a link, but the forum starred it out.

[ay221]

Originally posted by pkwjr
You will get a different picture setting. Pro and standard would be close, then cinema followed by vivid. You would have to go into the sm and adjust settings there and then you still may not be able to match every setting exactly.

Is one setting usually good for HDTV, DVD, XBOX, and another good for SD?

[OldCoot]

Hi Gang!

Look, I'm getting the 32" 420 delivered on Saturday.

Do I need this DVI HDMI cable? I presently get digital cable from Charter through a MOXI box which is HD capable. I plan to sign up for HDTV as soon as the set is up and running.

[UMDMatt]

You don't need a DVI to HDMI cable to view HD, but it could result in a little bit better picture than a component connection. You'll also have to check on your cable box and see if it even has a DVI output, and if so, is it enabled.

[MoxiGuy]

Originally posted by OldCoot
Hi Gang!
Do I need this DVI HDMI cable? I presently get digital cable from Charter through a MOXI box which is HD capable. I plan to sign up for HDTV as soon as the set is up and running.
DVI is not currently enabled. For now your best connection for HD is through component cables.

[goto_dengo]

So, does the 32HS420 suffer from the same 1hz scrolling line problem that has plagued many of the Sony sets for the last couple years? I have a chance to pick one of these up from Sears tomorrow at a pretty nice price, so any timely responses would be much appreciated.

Goto

[sjorgensen]

This site was instrumental in my deciding on the Sony KV32-HS420 HDTV
TV. Bought it from Circuit City 2 weeks ago for $949, including delivery.
Could not be happier with the purchase. Incredible picture! Am not using the speakers on the TV so can't comment on the sound. Looks and fits
perfectly in a limited-space area (replacing a JVC 27-inch. Although it doesn't have PIP, this is not a feature I would use.

All the TV needed after delivery, was some minor color adjustment. No
calibration needed. Sony has made it very easy to use.

[Dukat]

All the reviews of theKV32HS420 in this thread have been extremely positive. I'm having big problems with mine. Please take a look at this thread and let me know if anyone has had these problems or have any suggestions.

Thanks!

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&postid=4135100

[WOLVERNOLE]

I cannot recall what the feature was called on numerous units (seen in both analog as well as HD units) but the feature claims to not "read" scan lines into the black lines on the top and bottom of a 4:3 unit with 16:9 material being shown on it. In any event, it is suppose to maximize 16:9 material on the 4:3 screen (maybe 16:9 "pull down" ?) but I have NOT seen this feature claimed on the 4:3 Sony 420 series, e.g. the KV-27HS420. What's up ? Was this a good feature, or not?

[hardwired]

It's referred to as 16:9 Enhanced mode or Vertical Compression (Vertical squeeze). This is a very good feature and I would be very surprsied if any of the HS420 4:3's did not have it.

3:2 Pulldown is referrring to what Sony calls Cinemotion.

[pkwjr]

Originally posted by hardwired
It's referred to as 16:9 Enhanced mode or Vertical Compression (Vertical squeeze). This is a very good feature and I would be very surprsied if any of the HS420 4:3's did not have it.

3:2 Pulldown is referrring to what Sony calls Cinemotion.

You are correct, it is called 16:9 Enhanced and can be configured by pressing menu and going to the setup area. The options are on or auto.

[homebrewitall]

I recently purchased a Sony Wega 32HS420 and so far most of my experience has been fantastic. Unfortunately I get one error that is making me wonder if it's what I want, since it effects what I watch most, cartoons.

When watching cable tv(NTSC, no HD yet) some colors bleed into others in thin parellel lines that bounce around in length, always bleeding from left to right. It seems to typically happen with white bleeding into red, but other combinations do it too. It's most noticable on cartoons, partically Family Guy. It only happens on the cable source, when I watch the exact same episode on DVD or my HTPC, the image is solid. When I use the HTPC as a tuner, flipping between the two tuners decoding the same live feed, the TV tuner bleeds and the HTPC's image(DVI input, and Composite) is fine. The History Channel's water mark also does this. I've also checked the cable with an old Zenith TV, and there's no bleeding there.


I contacted Sony and they said the unit was defective. I had it replaced and the replacement does this as well. I called Sony again and they want to send a repairman.

Mike

[Dukat]

Does anyone have a link to the 420 series service manual? I was able to get into the service menu but most of the codes are pretty cryptic. I'm hoping the manual would have detailed instructions on what each adjustment does.

[fcaico]

I have had my 34HS420 for a couple of weeks and I've really been loving it.

However,

Last night I was watching "The Last Samurai" and at 2 or 3 points within the first 40 minutes of the movie the color faded out of the screen till everything was a kind of greenish monochrome. I was playing the DVD directly into the TV using the Component input. The color would slowly fade out and then slowly come back (even when the disc was paused).

I didnt notice this effect on the SVHS input.

After the first 40 minutes, however, the problem did not repeat itself.

Now I have no idea where this problem is coming from, TV, DVD player or cables. I guess I will just have to wait for the problem to reoccur / get worse, in order to try and narrow down the culprit. I have a service plan on the TV, but I dont look forward to having to schedule someone to come and look at it.

Frank

[jarsofwei]

Hi guys. I'm fairly new to these forums. I've read through them before but never posted. There doesn't seem to be a specific thread devoted to the kv34hs420. Anyhow, I just bought my first HDTV, the aforementioned model. I'm quite pleased with the quality of the picture so far but I have noticed some glaring overscan and geometry problems. The overscan is bad enough so that a 1.85:1 AR DVD will appear as full screen. Displaying Gamecube games in progressive scan and 16x9 will cause the lower right side to peel off of the screen.

Has anyone had a similar experience with this set? I'm looking into how to best calibrate the television. What would be the best way for a beginner to get it done? I've heard that the AVIA calibration dvd is the best for beginners. I'm not extremely demanding when it comes to picture quality but I can't ignore some of the issues that are holding back this otherwise great tv.

Also, does each input in the television have its own set of settings? For example, the "peeling" i'm experiencing in the gamecube does not show up when I watch DVDs on the other component input. Thanks!

[Mr2Spyder]

You need to adjust overscan in the service menu. Any calibration disc should have an overscan pattern. Using your remote and with the tv turned off hit (display, 5, vol+, power) in succession. The tv should turn on with green funky letters and numbers. 1 and 4 on the remote will change to different categories. Continue to change the categories until you come across VPOS, VSIZ, HPOS and HSIZ. Press 3 or 6 to change the values until the overscan is reduced to your liking. Press mute then enter to save the changes (you should see "Write" appear which will turn from green to red indicating the change has been saved) and simply hit the power button to turn off the tv. Remember to write down the original settings of any values you change so if you screw something up you can reset the values. I believe the overscan setting is universal. It affects all inputs. I haven't messed with the geometry so I cant help you there. Digital Video Essentials work well for me and can be bought for $20.

[UMDMatt]

Indecisiveness has taken over.

A little OT, but I cannot for the life of me make up my mind as to what Sony direct view to buy, it is quite maddening (I realize there are tougher decisions in life).
The players:
34HS420
34XBR960
34XS955

Restrictions:
-Gotta buy it from Circuit City ($575 in gift cards amassed)
-Would like to keep my cost down (after gift cards) down to $1200, can go a little higher
-CRT RPTV is out, I already have a Stanley armoire with pocket doors for this puppy...although a 46" Sammy DLP would fit.....


Watching Habits:
50% TV (HD)
25% DVD
25% Gamecube

View Distance:
9-11 feet

I'm just having a hard time deciding if the XBR is worth an extra $700 over the HS series, especially if I don't plan on utilizing the tuner (although it could come in handy). The XS may fit the bill well for me, but I haven't seen any indication that Circuit City will carry it. I know XBR owners will say there's no other way to go, but perhaps HS owners will be a little more objective about this subjective question. :)
Any thoughts, maybe there's a rationale here that I'm missing.

[i_dream_of_japan]

UMD,

Here.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?threadid=444751

Use those searches people!

Christopher:D

[Gardo]

Originally posted by jarsofwei
The overscan is bad enough so that a 1.85:1 AR DVD will appear as full screen.


Wow--that doesn't sound like overscan; that sounds like you have the TV in "Zoom" mode. Check the remote and the manual.

[STEAMHL2]

Watching Habits:
50% TV (HD)
25% DVD
25% Gamecube

Yay Gamecube :p

...I don't often see any support for my favorite system.

Anyway, I am having the same dilemma. I am split between the Sonys and a good Toshiba, which would probably cheaper.

Do most people use the TV speakers for audio? I don't see why they make so many TVs with speakers that extend out the side. If you can afford an HDTV 16:9 Sony, you should have a decent 5.1 setup and not need speakers. Are there any good HDTVs 16:9 direct-view with speakers on bottom or without them at all?

[jarsofwei]

Originally posted by Gardo
Wow--that doesn't sound like overscan; that sounds like you have the TV in "Zoom" mode. Check the remote and the manual.

The TV is in full mode, not zoom mode. I had to adjust the VSIZ from 35 to around 24 in order to correct the overscan. From what i heard about the hs420's, I didn't expect the overscan to be so severe. Does anyone else with the FV34HS420 have the same problem?

[tilt3daxis]

I had 5% overscan on all sides out of the box. I went into the SM and adjusted it to the point where I have about 2.5% on all sides.

[jarsofwei]

i guess i just have a world of problems.. i just noticed today (day two of owning the kv34hs420) that there was a green discolorment in the bottom right hand corner of the screen. I realized that my computer's subwoofer was placed only a foot away from that corner of the screen. I've since moved the subwoofer completely away from the tv (into a different) room but the green spot has persisted. I can't say if the subwoofer is what caused the spot or if it was always there. In any case, anyone have ideas of what is causing this?

I also have a computer tower about 2 feet away from that corner of the screen. Could this be a problem as well?

I've tried restarting the tv many times to trigger the internal degausser, but the problem persists. Is there a specific way to solve this problem? or do i just need to give it some time to readjust?

[jarsofwei]

looks like i need to learn a little bit more patience.. after spending some more time with the set, and giving it a few more restarts.. i finally got it to magically fix itself.. seems like moving that ol' woofer did the trick.. let's hope it stays this way.. i'll keep y'all posted on this problem if you guys are interested

[Stillmorningrise]

I bought a 30HS420 last night at best buy. Picture is amazing but when I watch movies in the 2.35:1 aspect ratio, you can see a weird clear line that is about an inch thick right above the bottom black bar and right below the top black bar. It's only during that aspect ratio. I can't seem to figure out what it is, I've never seen it before, It's really noticable in really light scenes. Anyone know what this is?

[Sodbuster]

Since the picture tube has an AR of 1:1.78, anything wider will result in some bars above and below. Is that what you're seeing?

[CrocHunter]

An overscan adjustment can fix this, it's a simple service menu tweak.

[Stillmorningrise]

I'm not talking about the actual Black bars that you normally see in that aspect ratio. Right below and above the black bars there is a transparent clear line you can only see if you look really closely. It's about an inch thick and it's very obvious in light scenes.

[justsc]

[QUOTE=Stillmorningrise]I'm not talking about the actual Black bars that you normally see in that aspect ratio. Right below and above the black bars there is a transparent clear line you can only see if you look really closely. It's about an inch thick and it's very obvious in light scenes.[/QUOTE]
I think CrocHunter nailed it - it sounds like overscan bounce, which can be adjusted in the service menu.

[CrocHunter]

Don't worry a simple overscan fix will eliminate it or hide it.

[Dark Rain]

[QUOTE=Stillmorningrise]I'm not talking about the actual Black bars that you normally see in that aspect ratio. Right below and above the black bars there is a transparent clear line you can only see if you look really closely. It's about an inch thick and it's very obvious in light scenes.[/QUOTE]

How far do you sit from the TV? 6 feet should be your minimum viewng distance for a 30" HDTV. It does sound like overscan unless you're seeing this clear line in the movie image itself.

[Stillmorningrise]

Yeah I've been sitting close because it's on my floor and I'm trying to find a good TV stand for it. Anyways, how do i fix it?