Pioneer PDP-4214HD 42" plasma?

[chinatti]

I saw this unit in my local Costco, but don't see it on the Costco website (or anywhere else for that matter). Does anyone have any details on this set? I purchased a PDP-4312 recently, and I was wondering how this newer set compares...

Thanks in advance.

[pastrami]

What was the price on this ?

[chinatti]

- same as the PDP-4312 was when it was available...

[cheridave]

Pricing is not allowed - MSRP ONLY!!!!!!

Dave

[pstrisik]

Between the two Costcos here in Anchorage, there are still 8 4312's available. Come and get 'em! :D

[pamploner]

PDP-4214HD - anybody has this set; google doesn't seem to have much info on this model.

I was at our local Costco yesterday and the Pioneer 43" are all gone. The 4214 are the only ones they are selling; same price as the 4312. The PQ looks terrific (but, I think, not $1000 better than the Maxent, next to it). Another difference is the 4214 has non-detachable speakers.

Any hands-on experience? Specs?

[jeffH70]

I saw this in my local Costco too after all the PDP-4312 were pulled last week. I looked closer to the back of the unit and it said assembled in USA with imported parts from Japan, Korea and other country. I know that Pioneer makes 43/50 inch panel and this could be OEM PDP from Samsung?

By the way, there was a PDP-5040 next to the PDP-4214, it seems that the 4214 has better black level as well. Other than 1 inch smaller then the PDP-4304 (or 4312 as a set), it has the HD decoder built-in but no DCR cable card, fixed speaker on the sides. 1 HDMI, 2 component/s-video/composite (might be shared similar to the media receiver version) and one extra s-video/composite at the side.

Jeff

[renlopez]

Just saw this one a Costco today. The price is the same as the 4312. I don't think that this is an attractive price right now given the price drops on Panasonic.

Glossy black bezel was attractive though. Looks a little like 4350 with speakers.

[egcarter]

There is no MSRP on this set...it's distributed to warehouse stores ONLY.

Eric

[jlim0930]

I have purchased the 4214HD from costco about a month ago. I really like the design but seems that the menu is very slow. I really wanted the 4212HD but they didnt have any more in stock. Does the media box on the 4212 respond to the remote pretty fast?

as far as picture quality i think its about the same as 4212HD just that the menu is very slow on response..

[ninerpig]

mr.jlim0930 i hope you can help me since you have this tv how do you save your color settings on any picture mode other than user ive read the manual and it does not say how to store your settins in any picture mode.So i turn the set off and thats it all settings gone hope you can help.thanks :rolleyes:

[pstrisik]

[QUOTE=jlim0930]I have purchased the 4214HD from costco about a month ago. I really like the design but seems that the menu is very slow. I really wanted the 4212HD but they didnt have any more in stock. Does the media box on the 4212 respond to the remote pretty fast?

as far as picture quality i think its about the same as 4212HD just that the menu is very slow on response..[/QUOTE]
There is no media box on the 4212. What is the model number on the back of the screen itself?

[renlopez]

[QUOTE=pstrisik]There is no media box on the 4212. What is the model number on the back of the screen itself?[/QUOTE]

Looking at the 4214 again, It looks like it is a rebadged version of the 42A3HD.

[pstrisik]

[QUOTE=renlopez]Looking at the 4214 again, It looks like it is a rebadged version of the 42A3HD.[/QUOTE]
Hmmm. Is that a 3rd generation? The 4212 has 4204 on the back of the panel ... 4th generation. The 4350 is 5th and the the about to be released 4360 is 6th.

[renlopez]

I think it is a 5th gen Pioneer

[pstrisik]

[QUOTE=renlopez]I think it is a 5th gen Pioneer[/QUOTE]
Seems hard to tell. How do you know?

Here's the brochure:

http://img231.imageshack.us/img231/514/pio42a3hd9ba.jpg

[renlopez]

[QUOTE=pstrisik]Seems hard to tell. How do you know?
[/QUOTE]

I don't know. I've never seen a Pio 42" HD model before this, so I imagine that either it is new, or someone else manufactured it and Pio rebadged it.

[pstrisik]

[QUOTE=renlopez]I don't know. I've never seen a Pio 42" HD model before this, so I imagine that either it is new, or someone else manufactured it and Pio rebadged it.[/QUOTE]Pio tends to use the generation number in the model number, that's why I initially suspected 3rd gen. There is an equivalent 43A5HD just becoming available that is parallel to the 4350 except without media box.

[Avax]

What advantage, if any is the media box? I somes ways it seems undesirable to me to deal with finding a spot for the extra box.

Does it offer more connections, better quality video path or other technical benifit?

I suppose if you are wall mounting it allows a single cable to the monitor thru the wall so changing sources around would be easier with all connections on the rack.

[pstrisik]

[QUOTE=Avax]What advantage, if any is the media box? I somes ways it seems undesirable to me to deal with finding a spot for the extra box.

Does it offer more connections, better quality video path or other technical benifit?

I suppose if you are wall mounting it allows a single cable to the monitor thru the wall so changing sources around would be easier with all connections on the rack.[/QUOTE]
More connections and easier connectivity since the box typically lives amoung the other components, therefore fewer cables to panel.

[tiger3p]

Anyone bought this that could post a good review of the tv?? The tv looked really good and the pq was great w/ comparison to the Phillips and Panasonic that I've seen before.

[tiger3p]

Update on this model..

Just spoke to a Pioneer representative and he informed me that this model being sold at Costco is part of the 6th Generation that they have. He said it is in fact comparable to both the PDP-434CMX (w/ the cable card and speakers) and the PDP-42A3HD.

Just thought I'd let you guys know. :)

[jbrsd1]

I just bought the 4214 at costco on 10/11/05 and it's awesome. I'm watching Angeles-Sox right now in HD and the picture is stunning. Sound is excellent. Remote kind of sucks cause it's not universal and can't program in my cable box.
You are right...the manual says 42A3hd and 4214hd.

[electroglide]

I just saw the pdp-50a5hd at costcos today. can anyone tell me the difference between the pdp-50a5hd and the pdp-5050hd and which in your opinion might be better?

[pstrisik]

[QUOTE=electroglide]I just saw the pdp-50a5hd at costcos today. can anyone tell me the difference between the pdp-50a5hd and the pdp-5050hd and which in your opinion might be better?[/QUOTE]
They should be the same in PQ. 5050 has media box, 50a5 has electronics in the panel unit. The latter has a bit less in inputs. HDMI - 1 instead of 2. I'm not sure what other compromises were made to fit it in.

[socaltransplant]

I bought a pioneer pdp-4214hd tonight and have watched a few shows. I also bought a toshiba dvd player that had a free hdmi cable (I am sure it is quite a cheap hdmi cable, but I was trying to kill two birds...). I am very impressed with the HD channels, although I suspect I am more impressed than my wife because she is not a big sports fan. Regardless, we think the picture is pretty good. However we did see some pixilated stuff when watching I Robot on HBO HD - I am not sure if this is my cable box connection (I think I should tighten the cable more), the cheap hdmi cable, or the tv. Or is it possible that heavily edited (via graphics) HD shows/movies look somewhat pixiliated at times. My comparison for I Robot was the baseball game (it looked amazing) and Numbers (CBS in HD) which also looked incredible. Anyhow, those are my initial thoughts - if you have questions and can ask them in somewhat nontechnical terms, I will try to answer them about this tv.

[hmeseller]

I posted this on other threads, but thought it applied here as well..

I spoke to Pioneer, on Friday October 14th. The pdp-4214 and 42a3HD are identical sets aside from cosmetic differences. It is in fact a 6th generation screen. The tv was released within the last month or so. In fact, according to Pioneer, it's so new that they do not even have specs available for an adapter plate. I ordered a Peerless PLA-1 articulating mount and a PION50 adapter plate, which also fits nearly all other 43 and 50" Pioneers. I soon discovered that this set has different bolt spacing than the others, so the plate does not fit. Peerless does not as of yet manufacture a dedicated adapter plate due to the tv being so new, (although they may have a universal adapter plate which will work). However, after making a call to my retailer, they said Peerless will send me a prototype (dedicated) adapter plate for this TV. Once the correct fit it made, they will start offering it for sale immediately. How's that for service! Overall, I am thrilled with this set, and the price is great....plus it's Costco and you gotta love how they stand behind the items they sell.

[tiger3p]

Can you guys tell me your initial picture settings?

[hmeseller]

I am not sure what specifically you mean by "initial picture settings". It has several settings for dynamic picture, user, standard, movie and games. I just tweaked the user settings so they looked good for me, but did not adjust any of the other settings. In fact, if someone has a good post on calibrating this set, or adjusting the settings I mentioned, I would love to hear it.

[jkru]

Anyone have any issues with the HDMI port on this model? I have two comcast boxes with a DVI to HDMI cable and all i get is a blackscreen. I will get picture initially on a HDTV and then just black I think when it switches resolution, when I switch to a none HDTV channel. I also find that I get a split screen and have to bring up the menu and then hit exit to get the fullscreen view. I tried a new comcast box so its not the box. Could it be the TV?

[av_eddie]

I picked up the 4214 yesterday and hooked it up to an antenna while waiting to get an HD Tivo installed. I was trying to get the contrast and brightness set where I would be happy with them, but I'm having some trouble. While watching the baseball game, when the camera was showing the field or an individual player, everything looked good, but if anything slightly dark was shown, it was way too dark. I ended up with the contrast on 0 and the brightness on 65. Then I flipped over to the Tonight show and anything lighter colored (some clothes, Charlize Theron's face) seemed too bright and non-realistic.

Does anyone have any suggestions or settings they could share? I would appreciate any help.

[jkru]

I noticed a brigter more balanced picture using HDMI. But I am having trouble usng that port. Are you using component or HDMI? Give it a try and let me know if that helps. Keep in mind that it may be a more natural/realistic picture than what your used to give it time.

Thanks
JKru

[av_eddie]

I have the directv box hooked up via hdmi now. I don't know how much the hdmi helped, but I got the DVE dvd and it has helped quite a bit.
This is what I came up with:

Brightness 61
Contrast 44
Sharpness 19
color 47
tint 0

Looks much better to me.

The only thing I can compare it to is the antenna feed I had hooked up before I got the D* box.

[tiger3p]

[QUOTE=eburr]I have the directv box hooked up via hdmi now. I don't know how much the hdmi helped, but I got the DVE dvd and it has helped quite a bit.
This is what I came up with:

Brightness 61
Contrast 44
Sharpness 19
color 47
tint 0

Looks much better to me.

The only thing I can compare it to is the antenna feed I had hooked up before I got the D* box.[/QUOTE]

What's the contrast ratio of this plasma?? I'm trying to use your setting but something is still not right... Did your OTA HD turn out ok?

[av_eddie]

[QUOTE=tiger3p]What's the contrast ratio of this plasma?? I'm trying to use your setting but something is still not right... Did your OTA HD turn out ok?[/QUOTE]

Not sure about the contrast ratio, but the OTA HD looks good to me (hooked up to the HD Tivo OTA tuner). I can try the built in tuner if you would like.

[tiger3p]

[QUOTE=eburr]Not sure about the contrast ratio, but the OTA HD looks good to me (hooked up to the HD Tivo OTA tuner). I can try the built in tuner if you would like.[/QUOTE]

How does the OTA works? where did u buy it?? You happen to have a pix of it?

[socaltransplant]

Ok, I know plasmas have some challenges with dark scenes, but the factory settings on the pdp-4214 do not minimze problems with dark scenes. I have noticed a "swarm of mosquito" effect in dark scenes, and while I know that I should look at the object that is focused on in a scene, my eyes wander to look at everything and I invariably notice the mosquito effect. I know I should calibrate it, but after reading personal reviews on the calibration discs (Avia and DVE), I think they might be too complicated for me. Any ideas?

Also, I rented two DVDs tonight. Both of the DVDs could not be viewed on the whole screen, which bothered me for two reasons: 1) I am trying to keep black bars off of the screen during this initial period of ownership (per recommendations from others on this forum) and 2) why did I but this tv if I can not see the whole screen (my wife was nice enough to make this comment :) ). I switched to component (as opposed to HDMI) because the only screen one can see when using HDMI is "full". The components let me view the other four settings, including "cinema", but none of these settings allowed me to view the DVDs on the entire screen. Both DVD versions were widescreen format. Any ideas about what I am doing wrong here?

Thanks in advance for any advice.

[tiger3p]

[QUOTE=socaltransplant]Ok, I know plasmas have some challenges with dark scenes, but the factory settings on the pdp-4214 do not minimze problems with dark scenes. I have noticed a "swarm of mosquito" effect in dark scenes, and while I know that I should look at the object that is focused on in a scene, my eyes wander to look at everything and I invariably notice the mosquito effect. I know I should calibrate it, but after reading personal reviews on the calibration discs (Avia and DVE), I think they might be too complicated for me. Any ideas?

Also, I rented two DVDs tonight. Both of the DVDs could not be viewed on the whole screen, which bothered me for two reasons: 1) I am trying to keep black bars off of the screen during this initial period of ownership (per recommendations from others on this forum) and 2) why did I but this tv if I can not see the whole screen (my wife was nice enough to make this comment :) ). I switched to component (as opposed to HDMI) because the only screen one can see when using HDMI is "full". The components let me view the other four settings, including "cinema", but none of these settings allowed me to view the DVDs on the entire screen. Both DVD versions were widescreen format. Any ideas about what I am doing wrong here?

Thanks in advance for any advice.[/QUOTE]


I've been viewing those type of DVD in zoom mode.. little annoying but don't want to risk the burn in in the first 100 hours...

[pstrisik]

[QUOTE=socaltransplant]Ok, I know plasmas have some challenges with dark scenes, but the factory settings on the pdp-4214 do not minimze problems with dark scenes. I have noticed a "swarm of mosquito" effect in dark scenes, and while I know that I should look at the object that is focused on in a scene, my eyes wander to look at everything and I invariably notice the mosquito effect. I know I should calibrate it, but after reading personal reviews on the calibration discs (Avia and DVE), I think they might be too complicated for me. Any ideas?

Also, I rented two DVDs tonight. Both of the DVDs could not be viewed on the whole screen, which bothered me for two reasons: 1) I am trying to keep black bars off of the screen during this initial period of ownership (per recommendations from others on this forum) and 2) why did I but this tv if I can not see the whole screen (my wife was nice enough to make this comment :) ). I switched to component (as opposed to HDMI) because the only screen one can see when using HDMI is "full". The components let me view the other four settings, including "cinema", but none of these settings allowed me to view the DVDs on the entire screen. Both DVD versions were widescreen format. Any ideas about what I am doing wrong here?

Thanks in advance for any advice.[/QUOTE]
You are seeing movies the way the director intended, with wider than 16:9 aspect ratio. If you really want to fill the screen, the best way is to zoom the picture so at least it doesn't get distorted. The cost of doing this is missing information from the sides of the picture and often some degradation in PQ. The Pio has a zoom mode, but many DVD players allow a variable zoom to fit the vertical space more precisely.

[kmramos]

Please do a search or google aspect ratio. All movies are not shot in the same aspect ratios and therefore you will have black bars on the top or bottom. Some movies are even close to 4:3 (black bars on the sides). An example of this is a little flick called Citizen Kane.

[socaltransplant]

Thanks for those who responed to the aspect ratio question. I appreciate the search term for google, as I was clueless! Any recommendations about the mosquito effect? Also, am I correct in assuming that calibration of a plasma involves going into the service menu, not the display menu where I can tweak the color, contrast, brightness, etc.?

[tiger3p]

I purchased an OTA from Radio Shack and for some reason it's not picking up anytihng when I connect it to the digital input. I go to scan channel and the quality is 80% but the one at the bottom of that is 0%.. not really sure what else to do. Antenna Web shows I'm 16 miles from the tower.

[av_eddie]

[QUOTE=tiger3p]How does the OTA works? where did u buy it?? You happen to have a pix of it?[/QUOTE]

The Directv HD Tivo uses an antenna for local channels. It has a built in tuner. Got it from Directv.

I have a 'Stealth' Channel Master antenna that is in attic that works for me. I used a diplexer so I wouldn't have to run any cables.

Hope this helps

[av_eddie]

[QUOTE=socaltransplant]Ok, I know plasmas have some challenges with dark scenes, but the factory settings on the pdp-4214 do not minimze problems with dark scenes. I have noticed a "swarm of mosquito" effect in dark scenes, and while I know that I should look at the object that is focused on in a scene, my eyes wander to look at everything and I invariably notice the mosquito effect. I know I should calibrate it, but after reading personal reviews on the calibration discs (Avia and DVE), I think they might be too complicated for me. Any ideas?

Also, I rented two DVDs tonight. Both of the DVDs could not be viewed on the whole screen, which bothered me for two reasons: 1) I am trying to keep black bars off of the screen during this initial period of ownership (per recommendations from others on this forum) and 2) why did I but this tv if I can not see the whole screen (my wife was nice enough to make this comment :) ). I switched to component (as opposed to HDMI) because the only screen one can see when using HDMI is "full". The components let me view the other four settings, including "cinema", but none of these settings allowed me to view the DVDs on the entire screen. Both DVD versions were widescreen format. Any ideas about what I am doing wrong here?

Thanks in advance for any advice.[/QUOTE]

I just bought the 4214, my first HD tv, so I am no expert, but I used DVE and found that it helped a lot (as long as there is plenty of light). You just have to pay attention and go back over things that are not clear.
That being said, I'm not sure that I am happy with the way dark scenes look. I'm seeing the same things you are. The DVE helped with lighter scenes (most of what is on), but the darker ones are not so good in my opinion. Thinking about returning the set and looking for better low light performance.

[socaltransplant]

Av_eddie, does DVE require that you access and tweak the service menu or does it just require tweaking of color/brightness/contrast etc.? I rented The Incredibles which has the THX optimizer, so I performed a very cheap version of calibration. I did the calibration twice and now I am pretty happy with it. I have noticed that shows in 1080i like HDNet look amazing but anything not in 1080i do not look so great. I watched Chronicles of Riddick - HBO High Def - and it looked amazing. I did not experience the mosquito effect once. I wonder if, like many of my friends have lameneted, there is not enough content available yet to truly enjoy this or any other tv.

I selfishly hope you keep yours because I would like us to solve the mosquito effect when it does occur and I really like the tv despite the issues. If you do take it back, please let me know what you get and whether your new tv addresses this issue.

[jkru]

[QUOTE=socaltransplant]Ok, I know plasmas have some challenges with dark scenes, but the factory settings on the pdp-4214 do not minimze problems with dark scenes. I have noticed a "swarm of mosquito" effect in dark scenes, and while I know that I should look at the object that is focused on in a scene, my eyes wander to look at everything and I invariably notice the mosquito effect. I know I should calibrate it, but after reading personal reviews on the calibration discs (Avia and DVE), I think they might be too complicated for me. Any ideas?

Also, I rented two DVDs tonight. Both of the DVDs could not be viewed on the whole screen, which bothered me for two reasons: 1) I am trying to keep black bars off of the screen during this initial period of ownership (per recommendations from others on this forum) and 2) why did I but this tv if I can not see the whole screen (my wife was nice enough to make this comment :) ). I switched to component (as opposed to HDMI) because the only screen one can see when using HDMI is "full". The components let me view the other four settings, including "cinema", but none of these settings allowed me to view the DVDs on the entire screen. Both DVD versions were widescreen format. Any ideas about what I am doing wrong here?

Thanks in advance for any advice.[/QUOTE]

That mosquito effect is due to MPEG encodeing it should be worse on some providers than others. In a nut shell some advanced decoders such as DVDO will help smooth these artifacts but other than that there is not much you can do about it.

[socaltransplant]

If I understand you correctly, this has nothing to do with the tv? So, it does not make sense for me to switch to a Panny, as this issue would not be resolved with a Panny?

[jkru]

[QUOTE=socaltransplant]If I understand you correctly, this has nothing to do with the tv? So, it does not make sense for me to switch to a Panny, as this issue would not be resolved with a Panny?[/QUOTE]

Most likely not. Also if you adjust your black and white levels appropriately on the set it should be less noticable. I recommend the Avia disc this helps alot. Here is a link that describes this better.

http://www.doc.ic.ac.uk/~nd/surprise_96/journal/vol4/sab/report.html#probs

[av_eddie]

[QUOTE=socaltransplant]Av_eddie, does DVE require that you access and tweak the service menu or does it just require tweaking of color/brightness/contrast etc.? I rented The Incredibles which has the THX optimizer, so I performed a very cheap version of calibration. I did the calibration twice and now I am pretty happy with it. I have noticed that shows in 1080i like HDNet look amazing but anything not in 1080i do not look so great. I watched Chronicles of Riddick - HBO High Def - and it looked amazing. I did not experience the mosquito effect once. I wonder if, like many of my friends have lameneted, there is not enough content available yet to truly enjoy this or any other tv.

I selfishly hope you keep yours because I would like us to solve the mosquito effect when it does occur and I really like the tv despite the issues. If you do take it back, please let me know what you get and whether your new tv addresses this issue.[/QUOTE]

I did not access the service menu when using DVE, but I have not accessed all of the dvd to see if it goes into it. I get all of my local channels over the air (Directv), which I am under the impression are not compressed (please correct me if wrong). If this is correct, then it would seem that testing the mosquito problem on one of the local channels would be the best way to see if it was a problem with the tv. I still see the problem with these channels - only if there varying levels of 'darkness', instead of a solid dark color. I am surprised the Riddick movie did not show any problems - if I see it come on HBO I'll watch some of it. Do you mind sharing your settings? Perhaps it is just the way I have it set up - I am sure that I have a lot to learn about calibration. The thing that makes me not want to change my settings is that most of what I see is amazing. Maybe the Avia disc is better. I don't have any experience with it.

I watched Kingdom of Heaven on DVD - its many dark scenes really drove me crazy.

As far as the HD content, of course I would like to see more, but my Tivo helps a lot in having something in HD available when I want to watch it.


Ed

[B N NorCal]

This TV is driving me crazy. I originally bought a Pioneer I believe it was the PDP-4310 from Costco in Feb. 2005 It was an awesome TV worked perfect until about a month ago the power supply blew out the TV and it no longer worked so I returned it and thought I was upgrading to the PDP-4214HD since the 4214 had a built in HD turner and the 4310 did not. Well I'm very dissapointed in the 4214. I must have received a defected one! When every I change my cable box to 720p or 1080i Most of the HD channels have light lines that go in and out of the picture, It does not do it on regular channels or with the DVD player but always for the HD channels (except commercials they play fine) I first thought it was my cable box so I have had the cable guy come out twice already and he brought new boxes each time but I still have the same problem the cable guys also checked all the lines inside and outside of the house and say everything looks good. The preset settings on the 4214 are also horrible (unless it is just mine) I have to use the User settings if I change the settings to Dynamic or Movie the picture is just way to dark which really is disappointing since the Dynamic setting on the 4310 looked great. For being a newer model this plasma is not as good quality as the other. It's probably my fault for not registering my 4310, so I did not know about the power supply problem until it was to late but with these 2 problems I think I am done with buying Pioneer Plasmas. I think I will return this one and just get the Maxent 42in plasma Costco now has, they have it right next to the 4214 on display and even though it is about $900 cheaper it appears to come in clearer.

[B N NorCal]

Ok thought I would post an update. I returned the Pioneer and picked up the Maxent, the problem was with the Pioneer because I no longer have the lines fading in and out (I can finally watch HD again). Also the Maxent is a lot brighter than the Pioneer I can actually use the pre-set settings with no problem as the pre-set settings (Dynamic, Movie, etc)on the Pioneer made everything way to dark , so far I am very pleased with going with the much cheaper TV. Hopefully it will last but I do not see how it can be any worse since I went throught 2 Pioneer's in less than a year.

[razz1234]

Hello everyone,

I'm new here but not to HT forums and I have done a bit of research on the PDP-4214 Costco model, as well as many other Pioneer models.

I contacted Pioneer's Plasma department regarding this model. After reading this post I found this very important to register here and pass on what I have been told because I feel there is some "misleading" going on by Pioneer regarding their new models.

I have spoke to (2) different Pioneer reps who both told me the following about the "PDP-4214":

Pioneers makes only (1) 42 inch model and it can only be found at Costco. This is NOT the same plasma TV as the 6th generation Pioneers are putting out. This model is what Pioneer calls an "experimental/entry level" model sold at Costco only. Here is the scoop on it:

* It is 42" not 43" like the rest of the Pioneer models

* It does NOT have the "ACE III 10 bit processing" Not even ACE I or II. This helps increase the total amount of colors and shades of darkness too.

* It does NOT have the "Pure Drive" which keeps the signal in a lossless digital domain.

* It does NOT have the "Advanced Pure Cinima with 3-3 pull down" making the picture more smooth and film-like

* It does have "Noise Reduction" only. I was told this is a stripped down version

* They did give it the "1st Surface Pure Color Filter" that started with the PDP-4350 line or 5th Generation line.

I was very disapointed when she told me this. With this in mind you are much better off buying the older model like the PDP-4345/(costco PDP-4312) or equivilant industrial model and getting new connection cards. Both Reps told me to keep my PDP-4312 because it's a far better picture than the new PDP-4214.

There is NOTHING in this model that even relates to the new 6th Generation Pioneer models such as the PDP-4360 or PDP-5060. Please do not think you are getting an equal product for less.

On the other hand, Costco is selling the equivilant to the PDP-5050 for an excellent price.

Mainly, my point is just avoid any "42 inch" Pioneer plasma as they are NOT close to the newer technology.

[A Buck]

I also purchased the 4214 from COSTCO and am generally happy. I really like the OTA HD and DVD picture. The regular D* feed leaves a little to be desired (a fair amount of smudge/mesquito. I like the look, it has a lot of input components and the HD is great. I'll be interested to see how D* HD is when I upgrade. I agree about the menu being a little slow. Because I haven't owned anything else, it's kinda hard to compare.

[jkru]

[QUOTE=razz1234]Hello everyone,

I'm new here but not to HT forums and I have done a bit of research on the PDP-4214 Costco model, as well as many other Pioneer models.

I contacted Pioneer's Plasma department regarding this model. After reading this post I found this very important to register here and pass on what I have been told because I feel there is some "misleading" going on by Pioneer regarding their new models.

I have spoke to (2) different Pioneer reps who both told me the following about the "PDP-4214":

Pioneers makes only (1) 42 inch model and it can only be found at Costco. This is NOT the same plasma TV as the 6th generation Pioneers are putting out. This model is what Pioneer calls an "experimental/entry level" model sold at Costco only. Here is the scoop on it:

* It is 42" not 43" like the rest of the Pioneer models

* It does NOT have the "ACE III 10 bit processing" Not even ACE I or II. This helps increase the total amount of colors and shades of darkness too.

* It does NOT have the "Pure Drive" which keeps the signal in a lossless digital domain.

* It does NOT have the "Advanced Pure Cinima with 3-3 pull down" making the picture more smooth and film-like

* It does have "Noise Reduction" only. I was told this is a stripped down version

* They did give it the "1st Surface Pure Color Filter" that started with the PDP-4350 line or 5th Generation line.

I was very disapointed when she told me this. With this in mind you are much better off buying the older model like the PDP-4345/(costco PDP-4312) or equivilant industrial model and getting new connection cards. Both Reps told me to keep my PDP-4312 because it's a far better picture than the new PDP-4214.

There is NOTHING in this model that even relates to the new 6th Generation Pioneer models such as the PDP-4360 or PDP-5060. Please do not think you are getting an equal product for less.

On the other hand, Costco is selling the equivilant to the PDP-5050 for an excellent price.

Mainly, my point is just avoid any "42 inch" Pioneer plasma as they are NOT close to the newer technology.[/QUOTE]

Interesting, three different people at pioneer, three different answers. From the data I have collected everything above is correct. The screen itself is 6th generation. I know this as a fact. (Cells itself)

[nhbob]

RAZZ!@#$ says On the other hand, Costco is selling the equivilant to the PDP-5050 for an excellent price.

Can you telll me the model number and possibly the SKU of this set? When did you see it?

[A Buck]

What does 6th generation mean? Is that a bad thing?

[jkru]

[QUOTE=A Buck]What does 6th generation mean? Is that a bad thing?[/QUOTE]

That is a good question. My guess would be it is the cell composition. I do know that it the current builds on the previous and that 6th generation was just released not that long ago. Can someone else elaborate?

Thanks

[tiger3p]

I don't have the best digital camera but here's an HD image of the WVU vs. Cinci game..

[razz1234]

nhbob,

The Costco model is PDP-50A5HD and is the equivilant to the PDP-5050.

I tried to post a link but this site won't let me do that because I'm new.

Just go to Costco's home web site and look under TV's, then Plasmas, then under Pioneer 50inch.


(PLEASE DO NOT POST ANY RETAIL DIRECT LINKS OR TALK ABOUT PRICING- THIS IS NOT ALLOWED)

[Gandu]

I've had mine about 2 months now and am very happy with it. Fortunately, my cable signal is strong and clean so Standard Def channels look good. I use the 'wide' mode from my cable box (SA 8300 DVR) and it looks fine, even the reporters on local newscasts have normal-sized heads. HDTV is absolutely beautiful :eek: Even using a non-upconverting, progressive scan DVD player, some newer DVD's are almost HD-like. No complaints on that front. After the break-in period, I've been playing more and more PS2 games via S-video input. This is a very nice panel for gaming, good color, no lag from the controller inputs, no voice/sound sync issues, crisp picture with only extremely rare instances of momentary pixellation. I'm not sure if that is the panel, the game or my very old PS2 causing it, but I have seen it. As for 'Burn In' from the on screen power bars and maps, there isn't any. I started out conservatively, 30 min then 45 min, etc with no problems and have played the same game 3+ hours, no problems. There is a slight image retention, but after 10 min on a full screen HDTV channel, the retained image is gone. I don't know if I would be so brave if I didn't buy this at Costco. I would not intentionally abuse the panel then return it, but I feel it should perform the normal functions expected of a display made in 2005, without lasting damage.

Fellow owners please check in with your comments -- Let's bring this thread back to life.

[Gandu]

Thanks for the info SoCal. After I watch the Chargers win tomorrow (in HD, of course) I think I may just drop by Costco too.

[mobits]

So, just so I'm clear, the 4214 does NOT have a media receiver?

[pookguy]

I picked one up over the weekend because it's Costco. This is my first plasma and so far it looks pretty good but I had a Samsung DLP and I'm not like really WOWED over it. I haven't calibrated it yet so maybe when I do that it'll better. Right now I have the contrast and brightness turned down to around 30. I notice alot of the mosquito effect on the blacks and the HD channels aren't really as crisp as my DLP. But again it'll be better once I have it broken in and calibrated. I am disappointed that there's only one HDMI and no cable card slot. I'll give it a whirl and see if I like it enough.

[av_eddie]

I tried out the 4214, but I was really disappointed with the tv's performance when dealing with dark scenes. I ordered the th-50phd8uk and am much happier.
The 4214 was my first plasma, so I didn't know what to expect as far as image retention, but now that I have the Panny I realize that the 4214 really is much worse in dealing with after images. I never see them now, but I would see 'ghost' images on the 4214 whenever the screen was black.

[kiwitv]

I checked with Pioneer customer service on the PDP-4214 sold at Costco about its specs and here is their response. They compare it to their business model. Any thoughts are appreciated.
****************************************************************
The PDP4214 is the same Plasma as below.
>
> The spec's are the same they just added speakers and a sound and video
> card and TV tuner.
>
> PDP-424MV
>
> Specifications
>
> Effective Screen Size (W x H) 36-1/4" x 20-13/32" (921 x 518 mm) (42in.
> Diag.)
> Aspect Ratio 16:9
> Number of Pixels 853 (Hor) x 480 (Ver)
> Pixel Pitch 1.08mm (Hor/RGB trio) x 1.08mm (Ver.)
> Dimensions (W x H x D) 40-3/32" x 24-1/32" x 3-1/2"
> Weight 62 lbs. 13 oz.
> Power Consumption 270W (0.9W at stand by)
> Power Requirements AC 100-240V+/- 10%, 50/60Hz
> Operating Temperature 32 F - 104 F
> Operating Humidity 20% - 80%
> Safter Regulations UL60950-1, CSA C22.2, No. 60950-1/FCC class B
>
> Input Terminals
>
>
> Connector Signals
> PC1* Mini D-sub 15 pin Analog RGB Signal (G on Sync compatible)
> Compatible with Microsoft Plug & Play (VESA DDC 1/2 B)
>
> Component1 RCA x 3 Component Video Signal
> PC2/Component2 BNC x 5 Analog RGB Signal (G on Sync compatible)
> Component Video Signal
>
> PC3 DVI-D 24pin Digital RGB Signal (DVI 1.0 w HDCP)
> Compatible with Microsoft Plug & Play (VESA DDC 2B)
>
> Video 1* BNC x 1 Composite Video Signal
> Video 2 RCA x 1 Composite Video Signal
> Video 3 Mini DIN 4Pin(S terminal) x 1 Y/C Separate Video Signal
>
> * PC1 and Video 1 can also be used as output terminals
>
> Audio Input/Output Terminals
>
>
> Connector
> Audio1 IN RCA pin x 2
> Audio2 IN RCA pin x 2
> Audio3 IN RCA pin x 2
> Speaker OUT
>
> Audio inputs are selectable to each video input.
>
> Control Terminals
>
>
> RS-232C (for control of computer) Connector Baud Rate D-sub 9Pin (Cross
> Cable) 9600 bps
> Remote Control IN/OUT Connector Mini jack (x2)

[allmo]

Kiwitv,

I am a newbie and I don't own a Pioneer 4214. But just from reading this thread the 4214 can not be just a dressed up Pioneer 424MV (added tuner, speakers, and card only).

1. A few posts from owners of the 4214 report HDMI connection findings and the 424MV does not have an HDMI port, according to Pioneer electronics webpage and the specs you provided.

2. More importantly, according to Pioneer electronics webpage, the native resolution of the 424MV is 853x480 (as you have listed); whereas the costco model 4214 is billed as having a native resolution of 1024x768. If the latter is wrong, this would surely be a case of false advertising.

I am considering the 4214, but I am now concerned that I may be purchasing a
plasma edtv which is billed as hdtv. ------


Please can anyone shed some light on these conflicting specs. ---- I mean we should at least get the advertised specs right before going into in depth
set up and viewing analysis - especially comparison analysis ----- since the plasma edtv is a different animal with a different price point.

[socaltransplant]

The native resolution is 1024x768. It is hd, not ed. Hope that helps.

[earth station]

Has anyone calibrated their set yet? I'm curious what everyone's settings are.

I eyeballed mine, tweak after tweak after tweak (haven't got a disc yet)

Brightness 55
Contrast 45
Sharpness 30
Color 45
Tint 0
Color temp. Low

I wonder how much this will change with a disc :D

p.s. I also used HBO's off-air colors bars off my dvr. Don't know how accurate that would be since it's an SD image, compressed no less.

[tpok]

[QUOTE=hmeseller]I posted this on other threads, but thought it applied here as well..

I spoke to Pioneer, on Friday October 14th. The pdp-4214 and 42a3HD are identical sets aside from cosmetic differences. It is in fact a 6th generation screen. The tv was released within the last month or so. In fact, according to Pioneer, it's so new that they do not even have specs available for an adapter plate. I ordered a Peerless PLA-1 articulating mount and a PION50 adapter plate, which also fits nearly all other 43 and 50" Pioneers. I soon discovered that this set has different bolt spacing than the others, so the plate does not fit. Peerless does not as of yet manufacture a dedicated adapter plate due to the tv being so new, (although they may have a universal adapter plate which will work). However, after making a call to my retailer, they said Peerless will send me a prototype (dedicated) adapter plate for this TV. Once the correct fit it made, they will start offering it for sale immediately. How's that for service! Overall, I am thrilled with this set, and the price is great....plus it's Costco and you gotta love how they stand behind the items they sell.[/QUOTE]

I need a mounting bracket, preferably a pivoting one for the wall for the pdp4214hd. Can anyone help?

[ninerpig]

Had My Tv Calibrated And The Blacks Still Look Bad Colors Perfect I Have The Code To Get Into The Service Menu If Anyone Needs It. I Would Like Some One To Tell Me The Factory Setting Numbers On The Greyscale For Mines Have Been Readjusted By The Calibrater He Also Told Me This Tv Is A Nightmare To Try To Adjust Dark Seens They Look Like Negatives

[earth station]

[QUOTE=ninerpig]Had My Tv Calibrated And The Blacks Still Look Bad Colors Perfect I Have The Code To Get Into The Service Menu If Anyone Needs It. I Would Like Some One To Tell Me The Factory Setting Numbers On The Greyscale For Mines Have Been Readjusted By The Calibrater He Also Told Me This Tv Is A Nightmare To Try To Adjust Dark Seens They Look Like Negatives[/QUOTE]


ninerpig i would definitely like the code for the service menu and how to get into it. i had mine calibrated also. i noticed that on all inputs except hdmi the black level auto adjust is happening depending on what is displayed on the screen. dark scenes is fine. it's when there is a mixture of dark and light with a little more motion. I'm hoping their's a setting in the service menu that I can deactivate this because I do prefer component over hdmi.

as far as the factory settings they are as follows (all ridiculously high). All are default to mid for color temp.

Standard

Brightness 55
Contrast 70
Sharpness 50 :eek:
Color 50
Tint 0


Dynamic

Brightness 50
Contrast 80 :eek:
Sharpness 60 :eek:
Color 43
Tint 0

Movie

Brightness 50
contrast 30
sharpness 30
color 50
tint 0

game

brightness 30
contrast 50
sharpness 10
color 50
tint 0


after calibration i came up with this. mine is set to

brightness 57
contrast 35-45 (tough one to set)
sharpness 5
Color 46
Tint 0
Noise reduction off
color temp low

The difference is brightness over HDMI is a lot higher. I brought HDMI brightness down to 40-45 to match the same 57 i was getting over component.

[Plasdom]

My local costco has a bunch of pioneers in stock. The number is 4241 or something similar. I just looked at pioneer's website and they don't seem to have a 42". Just 43. The 42" at costco looks very similar to the 43". Is the one at costco an old model? It is selling for between $$$ and $$$. I thought it was a good deal for a pioneer so I was going to get it. The only complaints I have heard about Pioneers (especially when compared to Pannys) was the price. so I thought this was a great deal.

EDIT>>

mod note: no price other than MSRP, please. Thanks

[Gandu]

The model number is Pioneer PDP 4214HD
More info here :
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=569935&highlight=4214

Much more info available using the AVS Forum advanced search feature with keyword '4214'

[Hank Perkins]

I picked one up Thursday from Costco. I have found the info here is somewhat limited. When I purchased my Infocus projector 2 years ago the technical info was better. Part of the problem is the number of displays available today. Even at Costco, we have around 15 different flat screens available, not including a couple of projectors, RPTV's and SDTV's. Unfortunately, this particular model is a Costco only Pioneer. It is operationally the same as the PDP-42A3HD. As best I can tell some here don't care for this product, but prefer the Panny 42 or the Toshiba 42. I like Panasonic but don't care for Toshiba as I have had service and warranty issues with Toshiba products. I have not seen any Panasonic displays at Costco for a while and for me buying at Costco because of the return policy is a no brainer.

That said, I really like the display for the dollars. It has all the punch I have seen on Pioneer Plasms over the last several years. As mine has begun to break in and as I adjust the settings I am more and more satisfied. Should you choose to purchase this piece I offer the following advice: turn down the brightness and contrast, and keep her in a 16:9 full screen image for the first 200 hours without any static images (don't leave it on espn or the logo will burn in).

This is my first HD display to have a SD tuner, HD tuner, 2 component, and HDMI inputs. With my Comcast HD-DVR box I am recording 2 programs while I watch the NFC game over the air. really cool. And yes the TV has Digital audio out as well. I rate this display as a well designed product with a super picture. Now I just need to match her up with a good DVD player.

[Woodrow]

threads merged

[NatasNJ]

Any other reviews?

[dukmahsik]

i wouldn't get this set as it doesn't have all of pio's advanced features in it... keep in mind, pio only makes 43in sets... this ones just for costco

[baimo]

Its a great set for that price. I put one in my bedroom and love it.

[Gandu]

[QUOTE=dukmahsik]i wouldn't get this set as it doesn't have all of pio's advanced features in it... keep in mind, pio only makes 43in sets... this ones just for costco[/QUOTE]

Are you somehow claiming Pioneer didn't manufacture this set? If so, please provide some proof or refrain from spreading disinformation.

Perhaps for some of us, the "Advanced Features" are not worth the several hundred dollars price difference.

[jkru]

I dont think he's saying that pio didnt manufacture the set. He is right this set was a stripped down model for Costco. The set is awsome for the price even without the advanced ACE processing etc. The quality of the set is still pio standards. As for the size pio does make 6th generation 42's for commercial applications.

[mpegripper]

so has there been a conclusion as to what this is?

6th gen with all the features
6th gen without a lot of features
rebadged something else
3rd gen
etc
etc
etc

[Argetni]

I would buy this from Feb 13-19 if I were you...

Gonna party like its 1.9.9.9

[zwydon]

I have had the 4214 for three weeks and I have an issue with black, dark colors pixellating or iridescing colors across the black. I use the 211HD box from dish network. If anyone could tell me their settings. Other than this slightly irritating point the tv is great.

[earth station]

[QUOTE=zwydon]I have had the 4214 for three weeks and I have an issue with black, dark colors pixellating or iridescing colors across the black. I use the 211HD box from dish network. If anyone could tell me their settings. Other than this slightly irritating point the tv is great.[/QUOTE]

You have to lighten up the G Bias setting in the service menu as this set is too dark out of the box. It's defaulted to 128. I moved mine up to around 95 and it greatly improved the black level. The dark color problems will never go away, but you can get the majority of it out.

[baimo]

[QUOTE=earth station]You have to lighten up the G Bias setting in the service menu as this set is too dark out of the box. It's defaulted to 128. I moved mine up to around 95 and it greatly improved the black level. The dark color problems will never go away, but you can get the majority of it out.[/QUOTE]

sent you a PM

[appearance69]

[QUOTE=earth station]You have to lighten up the G Bias setting in the service menu as this set is too dark out of the box. It's defaulted to 128. I moved mine up to around 95 and it greatly improved the black level. The dark color problems will never go away, but you can get the majority of it out.[/QUOTE]


are there any other changes you would recommend under the service menu?
thanks,
a69

[appearance69]

[QUOTE=ninerpig]Had My Tv Calibrated And The Blacks Still Look Bad Colors Perfect I Have The Code To Get Into The Service Menu If Anyone Needs It. I Would Like Some One To Tell Me The Factory Setting Numbers On The Greyscale For Mines Have Been Readjusted By The Calibrater He Also Told Me This Tv Is A Nightmare To Try To Adjust Dark Seens They Look Like Negatives[/QUOTE]

I need the code thanks!
A69

[earth station]

[QUOTE=appearance69]are there any other changes you would recommend under the service menu?
thanks,
a69[/QUOTE]


No, G Gain and Bias settings is all I would mess with. I forgot to mention above that these settings only affect Composite/Component inputs. HDMI does not utilize this setting and as far as I have found you are stuck with the darker setting using HDMI.

[earth station]

[QUOTE=appearance69]I need the code thanks!
A69[/QUOTE]


sent you a PM

[zwydon]

[QUOTE=earth station]You have to lighten up the G Bias setting in the service menu as this set is too dark out of the box. It's defaulted to 128. I moved mine up to around 95 and it greatly improved the black level. The dark color problems will never go away, but you can get the majority of it out.[/QUOTE]


Thanks, though I don't know how to get in the service menu and to the G Bias. You are talking about the 4214HD.

[appearance69]

I spoke to pioneer this morning and the reason this model is cheaper is because it doesn't have the ACE IV technology. This is very apparent when watching SD signals...due to the fact that the Television doesn't reprocess the signal or upscale it. the blacks aren't as black and you get smearing or artifacting...If you are planning to watch mainly hd signal and component dvd...you should be fine with this set...however if you watch a lot of sd signal...you may not be satisfied...for whats its worth...
A69

Taken directly from Pioneer electronics website:

Colors Abound: Advanced Continuous Emission IV (ACE IV)
To say that a sunset is golden, or an ocean is blue, only gives part of any picture. In real life, there are an infinite number of colors in any one scene. A quality plasma display paints each and every shade of each and every color to create a believable image.

Pioneer's Advanced Continuous Emission IV (ACE IV) works in conjunction with the Crystal Emissive Layer in the glass to reduce the visual steps between levels of color, making color transitions smoother than ever before. As the plasma detects the type of content shown on the screen-from dark to light, or slow to fast-this amazing technology dynamically adjusts the grayscale to create optimum viewing qualities.

As a result, ACE IV delivers billions of colors. The extra grayscale steps also keep blacks truly black and enable finer gradations in darkness. With all this subtle color, you'd need to be a poet to describe a Pioneer sunset.

[junaid]

I just bought this TV at Costco yesterday. I am pretty happy with the set. Its a lot better than a LCD TV I used in the past. OTA HD stuff is great to watch on it. However I have a few questions.

1. Lots of people seem pretty concerned about burn-in and keeping settings low for the first 200 hours. Yet I read the manual and it makes no mention of this apart from talking about a screen saver/orbiter that is supposed to prevent burn-in from happening. I have been watching OTA HDTV and DVDs in standard/movie modes. I have been zooming everything to fill the screen but haven't bothered to keep brightness/contrast low. Should I be worried that the high brightness/contrast in movie/standard modes will hurt the longevity of the set or cause burn-in? Any recommendations or personal experience with burn-in ?

2. I noticed some of the annoying mosquitoes in dark pictures. Also pictures with lots of bright and dark areas seem highly unnatural, grainy and pixellated (specifically scenes in Kill Bill vol 2 where Uma and her mentor are sitting around a campfire and also when she is breaking out of a coffin with a flashlight). I was able to reduce some of these artifacts by playing with brightness and contrast but could not eliminate it. I also tried playing the same DVD with my older non-progressive DVD player hooked up via component and a newer Toshiba upconverting DVD player hooked up to HDMI. The new one seems to have more of the above-mentioned artifacts but sharper picture. Older is fuzzy but has less mosquitoes and graininess. Is this just the way things are supposed to be on plasma TVs or is it a problem with this model ? Is it a function of the picture settings ?

3. How does one get into the service menu ? Do you need to hook some thing to the service port or is it a code you punch on the remote?

Thanks,

Junaid

[bad_boy]

instruction & service menu request pio 4214
please PM me thanks in advance

[dukmahsik]

i think costco is having a huge sale on this puppy in a week

[generalnewbie]

Yes they are as my dad just informed me that he is considering this now instead of the panasonic i was hoping he would get.

Can someone tell me if theres any other PIO that costco has in a 42 in or is this the only model? If so then i believe this is the TV he will be getting and i do hope its not OLD technology and he will be disappointed. Is there a different model that costco has that i should sway him towards?

[dukmahsik]

i think there is only one costco 42in model... the pdp 4214 in question. however the technology in that set isn't the latest and greatest from pio. it lacks ACE IV and a few other features.

[Gandu]

bad_boy and junaid --- check your PM

[bowman9000]

Long time lurker and first time poster.

I am so sorry to ask for the same help again. Could any of you be so kind enough and PM me the details about the service menu access and its preferred settings?

Many many thanks in advance.

[Gandu]

It seems like there are several Pioneer 4214 owners interested in delving into the service menu to calibrate their sets. There is an existing thread in the Display Calibration forum, specifically for the 4214. This can be a great resource for exchanging information, tips and suggested settings. Go to the thread and at least drop a quick post to check in.

Pioneer PDP-4214HD Display Calibration thread: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=634609


bowman9000 -- check pm

[leiff]

is this pio the best 42" PDP costco has to offer or should I wait till next months vizio comes out?

[Cakes]

[QUOTE=chinatti]I saw this unit in my local Costco, but don't see it on the Costco website (or anywhere else for that matter). Does anyone have any details on this set? I purchased a PDP-4312 recently, and I was wondering how this newer set compares... Thanks in advance.[/QUOTE]

I emailed Pioneer about this TV. I specifically asked if it was the same as the PDP 42A3HD. They said it's the same TV - only difference is the Costco version (4214) has black vs silver speakers. I have two friends who bought the 42A3HD from Tweeter. They are not audio/videophiles, but they are absolutely thrilled with the set.

I'm going to buy the Costco set 4214HD using a coupon when the sale starts.

John

[av_eddie]

I was very disappointed with the 4214. Darker scenes were handled very poorly in my opinion (mosquitoes and pixelation). I also noticed that I could still see 'ghost' images when the screen went from lighter to dark, or when I had watched a show with the bars on the side. I am comparing this to the Panasonic th-50phd8uk, where the darker scenes look much better and I don't see any 'ghosting' at all. The processing that was taken out must make a huge difference - I am sure that the more expensive Pioneers are better also. At least you can try it and take it back. Perhaps the Vizio will be better.

[baimo]

[QUOTE=av_eddie]I was very disappointed with the 4214. Darker scenes were handled very poorly in my opinion (mosquitoes and pixelation). I also noticed that I could still see 'ghost' images when the screen went from lighter to dark, or when I had watched a show with the bars on the side. I am comparing this to the Panasonic th-50phd8uk, where the darker scenes look much better and I don't see any 'ghosting' at all. The processing that was taken out must make a huge difference - I am sure that the more expensive Pioneers are better also. At least you can try it and take it back. Perhaps the Vizio will be better.[/QUOTE]


I agree. After one month with this set, the newness wore off and the bad dark scenes started to irritate me. I am taking it back tomorrow and going to buy a 4360 from another dealer. I already habe the 50 inch elite and I know how good the better pioneers are.

[oscar71]

Does anyone know if there are Discrete Input Codes anywere to be downloaded?

[joromo]

I am so sorry to ask for the same help again. Could any of you be so kind enough and PM me the details about the service menu access and its preferred settings?

THANKS.....

[pookguy]

I returned mine today too. It might be worth it with the special price for a 2nd set...but personally the quality of it isn't worth it. I was very disappointed. As the previous poster said, once the newness of it wore off, I was left extremely unimpressed with the PQ. I'm thinking of the 4360 too now.

[bad_boy]

[QUOTE=joromo]I am so sorry to ask for the same help again. Could any of you be so kind enough and PM me the details about the service menu access and its preferred settings?

THANKS.....[/QUOTE]


check your PM

[bad_boy]

[QUOTE=Gandu]bad_boy and junaid --- check your PM[/QUOTE]

thanks Gandu

[Cakes]

For those who have not been pleased with the Pioneer 4214, can you give me an idea of how anal you are about your picture - sincere question. I like a nice clear picture, but I'm not a video phile. Also, this is a second TV for the bedroom - I will mainly only watch a few hi-def networks tv shows on it.

Can someone elaborate a little more on the black level issue - what are "mosquitos"?

I figure with the Costco return policy, if I'm not happy, I'll return it anyway. Thanks.

John

[baimo]

[QUOTE=Cakes]For those who have not been pleased with the Pioneer 4214, can you give me an idea of how anal you are about your picture - sincere question. I like a nice clear picture, but I'm not a video phile. Also, this is a second TV for the bedroom - I will mainly only watch a few hi-def networks tv shows on it.

Can someone elaborate a little more on the black level issue - what are "mosquitos"?

I figure with the Costco return policy, if I'm not happy, I'll return it anyway. Thanks.

John

Also[/QUOTE]

Mine was a secondary TV for a bedroom also. I am not extra picky as I had lived with an Akai RPTV for the past 2 years in the BR.
The dark scenes start to smudge and shadows look like they are creeping within themselves.
I tried to live with it for a month, but it became unwatchable0. I would be staring at the poor video quality instead of enjoying the content.
Dont buy it

[pookguy]

Does any recall the exact weight of this unit? I don't remember what it was and can't find the spec for it. I might be moving again soon, so I don't want to lug something that was heavier than that up and down a bunch of stairs.

[j bowl]

There is a Philips 42" Plasma HD set in costco that is slightly less than this Pio on sale.

Can anyone enlighten me on the PQ difference of this two sets in comparison?

Being only about a Benji apart in price, I'm really looking to buy one of them and would like some opinions on the two sets. Thanks in advance.

[alamedadan]

I bought the 4214 at Costco last week (gotta go back this week for my $400 adjustment) and I like it. It's my first HD set so I'm hardly spoiled. I had ordered a Toshiba 42HP95 from onecall; it was backordered but then they told me they would get no more delivered from Toshiba, so I pulled the trigger on the Pio. Really enjoying the Olympics on OTA and Universal HD from D*. I've only had it for a few days but I have not thought for an instant that the picture quality is not acceptable. I'm not an audiophile but I am particular about quality. The only disappointment is the lousy SD picture quality from D*, but that's not the set's fault. And I wish it wasn't so wide (over 48" including speakers for a 42 inch screen) but those are minor quibbles. I felt that it will fit my needs very well until things shake out with the whole 1080p thing, plus I know that Costco will stand behind this purchase. I would definitely recommend this for any first-time plasma purchase. If I had this side by side with a Panny, I might notice a difference. But I don't, and I love my 4214.

[MrJeep]

[QUOTE=j bowl]There is a Philips 42" Plasma HD set in costco that is slightly less than this Pio on sale.

Can anyone enlighten me on the PQ difference of this two sets in comparison?

Being only about a Benji apart in price, I'm really looking to buy one of them and would like some opinions on the two sets. Thanks in advance.[/QUOTE]

1)Pio has a hd tuner build in , Phillips does not
2Pio has only one HDMI input (Phillips has 2 HDMI input)

[KKemp]

[QUOTE=MrJeep]1)Pio has a hd tuner build in , Phillips does not
2Pio has only one HDMI input (Phillips has 2 HDMI input)[/QUOTE]

I'm pretty sure the Philips does have a hd tuner built in. I've been looking at this set and I'm almost certain of it.

[j bowl]

thanks guys but i'm not really worried about the tuner - i'll be using a cablebox.

Has anyone seen the two TVs side by side or had them sequentially and noticed the picture quality difference between the two?

which one is better?

Thanks!

[gotchaforce]

if you go to costco be sure to wait until the sky captain preview shows up, its what made me not buy this TV, when the plane plunges into the water the back levels are ALMOST AS BAD AS LCD! there was so much detail in the scene in every other plasma on the rack at costco, but the pioneer dealt with it really badly

i wanted this TV but looks like im gonna have to wait even longer to make up my mind

[Gandu]

[QUOTE=pookguy]Does any recall the exact weight of this unit? I don't remember what it was and can't find the spec for it. I might be moving again soon, so I don't want to lug something that was heavier than that up and down a bunch of stairs.[/QUOTE]

117 lb in the shipping box.

[automail]

i just bought mine today from Costco. the mosquitos affect is there when viewing dark scenes...Can this be adjusted some how? Would anyone be so kind enough and PM me the details about the service menu access and its preferred settings?

[hle22]

Hello,

I also purchased the 4214HD today. I really like the PQ on bright scenes, but I'm having a really hard time getting the black levels adjusted correctly. Can someone please send me the service instructions? Thanks in advance.

I will post my follow-up once I can get this black situation under control.

[bad_boy]

after 2 weeks i finally give up return this set bcuz its horibble black and poor PQ on every dark scence Mosqito every where , there were 5 4214 retun today at my local Costco, every one mention the same problem when they return
i guess this 4214 set pio just design to watch SCARY movie, it will make you fell even more SCARY during DARK SCENCE bcuz more Mosqito are coming .................
and it will sting your EYE
well to make long story short i paid few hundred more $ and came home HAPPY with a new TH-50PM50U and my buddy also got ED Pany TH-42PM50U
the ED Pany TH-42PM50U immidiately blown away the 4214

[baimo]

[QUOTE=automail]i just bought mine today from Costco. the mosquitos affect is there when viewing dark scenes...Can this be adjusted some how? Would anyone be so kind enough and PM me the details about the service menu access and its preferred settings?[/QUOTE]

I tried everything(sevice menu adjustments also) but could not get this set calibrated reasonably. One of the guys on the forum had an ISF try it and he could not get the blacks to be any better.

Gandu or Bad_boy might have the service menu instructions. I threw mine out when I returned the set.

[dukmahsik]

this set does not use pio's latest tech, therefore it does not have the best pq avail from pio

[pookguy]

[QUOTE=Gandu]117 lb in the shipping box.[/QUOTE]

Wierd, the PDP-50A5HD is listed at 79.4 lbs...???

[gladiator888]

I am new to this forum. I was about to purchase this unit from Costco but after reading all the negative review I am not too sure anymore. I am trying to decide between this unit and the Panasonic TH-42PX500U. I would have to pay about 300 dollar more for the Panasonic. Any input on the Panasonic TH-42PX500U? Thanks.

[dle6]

Hi Does this Pioneer have a "QAM" tuner or just ATSC. Thanks

[Gandu]

[QUOTE=pookguy]Wierd, the PDP-50A5HD is listed at 79.4 lbs...???[/QUOTE]

I was off, it's 114.7 in the box and 89.3 net weight.

http://static.flickr.com/27/99921724_1e669d586b_m.jpg


I will pm the service menu code to hle22 and automail. I haven't made any adjustments so I don't have settings to suggest.

Pioneer PDP-4214HD Display Calibration thread: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=634609

I've had it since early October and generally like it. Some black scenes do have a little 'mosquito' effect but not often enough or severe enough to make me immediately return it. However, since I was a early adopter of this set, the price I paid was about $700 over the current price. It looks like Costco is moving these out to make room for a newer gen of Pioneer 42/43. I think I'll wait to see what they have in a few months before deciding to return or not.

[automail]

thank you Gandu. I was watching Pirates of Caribbeans with my girlfriend tonight. lots of mosquitos and pixelation during many dark scenes. my girlfriend was very surprised that the tv was this bad. but during daylight scenes, the pictures are perfect or at least hard to get better than that. Burn-in was easy to see also. we were watching in normal mode so there are two black bars one on top and one on bottom. during many attempts to adjust the pictures by pressing the menu button, that left a burn-in at the top black bar. also adjusting the vol creates a burn-in on the bottom black bar.

[gotchaforce]

[QUOTE=gladiator888]I am new to this forum. I was about to purchase this unit from Costco but after reading all the negative review I am not too sure anymore. I am trying to decide between this unit and the Panasonic TH-42PX500U. I would have to pay about 300 dollar more for the Panasonic. Any input on the Panasonic TH-42PX500U? Thanks.[/QUOTE]

th-42px500u!! no doubt!

where are you getting it for only $300 more??? PM please :eek:

[Gandu]

[QUOTE=automail]Burn-in was easy to see also. we were watching in normal mode so there are two black bars one on top and one on bottom. during many attempts to adjust the pictures by pressing the menu button, that left a burn-in at the top black bar. also adjusting the vol creates a burn-in on the bottom black bar.[/QUOTE]

Just to be clear, there is a difference between 'Image Retention' and 'Burn In'. IR can be cleared by watching some full screen content for a period of time. On my 4214 I have played PS2 for 2-3 hours with all on-screen maps, power bars, health meters, etc... activated and there was some IR. Watching Discovery HD for 10-15 min always clears any retention away. The sensitivity to IR seems to lessen after 200 hours of use. Burn in is permanent.

[prof_diction]

After reading the posts here and on other websites. I decided the view on this model is 50-50. Yea it has its issue as all tvs do, but unless you are willing to go for the much more expensive units be it panasonic or pioneer or etc... You are going to have issues with all sets. For anyone new to this forum like me and are looking to buy this tv, I called Pioneer tech support rather that customer service because I feel customer service never knows more than what we can read in the manual or on the box. They said the following which agrees with some posts on this thread.

It is exactly the same as the 42a3hd, just different model numbers for different markets. 42a3hd for tweeter for example, 4214 for costco.
The difference between this model and the elite sets like the 4360 or pro-930 are less features and a little less quality. For ex. this has lower quality filters, the 4360 comes with a media box, the less boards in the system, the better quality you get (less interference). 4360 uses ACE IV where the 4214 use ACE III. Less inputs. That being said they said there was only a 10% viewing difference between the two ( don't know how they came up with that #).

They said the pdp-4214 is Gen 6, where some compared it to the 4312 which they said is GEN 5. So this is better. the 432cmx is ment for computes not tv viewing.

[prof_diction]

Sorry, ran out of room.

I purchased this set yesterday. Have not hooked it up, but I have the phillips model costco sells and I am taking it back. That unit is pretty awful (visually) never mind the fact my PIP did not work, it vibrated horribly where you couldn't hear what you watching and it blacked out and so often, but mine could have just been a lemon, but did not have burn in issues, even when watching nbc sports and they keep their logo in the corner the whole time or the stock market.

Anyhow, I plan to hook it up tonight, I am a average JOE Viewer who probably will not mind all the mosquitoes and so forth, but I would like to know the best settings to use on this unit atleast for the first 200 hrs to start (brightness, color and so forth). How does calibrating differ from settings those settings yourself? If there are no differences, can any send me the settings they have after getting their unit calibrated. Is there anything else I need to know about this unit settings? I have comcast.

I saw someone define mosquiting in here before, though when i looked at it I did not think it will kill me, i would like to know what it is again so I can look for it and see how much it bothers me, then again maybe if i do not know, i will not notice or care.lol

[gladiator888]

I found this posting on my local craigslist. I am not sure if I can trust it since this is a big purchase. I email the guy and he told me he is in Houston, TX and will be sending me the unit from there. He requested security service transaction, but i have never heard of that. This could be a scam but i am not too sure.

[junaid]

OK so I have had the set for a week now. I am still torn between general satisfaction with over the air HD broadcasts but poor detail in dark scenes. Basically in any movie with dark scenes the darks kind of merge with each other (example people wearing dark colored suits or a night scene). Any scene with a dark setting and bright light source will have dithered haloes around the light like a stylized painting instead of a real-life picture. If you turn the brightness up to 65+ then the details in the darkness become visible but so does a "buzzing" or noise in any large area of uniform color. This is what I call mosquitoes. Most HD network TV broadcast stuff is fine. PBS nature shows are quite stunning.
I think the problem is exacerbated with the Toshiba upconverting DVD player I bought from costco the same time I bought the TV. My old Sony seems to do a better job with fewer artifacts. I have tinkered with all the settings including delving into the service menu and trying to calibrate it using the Digital Video Essentials DVD but to no avail. I went back to the local costco and viewed this TV on display next to the other TVs. I still think there is something wrong with its black levels. There was a 37" Vizio LCD next to this set that seemed to have much better black levels. Usually its the LCD sets that have a problem with detail in the dark scenes. Bottom line is that I am planning to take this one back and also try to hook up my DVD player to some other sets in the store to establish if its a problem endemic to plasmas or just this TV.

[hle22]

Has anyone been able to use the audio output (in the monitor out section) on the 4214HD? I'm trying to use a set of Sony speakers from my old TV on this unit and can't seem to get any audio out of them. I am using a HD cable box plugged into the component1 of the PIO. According to the manual, the monitor out plugs are supposed to work.

With my old sony, when I plugged the RCA cables of the speakers to the output ports on the TV it would turn on when the TV turns on. Am I missing something? If I plug the speakers to the output ports of my cable box or to the DVD player it works, but I can't control the volume with the TV. Hope someone can help...

Thanks!

[bowman9000]

I played around with the service menu and various settings to see if I can get rid of the mosquito effect in dark scenes and went nowhere. I then reset the settings back and used Avia to calibrate. Here's what I have it set to after the calibration:
Brightness: 69
Contrast: 45
Sharpness: 0
Color: 42
Tint: 0
And I ended up leaving the rest to default (Noise Reduction & Temp).

It still has a little bit of the mosquito effect but it's less than my previous settings. One thing about the dark scene problem is that it seems that it has mostly to do with green. If we can somewhat eliminate the swarming green then it would mostly solve it. I do like the overall color of this set and one thing I notice is that the color is quite natural compared to the super-bright Samsung LCD I have. And this naturalness was what drew me to this set in the first place. It seems quite realistic compared to some other flat panels.

If I can totally get rid of the dark scene problem then this set would be perfect for me. Then again this could be a trade off for an "affordable" plasma.

I bought this set from Tweeter (42A3HD) over a month ago and was fretting about returning it after about a couple of weeks. But then again a step up would cost me about $500 (the Panny). And even that one might have a resolution issue.

In the end I figured that this for what I need, itis quite ok for the price that I paid.

(Though I still hope someone would come up with some tricks on the service menu and who knows, maybe the dark scene issue can be solved!)

[VTOrganix]

Hello everyone,

I have reviewed every post in this thread, taking the good and bad with a grain of salt. This is, until I set this puppy up.

After about 50 hours, I'm having considerably less Image Retention issues, and if I play with the PQ settings I can get a decent image with HD programming.

Of course though, I am having serious issues with Black levels. Like the poster before me, I feel like the biggest problems are with shades of black that have green or really any other standard color mixed in.

It really is strange though, b/c the problems come and go from scene to scene, channel to channel, input to input.
Although a great bargain, $2k is still alot of dough to shell out for such big dissapointments every 4 or 5 scenes.

If someone would be so kind as to PM the service code, I would greatly appreciate it. Although I don;t think you can out configure the shortcomings of this display, I would sure like to fiddle with it some more before making my final decision.

[bonedog]

[QUOTE=gladiator888]I found this posting on my local craigslist. I am not sure if I can trust it since this is a big purchase. I email the guy and he told me he is in Houston, TX and will be sending me the unit from there. He requested security service transaction, but i have never heard of that. This could be a scam but i am not too sure.[/QUOTE]


I would not trust any C.L. posting with slightly 'too good to be true' prices if they are not in your local pick up area. Every one I've looked into has been a scam as far as I can tell. C.L. even warns of non-local scams. Secure transaction will mean secure for him - not for you. Shop local or a recognized internet dealer. It's not worth the dice roll. -bd

[gotchaforce]

[QUOTE=gladiator888]I found this posting on my local craigslist. I am not sure if I can trust it since this is a big purchase. I email the guy and he told me he is in Houston, TX and will be sending me the unit from there. He requested security service transaction, but i have never heard of that. This could be a scam but i am not too sure.[/QUOTE]

lol would not jump on that at all.. if you cant pick up that high priced of an item on craigslist then it aint for you :P

[AZHD]

I purchased one of these displays from COSTCO and would greatly appreciate it someone would PM the service menu code to me.
I like the set but it defintely needs some adjustments. I think I will play around with it for a bit and if it still is no good, return it.

[skyline377]

Got the set from costco also, Would love to have the service menu code too. Thanks!!!!

[falsedawn]

[QUOTE=earth station]No, G Gain and Bias settings is all I would mess with. I forgot to mention above that these settings only affect Composite/Component inputs. HDMI does not utilize this setting and as far as I have found you are stuck with the darker setting using HDMI.[/QUOTE]

Could you send me the procedure to get into the SM also? Any reason why this is not posted in this forum rather than PM'ing it?

Thanks in advance
John

[manandjoe]

My review of 4214
I purchased this set at costco several days ago. I am a reformed video and audiophile. I know most of the issue regarding this set. What I can say is that the PQ when watching HD format, sports in particular is excellent. Skin tones and color s looked great. SD TV looks mediocre on all plasmas strectched mode. I know that the guys loving the elite stuff will have an issue, however we are talking about price point. I have read many posts about how people are returning this set because of dark scences.

The Question is can you live with a little misquoting in critical viewing of dark scences? The answer is yes for a price point of $1250 less than 4360.
In general I would highly recommed this set even though its a rebadge NEC.

ESPN looks great!

[gladiator888]

I am trying to decide between the 4214 from costco and the sony KDF-E42A10. They are about the same price. I can't find a sony HD plasma for less than 2k so the KDF-E42A10 is the next best TV close to it. Does anyone have any problem or issue with the Sony KDF-E42A10?

[Woodrow]

Folks:

Please, the Costco talk needs to end. Everyone knows the pio 4214 is a costco panel. No need to mention Costco in every post.

Thanks all

[Gandu]

[QUOTE=falsedawn]Could you send me the procedure to get into the SM also? Any reason why this is not posted in this forum rather than PM'ing it?
[/QUOTE]

As I discovered in my quest for the codes, AVS Forum discourages the public posting of the procedures for entering the service menu. Presumably, this is to protect members from irreparably damaging their displays and possibly voiding the manufacturers warranty as well. I agree with the policy on this issue.

If you haven't already done so, I would encourage you to check out the
Pioneer PDP-4214HD Display Calibration thread: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=634609



All that being said, VTOrganix, AZHD, Syyline377, falsedawn, check your PM.

[flyjar]

Should I pull the trigger on this baby or wait? I've been eyeing up a plasma TV for about 6 months now and this deal going on this week is really nice. But I've already waited this long what's a few months more for the new models & hopefully more price drops. I think I'll go look at it tonight or tomorrow morning then pass. :( Arrgghh, I hate the waiting game.

[ErickZig]

Yeah, I'm trying to figure out if I should get this set or the Maxent 42" at BB... They are both about the same price but people keep dissing the Panny here so I may opt for the Maxent... Hmmm.... Any thoughts?

[ericbrower]

Can you copy me too on the SM procedure? Thanks

[Nuz]

Stupid Prices in Vacaville, Ca. has these units for less than 2k. I beiieve they are returned/refurbished units. Not sure what the return policy is but it says 30 day warranty in store. I'm gonna check it out today. I heard they have the Pio 4214 and Panny TH-42PM50U.

Nuz

[sanhita]

Got this set from the wholesale store(!!!everyone knows which one!)
CAn anyone please PM me the service menu codes? Seems like these codes are something from the Lord of the Rings...Beam me baby!
Thanks fellas

[shevdev]

I am new too this forum as well as Plasma TVs. The 4214 is my first and so far I am pleased aside form the SD reception which I have heard is marginal with most larger HD Plasmas.

I too am interested in receiveing the SM menu codes, I would appreciate it greatly if anyone could PM this information to me

Thanks

[bhlack]

New too this forum. Bought the 4214 yesterday to put next to the Samsung HPR4252X which we bought 3 weeks ago from CC. The Samsung is an out of the box unit so the price was discounted. We thought to try the pio 4214 side by side for a few days and see what the difference is if any.

I would appreciate receiving the SM codes via PM.

When we first watch the two sets side by side the hpr4252 samsung looked so much better. the darks/black scenes mention in the posts caught our attention. But then as the set was on longer, and the next day, the pio seemed to have a sharper picture. But we need to make these adjustments. Thanks in advance to whoever can PM me with them.

Thanks

B.L.

[Gandu]

[QUOTE=sanhita]Got this set from the wholesale store(!!!everyone knows which one!)
CAn anyone please PM me the service menu codes? Seems like these codes are something from the Lord of the Rings...Beam me baby!
Thanks fellas[/QUOTE]

sanita, shevdev, bhlack -- check your PM's

[em4425]

can any one PM me the service menu codes? Thanks in advance

em

[suburban]

PM me the service menu codes too plzzzzzz

[Me23513]

can I have the codes too Thanks

[BruZZi]

Ok, No need to request those codes anymore. It is now available at the following link:


[SIZE=3]
" SERVICE MENU ACCESS CODES - PLASMA / LCD / CRT / RPTV " (http://www.bruzzi.ws/plasma-faq/forumdisplay.php?f=25) [/SIZE]



A huge thanks to Gandu for the info :) :) :)



[size=1]ATTENTION: The New Domain for BruZZi's Plasma FAQ is www.bruzzi.ws
If you have a direct link to the site please uptade to the new Domain Name.
All the links in the Panasonic FAQ Thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=407154) are already updated.[/SIZE]

[k1r4xx]

Hey, I am new to this forum also. I bought the PDP-4214HD from costco on wednesday n it is not looking all that great any idea to wat i should do?.

[mexico]

Hi - Wish I found this thread before I bought the 4214.

Has anyone had a problem where HD NBC is unwatchable? I have had to watch the Olympics in SD as in HD the lines throughout the screen make it look like it's visually barfing. It looks like it's having a problem with the interlacing. More than that the TV eventually gives up and blacks out. This problem also occurred on the Daytona 500 - but not constantly like with the Olympics.

Do I have a bad set? Is the processor on the 4212 just junk? Do I have a problem with my cable?

Other pieces of data: I had an HD CRT Toshiba that didn't have problems with any HD channels (including NBC). I don't have a problem with film 1080i content (HBO), 720p content. Universal HD (from the Olympics) works fine which I think is 1080i HD camera content. Sitcoms from my DVR on NBC also have this fuzziness problem but more intermittent.

Other comments about the 4214: It can be so visually tantalizing, but yet, so disappointing. When watching HD Channels like Discovery it's just beautiful. When watching dark movies, the black levels are there. However, there is nothing else but black. For instance, the local weather guys suit has no detail - it's just black!

[prof_diction]

[QUOTE=mexico]Hi - Wish I found this thread before I bought the 4214.

Has anyone had a problem where HD NBC is unwatchable? I have had to watch the Olympics in SD as in HD the lines throughout the screen make it look like it's visually barfing. It looks like it's having a problem with the interlacing. More than that the TV eventually gives up and blacks out. This problem also occurred on the Daytona 500 - but not constantly like with the Olympics.

Do I have a bad set? Is the processor on the 4212 just junk? Do I have a problem with my cable?

QUOTE]


I have the same problem, however I have a hard time believing it is the unit when all the other hd channels work. I was going to call my cable provider Comcast first. During Daytona it was good for the panned out view, but when they went into the pitstops, i got those flickers. Olympics, forget about it.

[gotchaforce]

[QUOTE=bhlack]New too this forum. Bought the 4214 yesterday to put next to the Samsung HPR4252X which we bought 3 weeks ago from CC. The Samsung is an out of the box unit so the price was discounted. We thought to try the pio 4214 side by side for a few days and see what the difference is if any.

I would appreciate receiving the SM codes via PM.

When we first watch the two sets side by side the hpr4252 samsung looked so much better. the darks/black scenes mention in the posts caught our attention. But then as the set was on longer, and the next day, the pio seemed to have a sharper picture. But we need to make these adjustments. Thanks in advance to whoever can PM me with them.

Thanks

B.L.[/QUOTE]

lol, using a samsung plasma as a REFERENCE plasma for things to look for!?

carazy :p

[chinatti]

I'd also be interested in the codes via PM...

Thanks in advance.

[flyjar]

[QUOTE=chinatti]I'd also be interested in the codes via PM...

Thanks in advance.[/QUOTE]
Read above there's a link available now.

[mexico]

[QUOTE=prof_diction]


I have the same problem, however I have a hard time believing it is the unit when all the other hd channels work. I was going to call my cable provider Comcast first. During Daytona it was good for the panned out view, but when they went into the pitstops, i got those flickers. Olympics, forget about it.[/QUOTE]


Sure - but it doesn't explain why my HD CRT presented NBC HD without problems.

Let me know what you find out. Meanwhile, I am considering taking it back.

[prof_diction]

Checked with comcast. They called NBC, they said they were having problems but it should be fixed shortly. Don't know if that included issues over the weekend.

[Gandu]

I've been watching both Daytona and the Olympics on NBC HD. On my 4214 , they both look great, no issues.

[mexico]

[QUOTE=prof_diction]Checked with comcast. They called NBC, they said they were having problems but it should be fixed shortly. Don't know if that included issues over the weekend.[/QUOTE]

Thanks for the update. Strange how episodes of HD My Name is Early stored on my Comcast DVR from early February have the same issues as I have been experiencing with the Olympics/Daytona.

Strange enough, PBS is also having the same problem as NBC. Not pretty.

Prof_Diction - are you in the Northeast/Boston Area?

Gandu - are you watching them OTA or via Cable?

[chenz]

I bought one from Costco yesterday, didn't have much time to play with, but generally it is good. Compared to the old one (4312) from Costco a year ago (a 1000 bucks difference). The picture is sharper, the color is a little different. But if I put the picture mode in movie, it is good.

How to use the Service code you guys are talking about ?

[sanhita]

Now that we have the codes...any info on how to make sense of the codes.....
do's donts and settings people have used with +ve results?
Thanks guys.

[Swisspillsbury]

Hi:

I am new to the forum and new to the HD and Plasma world, so please forgive me for my ignorance. Just bought the Pioneer 4214HD this past weekend. I installed with was disappointed when I turned the unit on due to the fuzy (pixelated) picture. Is this because I hooked it up to my Dish network (Dish 500) receiver that does not have HD? I tried to use component wires, but my Dish receiver does not have component output...so I am using S-video wires. Does it make a big difference between component and S-video or should I get HDMI wires?

I tried watching a DVD and the picture quality is much better. Should I contact Dish and upgrade to their HD plan? Which plan do you recognmend? And if only my new Pioneer Plasma is HD, will I be able to watch my other TVs if I upgraded to HD?

Any help on this would be greatly appreciated.

[prof_diction]

in the NY area. I will be watching some of the Olympics tonight and will see if I have the problem. While the tv's themselves might not be bad, we could just have lemons.

[Woodrow]

This thread posted in the HDTV forum section about the Olympics PQ might be helpful to some folks:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=645359

[prof_diction]

Mexico,

I noticed that the 720p worked fine, 1080I had issues. Called Comcast, they called NBC, NBC said they were having problems with the 1080I feed. You should try 720p until NBC fixes the problem. Looking at the other thread posted (thanks for that post Woodrow), we are not the only ones.

[mexico]

[QUOTE=prof_diction]in the NY area. I will be watching some of the Olympics tonight and will see if I have the problem. While the tv's themselves might not be bad, we could just have lemons.[/QUOTE]

I think we got lemons...I took mine back today and got the 50 inch Panasonic there instead.

No problems watching NBC, DVR shows on NBC, or anything for that matter. Blacks display beautifully.

[ke3lw]

I just purchased the 4214HD last night and have not attempted to open the box. They only had one unit left and i thought that i was lucky to get it for that low of a price. I wanted to read what you folks had to say before i opened the box. I just assumed that it would be a fine 2nd set. I guess i was way wrong! I have had the panny 42px50u for eight months and love it. I want to have two plasmas side by side when i watch football. I guess that i should go with my original plan and wait for the new pannys to hit the stores, the football season is a long way off and i guess there is no need to rush. ****** did have the 50" pannys in stock, but i have really been thinking about the TH-50PX600U, i have another local electronic store where i can get a real good discount. Good luck with those 4214 HD pioneers!

[ldr.desslok]

I just purchased the Costco 4214 and of course I read all your posts “after” I bought the Plasma. Anyhow, I probably would have NOT purchased the unit with so many negative postings. I am happy to say…the TV works well. I am not sure what all the fuss is about?

DVD picture quality…I noticed a HUGE difference when I enabled the “progressive” mode of my DVD player. Very Good. Throw in Star Wars III or Black Hawk Down and you will drool in awe.

Sound…so loud I can hardly get past ten without my wife complaining. Excellent.

Cable HD, my Comcast is not yet up and running. I expect HD to be near flawless!

I do see “mosquitoes” at times, but heck…show me a TV without some form of gnats…especially one for $2k flat! Put it this way…do you think an “ED” TV would hold up to the Pioneer? Nope, and they cost nearly as much!

Regarding rumors…my manual also states PDP-42A3HD. I think this is the model that sold at Tweeter. There is no distinction so I assume the 4214HD is this very TV. There may be some truth that these Pioneer’s are Pio-NECs. Pioneer did acquire NEC’s plasma display business. I am not a plasma TV engineer, so I do not know what parts can be mixed, matched, or upgraded.

All that really matters is that I saved a lot of money and the display may not be the best, but you certainly get your value for $2k.

My 2 cents and happy viewing!

Ldr. D

[prof_diction]

[COLOR=SlateGray][QUOTE=mexico]I think we got lemons...I took mine back today and got the 50 inch Panasonic there instead.

No problems watching NBC, DVR shows on NBC, or anything for that matter. Blacks display beautifully.[/QUOTE][/COLOR]

[COLOR=Yellow]Mexico,[/COLOR]

Can you check for me to make sure the panny is not on 720P. WHo is your cable provider.

[rrg1974]

Hello all,

Last Saturday I got the PDP-4214HD from Costco and I'm scared, it's my first plasma TV and the resolution is horrible!!! Currently I don’t have HD from Direct TV, I'm ordering now, but even using my DVD player using component connection looks bad especially with dark scenes. Is it because my DVD sucks? Or because I don't have HD TV yet? Please someone help me!!!!!!

Thank you

[tdavis21484]

To everyone who just bought one of these sets and is having PQ problems:

You Must Get HD!

Cable, satellite, over the air, somehow, you must get HD before you start worrying about your set. Without the proper signal, you're not getting the set's full performance. It's like buying a Corvette and just feeding it regular unleaded - it'll run, but it won't run as well as it would if you put the Premium it's made to run on in the tank.

This is not one of Pioneer's great sets, but many people are having great luck if you don't expect the world. DVD quality and other things are other issues, but first get your HD hooked up, then we can help you from there.

[bad_boy]

[QUOTE=tdavis21484]To everyone who just bought one of these sets and is having PQ problems:

You Must Get HD!

Cable, satellite, over the air, somehow, you must get HD before you start worrying about your set. Without the proper signal, you're not getting the set's full performance. It's like buying a Corvette and just feeding it regular unleaded - it'll run, but it won't run as well as it would if you put the Premium it's made to run on in the tank.

This is not one of Pioneer's great sets, but many people are having great luck if you don't expect the world. DVD quality and other things are other issues, but first get your HD hooked up, then we can help you from there.[/QUOTE]

Thank you very much my friend
i ran my 10 hrs straight on HD all the time for nearly 3 weeks access SM and play around try to deal with "Black Level" but i finally gave up i know the set look great on HD but the only problem is Black Level
this's not my 1s Plasma the 4214 actually my 4th PDP all those look darn good right out of the box but not 4214, i used to have at least 6 LCD 4 PDP all different brand this 4214 had exact same problem like my 1st HP 30" LCD the HD look Awsome but the black kinda BAddddd any way even the price drop on this set for less than 2k it just aint worth

[rrg1974]

I'll buy tonight the SAMSUNG DVD-HD950 Hi-Def Conversion DVD Player, to give a try.

Thank you again.

[shevdev]

I was wondering if anyone else out there was having significant issues with their SD picture. I realize that i will not get the full potential until I use this set with HD which I plan to do in the near future, but I have read through many posts on this Forum and others where people indicate that there SD picture is pretty good.

I seem to get significant macroblocking (clay face) on almost all of my SD channels, so much so that it often looks like the picture is solarized. I thought that this was common among LCD panels, but yet I seem to be experiencing the same problem.

I have tried adjusting sharpness down to 0, lowering contrast and brightness and none of this seems to help. Even watching in 4:3 does not solve the issue

I do not experience this issue when playing DVDs, so my hunch is that it may have something to do with my feed, or box.

I am using a Dish Network 625 DVR box with an S-video input into the tv (only has s-video or component). Unfortunately I live in an area where the surrounding landscape makes it difficult to pick up anything OTA.

I have not delved into the service menu yet but I am skeptical about the results of any adjustments I may make.

If anyone has experienced the same issue, found a solution or has any ideas, please let me know. I don't expect the SD picture to be outstanding but I find myself not watching the TV at all because it is so bad.

Thanks in advance

[junaid]

There seem to be dozens of requests for service menu. I would like to add a word of caution here. Its not a magic bullet, its hidden for a reason. If you do go into it make sure you write down the values before messing with them. Also in the factory menu you will find a settings for ADC Calibration and gain with cursor >> marks in fornt of them. A reasonable assumption would be that if you press the cursor key you migh see a sub menu. However, if you press the cursor key on your remote it will trigger an ADC calibration. So avoid these 4 settings unless you know what you are doing.

I found the AS510WB submenu to be the most useful for adjusting white balance by changing red blue and green settings _slightly_ ( cut back on green, increase red). Again its not a magic bullet, don't expect it to fix any or everything you find unsatisfactory in the picture. A friend also mentioned the 1024 x 768 resolution might have something to do with artifacts in picture. Since HD should be 1280x720 and the TV has to do some scaling to get it to downconvert to its resolution.

[valuator]

Just joined this forum, been lurking for a while. I picked up a 4214 over the weekend & need some help on a wall mount.

I checked online & haven't found any that list compatability with this model or the 42A3HD. Anybody have one that they can recommend. I don't need tilt - just a close mount. Thanks folks.

BTW - I think the picture is just fine & I have no complaints, especially at this price.

[sanhita]

I called up Pioneer tech support and was adviced to use a vga to rgb cable.

Got it off buy com but to no avail....The pio kept displaying the " Bad or No Signal" message. Tried the DVI to HDMI cable with no success.

Has anyone connected a computer VGA to their 4214?

Suggestions

On another note, i was shocked to see a faint burn-in image of the input menu as well as the menu. Of all things this was the last that shouldve left a ghost image. Fortunately they burn-in kind of faded away after viewing regualar tv for about 10 mins. have any of you experienced this?

[baimo]

[QUOTE=valuator]Just joined this forum, been lurking for a while. I picked up a 4214 over the weekend & need some help on a wall mount.

I checked online & haven't found any that list compatability with this model or the 42A3HD. Anybody have one that they can recommend. I don't need tilt - just a close mount. Thanks folks.

BTW - I think the picture is just fine & I have no complaints, especially at this price.[/QUOTE]

this one works fine. They are very easy to install and very solid

http://www.mountsandmore.com/Peerless-SF660-PE0428.html

and below for a few bucks more you get tilt which is nice to access the back panel(I used this one for my 4214HD)

http://www.mountsandmore.com/Peerless-ST660-PE0435.html

you can do a google and probably save a few bucks as I found nothing special about the service from mounts and more.

One other thing nice about these mounts is that they fit other Plasmas, so there is a good chance it will fiit your next one when you replace the 4214HD, like I did.

At least I kept the mount. :)

[Bob015]

I just purchased the 4214 about 2 months ago and the DVD picture quality is very, very good. I have Brighthouse cable and have not had any picture problems near flawless!
I do not see “mosquitoes” or have any of the problems talked about here, I'am very happy with the set.

Bob C.

[valuator]

Thanks Baimo.

[Jeff Lambert]

Before I take a look in the service menu area on the 4214, did anyone write down the default settings for all categories?

[wisner8828]

[QUOTE=valuator]Just joined this forum, been lurking for a while. I picked up a 4214 over the weekend & need some help on a wall mount.

I checked online & haven't found any that list compatability with this model or the 42A3HD. Anybody have one that they can recommend. I don't need tilt - just a close mount. Thanks folks.

BTW - I think the picture is just fine & I have no complaints, especially at this price.[/QUOTE]

Prefer to use the Premier Mounts. They have for this model.

[wisner8828]

[QUOTE=bad_boy]Thank you very much my friend
i ran my 10 hrs straight on HD all the time for nearly 3 weeks access SM and play around try to deal with "Black Level" but i finally gave up i know the set look great on HD but the only problem is Black Level
this's not my 1s Plasma the 4214 actually my 4th PDP all those look darn good right out of the box but not 4214, i used to have at least 6 LCD 4 PDP all different brand this 4214 had exact same problem like my 1st HP 30" LCD the HD look Awsome but the black kinda BAddddd any way even the price drop on this set for less than 2k it just aint worth[/QUOTE]

You bought it for the HD picture and not for the color BLACK only. Just return it and buy a B&W for you to get the real black background.

[Super Nova]

[QUOTE=junaid]There seem to be dozens of requests for service menu. I would like to add a word of caution here. Its not a magic bullet, its hidden for a reason. If you do go into it make sure you write down the values before messing with them. Also in the factory menu you will find a settings for ADC Calibration and gain with cursor >> marks in fornt of them. A reasonable assumption would be that if you press the cursor key you migh see a sub menu. However, if you press the cursor key on your remote it will trigger an ADC calibration. So avoid these 4 settings unless you know what you are doing.

I found the AS510WB submenu to be the most useful for adjusting white balance by changing red blue and green settings _slightly_ ( cut back on green, increase red). Again its not a magic bullet, don't expect it to fix any or everything you find unsatisfactory in the picture. A friend also mentioned the 1024 x 768 resolution might have something to do with artifacts in picture. Since HD should be 1280x720 and the TV has to do some scaling to get it to downconvert to its resolution.[/QUOTE]

Do you have the code for the Service Menu?

Thanx

[Super Nova]

[QUOTE=wisner8828]You bought it for the HD picture and not for the color BLACK only. Just return it and buy a B&W for you to get the real black background.[/QUOTE]


Can you pls. send me the SM codes for the Pioneer PDP-4214HD. Thanks

[baimo]

[QUOTE=wisner8828]Prefer to use the Premier Mounts. They have for this model.[/QUOTE]

Be careful with premier as I have noted in a previous post


Those loooking for wall mounts - Premier has this tv listed as compatible with one of their mounts PSM-425F . They are wrong. The mount is only 21.5 inches wide but the TV's holes are 23.5 inches wide.


[QUOTE=wisner8828]You bought it for the HD picture and not for the color BLACK only. Just return it and buy a B&W for you to get the real black background. [/QUOTE]

No need to troll here

[kpfarm1]

Like many, I'm a newbie. Just purchased the 4214 and having HD hooked up tomorrow. Watching SD and can't wait to get HD.

Could someone PM the service menu codes. Thx in advance.

[BruZZi]

[QUOTE=kpfarm1]Like many, I'm a newbie. Just purchased the 4214 and having HD hooked up tomorrow. Watching SD and can't wait to get HD.
Could someone PM the service menu codes. Thx in advance.[/QUOTE]
[QUOTE=Super Nova]Can you pls. send me the SM codes for the Pioneer PDP-4214HD. Thanks[/QUOTE]

CAUTION: You guys should be careful with the Service Menu.

The answer to your question is on this thread. ;)



[size=1]ATTENTION: The New Domain for BruZZi's Plasma FAQ is www.bruzzi.ws
If you have a direct link to the site please uptade to the new Domain Name.
All the links in the Panasonic FAQ Thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=407154) are already updated.[/SIZE]

[bhlack]

Okay, we made our decision.
We returned the samsung 4252x and the retailer was great taking it back.

The pio 4214 definitely had the better picture. Unfortunately the samsung had better features:

the channel guide was great to see the next 2 hours of programming much like what cable and satellite offer.

also being able the edit the names of the inputs so you'd know that s-video 1 is your satellite system, and your digital av is your over the air channels. can't do this with the pio, bummer

so now what, we'll have to wait for an hd 42 or greater plasma to arrive with a great picture and a fantastic price with great input/outputs on the back and great software features that make using the remote et. al. easy, user friendly and fun.

any ideas on what brand and model that would be?

thx

[perfect5storm]

Sanhita that sounds like image retention not burn in. I see it frequently when my son's video games shut off. It never lasts.

[bad_boy]

[QUOTE=wisner8828]You bought it for the HD picture and not for the color BLACK only. Just return it and buy a B&W for you to get the real black background.[/QUOTE]

sound like u know nothing about PQ at all a good TV should have deep black level in order to display more detail picture and color in either bright light or low light enviroment it;s not about [Black Background] let me put it this way if u have tube and put it side by side with 4214 play something with 4:3 on 4214 and letter box on regular tube without streth mode now u can compare the black level between the tube n the 4214 pio by looking at the black bar on both set u will noitce that a real good deep BLACK LEVEL is all about

it not just HD or ED
i did return and bougth TH 50PM Panny now the Black is Black
i think you shoul read more and learn more about digital world
like i did and take alot advices and tips from this wonderful forum

[iwaldrum]

I had the 4214 for about 2 weeks now and started to noticed it seemed to adjust itself by changing the brightness (flicker) and adjusting the screen itself. Has anyone else seen this?

[skyline377]

I don't know if this question has been brought up cause I didn't have time to read the whole thread, I hooked up the optical cable from the TV to my receiver, I only have standard cable and using a regular antenna to receive the over the air HD channels, it seems like I can't get any sound out of my receiver when watching regular cable, only the over the air channels then I would be able to use my receiver. I would like to use my home theater whenever I want to, Any help thanks!!!

[23V]

[QUOTE=mexico]Hi - Wish I found this thread before I bought the 4214.

Has anyone had a problem where HD NBC is unwatchable? I have had to watch the Olympics in SD as in HD the lines throughout the screen make it look like it's visually barfing. It looks like it's having a problem with the interlacing. More than that the TV eventually gives up and blacks out. This problem also occurred on the Daytona 500 - but not constantly like with the Olympics.

Do I have a bad set? Is the processor on the 4212 just junk? Do I have a problem with my cable?[/QUOTE]

I just set up my PDP-4214HD tonight. It's connected to a Motorola DCT6200 STB with a Comcast HD feed. I switched to the HD NBC channel to check out the Olympics and saw the same thing you saw -- lots of horizontal lines running through the picture, making it basically unwatchable.

I also have a Pioneer PDP-4312HD, so I checked that set to see if the NBC feed looked okay there -- it was fine on the 4312. After some investigating, I realized that my DCT6200 was outputting a 1080i signal to the 4214, which apparently it doesn't handle well. (The PDP-4312HD has no problems with the 1080i signal.)

Anyway, switching the output on the DCT6200 to 720p fixed the issue. Now the picture looks great -- no more interlacing problems.

[23V]

Here's the link I referenced when changing the output settings of the Comcast DCT6200 from 1080i to 720p for my Pioneer PDP-4214HD:

http://cjhengineering.com/hdtv/cablehdtv/dctset-up.htm

[56Oval]

What picture settings are people using on the 4214?

Out of the box hooked to a Comcast Motorola DVR (via Component) it looked waaaay too contrasty with a total lack of depth on blacks.

Thanks!

[adilmk]

Hi Guys,

I just bought the pdp 4214, and am new at this...what does the service menu do?? And, can some send it to me PM.

Also I have regular cable, some channels look great but others are pixelated. Any suggestions? Or does anyone recommend another 42" plasma...thanks.

[the_house]

Noobie here. Just bought the 4214 - wall mounting it but stupid question - how do I remove the table mount stand? :confused:

[USCTrojan]

I have been reading this thread about the PDP-4214. I also happen to have access to world-class media engineers and the video media lab that is used for chip design.

To hear people bash on this TV is comical. The Pioneer marketing dept will spin specs and features to justify the spending of more dollars for the higher versions of TVs. If anyone is an engineer you would know that the marketing dept spins this repetively. Calling service techs likely will get you a read off of the spec sheet and just more spin. Commonly we will say that a new super video processor III is superior to just that regular "noise reduction" etc.

From what I have been told this is an excellent plasma on par with the design and build of the other Pioneers at a real competitive price.

[baimo]

Quite honestly, the 4214HD is very bad. I tried to use it in my bedroom and could not stand watching it. I replaced it with a 4360 and you can not compare the two. There is a huge difference.
My friend has a maxent that blows away the 4214

[USCTrojan]

Obviously each person will have a different opinion. But having seen the "guts" of the 4214 and the other pioneer models they are literally the same (with a few input deltas). The main components that involve the picture and the circuitry is identical (rolls off the same motherboard line). So I would imagine that any differences in picture are more perception. To further this psychology and spending, Pioneer will of course justify this with the Extra crystal layers, filters and video processor which is supposedly better. I doubt you really are seeing a difference but maybe......

[baimo]

USC
If you feel that is true you should buy this set.at Costco price. i did and thought it was a great deal, But myself and several others on this board returned thyem because the dark scenes and shadows were so bad that they stood out and ruined the story.

Believe me, the last thing I wanted to do was take the set off the wall and bring it back to costco. But I just could not look at it after a month of tweaking

[Yeto]

I currently have my 4214 connected to my HDdtv box with a hdmi cable and it will only display full screen. If I use the component input instead will I be able to use the different aspect ration screens?

Thanks,
Yeto

[Gandu]

There is a review of the Pioneer PDP-42A3HD / PDP-4214HD posted here : http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=657343.

[ianwright]

could someone please pm me the sm codes for the 4214. tx

[mooshoo]

Glad I found this thread! I was just about to move on this, almost out the door and then I read the reviews/reports. It saved me the trip and money! Now, I just have to look at something else
:(

[USCTrojan]

For the price of this unit you are getting a lot of bang for the buck. Maybe it is not perfect but as I have said before, outside of some feature differences, the rest of the internal "guts" are the same as the more expensive pioneers regardless of whether the others supposedly have a more "advanced video processor". This is all marketing. Fall for the hype if you will. I know the other Pioneers may test better as well but for the normal viewer or even a more critical viewer you are not going to see the difference. Once again don't fall for the marketing hype. The pioneers are all great TVs but why spend the extra money? I would save the 2K get the costco model and get some awesome equipment to go with it.

[mooshoo]

USCTrojan,

The problem that I have is the mosquito-effect, and the blotchy blacks. I've read several people's examples, and it's common knowledge that it can't be dialed out completely. I watch a lot of DVDs at home, and am afraid that the issues would bug me to death. I've seen some screen captures of the monitor, and blacks look more gray than anything else.

[USCTrojan]

Mooshoo,
Look towards the Panny Plasmas (I have one of them) and they are definitely awesome at the blacks. Also, you need to remember to look at the settings the TV has when it is in Costco. The sales people at Costco are not experts in the plasmas so they are set at whatever they feel like. If the set is not calibrated properly then you will definitely get blotchy blacks and grays - especially if someone tried to calibrate with just their eyes.
I also bought the Hitachi plasma for my bedroom and that had so so blacks in the store and I was a little worried. Got the set properly calibrated and it ranks right there with my Panny when I had the two side by side. Calibration is key and the Pioneers are excellent TVs.

[baimo]

The pioneer 4214hd is terrible and you will end up returning it. Do not let anyone talk you into it.

[tdavis21484]

The claim that the 4214 is the same unit as the 4360 is false. They are both Pioneers, but that's about the end of the similarities. The 4214 uses NEC glass, not the Pioneer 6th gen glass that you find on the 4360 that makes it perform so well. This is obvious becasue the screen size is different (42 vs. 43). Do not believe what USCTrojan is insinuating: the 4214 is NOT just a 4360 in disguise. Their performance is not even comparable.

[mooshoo]

Thanks again for the heads up. Being in Vancouver, BC, we don't really have much in terms of costco options. I'm thinking of driving down to Seattle to pick something.

[ericbrower]

Ok... I've had this 4214 for about a month now... Have to say that I'm pretty happy with it.. Was kinda worried based on some of the postings, but for the price range I don't think that you can get a better product. Looked at similar priced Hitachi, Samsung, Philips and came to the conclusion that they ALL have faults, just depends what you are willing to live with. (true black vs. gray, brilliant colour vs. faded, etc)

Only using OTA antenna. Get 11-12 HDTV stations plus the auxiliary ones (4.1 & 4.2, etc) I must say that broadcasts in true HD are totally awesome (PBS). Colours are excellent. Haven't issues with any of the DVDs I've played. I actually use the 'movie' setting most of the time. Sometime use a modified 'standard' setting for darker scene movies.

Again, for the price you can't go wrong...

[vether2]

Hello all,

Longtime lurker, recent HDTV enthusiast with my purchase yesterday of the 4214HD. Here is my story which may sound a little too familiar to some of you watching this space...

Previously, I had been leaning toward the Panny 42 inch EDTV as I mostly plan to use my set to watch DVDs, OTA broadcasts, and I may pony up for some basic digital cable plan at $7-10 per month. I had been learning as much as I could the past few months (which is not too much after all, I reckon) and am on a limited budget as you can probably figure out from my equipment.

But I happened by C....co yesterday to get a hotdog and coke and wandered over to the HDTV section and noticed the Pioneer 4214 had been marked down to what seemed like a good price. Before I knew what hit me, I was loading this unit into the back of my SUV!

Now I'm having second thoughts after reading through these forums. I'm currently evaluating the unit based on OTA broadcasts and it looks okay, but I was really expecting more.

Does anyone else have any further input on this unit. I've read pretty much everything on this forum about the unit. Also, I'm wondering if I overpaid for this plasma or if I at least got a good deal. I know I can't post prices, but can someone who bought this unit with the coupon or whatever at the place I'm talking about please PM me their price. I don't want to be a sucker!

Thanks in advance, and I plan on posting more information on this unit in the near future.

[jaypb]

Just a heads up: I don't know what this model was going for at {insert name of certain store here} but Value City Department Store now has the 42A3HD at a price which I THINK is really low. Their circular on the website doesn't show the item, but the circular I received in the paper today listed a Pioneer Plasma 42" HD unit...which I went to see at a store locally here in NJ....of course the ad in the paper doesn't list a model # and the sign at the store listed no model #....but the model on display was indeed a 42A3HD based on the serial tag on the back.

I didn't ask if they had any in stock as I had my 3 kids in tow and I couldn't find anyone working that department....but it's a great deal if anyone is looking for one "in their price range".

I'm not in the market for a 42" plasma (as I just bought a 50" and my other 3 HDTV's aren't ready to be replaced yet)....but if I had some disposable cash I don't think I could resist a 42" Pioneer at this price point..... :D

[vether2]

For the cheapskates out there like me, this is certainly a unit to consider. The problem is that there are not many units left (at least that is my understanding). I was told they are being cleared out before the next version comes over the summer. After some dabbling with an upconverting DVD player and the 4214, I can confirm earlier reports that the HDMI connector has terrible black levels (component is better). I still haven't fooled around with the service menu or even much with the primary settings yet, but I can see that it will be hard to totally correct. The normal to bright colors look fantastic though. If you tend to like very dark movies, this is not the unit for you. By the way, OTA digital (free) looks great on this set to me. Sports is great as well. Any idea why the remote is a bit sluggish though anyone?

[vether2]

Has anyone been able to find out the number of hours on their panel. I'm guessing this is stored in the service menu, but would like some additional information before I go poking around.

[RS Kaiser]

Just purchased this unit from Cosco. Now I need some help and information.
Watching the New King Kong on DVD Kongs Fur was black with lots of gray blotches.
While watching 60 minutes the close up face shots appear to stutter when face moves.
While watching analog channels full, and wide screen distorts, to make everything too wide. Only 4:3 shows proper proportions(faces, etc.)
Last I have code to get into service menu but what does everything mean?

[rennwerkes]

Folks, is there anyone that would be willing to offer detailed set up instructions for the 4214???
Or, can anyone suggest the best set up disc around?
Are we owners of the 4214 stuck with the blotchiness of this plasma or are there ways to reduce this effect?
Thanks for any advice to my newbie questions!
:)

[rennwerkes]

Took the advice of one of the other posters and tried using component inputs rather than the HDMI and there's a fairly large difference in the blacks. Hardly any splotchiness but you lose a bit in definition over the HDMI.
What to do, what to do!

[dukmahsik]

hmmm that's weird reading the negative impressions...

I visited my uncle yesterday who has this set. He has it plugged into comcast digital cable and I thought the picture quality was great. My earlier impressions of the set (at costco) was not too impressive. I have the panny 50px-60u and say that the pdp-4124 is not too shabby at all. I would definitely recommend this set especially for the price.

[boostinmister2]

I got a great deal on this TV with the Sony 400 disc DVD player. At first i saw the grey blotches and stuff you guys were talking about cause it was on the standard settings. I tweaked the Contrast to 100 and the brightness to about 35- 40 and the sharpness to 50, now it looks great! Just tweak it while you're watching a movie. Just ordered a Monster HDMI cable, should look even better than the analog cables im using.

Also did you guys get the PUREVISION model? Not all the 4214HD came with it, depends on the year your tv was manufactured, mine was just manufactured in February of 2006

I wish this model has the blue led light like the new ones though, but the sexy glossy black finish is awesome!


Looking for a strong durable Wall mount for this unit, any recommendations? websites?

[earth station]

[QUOTE=boostinmister2] I tweaked the Contrast to 100 and the brightness to about 35- 40 and the sharpness to 50, now it looks great! Just tweak it while you're watching a movie. Just ordered a Monster HDMI cable, should look even better than the analog cables im using. [/QUOTE]


Oh my God :eek: :eek: :eek:

Contrast 100? are you out of your mind? Ever hear of a calibration? Get a DVE disc or find an off-air signal on TV. That sucker's got to come down!!

[tgshoe]

Mine has manufacture date of oct 2005 and is a purevision version. The picture quality on mine is very good especially on HD and is fairly good on SD with the exception of a few poor quality channels. If the signal for the particular channel is not good then this tv will really show it. Forgot to mention mine is a PDP42A3HD.

[23V]

Here's my mixed experience with the Pioneer PDP-4214HD from Costco:

I purchased one earlier this year with the Costco coupon, which seemed like a great price for a 42" HD plasma from a top-tier manufacturer. I had purchased the 43" Pioneer PDP-4312HD from Costco in December 2005 and was (and am) very happy with it. I expected similar performance from the 4214.

Unfortunately, the performance was not the same. Maybe if it was my first plasma, I would have been okay with it, but since I had grown accustomed to the 4312 for a few months, the 4214 was a bit of a disappointment.

I had three primary issues with the 4214:

1. Black levels: In addition to blacks not being very black, they had very little detail (the rest of the picture has excellent detail). In dark movies -- Sin City, for example -- many frames had large, dark grey areas with virtually no detail at all. This effect was made worse visually by the jet black frame surrounding the display. The frame really emphasized that what I was seeing on-screen wasn't black and wasn't detailed.

2. Image retention: My 4214 had a problem with image retention. That is, after watching 10-20 minutes of 4:3 TV with black (well, dark grey: see above) side bars, ghosts of those bars would remain on the screen after switching to full-frame 16:9 content. These ghosts would "only" last about 10-15 minutes, but they were very distracting to me. I also wondered if they'd get worse over time.

I'm not the only one who noticed this. Audioholics noted it in their review of the PDP-42A3HD, which is the same as the 4214 but with a different color bezel:

http://www.audioholics.com/productreviews/avhardware/PioneerPDP42A3HDplasmaTVreview5.php

3. Inability to "stretch" SD content on HD channels: With the 4214, unlike the 4312, it's not always possible to stretch the image to fill the screen, thus eliminating the side black bars (see #2 above for why the side bars are a Bad Thing). If watching TV on a HD channel, the 4214 recognizes the HD signal and disables the controls that normally allow you to stretch the image to fill the screen. This isn't a problem with 16:9 HD content on an HD channel, but a lot of shows have 4:3 SD aspect ratios even when transmitted over HD channels. Even some popular shows like "The Amazing Race" and "Survivor: Panama" on CBS are amazingly not available in HDTV and are thus displayed as 4:3 with black side bars:

http://www.cbs.com/info/hdtv/index.php

I ended up returning my PDP-4214HD to Costco after living with it for about a month. To Costco's credit, the return was easy and smooth. I would definitely purchase another TV from Costco in the future. And I'd purchase another Pioneer, just not the PDP-4214HD.

As an FYI, a similarly-priced alternative to the Pioneer PDP-4214HD is the Panasonic TH-42PHD8UK. Forum sponsor TVAuthority has them in stock at a very competitive price -- in fact, including shipping charges, it's about what I paid for the PDP-4214HD at Costco with sales tax. As an industrial model, the TH-42PHD8UK doesn't include speakers, a stand, HDMI input or a tuner, so it's not an apples-to-apples comparison, but for some it's a good alternative. I ended up replacing my 4214 with the ED version of the 42" Panasonic, as it will be used in a kid's rec room. It's a great unit for that setting, plus I still have my 43" 4312HD upstairs for HDTV and DVDs.

[rs2200]

Hello Everyone,

I have to concur with everyone complaining about the dark scenes. I bought mine from Costco about a month ago. Very happy with HD signals and bright scenes but dark scenes and the mosquito-ing effect are really awful. Spoke to a tech at Pioneer. He wasn't very enthusiastic about this model and highly recommended the 4360.

I would have returned it by now but my hesitation is that I got such a great deal from Costco -- paid less than the coupon price since the local store in Torrance, CA had two left they wanted to clear out.

I'm trying to improve the unit with pheripherals. Bought a Monster HTS 3500 line conditioner and a Panny S97 DVD player. Not much help with dark scenes. Guess I was thinking emotionally rather than logically.

Can someone please PM me the service code. Like to give tuning a try before contemplating returning it. :)

Thanks in advance.

[rennwerkes]

I have to agree with everyone, the dark scenes kinda suck but I'm stuck with mine. However, I paid so little for it (got it used) that I really can't complain. Figure the Pioneer will carry me through till 1080p sets get a bit lower in price.

I've found that using the component choice for watching dark scenes greatly enhances the mosquito effect. This will also allow you to resize picture easily. You won't get the killer HDMI signal though.

As far as the image retention issue goes, from what I understand, once the TV has been used enough in the full screen mode, this will become lesser and lesser of an issue.

[Gandu]

Instructions to access the Service Menu are here:
http://www.bruzzi.ws/plasma-faq/showthread.php?t=147

Check the 4214 Calibration Thread here:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=634609

[rs2200]

thanks Gandu

[rs2200]

I noticed yesterday that my local Costco is now carrying the 42A3 model. Essentially the same as the 4214 except that the spkrs are in silver rather than all black. The 42A3 is listed on the Pioneer site.

[condor123]

I could 't find contrast ratio on there web site or anywhere. Has a good picture but the picture is not as good as my sony 60"xbx1 hd projection. So I am looking for another.

[ericbrower]

Costco Canada is now selling this 4214HD.... Check out the price.... For those who have bought from the US you got a really good bargain....

This is also the first place I've seen actual specs on brightness and contrast...
Brightness: 1000 cd/m2
Contrast: 1000:1

[Chotz]

I originally had a Maxent 42" plasma that actually had a very good picutre, great colors, etc. The only issue I had was some pixilation on close-ups of people's faces during DVR recorded shows, and some slight problems decoding reds. Being my first plasma, I thought if the Maxent has this good a picture, I was sure a Pioneer would be that much better. I returned the Maxent and picked up the PDP-4214HD, hoping it would solve my only issue. What a mistake. This is a TERRIBLE television; I can't believe anyone has one they can live with. The colors are washed out in standard cable, and the detail in dark scenes is so bad its laughable. Even basic black text (like at the end of a VW car commercial where the black text is on a white background), is basically light grey.

I made the same mistake as many on this board and assumed the PDP-4214HD is just another in Pioneers excellent line of Plasmas....its NOT. I got into the service menu and tried a bunch of adjustments recommended on these boards; all to no avail.

In any case, I returned it after less than a week. If you are looking for a good TV at a bargain price, buy the Maxent, it is really a nice plasma, and Costco just lowered the 42" to [EDIT]. I am buying the industrial 42" Panasonic on the Costo website because you can't find a single negative written anywhere about that set.

Anyway, the Pioneer is a very pretty TV, just don't turn it on...

[sb987]

I bought this set during the sale and wall mounted it. First plasma so I don't have much to compare it to. Given the rave reviews and lowered price of the Vizio P50 at the unnamed warehouse store (actually lower than the price of the Pioneer) should I exchange for the P50?

[Harden]

Whew. I just saw this set at my Costco and thought about buying it when I saw it had an HDMI input.

Good thing I didn't act on it. Bezel looks terrible, too.

[ldr.desslok]

I have struggled with the Pioneer 4214HD or 42A3HD since I purchased it for the low, low price of $2000 ($2400 less $400 rebate). The mosquitoes are what really unnerves me, as do the horrible black levels. So I was thankful to find a way to solve or at least decrease the mosquito problem? IMMEDIATELY DISABLE THE ORBITER SCREEN SAVER! See audioholics
PioneerPDP42A3HDplasmaTVreview2

"...The other elements of this section include an "Orbiter" screen saver which rotates the entire screen image around the display in various range increments (Small, Mid, Large). This is "On" by default and can be very distracting as it is basically the entire screen shifting several pixels at a time at regular intervals. The concept is to ensure that a still image isn't present in the same area so as to cause temporary or permanent screen burn-in. Our recommendation would be to take the following steps to naturally avoid burn-in and turn off the distracting Orbiter."

Go search that site for more information. Agh! Why the heck does this option even exist!!! It should be disabled by default!

Why Pioneer does not make this setting more “noticeable” I do not know, for it IS the underlying problem for poor picture quality, especially the mosquitoes…it creates the mosquitoes! See your manual or the URL above.

I still may return my set at Costco due to the poor blacks, but am now much more satisfied with the Plasma TV.

Last…keep in mind, your cable signal and its configuration is another culprit to consider. You need to setup your cable box manually (download the pdf from vendor website) as the cable techs do not configure them properly, i.e. the modes that your TV is able to display, etc… this also affects your picture.

Final word re: the Costco Pioneer…my XBOX360 looks terrific as do progressive DVDs (progressive the key word here). These signals are crystal clear, and are mosquito-free and the black levels are not “too” bad.

Good luck and disable the Orbiter and you will immediately notice the difference!

Leader D.

[rennwerkes]

Forgive me if this issue has been brought up already but does anyone's 4214HD's top back panel get VERY hot??? Maybe about a foot inwards from the left side. Just wondering if my unit's got a problem or "they all do this".
Thanks!

[Gandu]

Mine has a hot area in the same position. Must be that "they all do this". I've had it nearly a year with no problems at all.

[dougfitz00]

Hi - New member, just discovered this forum, Pio 4214 from Costco owner.
A little help would be appreciated.

Could someone please provide the service code information?

Also, had an unusual issue this week. Comcast pushed an update to their digital DVR receivers, includes screensaver, HDMI 1.3 etc.. It knocked out my HDMI connection, audio OK but just a green screen. The 1.3 should be backward compatible, switched to RCA cables as a work around. but would prefer to get the HDMI up again. any help appreciated.
Comcast rep mentioned they got 100s of calls.... sincere thanks, Doug

[Gandu]

dougfitz00...check your PM for the code

[danoo1]

can anyone verify that disabling the orbiter has eliminated the 'mosquito' effect