Panasonic TH-50PHD8UK vs. Pansonic 50PX50U

[acribb]

Do these two panels have the same innards except for the speakers and inputs/tuners on the consumer model? I've searched this board as well as Panasonic's website and I can't come to any definitive answer. I would get the commercial model, but just like everyone else, I don't want to wait for it to come in. Thanks for any input.....

[slimjim7]

Adam,

I'm no expert, but my research indicated this to be the case. I ordered my TH-50PHD8UK last week, and am expecting it any day now!

[Sundog_AK]

The "glass" for each of the units is the same. So the primary differences are in the input features, cosmetics (frame), and warranty.

[Jack D]

If I'm not mistaken there are differences. For example, I don't think you have as many options/adjustments in the service menu of the consumer models and they do not accept signals in their native resolution (i.e., you can't bypass the internal processor).

Also you do not have any flexibility in inputs with the consumer models. Conversely, you can easily add various terminal boards to the commercial models to match your input needs (e.g. 2 HDMI inputs). All you have to do is unscrew the cover plate, slip the board in until it locks, and then screw it in.

[optivity]

Consumer models include internal tuners and a CableCARD slot. For individuals using cable TV source programming, a CableCARD offers the best approach to obtaining a quality picture... no crappy STB... just the TV's internal MPEG decoder, deinterlacer/scaler does all the work.

Read this: CableCARDs - A Primer (http://www.audioholics.com/techtips/specsformats/CableCARDprimer.php)

[silentbob1974]

Will using a CableCARD allow me to record via DVR? I haven't seen a definitive answer anywhere but the answer seems to be no.

[optivity]

Most likely not, Sony recently pulled it's DHG-HDD250/500 DVRs w/CableCARD slot because of CP Authorization problems with CATV providers.

Many of us rent both a CableCARD (for better picture) and a DVR (because we have to) from our cable providers.

[silentbob1974]

Not to sound obtuse or anything, but why would you rent both a CableCARD and a DVR if you can't use them at the same time?

BTW, I use TiVo so it sounds like I'd need to toss it and get a STB where the DVR is integrated (like the Motorola 6412), right?

[akpokey]

The three main reasons to go consumer:
1. Integrated tuners and sound, if you need your system simplified
2. Cable card
3. Purchase and possible return at brick and mortar location

The four main reasons to go commercial
1. Picture settings completely adjustable (size and position!)
2. Input flexiblity
3. Price- if add-ons are purchased correctly
4. Esthetics- clean bezel design

[optivity]

[QUOTE=silentbob1974]Not to sound obtuse or anything, but why would you rent both a CableCARD and a DVR if you can't use them at the same time?[/QUOTE]I don't know... why do people rent a DVR & buy a DVD player that they can't use at the same time? :confused:

[size=1]CableCARD = better picture / DVR = digital video recorder[/size]

[silentbob1974]

Right, maybe it's just that we have different interpretations of "can't use at the same time" -- are you simply saying that you can't use the DVR to record simultaneously the better picture that the CableCARD provides, or that you can't even have them connected to the TV at the same time?

This is where I may sound clueless as I've never used a CableCARD before, but isn't the Motorola HD DVR integrated into the tuner? If so, wouldn't that conflict with the CableCARD even if not used at the same time because there are two different tuners? It seems like you'd have to unplug one so that the other can change the channels without direct conflict.

P.S. In response to the listed advantages of the commercial model -- is the price really better once you factor in the cost of a stand/mount and, say, an HDMI input? That's several hundred dollars right there.

[optivity]

I split the incoming signal... I can access the DVR which is connected to the TVs component input or the CableCARD using the TVs antenna input. I can watch TV using the CableCARD while recording (2) programs simultaneously with the DVR.

[silentbob1974]

Wait, so it IS possible to use CableCARD and record from a DVR at the same time? I was thrown by your "most likely not" response to my original question. What kind of DVR are you using?

Anyway, thanks for the clarification and for putting up with my sounding like a noob (well, because I kinda am).

[optivity]

Yes, split the incoming coax cable in half, connect one leg to the DVR and the other to your TVs antenna input. Many individuals (myself included) who participate in AVSF do this.

My "not likely" response to your query:

"Will using a CableCARD allow me to record via DVR?"

assumed you meant a DVR w/CableCARD slot. Most CATV providers "copy protect" HD content which renders these devices inoperable (e.g. Sony DHG-HDD250/500)

but if you rent a cable providers DVR (e.g SA8300HD-DVR) you will be good to go.

[dchester]

[QUOTE=silentbob1974]Not to sound obtuse or anything, but why would you rent both a CableCARD and a DVR if you can't use them at the same time?[/QUOTE] You can use them at the same time. You can be recording 2 shows on the DVR while watching another show via the cable card. Basically, I use the cable card most of the time, but use the DVR simply to record and playback shows. I don't use the DVR for my cable box as I like the picture quality better via the cable card.

Plus, even my wife can operate the TV with the cable card.
:D