Hey all, if any of you caught my threads throughout the last few weeks trying to make a TV decision, well I finally did. Today Video Only delivered my new Hitachi 50V500 50" LCD TV. I love it.
I was happy with this set in the store, it is a perfect fit for my apartment, 2nd best rated in Consumer Reports, and no other store could beat the price I got along with the stand and extras ext. warranty too.
Comcast will be delivering my HD goodies next weekend, for the meantime I am stuck with analog cable (yuk) the picture is horrible. So I have a crappy picture till next weekend, I can swing it though for a week.
A have a few questions.
1. Should I get a calibrating disc (VE or Avia) to calibrate my TV? Or are there any basic settings I should go by for now? Currently its set on the factory settings.
2. My DVD movies I watch don't seem as crisp and clear than I saw in the store, what could be the possible reasons for this? Something hooked up wrong? My DVD player is only a couple years old and its a Sony 5 disc w/DTS and DD. Or does it just take time getting used to the TV, previously I had a 32" tube so that might be why. Or am I sitting too close (I am 8' away.)?? Not sure.
Well enjoy the pic, if anybody has any advice, tips, tricks, calibrating ideas for this set let me know.
Yeah, you should get it off of Factory Settings ASAP. It could be too bright for starters, and you don't want to burn your precious. :)
Definitely get a calibrating DVD-I have the Avia. In the meantime, I'd suggest going to websites which have instructions on setting something like this up. I'm sure someone has a few good links for you.
This looks like a very nice television.
As to the quality of the DVD movies, you need to take note at what the store was using for their image playing device, and what the connections were. I assume you have component video outs and are using them? Or does your DVD player have other video outs?
Looks like you have a few Five-Star Collections, so definitely play those. :)
Also, you might want to read the manual. It could save you some time, and maybe even a few simple blunders which could damage your TV.
The display of the TV is 1280 x 720. Now, since the projection is different on the size of the display, you might see more "pixels" due to your viewing distance (a 42" version might actually look better). In other words, you're used to a 32" set, the pixels are much smaller and "crunched" because you previously owned a 4:3 set and viewed your movies proportionally, and let's say you normally sit about 7ft away from it. Well, you probably need to be around 14ft away from your 50". Over time, you'll get used to it though.
Your DVD player also may not have enough resolution output in order to make a huge 50" display look "crisp and clear" at your viewing distance. This will also depend on the movie. What I would recommend, is going back to the store, and finding out just what movie was played, the DVD player used that was putting out the signal, and try to match it as best you can.
drmoze
12-12-04, 11:23 AM
Animal, probably most important is how the dvd player is set up. First, you definitely want a progressive-scan player for a bigscreen. (If the Sony isn't progressive, I'd recommend replacing it with a Panasonic or Toshiba--best bang-for-the-buck for decent dvd players IMO.) And it should be hooked up via component cables, not composite or s-video. No need to go back to the store. You just need to hook things up correctly, and do some basic calibration (as suggested above) to get the contrast down and color/tint/brightness OK.
The best quick'n'dirty way to calibrate is by eye if you don't have a disc yet. It is a common sense approach, but alas few people even do this. Simply adjust room lights to medium-low, then adjust the contrast and brightness so the scenes look *natural* and there is some resolution of detail in shadowy areas. Tint is easy, but also adjust the color level down so on-screen objects look *real*, not "bursting with color." The vast majority of the sets I see (almost every plasma in a bar, e.g.) have the contrast and color turned up to look bright and cartoonishly saturated. (Factory settings tend to be like this also.) A quick check for proper levels is to look at objects on the screen, then look at other objects around the room and see if they look similar. The tv image should *not* look like it is glowing bright and full of intense colors. This is not a realistic picture. When you get the HD set up, the images should be adjusted so it looks like you're looking at a scene out a window instead of at a tv screen. It really does look like a window when colors and contrast are toned down! (Discovery HD channel especially.) It is also best to watch with dim indirect lighting rather than in a totally darkened room. The eye can respond to the on-screen light levels better.
gcbrowni
12-12-04, 11:31 AM
The set can't burn in (LCD-RP, right?) so you don't need to worry about hurting it by not adjusting it. I'd try to find a rental copy of Avia or DVE somewhere; once you use it you probabaly won't use it again. I sold mine on e-bay after I set up my LCD-RP.
Make sure you have a progressive DVD player and are using the component outputs. Yuo might want to switch to a DVI DVD player; DVI should give you the best possible picture.
8' is a little on the close side, but you should be ok there.
animalmystic
12-12-04, 11:52 AM
WOW! Thanks for everybodys help, this is very very very appreciated!!!
kayak99
12-12-04, 11:55 AM
This bring up an interesting parallel. I helped friends set up their home theater and they chose an LCD as well. (JVC) In the store (Sears) the pic was crisp and clear.
Installed in their home (it is not calibrated) the pic is no where near the one at the store. They have a progressive scan dvd and are set up with component cables.
At present they like it but comment its not near to my plasma picture.
Perhaps these stores actually do have their units calibrated? Anyone ever inquire?
Thunderball
12-12-04, 12:47 PM
I'd like to add in my 2 cents real quick, if no one minds(and even if you do)..
I bought a Sony 50" LCD about a week ago, it was delivered on Friday. The factory "standard" was way way way too bright, so I went about using AVIA.
After I had it set up, I realized I kind of wanted the AVIA settings to be the "PRO" setting on my remote, so it would look like I knew what I was doing ;).
When I changed over to Pro to input the new colors, the factory "PRO" settings were within 1 notch, or exactly matching the settings I chose from AVIA.
So you may want to see if there is osmething in your menu that does that...
animalmystic
12-12-04, 01:16 PM
I'd like to add in my 2 cents real quick, if no one minds(and even if you do)..
I bought a Sony 50" LCD about a week ago, it was delivered on Friday. The factory "standard" was way way way too bright, so I went about using AVIA.
After I had it set up, I realized I kind of wanted the AVIA settings to be the "PRO" setting on my remote, so it would look like I knew what I was doing ;).
When I changed over to Pro to input the new colors, the factory "PRO" settings were within 1 notch, or exactly matching the settings I chose from AVIA.
So you may want to see if there is osmething in your menu that does that...
Great thanks, i will check that out.
The set can't burn in (LCD-RP, right?)
You are correct :)
Yeah, you should get it off of Factory Settings ASAP. It could be too bright for starters, and you don't want to burn your precious.
Its a LCD so I am good, thank you though.
Definitely get a calibrating DVD-I have the Avia. In the meantime, I'd suggest going to websites which have instructions on setting something like this up. I'm sure someone has a few good links for you.
This looks like a very nice television.
Thanks I love it so far, just got to get everything set right.
As to the quality of the DVD movies, you need to take note at what the store was using for their image playing device, and what the connections were. I assume you have component video outs and are using them? Or does your DVD player have other video outs?
Yep using Comp. video outs for sure.
Looks like you have a few Five-Star Collections, so definitely play those.
Also, you might want to read the manual. It could save you some time, and maybe even a few simple blunders which could damage your TV.
The display of the TV is 1280 x 720. Now, since the projection is different on the size of the display, you might see more "pixels" due to your viewing distance (a 42" version might actually look better). In other words, you're used to a 32" set, the pixels are much smaller and "crunched" because you previously owned a 4:3 set and viewed your movies proportionally, and let's say you normally sit about 7ft away from it. Well, you probably need to be around 14ft away from your 50". Over time, you'll get used to it though.
Thanks for the info, as soon as I break down my huge TV box the thing came in I am moving my couch back and will probably have room for 12 feet between that should be better.
Your DVD player also may not have enough resolution output in order to make a huge 50" display look "crisp and clear" at your viewing distance. This will also depend on the movie. What I would recommend, is going back to the store, and finding out just what movie was played, the DVD player used that was putting out the signal, and try to match it as best you can.
Ya I don't think the player is Pro Scan, which sucks, its a nice player but is now almost 3 years old. Oh well now I can get a Pro Scan and DVD recorder too, hehehe.
Animal, probably most important is how the dvd player is set up. First, you definitely want a progressive-scan player for a bigscreen. (If the Sony isn't progressive, I'd recommend replacing it with a Panasonic or Toshiba--best bang-for-the-buck for decent dvd players IMO.) And it should be hooked up via component cables, not composite or s-video. No need to go back to the store. You just need to hook things up correctly, and do some basic calibration (as suggested above) to get the contrast down and color/tint/brightness OK.
The best quick'n'dirty way to calibrate is by eye if you don't have a disc yet. It is a common sense approach, but alas few people even do this. Simply adjust room lights to medium-low, then adjust the contrast and brightness so the scenes look *natural* and there is some resolution of detail in shadowy areas. Tint is easy, but also adjust the color level down so on-screen objects look *real*, not "bursting with color." The vast majority of the sets I see (almost every plasma in a bar, e.g.) have the contrast and color turned up to look bright and cartoonishly saturated. (Factory settings tend to be like this also.) A quick check for proper levels is to look at objects on the screen, then look at other objects around the room and see if they look similar. The tv image should *not* look like it is glowing bright and full of intense colors. This is not a realistic picture. When you get the HD set up, the images should be adjusted so it looks like you're looking at a scene out a window instead of at a tv screen. It really does look like a window when colors and contrast are toned down! (Discovery HD channel especially.) It is also best to watch with dim indirect lighting rather than in a totally darkened room. The eye can respond to the on-screen light levels better.
This is great info thanks, I adjusted the contrast, it was cranked up to 100% so i went down to 75% and while it looks "dark" I know its the correct setting I just need to get used to it, and get used to watching it on a big screen, I have been used to a 32" for 6+ years and now the big change, just gotta get used to it.
animalmystic
12-12-04, 01:18 PM
Make sure you have a progressive DVD player and are using the component outputs. Yuo might want to switch to a DVI DVD player; DVI should give you the best possible picture.
I am going to go the whole 9 yards and get a Pro Scan/DVI/and recordable DVD player, mise well I spent this much money so far, LOL.
Quick question though, do I need an specail wires for the DVI, or will the normal component wires work.
Thanks all for the info this has been very helpful!!
Thunderball
12-12-04, 02:11 PM
I am going to go the whole 9 yards and get a Pro Scan/DVI/and recordable DVD player, mise well I spent this much money so far, LOL.
Quick question though, do I need an specail wires for the DVI, or will the normal component wires work.
Thanks all for the info this has been very helpful!!
DVI is yet another cable . Are we having fun yet? :)
I spent $130 to upgrade my video card just so my LCD could have it's DVI hookup for my computer.
animalmystic
12-12-04, 02:31 PM
DVI is yet another cable . Are we having fun yet? :)
I spent $130 to upgrade my video card just so my LCD could have it's DVI hookup for my computer.
Ugggh!! Really? Hmmmm, ok at the risk of sounding like a newb, which I am, where does the DVI cable hook into? Does it go from the DVD player to the TV? Is it really worth it to go the extra mile for the DVI? Let me guess, next thing you will tell me I will need yet another wire for the DVD recorder :( I may cry now....
Thunderball
12-12-04, 03:03 PM
Haha, dunno about the recorder or where the DVI goeson a TV.
My Sony doesnt have DVI, it has the HDMI only, which I'm not sure why, but I'm sure in 3 years I'll be angry I dont have DVI.
Gallant Pig
12-12-04, 03:28 PM
Actually T-Ball HDMI is newer than DVI.
animalmystic
12-12-04, 04:21 PM
I may just go pro scan and call it good, unless the DVI or HDMI are an easy hookup, this might be getting over the top for me, LOL. What can't these things be easier.
Thanks for the help though.
DVD Polizei
12-12-04, 10:07 PM
I guess you don't have to worry about burn-in. My mistake.
You'll have to let us know what new DVD player you are getting now. Lucky Dawg.
I've been looking at the Hitachi 42" V715 or whatever it is. It's going to be about 2-4 months before I get a widescreen yet. Damn it.
JHosk
12-13-04, 09:57 AM
animal....can you post an update after you have everything hooked up (ei new dvd) ?? Another pic with the new set-up would be great, so we can do a before and after. I'm thinking of getting this exact tv before the new year, and any info would be great.
animalmystic
12-13-04, 01:14 PM
animal....can you post an update after you have everything hooked up (ei new dvd) ?? Another pic with the new set-up would be great, so we can do a before and after. I'm thinking of getting this exact tv before the new year, and any info would be great.
Sure thing, I am getting the DVD player/recorder tonight. Mine at home isn't pro scan so I gotta upgrade so I am getting a DVD recorder too.
I am getting this one
http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Panasonic-DVD-Recorder--DM-RE55S-/sem/rpsm/oid/90005/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do
The HD won't be set up till Comcast comes on Saturday. I went ahdead and moved my couch back from 8 to 12 feet, and went through a basic calibration with my T2 THX disc real quick until my Avia disc arrives, the pic already looks much better, and thats with analog cable too, as soon as I get the pro scan player and HD set up, the picture will be phenomial!! Can't wait.
I will post pics as soon as everything is ready to rock.
DVD Polizei
12-13-04, 09:03 PM
I got the popcorn. Just let me know when the movie starts. I would imagine you're going to test your new toy with ROTK:EE? Perfect timing.
hoyalawya
12-13-04, 09:27 PM
I may just go pro scan and call it good, unless the DVI or HDMI are an easy hookup, this might be getting over the top for me, LOL. What can't these things be easier.
Thanks for the help though.
DVI is easier to hook up than component. Just one cable instead of 3. I have a Panasonic LCD RPTV, the pq from a DVI is that much better than component's. However, even with the best DVD in terms of pq, the picture will still be a step below true HD.
animalmystic
12-14-04, 02:46 AM
Well you better hold off on that popcorn for now, I am having some issues hooking everything up. Coming from a person new to the HDTV/digital/widescreen tv/DVD recorder world, its taking me a little (a lot) longer to understand everything, and to get everything hooked up right. I originally had a basic 32" TV, basic cable, Onkyo HT system and a DVD player, pretty basic, this is a big step for me.
Now I am getting into a little more complicated things. TV is working fine, calibrated using the T2 THX disc until I get Avia, PS2 working, having a lot of trouble hooking up the DVD recorder to the TV. I originally used a digital coax cable for the DD/DTS on my DVD player, but I had to upgrade to an Optical since the new dvd recorder didnt have a coax input...I think thats right.
I got the sound working but the picture isn't working right and the screen keeps flashing something like 680i 740i then 1080 something like that and no pic, I have something wrong somewhere, or I am using a wrong cable, looks like I will have to tackle it again after work tomorrow.....
Anyways to make a long story short I am still reading the directions and trying to educate myself and learn how to do it...might take some time though.
I thought I would take some pics for amusement...and it anybody notices something wrong or has some advice its appreciated
Video out on the DVD to Video in on the TV
Digital Audio Out on the DVD to Digital Audio In on the receiver.
animalmystic
12-14-04, 12:16 PM
It should be a straight hook up...
Video out on the DVD to Video in on the TV
Digital Audio Out on the DVD to Digital Audio In on the receiver.
I have the optical running from the DVD player to the amp, so I think thats right.
But I looked at it again before I left for work and I might have too many wires hooked up, i will have to check it again when I get home tonight, maybe I am making it more difficult than it needs to be LOL
DVD Polizei
12-14-04, 08:45 PM
Yeah, you want to theoretically make your receiver be the central switching center. By this I mean, you have all of your audio/video outputs going to the receiver's inputs (that is, if you have component inputs on your receiver), and thereby having only one video output to your television. Some say to avoid the extra connection and just go straight from the DVD to the TV, but unless you really see a difference in the quality, then I wouldn't worry. I still have two VCRs (one S-VHS--MitsU770) hooked up to my receiver, a DVD player, CD player (an old by classic Carver CD player), and Yamaha Double Cassette deck. Everything goes to the receiver (Denon AVR-5700), and I can switch between whatever I need to, if need be.
So, I would do this:
DVD Recorder Outputs --> Receiver Video 1 Input (or similar)
DVD Player Ouputs --> Receiver DVD Input
But, if you don't have Component Inputs or Outs on your receiver, you will have to do this:
DVD Recorder Outputs --> TV Video 1 Input
DVD Player Ouputs --> TV Video 2 Input
(of course you can make the DVD Output Video 1 if you want)
Then, you will be switching audio/video sources on your television versus using the receiver as the switching source. Either way, at least you have a television that supports multiple Component Inputs. This is very helpful for situations like this.
animalmystic
12-15-04, 01:29 AM
Yeah, you want to theoretically make your receiver be the central switching center. By this I mean, you have all of your audio/video outputs going to the receiver's inputs (that is, if you have component inputs on your receiver), and thereby having only one video output to your television. Some say to avoid the extra connection and just go straight from the DVD to the TV, but unless you really see a difference in the quality, then I wouldn't worry. I still have two VCRs (one S-VHS--MitsU770) hooked up to my receiver, a DVD player, CD player (an old by classic Carver CD player), and Yamaha Double Cassette deck. Everything goes to the receiver (Denon AVR-5700), and I can switch between whatever I need to, if need be.
So, I would do this:
DVD Recorder Outputs --> Receiver Video 1 Input (or similar)
DVD Player Ouputs --> Receiver DVD Input
But, if you don't have Component Inputs or Outs on your receiver, you will have to do this:
DVD Recorder Outputs --> TV Video 1 Input
DVD Player Ouputs --> TV Video 2 Input
(of course you can make the DVD Output Video 1 if you want)
Then, you will be switching audio/video sources on your television versus using the receiver as the switching source. Either way, at least you have a television that supports multiple Component Inputs. This is very helpful for situations like this.
Wow....wanna come over and give me a hand...LOL kidding.. thanks for the info, this helps. I finally got the DVD player working, picture, but I am having problems getting the DD/DTS working via the optical cable, not sure what I am doing wrong there, but your comments above are helpful.....ill get it, I am sure it seems simple to most, but getting everything right is a little intimidating.
So far i got cable going to the DVD recorder, then going into the TV.
I have component wires running from the DVD recorder to Amp, then same to the amp to the TV in input 2 on TV, with that I also have L&R audio going to the DVD player out.
On the amp I have the optical 1 running to the dvd recorder. (though I am not getting DD or DTS yet)
On the monitor out on the tv I have L&R audio to the amp running to video 2 in
PS2 is on input 4 on the TV
LOL I feel like a total noob, nothinglike the big timers on here :) I am sure its soooo simple, yet I am probably making it harder than needed.
DVD Polizei
12-15-04, 08:15 AM
Yeah actually I would if I was closer to you. I'm in Portland. The City where widescreen hasn't really caught-on just yet.
I'm currently looking at the Hitachi 42V715. Maybe the 50" version, but I don't know if I need to get that big, and I may get the 42" so I can save a few bucks for a more advanced DVD player. I was going to get a Canon 20D but I'm leaning more towards a new television. I already have a few grand in lenses, so once I sell those, I'm basically fine.
Your TV has got some very good scores and comments from a variety of websites, so you did well.
As to your DD/DTS issue, you probably have to ENABLE the optical inputs on your Receiver's menu and/or enable it on your DVD Player's and DVRecorder's menu. I strongly suggest reading your Receiver's Manual to see if this is the case, and your other manuals. Just basically look on the front few pages of the manual, look for the Optical Outputs / Inputs respectively, and then there is usually a reference page number to go look and read about.
From my experience, my Sony DVP-S7700 DVD Player's optical outs had to be enabled--this was due to many different output settings and some combination settings could actually result in a super loud screeching noise via the receiver--it had to do with combining the DTS and DD signals accidentally. On my Denon receiver--I had to switch it to "Auto" or something.
On the monitor out on the tv I have L&R audio to the amp running to video 2 in
I'm not sure I understand this one. :)
animalmystic
12-15-04, 02:16 PM
Yeah actually I would if I was closer to you. I'm in Portland. The City where widescreen hasn't really caught-on just yet.
I'm currently looking at the Hitachi 42V715. Maybe the 50" version, but I don't know if I need to get that big, and I may get the 42" so I can save a few bucks for a more advanced DVD player. I was going to get a Canon 20D but I'm leaning more towards a new television. I already have a few grand in lenses, so once I sell those, I'm basically fine.
Your TV has got some very good scores and comments from a variety of websites, so you did well.
As to your DD/DTS issue, you probably have to ENABLE the optical inputs on your Receiver's menu and/or enable it on your DVD Player's and DVRecorder's menu. I strongly suggest reading your Receiver's Manual to see if this is the case, and your other manuals. Just basically look on the front few pages of the manual, look for the Optical Outputs / Inputs respectively, and then there is usually a reference page number to go look and read about.
From my experience, my Sony DVP-S7700 DVD Player's optical outs had to be enabled--this was due to many different output settings and some combination settings could actually result in a super loud screeching noise via the receiver--it had to do with combining the DTS and DD signals accidentally. On my Denon receiver--I had to switch it to "Auto" or something.
On the monitor out on the tv I have L&R audio to the amp running to video 2 in
I'm not sure I understand this one. :)
Well thanks for the offer, I would def take you up on it if you were in the Seattle area. I didn't know you were actually that close in Portland, so thats cool another northwesterner.
WS hasn't caught on yet huh, thats weird, I am not totally sold that it has up here in Seattle either, all my friends/fmaily all still have basic 32"/36" 4:3 tube TV's, though my uncle finally upgraded to a Mitsu WS TV, good for him, he actually beat me to it, he has had his for 2 years now.
Yaaa I might have went a little too big with the TV, while I have a pretty big apartment (950 sq feet) i have had to move the couch back from 7 feet to 12 feet away so I am not so close. Once I get the HD installed by Comcast on Saturday it will look a lot better, the picture now with the analog cable is really bad :( But I am really happy with the TV and I am glad I made the purchase, and I couldn't beat the price.
Thanks, I did A LOT of research on what I wanted, as you could tell from my multiple forum posts :) but this one is rated #2 in consumer reports with Sony being #1, but the Sony was $300 more, I highly doubt there is a big diff between #1 & #2 so I am happy. Plus Hitachi's track record and products are great.
Ya i think you are right about setting up the DD/DTS and enabling the DVD recorder to read it. Though one thing I am concerned about is the picture when playing a DVD doesn't look that crisp/clear. in fact it looks the same as if I was not using a Pro scan DVD player. It might be me though, and it might have something to do with the extra wires I am running that you commented on, I am going to have to mess with it a little more tonight and get it working.
Thanks again for all the help, much appreciated!
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