Vizio 42" HDTV plasma set - $1999 Costco - Vizio P42HD (P42HDe)

[AdminJoe]

Link to set at samsclub.com (http://www.samsclub.com/eclub/main_shopping.jsp?BV_UseBVCookie=yes&n=0&mt=a&coe=0&oidPath=0:-23542:-23589:-24298:-25204:877759%20&fid=1S10)

Nice price for a HDTV plasma....

Features

Vizio P42HD

Large 42" Diagonal Widescreen (16:9 Aspect ratio) providing a larger viewable area than traditional televisions
High Definition television (HDTV) with a native resolution of 1024 X 768 pixels, enabling full-screen viewing of high-definition broadcasts and DVD videos
DVI (Digital Video Interface)- HDTV Interface with HDCP (High Definition Content Protection) support allows the transmission of uncompressed, copy-protected digital content to your high definition display with stunning image fidelity and clarity
High Brightness Display to provide a more vivid, brilliant picture in any environment
Superb Contrast Ratio providing an incredible picture with deep blacks and bright whites in any environment
Multiple video accessory support with component video, composite video, S- DVI, D-Sub, and RF antenna inputs allow you to enjoy video from a variety of sources and accessories
Built-in NTSC cable ready tuner so that you can watch TV right out of the box
Side-by-side PiP (Picture-in-Picture) viewing for ultimate video enjoyment while watching content from multiple sources simultaneously
Ultra Wide viewing angle(160 degrees) so that you can view the picture from practically anywhere in the room
BBE sound enhancements create a thrilling surround sound experience with deep rich bass to provide audio quality that is fuller, richer and wider
Table top stand, remote control, and external speakers included
Dimensions with stand: 40.9" x 27.2" x 10.6"
Dimensions w/o stand: 40.9" x 27.2" x 5.2"
Weight with stand: 83 lbs.
Weight w/o stand: 75 lbs.

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Product Specifications



Panel: 42" Diagonal, 16:9 Aspect ratio
Resolution: 1024x768 pixels
Pixel(DOT)Pitch: HDTV (720P) Native
Signal Compatibility: 480i (SDTV), 480P (EDTV), 720P (HDTV), 1080i (HDTV)
Brightness: 1000 cd/m2 typical
Contrast: 3000:1 typical
Viewing Angle: >160 degrees (horizontal)/ >160 degrees (vertical)
Speakers: External 2x 15W
Voltage range: 100-240 Vac at 50/60 Hz
Power Consumption: 440W average
Video Inputs:

1x RF (1x F Connector for internal NTSC Tuner)
2x Composite Video (1x RCA) & 2x S-Video (1x DIN)
1x Component (3x RCA, YPbPr)
1x Component (3x RCA, YCbCr)
1x Analog RGB (1x 15-Pin D-Sub)
1x Digital Video (1x DVI)
1x RS232 Control
Special Features:

PIP
POP
CC
V-Chip
3D Comb Filter
3:2 Pull down
Gamma Correction
Freeze
Motion Adaptive De-interlacer
NTSC Video decoding via RF (Antenna, cable or Satellite [Set top Box may be required] or Video (CVBS, S-Video or Component YCbCr)
Progressive Scan Video via Component YPbPr
VGA or DVI (Set Top Box may be required)
Computer 640x480
800x600
1024x768 via VGA or DVI
MTS
BBE Sound enhancements
Noise reduction
Aspect Ratio conversion

[oman321]

wow......................... :wow: & :drool11:

[markesq]

Anyone buy this yet??

[ret369]

I'm looking at this one also, but I have a question :cool: how can you get burn in with a plasma? doesn't it fill the screen with the picture no matter what you're watching?? or am I mistaken?? :mic:

[57U]

If you're watching 4:3 it will not fill the screen unless you ask it to. Also any static image like an opaque logo, or video game score is an "issue".

[ret369]

so in other words the station logos' may/will burnin ?? :(

[57U]

See the FAQ on burn in.

[dalkonshield]

Costco just sent out coupons and one of them is for $400 off this set from Jan. 17 through Jan. 23, 2005 - making it $1999.

[GIDAT1]

Where Do I find this coupon of $ 400.00 at? The price at sams is $ 2387.00. What is at Costco?

Phil

[dalkonshield]

Where Do I find this coupon of $ 400.00 at? The price at sams is $ 2387.00. What is at Costco?

Phil


The price at Costco is $2399.99 - the coupon books are mailed out a couple times a year, and the one for this set is $400 off from Jan 17 - Jan 23. You could ask at the membership/customer service desk for a coupon book. Also, sometimes they pass them out as you enter or leave the store.

One benefit of Costco is they provide a lifetime warranty for everything they sell except computers.

[Chucklehead]

I just saw the coupon and came on the internet to research the model. I know only a little about HDTV and less about plasma. The FAQ section has been extraordinarily useful. However, I still have a question, What do I give up by buying this model compared to a more expensive 42 inch model? or maybe I should ask why this model seems so inexpensive?

[donheff]

I bought one of these at Cosco a few days ago. The picture is great to my untrained eye. It seems as good as expensive Pioneers that I saw in stores. I assume there is some downside, maybe the thing will die after thirty days. But, in terms of use and picture, it seems fine to me. Caution -- so far I am viewing analog TV and DVDs. My HDTV signal comes next Thursday.

Don

[dalkonshield]

That's good to hear the picture looks great with an analog signal. Costco was unable to let me view an analog feed on their sets. I'm now about 99% sure I'll be buying this set on January 17.

[GIDAT1]

thanks dalkonshield.. but unfortunately we donot have Costco and neither am I a member there.

I am member here at Sam's
Any suggestions.

Phil

[Gary Z]

The price at Costco is $2399.99 - the coupon books are mailed out a couple times a year, and the one for this set is $400 off from Jan 17 - Jan 23. You could ask at the membership/customer service desk for a coupon book. Also, sometimes they pass them out as you enter or leave the store.

One benefit of Costco is they provide a lifetime warranty for everything they sell except computers.

I was at Costco last night and asked about the coupon. They told me they were only mailed out to Executive members. The coupons they were handing out at the door were for Jan 10 - Jan 16.

[pamvette_]

We bought an Alkai EDTV at Costco and got the HDTV box and hookup. We have really enjoyed the Plasma and our only complaint when watching a non HDTV movie and the scene is at night, the reception is poor. Otherwise it is excellent. We thought we would take this Alkai back and get the Vizio HDTV that is going on sale instead and hopefully we would be doing an upgrade. I was hoping to read someone's experience with the Vizio since I have never heard of that brand. Looking forward to the reviews. Thanks, Pam

[willaby]

I asked for and got a coupon book last night (San Diego area). I just have the standard membership. I haven't seen any reviews about the Vizio Plasma sets, can anyone point me to one? If it wasn't for Costco's unreal return policy I would probably wait or pay more for a better name brand. Can't go wrong with Costco.

[SUPERFROG]

The price at Costco is $2399.99 - the coupon books are mailed out a couple times a year, and the one for this set is $400 off from Jan 17 - Jan 23. You could ask at the membership/customer service desk for a coupon book. Also, sometimes they pass them out as you enter or leave the store.

One benefit of Costco is they provide a lifetime warranty for everything they sell except computers.

You mention that COSTCO provides a lifetime warranty for everything the sell except computers. Are you saying that if I buy an HDTV from COSTCO that it carries a lifetime warranty?

[Greenhorn]

The 42HD I saw today at Costco had a far inferior picture quality than the Panasonic EDTV sitting next to it using the same digital feed. specially the dark scenes. Everyone shopping for TV's agreed except for a man that said HD was always better than ED and stated the resolution numbers, interlacing, blah, blah. To me numbers don't mean as much as what my eyes percieve to be a better image. I'll be watching the screen and not the box or spec sheet. I asked for the remote to adjust the picture brightness, contrast and sharpness so I could see image detail like the Panasonic in dark scenes. I had the brightness almost all the way up and got the picture much better but not beter than the Panasonic ED. The Pioneer looked HD, the Vizio didn't.

I returned a Sylvannia 42" EDTV to Sears this month because my old 35" RCA looked better on both analog cable and DVD. I really want to buy this Vizio for the price and specs but I don't want to have to return it in disappointment. I hate to go through all the trouble again. I would buy the Panasonic ED at $2499 if not for the fixed speakers and silver color. The Sams website claims the Vizio 42 HD to have a contrast ratio of 3000:1, the box at costco although on the top shelf I'm sure says 5000:1. Did they just stamp random numbers in thier factory in Mexico. Someone tell me which specs , and other factors are more relevant when viewing HDTV and why some HD monitors have a better image quality than others that seem to have better specs.

[joel745]

I have been to costco in the detroit area and been on their web page.........i do not see any vizio products there at all ! However on costco web site is a Maxent 42xp10, which after talking on the phone to the people at maxent i discovered this is really a Sampo model 42xp10. $2499.99

[willaby]

Are you sure you saw the Vizio HD? They have a Vizio ED on display at both the stores near me (N.San Diego), but they told me they aren't displaying the HD's until Monday morning when the coupon is effective. They told me it is because they expect to sell out and don't want people buying them ahead and returning to use the coupon. Last I saw the HD was about 3 weeks ago, it looked ok, but I didn't pay to much attention to it at that time (never heard of Vizio before)

I agree about the spec's, they just "one up" what ever sounds good as a claim. You gotta go by the picture first.

Re: Costco, You need to ask them about their return policy to believe it: "if you have the receipt, return for cash anytime, 'cept computers"

BTW: almost everything they sell online is not available at the stores.

[Greenhorn]

Yes it was the HD, the ED looked even worse. The HD had a dark gray (almost black)surround, the ED was lighter gray. I had them turn off the ED because the HD's remote affected the ED in a different way (lost the signal with a noisy snow ). Someone did want to buy it with the discount but the Costco salesperson said they shouldn't have had it on display yet and would remove it from display.

[Az2k]

The Vizio P42HD comes in two different flavors the P42HD and the P42HDe. The P42HD is silver and has a contrast ratio of 3000:1 (brown box). The P42HDe is gray/charcoal and has a 5000:1 contrast ratio (white and orange box). Costco use the same stock number for both versions. I also compared the P42HD with the Panny ED display and the Panny had better blacks but I thought the Vizio overall looked better. The Vizio was adjusted very badly and I was able to get the remote and adjust it. (both were being fed a 1080i loop over component)

Az

[zev]

Could anybody tell me how best to transport this VIZIO - that I'll be lined up at COSTCO to buy 2morrow - fron the store to my home? I have a Honda Pilot and my son tells me I DEFINITELY do not want to lat the unit down but to keep it on it's bottom side AT ALL TIMES. Is this true for a 10 minute ride?!

Thanks for your help

[57U]

It's true. Keep it vertical.

[Greenhorn]

The Vizio P42HD comes in two different flavors the P42HD and the P42HDe. The P42HD is silver and has a contrast ratio of 3000:1 (brown box). The P42HDe is gray/charcoal and has a 5000:1 contrast ratio (white and orange box). Costco use the same stock number for both versions. I also compared the P42HD with the Panny ED display and the Panny had better blacks but I thought the Vizio overall looked better. The Vizio was adjusted very badly and I was able to get the remote and adjust it. (both were being fed a 1080i loop over component)

Az

Then from what you are describing they must have the P42HDe at my costco. Definitely charcoal and a white box that said 5000:1 contrast ratio. I If it had a 5000:1 contrast ratio, how come I had to turn the brightness almost to max to see any detail during night scenes or shadows. So for the same price is there an advantage of the HDe over the HD ??? Why does the Vinc website only show a 42 ED (gray)and 42 HD Charcoal). where did you get the information about the HDe?

[tucsonj]

i just purchased one of these after doing some research into plasma tvs and hdtvs. i am now realizing that there is a lot more to know but am not sure who to ask since costco doesnt really have salespeople on the floor and the guys at the electronics chain stores are always busy. anyway, does anyone know if you can receive local signals via this monitors internal tuner or do i have to subscribe to cable service to view any tv programming?

thanks

[Greenhorn]

Tucson...you should be able to just hook up your cable to it like any TV. TO get HD signals you need an HD tuner from your cable or satellite Co.

I picked one of these up this morning at 10:00 AM. Two guys had two in one cart. there were 3 more on the floor. I took one and another guy took one more leaving one on the floor as I headed to the cash register.
It is in a white and orange box and the model listed is P42HD and 5000:1 contrast ratio. I'm still trying to figure out the difference between this P42HD and the P42HD on Vinc's website (3000:1), and Sam's 42HD (3000:1)
I plan to hook this up to standard cable this Friday. I'm not sure when to get digital and from whom. Has anyone compared, comcast digital to Direct TV or dish network?

update:
I just saw another vizio P42HD. This one is on Target's website. It claims to have a native resolution of 1024x1024 and a contrast ratio of 1000:1 .

update:
Just went back on Vinc's site. Now they show a model P42HDE, 5000:1. I checked my box from costco and it is definitely P42HD (no E). 5000:1 :headscrat

What technology makes contrast ratios? Every single spec on the P42HD and the P42HDE on Vinc's sight is exactly the same except for the contrast ratios.

Is there a group that tests TV's to prove that the numbers advertised are true?

[tucsonj]

thanks for the reply Greenhorn. actually I dont have cable and have just been receiving the local channels on an old 70's GE CRT TV which actually gets great reception with the built in rabbit ears. Im not really looking to get cable or direct TV etc. since I just watch local channels and dont want another monthly bill.

I have a feeling that these plasma TVs arent built to receive local signals thru the airways but was posting on here to see if there was a cheap way to get local signals via the internal tuner or an antenna. is there something that Im neglecting in setting up the plasma tv, do i need to buy an antenna, or do i have to subscribe to cable to get any reception at all on a plasma tv?
anyone know the answer to this?

thanks

[mmmofclt]

Can you hook it up to a HDTV antenna and receive "over the air" high defintion broadcast? :whistle:

[Greenhorn]

Can you hook it up to a HDTV antenna and receive "over the air" high defintion broadcast? :whistle:

Check out this sight about antennae and HD reception.
http://www.antennasdirect.com/

[tucsonj]

I assume an hdtv antenna would work if I bought one and installed it on the roof but the ones I've seen arent cheap; was hoping that I could find an inexpensive way to receive only local channels. I guess I missed the TV revolution where everything now is made for only cable hookups.

[Greenhorn]

I assume an hdtv antenna would work if I bought one and installed it on the roof but the ones I've seen arent cheap; was hoping that I could find an inexpensive way to receive only local channels. I guess I missed the TV revolution where everything now is made for only cable hookups.

The antenna on the link is a UHF antenna (higher channels)just like the loop on your TV top. The rabbit ears are for VHF (lower channels). From what I read the signal transmitted from the stations over the air is what you get. If it is HD then you get HD . The more expensive antennas get further channels clearer. According to that site, there are a lot more HD signals broadcasted over the UHF band that is why a lot of folks are dropping the VHF and jsut using UHF for less bulk on top of the roof. Some of the antennas they advertise are smal enough to mount indoors. I've never used one of those but I am tempted to buy one for under $100. Maybe someone else would tune in and cast further light on this subject.

[tucsonj]

Thanks greenhorn, that antenna link looks promising and with reasonable pricing. You're right, it would be great if someone with some experience could offer us some advise.

[Greenhorn]

Thanks greenhorn, that antenna link looks promising and with reasonable pricing. You're right, it would be great if someone with some experience could offer us some advise.
Here is a link about antennas in the FAQ section of this board. You could also post your question in the other areas of this forum.
http://www.hdtvoice.com/voice/showthread.php?t=6514

I browsed the other boards and they talked about antennaes in detail. I got this link posted by someone in the other board. Check it out it is neat.

http://www.antennaweb.org/aw/welcome.aspx

[PWHMAINE]

I purchased the Vizio 42PHDe yesterday at Costco, and easily transported it home in my Honda Pilot (vertically). The picture is supurb, and should get even better once I purchase a DVI-D cable later this week. Like the other readers discovered, the image in the store was only so-so, which I attribute to the feed. Once I set it up at home and hooked it up to my Comcast HDTV receiver, the picture was excellent, even in SD. I needed to tweak some of the settings to get the best picture, and I'm going to use the THX software included in the Star Wars DVD to get an even better picture (I used this on a Philips HDTV I also own, and the THX software helped to substantially improve the picture.).

By the way, the Vizio is like most HDTVs on the market and does not include a HDTV receiver, which you'll need to actually see an HDTV picture. I say this because some of the previous messages indicated that they were going to simply hook up their existing non-HDTV cable service and/or use rabbit ears to get an over-the-air signal, and obviously this won't work without a dedicated receiver.

Also note that you need to buy a decent quality DVI-D cable to get the best picture out of this unit. I believe the Costco unit simply used an S-video cable which is attached to a splitter unit that shares the same signal among ten or so sets. Hence, the image you see in the store doesn't compare to the image you would get at home, once you set it up properly (i.e. HDTV receiver, DVI-D cable, adjust the settings).

[tucsonj]

After reading the last post it would seem I would have been better off buying a more expensive monitor that has an integrated HDTV receiver since adding one of these looks like it'll cost another $400.The difference between NTSC and ATSC tuners is something I need to learn more about. With all the added extras like an antenna and HDTV receiver this unit will be putting me out a lot more than the original 2K. Can someone tell me if it will even be worth it or will the reception be like other lower quality less expensive TVs since I dont have cable?

[Greenhorn]

Thanks for sharing that info PWH. I was on a different board and they were discussing rooftop antennas and digital broadcasts and no mention of receivers. I guess everyone on that forum already had HD receivers.

[mouser830]

I bought one yesterday, I don't see the "E" designator anywhere although the box and manual quote 5000:1 contrast ratio.

I noticed two squigley lines behind the glass when it is shut off, no evidence of them while in use.

I have standard comcast analog cable, and the SDTV picture sucks to say the least. This means investing in digital or HD cable and I watch very little TV, but I would like a decent picture.

My understanding (at least now) is all HD TV's running digital pretty much suck when using analog or over the air reception?? ANy comments

The picture is great with DVD even 480p as I do not have a better player yet.

I am dissapointed that in order to watch regualr TV you fave to push the wide button to get "aspect" and the picture is now equivelent to a 32" CRT tube TV. As well this leaves a big black area for burn in. Regular TV in "wide" mode is almost impossible to watch.

Also watching DVD's like Pirates of the Crribian the screen still has black bars on top of and bottom although much smaller than my old Toshiba RPTV they are there ready to "burn in"

Am I just not ready for this!

Scott

[tucsonj]

mouser, I'm in the same boat you are. Is there no way to watch regular TV without the black bars prone to burn in? Why is the 'wide' mode not suitable? I've only been able to watch DVD's and they seem pretty clear but dont want to waste money on cable, antenna and hd tuner if Im just going to get black bars on the sides that will eventually burn in.

[twice]

According to V Inc., the "e" model, sold through Costco, is an upgraded version of the HD, which is still carried by Sam's Club. The "e" model has a higher contrast ratio (5,000:1 vs. 3,000:1) and longer lamp life (60,000 hours, or about 30 years of "average" viewing), the company says.

As previous poster noted, "e" model is packaged in orange and white box which says P42 HD. The "e" designation only appears on the shipping label on the side.

The image is rather dark, and the 43W-inch Pioneer that's also carried by Costco blows it away - albeit for a thousand bucks more.

The Vizio has an integrated analog TV receiver, which means you can receive over-the-air broadcasts via antenna. However, you'll need an HDTV tuner (set-top box) to view over-the-air HD broadcasts, or an HD decoder box from your cable or satellite company.

[tucsonj]

Actually, I just bought one of these Vizio monitors and no where on it, on the box or on the shipping label does it have an "e". It came in an orange and white box with 5000:1 contrast ratio clearly written on the front. The back of the monitor shows a mfg date of 12/04 so I assume it is a new model. I bought it because they seemed to be going very quickly but am thinking about returning it if I have to spend a lot more to be able to have decent reception.

[krazybruin]

I bought the Vizio 42" Plasma from Costco yesterday. After driving around to 4 different Costcos. Luckily I got the last one in a 25 mile radius.

I have Digital Cable and most of the cable channels look nice in wide screen mode. Unfortunately, many of the regular channels (CBS, ABC, FOX) look a little grainy. I also have free HBO and those channels look absolutley amazing. This is without the HDTV converter. But overall, I'm a little disappointed. I was hoping to see something spectacular on any channel I want to watch. (especially after seeing the crisp display at Costco). Is there anything we can do to make these channels appear to be more crisp? There is a "sharpness" item on the display menu. I've set that all the way to the max, and still it looks only OK for the regular channels.

I'm also concerned with the volume setting and the plasma speakers. I can't seem to get a strong output. And when I increase my Plasma Monitor, plus my digital cable volume, I hear a slight staticy sound. Could this be corrected with better wires?

Also, can somebody shed some light on the 3 viewing settings: Wide Screen (I know this one), Aspect, and 1:1. The 1:1 is too small for such a big monitor. Is there a way to zoom the TV? I know it works with S-video.

I was also hoping for a better, more thorough manual. The one that's included on vinc.com is the same as the one included in the packaging and it's not helping me much. This is my first television purchase, let alone Plasma HDTV... i'm thinking I should go back and take baby steps. But I love the look of this thing and for the price after the Costco coupon...can't really beat it.

If someone can help me/us (I know many people have the same questions), please do. Thanks in advance.

[tucsonj]

krazy,
I too thought that everything shown on these monitors would be as clear and crisp as the programming shown at costco but have since realized that there are many modes of display the best of which was shown while on display. It is good to hear that you are having some good pictures with the digital cable and HBO even without an HDTV tuner. I'm finding it hard to believe that my old 1970's TV will get better local signals than these new outrageously priced ones but I guess consumers now are looking for monitors that are made to work with cable and satellite.

[psedoali]

I saw it in the store (costco) this evening, I thought it was a good price for a plasma. I dont know a lot about it but it seems a lot cheaper than most of the stuff I saw in best buy with a better picture can anyone say how it looks on Analog?

[tucsonj]

psed,
If you read through most of the posts on here they say it looks pretty bad on analog; I've yet to find out since you cant view anything at all without cable or satellite service.

[PWHMAINE]

To get the best picture, you need to use an HDTV receiver, such as the HDTV receiver I get for $5 more per month from Comcast. Then, I strongly recommend you get a decent DVI-D cable, which costs $35 or more on E-bay (they're over $100 at Best Buy, Circuit City or Radio Shack).

SD / analog signals are always inferior on a digital set of any kind (plasma, LCD or DLP), as compared to a traditional analog TV, simply because it picks up artifacts and / or blockiness when the analog signal is converted to digital. However, you can somewhat compensate for this by lowering the sharpness. The Vizio factory default for sharpness is high (75% or so), and it should be reduced to 25% or so.

Within a few years, most all signals will be natively digital, so you're still better off tolerating the somewhat poor reception on SD for the time being.

[dcm5150]

I went by my Costco today and they have 8...hope they are not gone by the time I make a decision.

I don't live in a FOX HD broadcast area, so it looks like Comcast is my only hope ofr watching the Superbowl in HD. Dish says they only have CBS HD. Anybody know anything different?

Has anybody connect this to Dish (not HD)? What's the quality like?

ANybody connected this to a computer?

[NedDawg]

I'm new here, but have picked up some great info in this thread. One thing I read yesterday was the dimensions of the box/carton that the 42HDe comes in. I'm not sure where I read that (I visited a few sites), but I didn't write it down because I was going to take a measuring tape to Costco. Unfortunately, they were sold out. I did manage to get on a waiting list, though, so would still like to know the dimensions to determine if I can get it in my Outback should I get the call. Can anyone help? Thanks.

[tucsonj]

PWH,
I assume the cable company HDTV receivers come with a DVI output. Is the picture that much better with a DVI connection?

[epoints]

Has anyone try hooking up this unit to Cox HD signal?

[mdifabio]

Anybody know what de-interlacer this TV uses?

I own it, but I am curious about how (or if) it upconverts SD.

[mdifabio]

I will be setting up my P42 HDE to Comcast HD tonight via component cables. I will let you know of any comments.

[dalkonshield]

I'm new here, but have picked up some great info in this thread. One thing I read yesterday was the dimensions of the box/carton that the 42HDe comes in. I'm not sure where I read that (I visited a few sites), but I didn't write it down because I was going to take a measuring tape to Costco. Unfortunately, they were sold out. I did manage to get on a waiting list, though, so would still like to know the dimensions to determine if I can get it in my Outback should I get the call. Can anyone help? Thanks.

approx. 18.5" W x 33" H x 47.5" L

[PWHMAINE]

TucsonJ: The Comcast HDTV receiver has a DVI-D output. It is the model shown here: http://broadband.motorola.com/getdvr/

I couldn't be more pleased with my unit. For $10 more per month, I get the HDTV receiver (with 7 or 8 HDTV channels, including Fox), plus a 80G DVR that can record up to 15 or 20 hours of HDTV, so I frequently tape movies from HBO and replay them later.

As to whether the picture is any better with DVI-D vs. component, I won't know until this weekend. The cost for decent DVI-D cables was $100 at Best Buy and Radio Shack, so I picked up one on E-bay for $30, including shipping.

[tucsonj]

PWH,
Thanks for the note. Let us know how the DVI looks when you have it all hooked up. Do you have the monitor hooked up yet and if so how does the picture look without the DVI?

[tucsonj]

Does anyone have DISH network and if so how is it working with this monitor?

[flapizza]

I just bought one yesterday. When I hooked it up to my dvd player using the YPbPr cables, the dvd keeps flashing in and out. It plays fine through the coax input. Any ideas how to fix this?

[PWHMAINE]

I hooked up the DVI-D cable last night, and it made some improvements to the picture, but maybe not enough the justify the price of the cable. It actually did more to improve the picture quality on the SD channels, rather than the HDTV ones.

On the downside, by using the DVI-D cable, the automatic aspect feature is disabled so that when you change to a SD 4:3 channel, it is stretched by default (you have to manually set it to 4:3, and then when you switch back to a 16:9 HDTV channel, it is squeezed into a 4:3 until you manually set it back to 16:9). In other words, you can still change it from 16:9 to 4:3, but it doesn't happen automatically. Nevertheless, I may just watch everything in 16:9, which probably isn't a bad idea since it will reduce the possibility of burning in black bars on each side of the screen.

I did find that I have been able to substantially improve the picture quality by tweaking the settings in the Motorola HDTV set-top box. For example, I found the picture quality improved when I "downgraded" it from 1080i to 720p, and then changed the SD/analog default setting to 480p.

Interestingly, when you use the DVI-D output, you need to utilize the RCA-to-submini adapter cable (included in the box) which is probably the most inferior of audio cabling options. The sound isn't all that bad, but I assume Vizio figures anyone using a DVI-D cable would also primarily rely on a separate home theater sound system for the audio. Which probably is true.

So is it worth getting a DVI-D cable? In the end probably so, because it did significantly improve the picture quality on the SD channels.

By the way, the factory defaults on brightness and contrast are too high, so it's wise to set these below 50%, at least for the first few months while the plasma pixels are "aging". I took this advice from the Panasonic website, which has a white paper on the subject.

[Ratman]

When I hooked it up to my dvd player using the YPbPr cables, the dvd keeps flashing in and out.?

Make sure the DVD player is set for progressive scan.
Usually found in the DVD player's setup menus and/or a switch on the back.

[Greenhorn]

PWH...thanks for the update and all the info. I just ordered comcast digital plus. This is from their site:
Digital Plus includes Standard Cable, Digital Classic, On Demand Pay-Per-View and multiple channels of digital music. This package also includes TV Guide Interactive TM and one digital converter box with universal remote. In addition to the up to 100 television channels you will receive with Standard Cable and Digital Classic, the Digital Plus Package offers up to 28 additional cable channels including: Toon Disney, Biography, and multiple channels of Encore!
The cost was $39.99 for 3 months. After that 58.99/month. Free installation. According to the customer service rep, digital programming comes with the HD box. I asked about the $5.00 HD box on their site and she said, $5.00 for the programming and $10 for the HD box in addition to my standard cable which added up to $58.90, so I opted for the promo package above which includes "encore". Could someone comment on "encore"? Is it true theie digital service comes with a HD box?

[epoints]

I am getting all excited about HD service on my new Vizio. Right now the pictures look okay with regular cable. Grainny with SD signals but seem to be better after a while (5-10 seconds). The DVD in 480P looks great. I did have to tone down on the brightness, contrast and other settings as previous postings have suggested.

I just add basic digital cable with Cox and that include basic HD service for $6.50/month. I also added HD-DVR for $5 and DVR/HD converter rental for $10. The whole thing will cost me $22+change per month. no cable, converter and dvr to buy. I could not wait...

Anyone with COX HD right now?!?

[Monsercat]

First time on the board.

I just installed my new Vizio P42 and so far am quite pleased. Need some help with setting up a different remote control. In addition to a Samsung HD Sat receiver, I am also using a Panasonic TIVO/DVD box. The Panasonic is what controls my channel selection for my satellite. I'd like to be able to contol my power, volumn, etc. on the P42 with my Panasonic remote but the setup doesn't have Vizio listed as a selection. Before going through all 9999 (+/-) codes does anyone know the code or if Vizio is labeled from another brand.

[GTO]

I just picked up a Vizio P42HDe from Costco this morning. With the coupon and sales tax it was $2100. I set it up this afternoon. It looks great. When I route the video signal through my replayTV brand DVR it looks like crap, however, my older Panasonic DVR looks pretty nice. Comcast isn't comming out to install HD Cable until Tuesday.

Anyway, When I llo at this set next to higher resolution sets, it's a little lacking. Even some comperable name brands are a little bit better, but . . .
THE PRICE!!!!!. Are you kidding me? http://www.hdtvoice.com/voice/newreply.php?do=newreply&noquote=1&p=94345#http://www.hdtvoice.com/voice/newreply.php?do=newreply&noquote=1&p=94345# This is a huge bargain for the price. I can get over a little worse picture for the price. Go get one or a rqain check, that's my advice.

[shellybush]

I too bought one of the Vizio's at Costco. I have the Dish Network ( I hate them) and am currently not hooked up to HD yet. I use the basic 301 receiver and have it hooked into the Vizio via an s-video cable from the box right to the TV. The picture is much better than the picture I get from just the coaxial RF cable. Does anyone out there have the Dish network hooked up to their Vizio? It doesn't seem to be worth the extra money since the Dish network currently only offers 5 HDTV stations at this time: TNT, ESPN, HBO(if you subscribe), DiscoveryHD and I think one more....and for this they charge you $10 a month plus an extra $5 a month for the HD box....what a bunch of corporate pigs....any comments?

shellybush

[tucsonj]

shelly, i didnt have any cable or satellite connection at all but Im going to try Cox digital with HD to see if this Vizio is worth keeping and am also thinking about Dish or another satellite service since they are less expensive. How does the monitor look with Dish?

[shellybush]

shelly, i didnt have any cable or satellite connection at all but Im going to try Cox digital with HD to see if this Vizio is worth keeping and am also thinking about Dish or another satellite service since they are less expensive. How does the monitor look with Dish?

It looks great with the dish utilizing the s-video cable. I had one from 15 years ago and went out and bought a "monster" s-video cable.....the old basic one was just as good as the monster. In the "picture" menu, scroll down to the color temperture screen and switch from normal to user. When you do that you can adjust the red, green and blue colors individually. Let me know how it works out.

[wcoast]

Is there anyone out there using Directv with the Vizio P42HD from Costco? I hear that local San Diego channels feeds for cable are not that great. I am wondering if the quality will improve on local channels if you have a digital feed.

[oman321]

I too bought one of the Vizio's at Costco. I have the Dish Network ( I hate them) and am currently not hooked up to HD yet. I use the basic 301 receiver and have it hooked into the Vizio via an s-video cable from the box right to the TV. The picture is much better than the picture I get from just the coaxial RF cable. Does anyone out there have the Dish network hooked up to their Vizio? It doesn't seem to be worth the extra money since the Dish network currently only offers 5 HDTV stations at this time: TNT, ESPN, HBO(if you subscribe), DiscoveryHD and I think one more....and for this they charge you $10 a month plus an extra $5 a month for the HD box....what a bunch of corporate pigs....any comments?

shellybush



Might wanna wait and see what happens with Dish since they just bought VOOM's satellite. :sherlok:

[KC Grandfather]

:cheers: I am not only new to this forum but am totally ignorant to HDTV.
I am on the waiting list (raincheck) at Cosco.
I use Time Warner and have them scheduled to upgrade (?) my "box" but also install my TV if and when I get it. Costco says they will get three shipments here in Kansas City In February. I should call them evey day to see when they come in.
Any advise to a "Newby"? Do I need specioal cabling?

[KC Grandfather]

I am not only new to this forum but am totally ignorant to HDTV.
I am on the waiting list (raincheck) at Cosco.
I use Time Warner and have them scheduled to upgrade (?) my "box" but also install my TV if and when I get it. Costco says they will get three shipments here in Kansas City In February. I should call them evey day to see when they come in.
Any advise to a "Newby"? Do I need specioal cabling?

[dalkonshield]

Welcome KC Grandfather. I'd start by reading some of the frequently asked questions at http://www.hdtvoice.com/voice/forumdisplay.php?f=384 . I have bright house cable (which in my local area was time warner cable last year) and they are good about loaning whatever special cabling you request. http://www.hdtvoice.com/voice/showthread.php?t=3529 will explain the differences.

[dmbarman]

OK, so I thought that I would wait to post anything on the site to make sure I'm keeping this TV...I just got Comcast HD in today, and with just Component cables, this TV comes alive. I must say the PQ was really impressive with DirecTV and a S-Video cable. I'm convinced that a better, more shielded cable makes a difference. It doesn't have to be Monster, but something with excellent shielding makes a BIG difference.

This TV doesn't seem to come with 3:2 pulldown, but with HD, you don't need it all that much. I'm looking forward to having a GREAT Super Bowl party now that I bought this TV.

I like the looks of the TV without the speakers, and wouldn't use them if they didn't sound so good. I was a bit disappointed in the fact that YCbCr is only 480i and not a true component input...luckily there is the DVI and YPbPr that are true HD inputs.

I researched several TV's, in ALL price ranges, and I'm really surprised in the way this TV holds its own against the competition. There is a write-up in the latest Home Theater Magazine (Feb 2005) edition about this TV, but when I compare my TV resolution and colors to the report, I find that my TV displays a better picture than what they were viewing.

This TV is definitely worth the money Costco is charging...is it the best? No...but it sure does make it hard to justify the higher prices that the competition charges. Kudos to all those that purchased the TV, and with Costco's policy, I feel like this purchase is a no-brainer because if anything happens to the TV, you have a great return policy to use.

[PWHMAINE]

Dmbarman:

I absolutely agree with your comments: it's the best bang for your buck compared to what else is out there on the market right now.

The only downside is that we all know the technology and features will only continue to improve, and prices will continue to drop. I bet by next Christmas Costco will offer a 50" version of the same TV, with an HDTV tuner and CableCard included, for under $2,000.

Maybe I'll take them up on their lifetime return policy, and trade in for the new model in time for Super Bowl next year! :cheers: ! (Just kidding!).

[highton]

I too bought one of the Vizio's at Costco. I have the Dish Network ( I hate them) and am currently not hooked up to HD yet. I use the basic 301 receiver and have it hooked into the Vizio via an s-video cable from the box right to the TV. The picture is much better than the picture I get from just the coaxial RF cable. Does anyone out there have the Dish network hooked up to their Vizio? It doesn't seem to be worth the extra money since the Dish network currently only offers 5 HDTV stations at this time: TNT, ESPN, HBO(if you subscribe), DiscoveryHD and I think one more....and for this they charge you $10 a month plus an extra $5 a month for the HD box....what a bunch of corporate pigs....any comments?

shellybush

Shellybush,

I just bought one of these Vizio's at Costco. I hooked it up to my DVD player last night and played a little with the picture controls. I got a very good picture on it while watching "I-Robot". I also have Dish Network and a High Def 921 DVR hooked up in another room to my Sharp LC-37HV6U HD TV. The 921 DVR has a lot of bugs still to work out but overall it works good. The picture on the Sharp is NIGHT & DAY different between HD and standard programing on the Dish. As far as the programming is concerned, Dish has 5 HD channels on their lineup. TNTHD, DiscoveryHD, HDNET, HDNET Movies and ESPNHD. They also have CBS HD if you hook up another satellite. Not sure if you can get EAST or WEST in the opposing areas though. I've been on the phone with Dish and was told that if you live east of the Mississippi you can only get WCBS NY and west it's KCBS LA. Although my bill just got here and it says I'm signed up for CBS NY and I live 70 miles east of LA. You also get Showtime HD and HBO HD if you subscribe to those movie channels. I believe that you can still get the deal that is $5 off the regular programming fee for the HD package for one year, which make the HD programming only $5 a month. There is a DVR fee for the 921 of $5 per month. So all in all my 921 HD receiver, which replaced another SD receiver, is costing me $10 more per month with the Hi-Def package. That's not counting the cost of the reciever though! I bought the 921 at Costco also just before Christmas for $489.99. And they said they were expecting more in soon.
In case you didn't know, all of the Dish Network HD Receivers had a built-in Digital tuner to get your local channels in High Def. I get all of the major networks on their digital feed. CBS, NBC, ABC, KTLA-DT, FOX, KCET-DT and more. They all look as good or better than the satellite HD channels (When the program is HD that is!).
I'm kinda in the same boat as dmbarman was (or is!). Not sure if I want to keep this Vizio or not. Thanks dm for the info about the the Home Theater review. I'll have to go out and get that issue today. I bought the Vizio because it was the best deal I've ever seen on a High Def Plasma, and with the Costco return policy, I figured why not and I better get it while I can! By the way, does anyone know exactly what their return policy really is? I've never had a problem returning anything yet, and have heard that they'll take anything but computers back with a receipt forever. Can this be right? I sort of eyeballing the Pioneer PDP-4340 plasma as an alternative to the Vizio mainly because the spot where I want to put it won't fit the speakers mounted on the sides, and the Pioneer's mount on the bottom if you desire. But to find one of those for $2000 is going to be REALLY hard!

Hope this helps!

[tucsonj]

highton, let us know how the vizio looks when you have DISH and the DVR hooked to it.

[jeffisajedi]

I recently bought an Optoma HD50 from costco's website, but before doing that I went to the store to talk with one of their sales reps.

They told me that anything purchased off their website can be returned at any time - (minus computers) - satisfaction guaranteed....

I pressed a little bit more for him to give me a more detailed example. He told me that if I bough a TV off of their website, and it stopped working or I had a problem with it - in say - 10 years, that I just had to bring it back to one of their stores and they would refund my money, replace it with something of equal price from their store, allow a trade up + cash for a better model, or arrange an order off of their website for another model that they don't carry in that store!!! :hyper:

My parents fairly recently bought a 26" HD set for their "loft" area and then decided it was too small. After a month or so, they took it back and traded up to the 30" phillips HD set - no questions asked basically.

As far as I'm concerned, any shopping should start at your local Costco - or Costco.com - and then go other places if you can't find what you need.

Also, I heard that my local Costco (Frederick, MD) was supposed to be receiving a pretty big shipment of HDTV's, some models just for this weekend as a big sales push and rebates will be happening leading up to Superbowl weekend. Maybe all of them are??

Happy Shopping - and oh - DLP is quite nice as well - HD cable channels are incredible!

[tucsonj]

anyone know how to get rid of the side bars when watching sdtv channels using YPbPr component input? Does I need to switch to an S-Video or DVI input? Isn't anyone else worried about these grey side bars "burning in"?

[Ratman]

SD is not 16:9, therefore sidebars.

If they are grey, it's better than black (for burn-in).

You can always use a stretch mode, with non-digital channels.

Also... check the FAQ's about burn in for some insight.

[mdifabio]

I am having the Comcast guy install my HDDVR STB today on my Vizio. It is the Motorolla that someone reported on this forumn earlier. Will report the results.

Last night on a call to Comcast, thier customer service person told me how to adjust the video output on the motorolla HD STB. By pushing the power button ON THE BOX (to put it in standby mode) and then pushing menu button ON THE BOX, your display shows access to a setup menu for the STB. It allowed me to adjust the STB output from 480i to 1080i (720p which I heard would be better on my Vizio) and to adjust how the STB outputs analog stations. It was very helpful.

Anybody know where you can get an owners manual for these Comcast/Motorolla STBs?

Mike

[tucsonj]

Anyone have VOOM or know of a discussion forum on it?

[PWHMAINE]

Comcast should have given you a manual with the DVR, which is model DCT6208. If not, you can an interactive demo on the Motorola website at http://broadband.motorola.com/noflash/dct6208.html

[Ratman]

Anyone have VOOM or know of a discussion forum on it?

http://www.hdtvoice.com/voice/forumdisplay.php?f=439

[PWHMAINE]

I tried a suggestion I read in another thread, and it worked great on the Vizio. As you know, SD / analog signals often look worse on a digital set, which is a huge disappointment for new buyers since most of what's on TV is in SD.

The good news is that the Vizio has a built-in SD tuner. So I purchased a two-way splitter and two coax cables (gold plated ones that cost altogether about $40 at Best Buy), and split the signal before the set-top box. One cable is hooked to the set-top box, which I'll use when watching HDTV and other digital channels, and the other is hooked to the TV's RF connector, which I use for channels 2-78.

It works great! Now I can watch SD channels in their native SD, and digital channels in digital. No more inferior analog signals. The picture is excellent, in either mode! :wow:

To switch between the two tuners, you click on the respective button at the bottom of the remove [i.e. TV for analog, or (in my case) DVI for HDTV / digital]. You may need to tweek the picture settings to get the aspects correct (i.e. 4:3 and 16:9).

Best of all, now I can utilize the PIP and POP features of the Vizio.

So this suggestion that I read took care of all the shortcomings I perceived with this TV. I only wish this suggestion was included in the Vizio owner's manual.

[PWHMAINE]

I just noticed that Vizio has totally revised their website, and it's much better. There are some good FAQs on the Vizio that clarify or correct some information contained in the owners manual. Here's the URL:
http://www.vinc.com/support/faq_p42_p42hd.asp

[highton]

highton, let us know how the vizio looks when you have DISH and the DVR hooked to it.

Well, I dragged the Vizio into the other room where the Dish 921 is and hooked it up to the receiver via component cables. My Sharp Aquos is hooked with a DVI. I tried to watch them at the same time to compare pictures but was somehow unable to get an output from the dish to both tv's at the same time. My DVI cable was not long enough to reach the Vizio so I had to settle on the component inputs. Well, to make a long story short, it looked great with the Hi-Def signals. I was actually suprised to see that it looked, at least, as good or better than the Sharp. Then, again, I could not watch them both together!
So, now I'm not sure that I want to bring the thing back to Costco! Of course I'll have to get another HD receiver if I keep it.

Decisions, decisions..........

[nkl811]

I have really enjoyed reading this board. I have a raincheck for the vizio from costco. Hopefully they will come in soon. I was told each Costco was placing an order directly from Vizio to fill all the rainchecks they gave out. I was very upset that I didn't grab one of these when I saw them at Costco. I have one question for those of you who have this plasma. We are hoping to put this tv on a mantle over our fireplace. It is a brick fireplace floor to ceiling. We are not sure how deep we will need the mantle to be to support it. Otherwise we are looking for a very big expense in mounting it on a brick wall.

If anyone could grab a tape measure and ruler and let me know the depth of the TV including the stand, it would be greatly appreciated!

[jDawg]

I went to Costco last week as soon as I got the coupon but was actually relieved when they were out of stock and I had to get a raincheck. Despite their great return policy, I figured the raincheck would give me some time to research and cool off before making an "impulse" purchase.

Well, after finding this site and all of the comments and suggestions, I'm officially off of the fence, and waiting (not so patiently) for Costco to stock up! Thanks.

[mdifabio]

Comcast didn't give me a manual for their motorolla STB, but I did get hooked up with the dual tuner HD DVR last night. I also finally hooked up my DVI cable as well.

The DVR is great of course. And the DVI cable on my VIZIO looks noticably better to me than the component cables did. It seems just a bit better in PQ than the components provided. Granted, I did not take the time to adjust the VIZIO per AVIA with each setup to do a real test. But the quick way to better your picture on the VIZIO from the Comcast Motorolla STB is to use a DVI. Sweet picture for sure!

Thanks PWHMAINE for the tip on the SD reception. I agree that the SD reception is poor. But I wonder if I can make the VIZIO split screen feature work with the dual HD tuners in my Comcast Motorolla STB?

[PWHMAINE]

Mdifabio: I have the dual tuner Motorola HDTV / DVR, too, and surprisingly the current firmware does not support Picture-in-Picture or POP (side by side). The dual tuner simply allows you to tape one program while you're watching another.

So to get around this problem you need to use the coax splitter with one coax cable directly wired to the TV through the RF connector. Then you can fully enjoy both the PIP and the POP features of the TV. I had never seen a TV with POP before ... it's a really neat feature that works well on a large wide-screen TV.

[PWHMAINE]

nkl811: The unit is not that deep: 5.2" without the stand, 10.6" with the stand, and the inputs and outputs are on the base, so nothing sticks out the back allowing for easy wall-mounting. So it could sit on your mantel, if it's at least 9 to 10 inches deep.

That said, you take a chance of it being knocked off and crashing to the floor, especially if you have kids or a large pet. The wall mount isn't all that expensive ... $149 ... relative to the cost of the TV. Here's the link: http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/searchtools/item-Details.asp?EdpNo=714282&sku=V25-4602

And here's the manufacturer's link, where it's sold for $249: http://www.vinc.com/products/accessory.asp?id=49&PID=18&SEQ=6

With the wall mount, it would only stick out 6 or 7 inches altogether.

[oman321]

Gonna be tough to run any video feed to it and keep it looking clean.

[mitsuboy]

:hyper: Hi everyone. I purchased this Vz last week based on threads like this one, reviewing this product. It is a great buy. Right now I have it set up in my bedroom, and I would recomend it to anyone out there. My only question is to those who have plasmas, I've noticed in real darks scenes objects appear " cartoonish ". Unless I raise the levels on contrast and or brightness. Is this common with all plasmas?

[dalkonshield]

I just noticed that Vizio has totally revised their website, and it's much better. There are some good FAQs on the Vizio that clarify or correct some information contained in the owners manual. Here's the URL:
http://www.vinc.com/support/faq_p42_p42hd.asp

Thanks for the update. This one saved me from pulling my hair out:

"I am trying to use the teaching function of the remote as described in the manual without success.
The inclusion of the teaching function section in the P42 manual was in error. That remote does not have that function."

[nkl811]

PWH MAINE-

Thanks so much for the info. We got estimates of around $500 or so to install the plasma on a brick wall. That is why we are considering putting the tv on the mantle. Our mantel is 9" deep. We were thinking we could put some stoppers or something in the mantel to keep it from slipping off. Yes we have kids and dogs, but the mantle is pretty high so the kids don't mess with it. Also, concealing cables could be a problem too.

Thanks for your input also on how to use a splitter to get a better analog picture. We have comcast also and will be using your advice once we get our TV.

[PWHMAINE]

nkl811: I see your issue, and offer a suggestion.

Assuming your mantel can fully support the weight of the TV (85 lbs.) --- which is not a given since most mantels aren't designed to hold much weight --- but assuming it can, then you could tether the TV to the brick wall to keep it from toppling over. To tether it, you could drill a 1/8" hole in a brick, insert a small masonry anchor (the lead kind), then screw in a hook. You could then improvise a wire loop to catch the hook, and attach the wire loop to the TV where the speakers attach to the TV. (They attach using a metal hasp and screw.)

The TV was designed so you can easily hide the wires, at least up to the point where they have to go out one side to hook up with your cable box / sound system / etc. You could probably wrap the wires in something attractive to keep your wife from having a fit.

[nkl811]

Great advice. We will check the mantel's ability to hold that weight first. I think it should be OK as half of it is supported by brick now. 4 1/2 inches of it sit on the brick. It was nice to get specifics about the TV, since we still are waiting for one with a raincheck. Now we know exactly what we can do. Good that the wiring won't be too visible either. Thanks again!

[leonard892]

I have really enjoyed reading this board. I have a raincheck for the vizio from costco. Hopefully they will come in soon. I was told each Costco was placing an order directly from Vizio to fill all the rainchecks they gave out. I was very upset that I didn't grab one of these when I saw them at Costco. I have one question for those of you who have this plasma. We are hoping to put this tv on a mantle over our fireplace. It is a brick fireplace floor to ceiling. We are not sure how deep we will need the mantle to be to support it. Otherwise we are looking for a very big expense in mounting it on a brick wall.

If anyone could grab a tape measure and ruler and let me know the depth of the TV including the stand, it would be greatly appreciated!

nkl811 [I]
Your installation above fireplace sounds identical to my installation on brick fireplace with built in brick mantle supports. I wanted to temporarly install since I was not sure always looking up to see the TV would be OK
I removed existing 4 x 10 mantle and installed 2 x 12 to reduce mantle height and add width. Used 3" masonry screws to secure 2 x 12 to brick supports. I used two 1" x 15" velcro straps screwed to mantle to loop around rear of the TV base. I feel comfortable that short of an earthquake the TV is secure. The jury is still out if TV height is too high for comfortable viewing and install permanent mantle.
I am very pleased with Vizio HDTV performance (with Comcast cable), but want to get DVI cable to see if SD improves as others have experienced.

leonard892

[nkl811]

Glad to hear of a similar situation. I was wondering about the height of the tv (looking up at it) as well. It will be interesting to see how it is once up on that mantel. How deep was your mantel? Mine is 9". By the sounds of the measurements of it, like the stand may stick out an inch and a half or so. Is your mantel deeper than 9 inches? I think this will work well before we decide to a permanent install on the wall. Thanks for the input.

[jDawg]

Just picked up my V42 today. Anyone have any wall mounting suggestions? Also, any concerns about mounting it over a fireplace that does not have a mantle? My fireplace has a glass screen so there should not be any smoke leaking out the few times I have a fire. Thanks!

[mitsuboy]

jdawg,
I've read that you can hang plasma's above fireplaces, as long as smoke or soot doesn't get into it and that the tempurature doesn't exceed 100 degrees, where you are mounting the plasma. There is a few links out there in the avs forum discussing this, I've been thinking about it my self. Check it out.

[Farmboy]

Has anyone been able to program vizio 42hde code to there dish remote?
Have no luck here getting tv to work with any of my remotes. The 42hde will learn others codes. I want tv to be coded to my dish remote.

Thank you

[dalkonshield]

Has anyone been able to program vizio 42hde code to there dish remote?
Have no luck here getting tv to work with any of my remotes. The 42hde will learn others codes. I want tv to be coded to my dish remote.

Thank you

Vizio is a new brand so none of my remotes had a code that would work. I called radio shack remote control help and they had me place my phone's headset up to their kameleon remote and they updated the remote to operate the Vizio.

[mdifabio]

My Comcast remote learned how to operate my Vizio with the learning procedure described in the Comcast remote manual. Even though Vizio was not listed as a TV brand.

[tucsonj]

Has anyone purchased a wall mount for this monitor? Where is the best place to buy one inexpensively?

[Greenhorn]

My Comcast remote learned how to operate my Vizio with the learning procedure described in the Comcast remote manual. Even though Vizio was not listed as a TV brand.

md, could you explain how this is done. My comcast installer could not program my remote due to vizio was not on his list and he said comcast provides no manuals. He took the sheet with the list of codes with him. Thanks!

[soochn]

I was installing my wall mounts to the tv today and through the holes on the back for airflow I saw that it is a LG display panel which is a good point. So far after some adjustments to the color and tint and such the picture is great.
A good dvd to get a test for colors and such is star wars 2, goto set-up features on the dvd and look for the THX set-up and it will send you through a bunch of set-up tests, then you have good pic.

[whitty]

Hi all,
Long time lurker, first time poster - have read all the messages, which have been so helpful. I got my Vizio p42hde last week, connected dvd player with component output - the picture is generally good, but some of the indoor or night scenes in the movies I played were annoyingly dark. And when playing Harry Porter as a test, I noticed there were pauses of small amount of time from time to time. It was almost like you pressed the pause button and then quickly play back again. I don't think it's the problem of the disc and it persists even if I turn off the panel protection. Anyone of you have similar experience? And any suggestions? Thanks!

[PWHMAINE]

Whitty: Is it possible you connected using the YCrCb inputs, rather than the YPrPb? Personally, I found the hook ups a little confusing because of their location below the screen.

As you probably know, YPrPb is the newer, progressive version, and assuming your DVD player is progressive scan with YPrPb, you should use these connections, and make sure you're using component cables (as compared to conventional audio RCA cables, which have the same connection but are a lesser quality cable).

I have not have any problems using my Sony Progressive Scan DVD player with the TV, by the way.

[PWHMAINE]

md: I was able to program both the Comcast and Vizio remotes to control both the TV and set-top box, though each one lacks some of the features of the other.

The instructions for programming the Comcast remote (the Motorola DRC800) are found at this link: http://commerce.motorola.com/cgi-bin/ncommerce3/ProductDisplay?prrfnbr=262327&prmenbr=126&bcs_cgrfnbr=230509&zipcode

Holding the Comcast remote, press "TV" for at least six seconds, until the LEDs cycle through and end on TV. Then press a function key, like "Power" or "Mute". Press the up arrow at the center above OK. You'll need to do this a number of times, maybe twenty or so. When the function key finally works (i.e. the TV turns off or on), press OK.

For the Vizio remote, the Motorola code is 1106, as listed in the owner's manual. Manually turn on the cable box, press the CBL button on the remote, press and hold SETUP until the LED light flashes twice. Enter 1106, then press Power. The Cable Box should turn off.

Finally, as a note since you also use Comcast with the Motorola set-top box: you will get the best analog picture if you install a coax splitter before the set-top box, and plug one coax into the TV's analog tuner (the RF connection) and the other into the set-top box. Use a decent quality splitter and coax cables. Then watch analog channels (2-78) using the TV tuner, rather than the set-top box.

This will also allow you to utilize the TV's POP and PIP features. Neither feature is supported by the Comcast box.

[PWHMAINE]

Whitty: With respect to the dark images, get a copy of the THX software which can be found, for example, with the Star Wars DVDs. This will allow you to tweak the contrast settings etc. to a very good setting.

That said, it's good rule to break in the plasma by intentionally lowering the brightness and contrast for the first 100 hours of use (i.e. set them both below 50%).

[whitty]

Whitty: Is it possible you connected using the YCrCb inputs, rather than the YPrPb? Personally, I found the hook ups a little confusing because of their location below the screen.

As you probably know, YPrPb is the newer, progressive version, and assuming your DVD player is progressive scan with YPrPb, you should use these connections, and make sure you're using component cables (as compared to conventional audio RCA cables, which have the same connection but are a lesser quality cable).

I have not have any problems using my Sony Progressive Scan DVD player with the TV, by the way.
I am sure I usd YPrPb for my progressive scan enabled DVD, but I will double check the cables I am using to connect. Thanks a lot for your help!

[mitsuboy]

Has anyone purchased a wall mount for this monitor? Where is the best place to buy one inexpensively?
TUCSONJ,
EBAY IS YOUR BEST BET, I PURCHASED MINE THERE FOR @ $100( W/SHIPPING), AND IT WORKS EXCELLENT. THE MOUNT I USED WAS THE
"VIZIO Plasma & LCD TV Wall Mount / Bracket PDM110", FROM PDR MOUNTS. GOOD LUCK.

[mdifabio]

Greenhorn,

I made the Comcast remote search for my Vizio code. To do this you must:

-Turn on your Vizio.
-Press TV on the remote once. Then press and hold SETUP until the TV key blinks twice, the release SETUP.
-Enter 9 9 1 on the remote. The TV key will blink twice.
-Aim the remote control at the Vizio and slowly alternate beween pressing POWER and TV buttons.

Stop when the Vizio turns off. When the Vizio turns off the remote has found the right code.

-When the remote has found the right code you must push SETUP once to lock in the code. The TV key will blink twice.

I had to alternate beween pressing the POWER and TV buttons about 20 times or so (maybe more) but the remote finally found the right code.

Good luck!

[nkl811]

I am still waiting for this plasma to come in. I have a raincheck. They were supposed to arrive Sunday but still nothing. Has anyone gotten one recently? The people at Costco are getting to know me, I keep calling there every day.

Also, I scheduled comcast to come Friday, and upgrade our service to DVR with HD. If I don't have the tv yet, should I cancel the appointment and wait until I have the Vizio to hook it all up? Or would it be simple for me to hook up once it comes in? Just wondering if it would be better to wait, since the TV in the room now is not HD. Any input would be appreciated.

[leonard892]

I am still waiting for this plasma to come in. I have a raincheck. They were supposed to arrive Sunday but still nothing. Has anyone gotten one recently? The people at Costco are getting to know me, I keep calling there every day.

Also, I scheduled comcast to come Friday, and upgrade our service to DVR with HD. If I don't have the tv yet, should I cancel the appointment and wait until I have the Vizio to hook it all up? Or would it be simple for me to hook up once it comes in? Just wondering if it would be better to wait, since the TV in the room now is not HD. Any input would be appreciated.

nkl811
I would keep the Friday appointment.
I did not have HD set when Comcast installed HDTV service, my son still does not have HD set for his installation. You might be lucky and get TV set Saturday and watch Superbowl in HD. My installer left 15' combination Component and Audio cable for me to use.
leonard892

[Greenhorn]

MD... the instructions worked for my remote. It took more like 50x, though.
PWH...the instructions on the motorolla remote was not for my Comcast motorolla remote. Holding TV in for 6 secs didn't do anything but thanks for the Motorolla cable box code, now I can use either one of my remotes to control volume and channel changing.
Thanks to you both!

[jDawg]

Still waiting for my wall mount bracket, but got tired of that big white/orang box taunting me in my livving room-- especially after my HD box arrived from Cox-- so I've set it up on a table for now.

Cox offers HD channels, but they don't fill the entire screen. Although I can "stretch" non HD channels, there is always a big black frame around HD channels. Am I doing something wrong? Is this a feature I can only exploit with a special cable?

[oman321]

More info jDawg. What STB did Cox provide? Is it connected with Component cables? Did the tech go into the service menu and set it to a 16:9 picture? anything you can tell us will help.

[jDawg]

I keep on hearing about this 16:9 picture option, but I have not been able to find those settings either on the V42 or on my cable box from Cox... but it turns out my problem was even more basic: I had the red/blue/green cables going into the wrong input. It's a little confusing back there to say the least!

Everything is okay, black bars are gone, but now I'm having problems pulling myself away from the TV to get to work!

[jDawg]

Anyone know if this mount is compatible with the V42?
http://www.overstock.com/cgi-bin/d2.cgi?PAGE=PROFRAME&PROD_ID=1033167

[whitty]

I'm planning on getting a set of component video cable - decent quality and reasonably priced. Any idea what brand and where I can get one?

[Ratman]

Sears, Radio Shack, Best Buy, Circuit City. For 6', I wouldn't pay over $30-35.

Or... online:
http://www.hdtvsupply.com/coca10te.html

[oman321]

Anyone know if this mount is compatible with the V42?
http://www.overstock.com/cgi-bin/d2.cgi?PAGE=PROFRAME&PROD_ID=1033167


Crutchfield has a photo of the back, check it out.
http://www.crutchfield.com/S-mSwQnrbyVm5/cgi-bin/ProdView.asp?g=156550&id=morephotos&i=051VMPL50

It should hopefully work for you. There is also other info.

[jrthekid]

I bough a vizio LCD at costco 30 inch. I called Vizio company that is here in Orange Co. the waranty is good for one year, if something is wrong with in one year, you take it back to costco and they give you a new one or your money back. That is what I was told by Vizio company.

[nkl811]

We finally got our tv from costco. Unfortunately comcast came to install the DVR a day ago when we didn't have the tv. We got it on the fireplace mantel, hooked up to the wall thanks to the great ideas on this board. We are having a hard time trying to figure out why on some of the HD channels on comcast like or WGN HD, or NBC there are the grey or black bars on the sides of the screen making the screen smaller. I talked to Comcast and they told me that if a station is not broadcasting in HD even if it is a HD channel it will have the black bars on it. Can anyone tell me how to make the picture fill up the screen? I am worried about the burn in on the screen and also would like all 42 " of the screen not a 35 " tv. I have the tv hooked up with a DVI cable and also have a splitter so my analog channels are so much better! But now we hate to watch tv with those stupid bars. Help!!!!

We want to see the superbowl without those bars.

Thanks so much for all of your help. I feel like we are almost done. Great tv for a great price. My Costco got 2 in on Friday. They put it on hold for me when I called before they opened. Both were taken by 9AM and they open at 10. Grab one when you can!

[PWHMAINE]

nkl811: You shouldn't have any black bars for HDTV broadcasts, which on most Comcast systems are the stations in the channel 165 to 185 range.

First, make sure the settings on the cable box are correct. To do this, turn the TV on, then, while the cable box is turned off, click on the menu button on the cable box. Make sure it's set to TV Type 16:9, signal type 720p, and turn off the 4:3 override. [You can choose 1080i, but I found the picture to be slightly better on 720p. Plus, ESPN HD and FOX HD, among others, broadcast in 720p, not 1080i.]

Then turn the cable box on, and switch to an HDTV station. I suggest you go to an INHD station, since everything they broadcast is in HDTV, which is not true for the local and network stations. Using the Vizio, click on Menu and go to Source. Since you're using the same set up I have, make sure Main Screen is set to DVI, Sub Screen to TV, Display Mode to PIP, Wide Mode to Wide, PIP Aspect to Aspect (since it's an analog signal).

This should give you a perfect picture, with full screen 16:9 in HDTV (no black bars), and 4:3 with black bars when watching SD channels. If you turn on the Panel Protection, this should alleviate image sticking (burn in) when watching 4:3. Alternatively, you can stretch the 4:3, but personally I hate seeing stretched images.

Hope this helps.

[PWHMAINE]

nkl811: It's too early in the morning :( I just re-read your question: Comcast is correct: much of what is broadcast on the local and network HDTV stations is not HDTV. And this will result in black or gray bars. Nothing can be done about this until all broadcasting is done in HDTV.

But this "problem" is shared by all HDTV owners, except those who subscribed to Zoom (which apparently is going the way of the Titanic).

[tucsonj]

I had gray bars on my SD channels until I used the 'zoom' button on my Cox remote which got rid of the bars and filled the screen; Im not sure if this means it stretched the image but there is no distortion at all so the picture does not appear stretched in any way; I've always had perfect full screen images on all HD channels.

[Farmboy]

Vizio sure makes it hard to find a remote which works with its tv. (p42hde)
Comcast and dishnet here not compatable for me

[whitty]

I had comcast HD installed last Saturday. Taking advice from this forum, I split the incoming signal into two (three actually, with one going to the cable modem) - one to the HD box (with DVI connection to TV) and the other to the TV RF. The HD programms are perfect - the Super Bowl half time show was like a 'dream' :hyper: The SD channels under 100 from TV source are OK, except the local channels looking crapy, but I have to watch (well, not that I have to watch these channels except a few kids' channels my son likes) the digital channels between 100-200 coming out from the box, which do have black bars and although I set the panel protection on I am still not sure if that's enough for not getting an image stick.

My pioneer receiver only has one set of 5.1 sound input, which means I can either have my DVD or HD box hooked up with it but not both :boo2: . Overall, I loved what I saw from the HD channels and my biggest hope is the public channels (ABC, NBC, etc.) will have their regular programms - news etc broadcast in widescreen HD soon.

[whitty]

Vizio sure makes it hard to find a remote which works with its tv. (p42hde)
Comcast and dishnet here not compatable for me
Farmboy, are you talking about controlling you vizio TV through another remote control? If so, according to Vinc website, the TV's setup code is 0080. I have never tried - I use Vizio univeral remote to control other components but have a hard time set up my Pioneer DVD-v630 in it. Anyone has any suggestions? I tried all the codes provided by the manual and tried searching with '991'. - nothing worked.

[Splicer]

You can get a switch to plug 2 optical in and 1 out to the receiver and then all you need to do is flip the switch. Radio Shack has them for like 20 bucks.

[whitty]

You can get a switch to plug 2 optical in and 1 out to the receiver and then all you need to do is flip the switch. Radio Shack has them for like 20 bucks.
Splicer, do you have the product name or SKU number for the device? I'd like to look it up on the web before I hit radioshack. thank you!

[Splicer]

Radio Shack part # 15-1242.

[whitty]

Radio Shack part # 15-1242.
Splicer, I cheked the product on radioshack website. I see it's a converter turning analog to digital audio (and composite to s-video). How does it help? Does it have 5 seperate channels of output so I can connect to my receiver's 5 channels, which in turn connect the 5 speakers? From you signature, I don't think you can be wrong about it, I just need some details. thanks.

[Splicer]

My bad. I apologize. That wasn't it. Use Google and the words Toslink switch. That will help I'm sure.

[mdifabio]

PWHMAINE

I have put a high quality splitter in my cable line and 2 high quality coaxial leads, one to Vizio and one to Comcast STB, in place. This allows me to watch SD channels through the Vizio NTSC tuner and all other channels through my DVI cable from the STB. However, I assume that I will not be able to both: use the Vizio speakers for a D5.1 surround sound system (front speakers L and R) with the STB, and, use them for normal SD audio from the TV input.

What I mean is, if I use the Vizio speakers for a D5.1 system (front L&R signals from digital receiver connected to STB), is there any way that I can switch the Vizio input to TV and listen to the audio through the Vizio speakers?

Let me know if I am not being clear enough.

Thanks

[PWHMAINE]

MDIFABIO:

I don't have a set up like yours, but you should be able to do what you want.

As you know, the default audio cable when using the DVI connector is the cable that came with the TV, with red and white RCA connectors on one end and a stereo mini-jack connector on the other. It plugs into the mini-jack directly beside the DVI input.

Instead of plugging the red and white connectors into the left and right audio jacks at the back of your cable box (which is what I do), I would connect them to the appropriate jacks on your digital receiver (i.e. the ones for the front left and right). The only downside to this set up is that you would need to use your receiver for sound when watching HDTV / digital channels.

Let me know if this doesn't work.

[PWHMAINE]

MDIFABIO:

And further to my note, the set up I discussed wouldn't impact your SD channels at all. I assume you know to switch to "TV" mode (using the remote) when watching SD channels. The picture on the the TV should be analog (which is preferable, rather than a digitized analog signal), and the audio should come through as normal through the side speakers.

[KC Grandfather]

Well, I bought one Sunday and immediately had problems ie: the TV would not respond to commands from the remote control and the manual on-off switch would not respond. To turn it off we have to unplug from the wall. I faxed the problem to Vizio who said it would be "5-7" business days for a tech to call. This morning the TV won't power up at all - another fax to vizio. I will probably take it back to Costco. The analog signal looks terrible. Buyer beware!

[PWHMAINE]

KC Grandfather:

At the risk of asking a stupid question, did you make sure to press the "TV" button below the Power button on the remote before you pressed PWR? I know it sounds dumb, but my wife, mother, and daughters regularly forget to do this, and then they get frustrated because "the remote's not working right".

And the analog signal problem is an easy fix. Just read earlier threads and use a coax splitter. This is systemic of every digital TV I've seen because they attempt, for better or worse, to convert an analog signal to digital. Just view the analog signal in analog, and you won't have this problem.

By the way, the TV did have some pretty good reviews, including ones in the current issues of Home Theater Magazine and HDTVetc.

[whitty]

KC_Grandfather's problem does sound like the remote was not used properly, but do you have to press TV to control the TV even before you programmed any other components in the remote? I'm not sure about that... If that's not the problem, then I'd doubt if there's any kind of QC at Vizio at all, which I think is very unlikely.

[Ratman]

...and the manual on-off switch would not respond. To turn it off we have to unplug from the wall.

It may not be the remote. Since the POWER switch on the front panel of the TV doesn't work either, the entire FPA may be 'bad'.

[mdifabio]

PWHMAINE:

If I read you right, your directions would require me to run two sets of speaker wires into the Vizio speakers. One set from my digital receiver (for front D5.1 speaker sound durring durring DVI viewing) and another from the Vizio NTSC tuner (for regular analog TV sound). I assumed that it was not a good idea to run two sets of speaker wire into the same speakers. Any thoughts anyone?

[whitty]

Has anyone try tweaking the color temp - adjusting the R-G-B seperately - to improve the picture quality? Following the low brightness/contrast breaking-in rule, I set the brightness as 45, contrast 40 and color 40. The HD programs still look pretty good except the dark scenes. I tried to adjust the color temp and significantly lowed B - from default 50 to 25 - the picture seems brighter but I have no idea how I can get an ideal setting. In this case there are too many variations for a trial and error process.

[PWHMAINE]

MDIFABIO:

Yes, you should not run two sets of speaker wires into the same speakers. My suggestion was to run the speakers from the TV using the speaker wires that came with the set.

Then you would hook in the digital receiver using stereo mini-jack directly beside the DVI input (I assume you're using the DVI connector).

Sorry if I was unclear.

[PWHMAINE]

WHITTY:

In my experience, adjusting the R-G-B settings should only be done if you have the technical equipment, such as the Photo Research PR-650. Other people swear by a software program, Video Essentials, however, I believe it was designed for CRTs, not plasmas, and I understand it's not a particularly user-friendly program.

I just used the THX software that came with the Star Wars DVDs. It's easy to use, and I couldn't be more pleased with the results. [FYI, I believe the THX software may be only on the re-releases of the early Star Wars DVDs that came out last year.]

[PWHMAINE]

KC Grandfather:

Yeah, I knew my suggestion about the remote sounded stupid ... that said, have you tried to do a software reset using the Setup menu? It's a shot in the dark, though I agree it does sound a component failure.

[whitty]

WHITTY:

In my experience, adjusting the R-G-B settings should only be done if you have the technical equipment, such as the Photo Research PR-650. Other people swear by a software program, Video Essentials, however, I believe it was designed for CRTs, not plasmas, and I understand it's not a particularly user-friendly program.

I just used the THX software that came with the Star Wars DVDs. It's easy to use, and I couldn't be more pleased with the results. [FYI, I believe the THX software may be only on the re-releases of the early Star Wars DVDs that came out last year.]
OK, a star war dvd it is then! Thanks!

[whitty]

I haven't tried yet but am wondering how you can connect the TV with the receiver with 5.1 channel output. I was looking for 5 lines out from the back of the TV to connect to the 5 channels on the receiver, which in turn would connect to 5 speakers, but there is only L & R output on the TV. Did I miss something, or do I need some kind of converter to get the 5 lines?

[PWHMAINE]

Whitty:

To get the five channels, this is what I would do:

1.) Cable a direct connection between your Comcast set-top box and your digital receiver. I suggest using a good quality optical audio cable, such as the RCA ones you can get for $20 at Home Depot or Best Buy. Here's a picture:

http://www.tselectronic.com/rca/dt_hp.html?tse_Session=5f90ab6d84ea55a95d721bcfc38a8349

Then wire your 5 speakers directly to the digital receiver. For the front left and right speaker outputs, use the cable that came with the TV with the two RCA connectors, and plug it in directly beside the DVI connector using its mini-stereo jack. Then the TV speaker can serve as the front left and right speakers in your set-up, and your external center and rear left and right will serve as the others.

2) The digital receiver should have the outputs for the 5 speakers.

[whitty]

Whitty:

To get the five channels, this is what I would do:

1.) Cable a direct connection between your Comcast set-top box and your digital receiver. I suggest using a good quality optical audio cable, such as the RCA ones you can get for $20 at Home Depot or Best Buy. Here's a picture:

http://www.tselectronic.com/rca/dt_hp.html?tse_Session=5f90ab6d84ea55a95d721bcfc38a8349

Then wire your 5 speakers directly to the digital receiver. For the front left and right speaker outputs, use the cable that came with the TV with the two RCA connectors, and plug it in directly beside the DVI connector using its mini-stereo jack. Then the TV speaker can serve as the front left and right speakers in your set-up, and your external center and rear left and right will serve as the others.

2) The digital receiver should have the outputs for the 5 speakers.
I get what your saying, but it sounds a little tricky. I'll let you know how it turn out. Thanks!

[highton]

Does anybody have one of these P42HDe's hooked up to a Dish 811 receiver?
I've got my 811 set to 1080i and get a MUCH better picture than when set to 720P. The receiver shows a blue light (HD mode) on the front panel at either setting. The picture in 720P mode looks very soft (like 480p or even 480i). I called Dish Network and they have not heard of this problem. They say it may be a problem with the 811. Latest software is installed in the receiver. I'm hooked using the component cables. Thinking of getting a DVI cable and trying it.

Any experiences like this?

[RFHunt]

I've had my Vizio P42HD for about a month and a half. Been quite pleased with it in all respects. I discovered this site yesterday and I have been very impressed with what I have learned from all here, in particular, the comments from PWHMAINE. You have taught me more about my set in a few posts than all of my pre and post purchase reading and research has done. You're way better than the manual and the web site.

I'll undoubtedly be posting some questions soon, as I'm trying a few of the things that have been suggested, but for now just thanks for taking the time to try and help others.

[mdifabio]

I strongly agree with RFHunt.

PWHMAINE:
So if I understand your setup right, I should have an RCA out of my receiver for D5.1 front left and right speakers? I will then in turn plug the Vizio RCA-mini stereo jack into the Vizio and voila! I will have the true D5.1 front left and right signals coming from my Vizio speakers when I am watching DVI input?

Thanks again for the help.

[RFHunt]

I've taken the advice listed above and bought the February issue of "Home Theater" magazine to read the article on the bench test of the P42HD. One thing that is said there confuses me. It is that " . . . the only component video input that could handle 480i couldn't do HD (and vice versa). This isn't mentioned in the manual nor is it labeled as such on the unit."

I don't think I understand exactly what this means, and if it is a correct statement, which video input is which. Can anyone explain what the writer is refering to?

Thanks.

[RFHunt]

As to my last question, nevermind. In reviewing dmbarman's post of 1/25 I see that it says that the YCbCr input is 480i and not HD. I did not know that.

[whitty]

WHITTY:

In my experience, adjusting the R-G-B settings should only be done if you have the technical equipment, such as the Photo Research PR-650. Other people swear by a software program, Video Essentials, however, I believe it was designed for CRTs, not plasmas, and I understand it's not a particularly user-friendly program.

I just used the THX software that came with the Star Wars DVDs. It's easy to use, and I couldn't be more pleased with the results. [FYI, I believe the THX software may be only on the re-releases of the early Star Wars DVDs that came out last year.]
PWHMAINE:
I got a star wars DVD yesterday and tried tuning up using the THX software. It was a great tool and the picture was noticeably improved after the tuning up. It turned out I had brightness way too low and contrast way too high. However, I'm not quite sure about the end result though. To pass the 'tests', I had to tune the brightness to between 65 and 70 (DOES THAT IMPLY A QUALITY PROBLEM OF THE TV?) and contrast below 30 (?). When it comes to color/tint, descriptions like 'red but not bleeding' and true cyan etc. are hard to follow... how did you do it? And could you share what values you ended up with for brightness, contrast, color, tint and sharpness? Thanks a lot for the help!

[PWHMAINE]

WHITTY:

With respect to the THX software, I used it as a guide to help me tweak the settings. It helped me to get the picture approximately where it needs to be. The reality is that DVDs and HDTV programs vary one from the other, and you might find a setting that works great for, say, Star Wars or Master and Commander (both which have very dark scenes), that probably wouldn't work when you're watching a sports event.

So I used the THX software first to get me in the right range, then I let my eye be the determining factor about whether the contrast, brightness or color settings are too high and low.

And I am setting the contrast and brightness both at 50% or lower for now, at least until the plasma pixels have aged properly (say, 100 hours or so).

[PWHMAINE]

RFHUNT:

With respect to the article in Home Theatre Magazine, where the Vizio scored a 89 out of a possible 100, you have to somewhat overlook the flaws or shortcomings they discussed. The panelists they used, by their own admission, were comparing the three sets reviewed with plasma sets costing $5,000 and $6,000. And the other two sets reviewed were both EDTV, not HDTV, yet they still cost more than the Vizio.

So, yes, compared to some high end plasmas, the Vizio probably has some shortcomings. But for $2K, it's an unbelievable good deal. You can't find anything close to that price, with its features and specs, at any of the retailers like Best Buy or Circuit City, let alone Costco (they immediately sold out and have a long waiting list at most stores).

I liked not having to pay for an extended warranty, which would have added $500 or $600 to the price. As you know, Costco stands behind their products and extends a lifetime satisfaction guaranty. Can't do much better than that!

[PWHMAINE]

I was curious ... for those who have mounted their Vizios over the fireplace ... how does it look? Do you find the angle somewhat high, since it would be well above your sightline when sitting? I thought of buying the wall mount, but held back because I thought it might not allow for comfortable viewing.

Also, how much does the unit stick out when mounted? I guessing it's about 9 or 10 inches from the wall to the front of the tv (3.5 inches from the wall to the plasma, then another 5.5 inches for the depth of the tv). I'm not sure my wife wants a big black TV sticking out 10 inches from the wall, so I may just keep it in the niche to the side of the fireplace.

Any thoughts?

[BruceL]

I'm having a problem with my P42HDe. It was working fine for about 2 weeks and then the picture shifted about 1-2in to the left on all inputs (component, progressive, video, tv) so a bit of the picture is off the screen to the left and on the extreme right side of the picture there is a thin band (approximately 3 pixels wide) of white pixels from top to bottom. Actually on the top half of this thin band is solid white and the bottom half is white and blue and the pixels appear to be dancing around. I've tried turning the TV off for while (Main Master Switch) and also tried the On-Screen Display Reset Function. Has anyone had a similar problem?

[PWHMAINE]

BruceL:

Could your problem be caused by interference (from a florescent light, etc.)? Is the picture still off center when you switch to 4:3, or when you play a DVD or video tape? [In other words, have you eliminated the possibility that the problem is being caused by the set top box settings?]

Other than that, you'll need to call for service. I believe only the PC / Graphics menu gives you the option to move the image horizontally or vertically.

[dmbarman]

Well, I have had this TV for 3 weeks now. I have noticed some of the good and some of the bad in the TV. I can't complain about my TV all that much. We have the TV on about 4-5 hours every evening, and its been great so far. I highly recommend good cables for this TV. It makes a BIG difference. The HD images look life-like (like they are supposed to). The Super Bowl was a pleasure to watch. The only think I notice and its not frequent, the dimming and lighting of some dark content. Its not all that bad, so I won't complain, just something to comment on.

I have to say this TV has done well for me, and I hope it continues to do well. Just so everybody knows my setup, I have Comcast HD connected to the TV via DVI, optical out to Denon AVR-1083. X-Box connected via Comp. Cables to YCbCr, optical out to Denon AVR-1083. Denon DVM-1815 connect via Comp. Cables to YPbPr, optical out to Denon AVR-1083. Polk RT-35i Front Channels (2), Polk CS-245i Center Channel, Polk FX-300i Surround Channels (2), Polk R30 Back Channels (2), PSW 350 Subwoofer for 7.1 Surround Sound.

I have to say, Movies come alive with this TV and component setup. I hope everyone enjoys their Vizio TV as much as I find myself enjoying it.

[whitty]

Well, I have had this TV for 3 weeks now. I have noticed some of the good and some of the bad in the TV. I can't complain about my TV all that much. We have the TV on about 4-5 hours every evening, and its been great so far. I highly recommend good cables for this TV. It makes a BIG difference. The HD images look life-like (like they are supposed to). The Super Bowl was a pleasure to watch. The only think I notice and its not frequent, the dimming and lighting of some dark content. Its not all that bad, so I won't complain, just something to comment on.

I have to say this TV has done well for me, and I hope it continues to do well. Just so everybody knows my setup, I have Comcast HD connected to the TV via DVI, optical out to Denon AVR-1083. X-Box connected via Comp. Cables to YCbCr, optical out to Denon AVR-1083. Denon DVM-1815 connect via Comp. Cables to YPbPr, optical out to Denon AVR-1083. Polk RT-35i Front Channels (2), Polk CS-245i Center Channel, Polk FX-300i Surround Channels (2), Polk R30 Back Channels (2), PSW 350 Subwoofer for 7.1 Surround Sound.

I have to say, Movies come alive with this TV and component setup. I hope everyone enjoys their Vizio TV as much as I find myself enjoying it.
Could you share what values for brightness, contrast, color, tint and sharpness for DVI and YPbPr respectively? thanks!

[BruceL]

Yes no matter what the input set top boxYPbPr,DVD YCbCr, Video1, etc. It's off center and has the Narrow Band of White pixels on the extreme right edge. There's nothing else electronic nearby, so I don't think it's interference.

It's too bad, because otherwise I've been very impressed with the Picture quality and functionality of the TV. If I can't figure this out, I guess I'll exchange at Costco as Vinc will take it back for repair, but the customer gets to pay the Roundtrip shipping.

[PWHMAINE]

BRUCEL:

While it's true that the V, Inc. warranty requires you to ship it to their approved service center, there's no way I would do this if the service center was not in a location I could drive to. I bet it would cost at least $100 to ship an item of this size and weight. :(

If it were me, I would simply return it to Costco and get on their waiting list for a replacement unit. Let them worry about repair issue, esp. since your unit is only a few weeks in use. Who knows, maybe Costco will be smart and force Vizio to send a technician to your home, which is the right thing to do. [I would think Vizio would want to do this anyhow, since Costco's not stupid ... they'll make V, Inc. eat the cost of the return! Do you think Costco would stay in business long if they had to absorb the cost of their returns?]

In fact, you may want to just call Costco's 1-800 customer service number and see if you can't get them to send a technician out. I'm sure they don't want to have to hassle with the return.

[kjt]

Does anyone know how to access the 'service menu' of this plasma? Not the setup menu.

Also, I think that the review in the Home Theatre Magazine is for the P42HD, the non 'e' version, or older version of the plasma.

As far as issues go, I have noticed on my unit that there is a very slight magenta bar across the entire top of the display, maybe about an inch or so thick. I haven't had time to tweak anything since I purchased it (default factory settings) and so far have only fed it via a Comcast Motorola HD box into the progressive component inputs. I have a DVI cable and will try that. I will also try to change the output of the Motorola box from 1080i to 720p and see if there is any difference.

Otherwise, I am very happy with the unit.

[KC Grandfather]

KC Grandfather:

Yeah, I knew my suggestion about the remote sounded stupid ... that said, have you tried to do a software reset using the Setup menu? It's a shot in the dark, though I agree it does sound a component failure.

I give up - after three days of not working the remote AND the manual on/off button are working continuouslly! The service tech came and just shook his head...

[g4me]

I picked up this tv on 1/19/05. After about a month of use I have had no problems with the display.

My set up includes,
H/K AVR 230
Pioneer DV578a DVD player
Directivo Phillips 704
Directv H10 HDTV reciever
Monster power HTS3500
iMac
PS2
*The Tivo is hooked up directly to the Vizio by Svideo (for pip pop)
*DVD is hooked up by way of component thru the AVR and then to the Vizio
*H10 is hooked up with component thru AVR along with HDMI to DVI directly to the Vizio
*iMac by way of RGB
*All power and coax are run thru the HTS3500

I callibrated the Vizio with DVE which gave me excelent results thru the component connection

Settings are as follows

*Brightness 64
*Contrast 47
*Color 49
*Tint 49
*Sharpness -12

*R 38
*G 43
*B 43

With these setting the component looks great with all sources.
The problem begins with the HDMI to DVI conection. It seems as though the conversion cable is the problem it will leave what looks like white dots or noise in the dark scenes of the picture. If I adjust the brightness or the contrast to remove these dots the blacker than blacks are washed out and you get no detail in any dark scenes. I have read that the conversion cable is the problem. If you have a dvi to dvi connection you should not have this problem. I contacted Directv to swap out recievers to one that has Dvi instead of HDMI no luck.

In a previous post someone said they have a magenta bar across the top. I too have this bar but it is only noticeable in the dark scenes.

As far as sd the tivo does a better job with svideo than the H10 with component.

iMac looks good with rgb connection. I like the ablility to preview iMovies and iDvd's on the Vizio. Video iChat also is cool.

After being spoiled with HDTV in 5.1 Dolby digital Ex it is hard to watch anything else

This has to be the best HDTV for the price by far. Do yourself a favor and buy DVE it will improve your picture dramaticaly.

[whitty]

g4me,
What is DVE? A software package you can buy from cuicuitcity or bestbuy? And, how do you use it? Is it something like the THX software bundled with those star wars DVDs? Please elaborate a bit if you can. One thing I noticed is the significant low sharpness in your setting? Why's so?

thanks,

[dalkonshield]

What is DVE?

digital video essentials

http://www.videoessentials.com/

I ordered mine from overstock.

[PWHMAINE]

There's an interesting article in today's New York Times about upstart companies (like V, Inc. and BenQ) undercutting the big names like Sony. There was a similar story in the Wall Street Journal recently, as well.

Companies like V, Inc. are bringing about some competition that is shaking up the high price structure on flat screens enjoyed by the big manufacturers (Sony, Panasonic, etc.) and the big box retailers (Best Buy, Circuit City). The WSJ article stated that manufacturing costs have been dropping dramatically while prices have remained high. Most of the components in a plasma or LCD TV come from a handful of manufacturers with huge state-of-the-art plants in Korea and China. [For example, the plasma screen used in the Vizio P42HDe is identical to the one used in a high end LG plasma.]

Here's a quotation from today's article:

"Experience with PC monitors has given some entrepreneurs the impetus to make televisions. William Wang, the former head of Princeton Graphics, began V Inc. in 2003. It employs just 28 workers in the United States, using contractors in Asia to assemble plasma and L.C.D. displays.

The company sells televisions in such stores as Costco, where its 42-inch plasma HDTV is priced at $2,500. Models of the same size from Panasonic and Sony typically cost $4,000 to $4,500."

I thought the article was interesting, particularly the fact that V, Inc. only has 28 employees. Fortunately, the president of the company has pretty strong credentials as former head of Princeton Graphics.

[g4me]

I found DVE (digital video essentials) at Borders I think it was 24.99, the best 24.99 I could have spent. I had to go to the DVE website to clarify some of the terms in the video. Still not sure how to do some of the gray scale settings none the less this video helped alot.

The low sharpness setting is addressed in the video. DVE will tell you to set you r sharpness all the way down and it gives you a overscan pattern to adjust to. Each adjusment you make will affect the other settings so you are constantly going back to re-adjust to get the proper or closest setting. I have found my display to be able to adjust quite nicely to the SMPTE color bars and gray scale on the disc.

I have also tried the THX setup and I think it only addresses the blue part of the SMPTE color pattern.


Now if there was only a solution to the HDMI to DVI conversion problem!

[SUPERFROG]

We've had our Vizio since the opening day of the sale at COSTCO, and couldn't be happier, however, I do have a question regarding audio. In order to get adequate audio volume using the cable box remote, I have to move the Vizio audio volume bar almost completely to the max. Shouldn't I be able to adjust the cable box audio independant of the TV's audio control?

Also, I am on the Time Warner cable system that provides a Universal Electronics, Atlas DVR/PVR 5-Device Universal Remote. I have not been able to program the remote to turn the TV on/off, but had no problem programing it to operate the DVD, and the VCR. I have used all the programing methods recommeded in previous messages and in the owners manual without success.

[Splicer]

The ideal method is to turn the volume on the box all the way up and then control volume with the TV. If you leave the TV turned up, at low cable box volumes, you may hear a hiss or static for lack of a better term.

As for the remote programming, VIZIO is rather new on the market and most likely use a different code than your remote can operate.

[whitty]

I know most of you may not use it at all, but sometimes I like to turn the close captioning on. For HD channels coming out of the box, you have to turn it on from box menu instead of just pushing the button on the TV remote. There are several options to set up how you like the close captions show up. What I am trying to do is getting rid of the black box behind the words - is it something doable? I tried background color, background transparent etc but couldn't achieve it.

[SUPERFROG]

Thanks Splicer, I'll give it a shot.

[whitty]

Couple new things...

First, I had my set ISF calibrated by John Gannon, who has written for Sound and Vision, and Perfect Vision. He's done work for me before on my 65" Mits, and spoiled me with how great it looked.

I'll post his results for 480p and 720p later tonight, but they are very different from what most folks here have, just to warn you in advance. I'm fairly happy with the picture at this point, but much of the noise you're seeing - the dots, clayface, false contouring, etc. - are inherent in the set. This is a 6 bit glass, not an 8 bit, and is certainly not using a 10 bit processor like top end plasmas. Your going to see that noise, and some of it is intentional dithering. For the price, it's a good set, but don't expect that you're getting something for nothing, since life just doesn't work that way.

BTW, I noticed the white crush problem for the first time this weekend, when watching the grammy's. One of the winners, who's name I don't remember now, was wearing a VERY white suit, shirt and tie. Oh mama, was the crush obvious there. It was also obvious in some of the test patterns John was using, but that was the first time I had seen something 'real' that made it obvious.

All in all, I'm sticking with the set for now, since it's a bedroom investment. It works great for me there, and my wife is happy with the appearance, so I can't complain. I still do, but I shouldn't.

Michael
MWC

[chinaman_td]

I too bought one of the Vizio's at Costco. I have the Dish Network ( I hate them) and am currently not hooked up to HD yet. I use the basic 301 receiver and have it hooked into the Vizio via an s-video cable from the box right to the TV. The picture is much better than the picture I get from just the coaxial RF cable. Does anyone out there have the Dish network hooked up to their Vizio? It doesn't seem to be worth the extra money since the Dish network currently only offers 5 HDTV stations at this time: TNT, ESPN, HBO(if you subscribe), DiscoveryHD and I think one more....and for this they charge you $10 a month plus an extra $5 a month for the HD box....what a bunch of corporate pigs....any comments?

shellybush
I have both a 50" inch Sony XBR LCD HD and the Vizio p42Hde unit. I have Dish 811 HD STBs connected via DVI to each TV. The PQ is very good in HD on both units and the Vizio has been exceptional thus far. DVDs, HD Net, Discovery HD, and TNT NBA are outstanding. SD signals via Dish have been very good as well. If interested, please check the extensive thread on the AVS Forum under Costco Vizio plasma. Some interesting perspectives regarding PDPs and PQ , etc.

It is my understanding that that the glass is made by NEC and the guts are LG components. However, the long-term performance and quality are the real issues for this unit based on the bargain price that we got at Costco.

[mdifabio]

I have experienced my first annoyance with my Vizio display.

I am hooked up to Comcast's Motorolla STB via a DVI cable. I always leave my STB powered on but turn the Vizio off with the remote. Lately, every time I power up the Vizio to view programming, the picture is distorted showing the right 2/3's of the picture at the left side of the screen and the missing left 1/3 of the picture on the right side of the screen with a distinct line running throught the picture and terrible noise throughout the picture as well. It is an alarming sight at first. But after dealing with it for a couple of weeks, I have given up trying to fix it. When I change the channel on the STB it immidiately goes away and shows normal picture. However, this is very annoying having to immediately change the channel every time I turn on the Vizio.

Has anyone else experienced this?

My first thought was that it was the STB, but after ponderring it for so long, I am not quite sure. Anyone have any insight on this?

Thanks

[oman321]

It is your DVI connection and HDCP handshake probably. Why do you keep your STB on all the time? I had similar issues with a different set and DVI connection.

[Splicer]

I dont have DVI in use but I keep my cable box on all the time as well and just turn the TV itself off. Have you made any changes in the VIZIO menu? Also, this is a long shot, but is the VIZIO power cord plugged in the back of the cable box? If so, try pluuging directly in the wall. Cable box power outlets are notorious for causing problems. It may be worth a try.

Another option would be to try turning the box off as with the TV, and turn the TV on FIRST then turn the box on. See if that may help.

[dmbarman]

Problem Powering up Vizio!!

OK, I have the same problem. However, after discussing this issue with several people, it has occured to me that it isn't really the fault of the TV. Let me try to explain:

TV off, Comcast STB on HD Channel (Connected via DVI)---turn the TV on and you get the sectioned screen---change the channel on the STB and the screen goes normal.

TV off, Comcast STB on Digital or Standard Channel (Connected via DVI)---turn the TV on and you get a regular screen.

I also thought it could be the TV, but after doing this test, and talking to other people (i.e., Local Tech Support for LG), this made me realize it was the way the Comcast STB sends the HD content via DVI. I tried different cables, and still the same outcome. I then tried via Component Cables and the same STB and it was fine. Its the way the Comcast STB does it, and its only with the dual tuner because the single tuner I tested with Comcast didn't do it...but I really needed the dual because my wife and I like different shows that come on at the same time.

These are my experiences and do not reflect all situations possible, but I thought I would share them with you since you have the same problem.

[stokie]

I've had the Vizio P42HD now for about 2 weeks and just got my Comcast HD box hooked up via Monster DVI400 cable. The HD channels are fantastic but I'm having an issue with programs that don't completely fill the screen. On the top of the picture there is a line of flashing white noise. On the bottom of the picture there is a constant white line all the way across the screen. This is only there on the HD channels and again only there when the picture does not fill the screen. I originally had it connected via composite video and did not have that problem. Anyone out there have any similar problems or know of an answer?

[Splicer]

What kind of box?

[stokie]

Motorola HDTV capable cable box.

[Splicer]

Is the box output set to 480i or 480p by chance? I just had what sounds to be the same problem you are describing, when I was messing with my set-up tonite. Happens on the HD channels when the TV was set to FULL. I thought it was a quirk of the TV but maybe the box.

When the box is set to 720p or 1080i it does not happen.

[stokie]

I don't see any switches or options in the setup to select the resolution.

[Ratman]

Sounds like you need an overscan adjustment.

Many sets require overscan to be adjusted for each format (480i/p, 720p and 1080i) as well as each input. That may be why it's apparent with the DVI input where it wasn't with component.

[stokie]

Can you direct me to information about adjusting the overscan. Thanks

[Ratman]

It can only be performed by accessing the "service menu".
(horizonzal height/width, vertical height/width)

If your set is under warranty, I'd make a service call and it performed by a tech.

[dmbarman]

Stokie...

If you have the Motorola STB, on the remote, do the following:

With the STB on, hit Power, then Menu.

A white/gray screen will come up and adjust the HDTV output to 720p or 1080i and this problem will go away. Then Power on the STB again.

If this doesn't work, call your service provider, and they will send a new box and the tech should be able to adjust everything for you. I doubt this is a TV issue, because I've seen it on other TV's at places like Tweeter and CC, and its a simple adjustment on the STB.

[mdifabio]

Thanks DMBARMAN,

I think you are probably right. I wish Comcast would address this issue as it is kind of annoying.

But I am glad to hear that it is likely not my display.

[Wally World Satellite]

I have not bought a Vizio Plasma yet as am waiting for Gateway to return moneys for a bad plasma but you can hook up to Voom. They have the most HD channels yet for the satellite industry, as i install for all the satellites and install many plasmas also.
Call 1-800 GET VOOM DirecTV and Dish are now forced to add more HD
Wally World Satellite

[stokie]

Tried the power/menu and it's not giving me anything. Apparently my box is the Motorola 5100. Called Comcast (they are unbelieveably incompetant) and they are bringing out a new box. Any other ideas?

[dmbarman]

OK, the 5100 does not support DVI. I don't think you have the 5100...when you get the new box, verify the model number and let me know, I'll guide you through anything you need.

[dmbarman]

http://broadband.motorola.com/consumers/products/DCT5100/downloads/DCT5100_SetUp_Guide.pdf

Go to page 11...its the only thing that can help you for a 5100...like I said just a couple of minutes ago, let me know if I can be of better assistance.

[stokie]

Thanks a lot dmbarman. I'll let you know how it goes.

[stokie]

Checked the bottom of the receiver, you are right it's a DCT6200. I can't get one right answer from Comcast.

[stokie]

OK! I got it! I had to hook up an analog connection to change the display type an was then able to go back and get to the menu thru the DVI input. I changed the default settings from 4:3 to 16:9, and changed the 4:3 override to 480p. Got full screen on all broadcasts even if they are not widescreen. Thanks to everyone for getting me here.

[whitty]

OK! I got it! I had to hook up an analog connection to change the display type an was then able to go back and get to the menu thru the DVI input. I changed the default settings from 4:3 to 16:9, and changed the 4:3 override to 480p. Got full screen on all broadcasts even if they are not widescreen. Thanks to everyone for getting me here.
Stockie, what do you mean by 'hook up an analog connection to change the display type'. Through DVI I can access the menu, but can't change the 4:3 override from off to anything else - otherwise I don't get anything from SD channels. Now for SD channels I have to switch to another connection (kind of pain) otherwise I get left/right grey/black bars which I am trying to avoid. Let me know how you can change the 4:3 override setting if you can. Thanks.

[whitty]

Never mind, I got it.

[VizFan]

As far as issues go, I have noticed on my unit that there is a very slight magenta bar across the entire top of the display, maybe about an inch or so thick. I haven't had time to tweak anything since I purchased it (default factory settings) and so far have only fed it via a Comcast Motorola HD box into the progressive component inputs. I have a DVI cable and will try that. I will also try to change the output of the Motorola box from 1080i to 720p and see if there is any difference.

Otherwise, I am very happy with the unit.

I have had the same problem with my 2 month old Vizio from Costco. I notice that it only seems to happen with Comcast HD channels. I have not noticed it on DVD playback or SD channels. Any suggestions? I don't want to return it (love the price!) but can't stand that pink bar across the top of the screen.

[nodoog]

Never mind, I got it.

Wonderful! Now please tell the rest of us dummies!

Thanks.

nodoog

[whitty]

Wonderful! Now please tell the rest of us dummies!

Thanks.

nodoog
Sorry I thought I was the only dummy. it's easy - for 4:3 override select 480p instead of 480i. I used to have it off - the result was all SD channels had left/right black bars. I tried 480i but couldn't get anything (blank screen) for SD channels. Now with 480p, I got full screen for all channels. The non-HD HBOs are amazing. The SD channels are not as good though. I still use my direct connection for SD channels often.

[stokie]

VizFan, I think you need to go into that menu on the comcast box and change the resolution and screen size. Just power off the box, immediately hit the menu key (sometimes you need to hit it twice) and then adjust the screen size to 16:9 and the resolution to 720p. That worked for me!

[VizFan]

Stokie, I did that, but pink line persists. A note to anyone with technical problems, I emailed V Inc and they got right back to me with an offer to send a tech out to the house to attempt repair in the next ten days. So not only do I have a Costco return option, but apparently a manufacturer that stands behind the product. I'll let you all know how it turns out!

[koreano_ahn]

anybody has this setup?

my problem is, i CANT use both the DVI & component from the stb.
is that true?

thx material found in finding nemo dvd.

does this calibration work for dvi as well?

thanks!

[koreano_ahn]

2.3:1 dvd movies are quite small and couldnt make it to show into the whole tv.
1.33:1 dvd movies are zoomable and fits the screen size.

any tips?

my dvd is a 1-year-old panasonic progressive scan via component thru a pioneer receiver.

so far, i am not enjoying my dvd watching.

[Ratman]

Check in the in the DVD player's setup menus that the video output is set to 16:9/widescreen.

The DVD player should be connected directly to the TV... not through the Pioneer receiver (for best results).

Not certain about the SD3250 and DVI/components.
The THX setup is quite adequate for 'ballpark' adjustments.

[terp97]

Has anyone had any experience with the Dish Network 921 HD/DVR set up? I purchased the V Inc back on Jan. 17 and can't wait to get it all set up but i'm in the middle of moving soon and wanted to wait. Was also thinking about checking out VOOM but they are not taking new customers at the moment due to issues with keeping the doors open on the this HD dish service.

[VizFan]

Well, the technician showed up as promised and blamed the pink bar at top of screen on the Comcast box and cable. We tried a DVI and it went away, so that's cool. Overall I was impressed with the quick service from V Inc. Hopefully won't need it again!

[shellybush]

I have the same problem with a vertical bar that keeps apppearing for a few minutes on the left side of the screen. It's happened about 7 times in the last month. sometimes it looks like a bar code type design and at other times it's just a white bar. It's always the same thickness (about 1.5" wide) and goes from the bottom to the top of the wide screen mode on all 6 inputs. It is not the Dish Network or Comcast....it's the Vizio!! I too have been in touch with techsupport and they offered to come out and repair it too. However, if they came to your house and told you that the bar was the fault of Comcast...I'm thinking of the Costco return route because I KNOW THAT IT'S THE VIZIO AND NOT anything else!! I don't have any fancy HD box hooked up, just a regular dish receiver connected with S-video. The vertical bars even showed up on a video tape.
ANY ONE OUT THERE HAVE A SIMILAR PROBLEM????

[trainer]

I purchased the Vizio 42PHDe yesterday at Costco, and easily transported it home in my Honda Pilot (vertically). The picture is supurb, and should get even better once I purchase a DVI-D cable later this week. Like the other readers discovered, the image in the store was only so-so, which I attribute to the feed. Once I set it up at home and hooked it up to my Comcast HDTV receiver, the picture was excellent, even in SD. I needed to tweak some of the settings to get the best picture, and I'm going to use the THX software included in the Star Wars DVD to get an even better picture (I used this on a Philips HDTV I also own, and the THX software helped to substantially improve the picture.).

By the way, the Vizio is like most HDTVs on the market and does not include a HDTV receiver, which you'll need to actually see an HDTV picture. I say this because some of the previous messages indicated that they were going to simply hook up their existing non-HDTV cable service and/or use rabbit ears to get an over-the-air signal, and obviously this won't work without a dedicated receiver.

Also note that you need to buy a decent quality DVI-D cable to get the best picture out of this unit. I believe the Costco unit simply used an S-video cable which is attached to a splitter unit that shares the same signal among ten or so sets. Hence, the image you see in the store doesn't compare to the image you would get at home, once you set it up properly (i.e. HDTV receiver, DVI-D cable, adjust the settings).
Hello PWHMAINE, I just got one of the Vizio P42HDE's, and wanted to download the THX software from the Star Wars II DVD, but can't figure out where the software is. Could you tell me how to find it on the disc? Thank you! Love the TV!

[oman321]

It's in the special features. Sometimes it's hard to see the THX logo that you would go into cause it's on a wall if I remember correctly, it's part of the scenery from the clone planet during the rain storm. Sometimes when you load the DVD it comes up with a different scene.

[bigmutt]

These Vizio 42 inch plasmas are $1400 now at Costco, and do include HD tuner.
If you have doubts about picture quality etc, check out December issue of PC World, which has cover article about HDTV and gave Best Buy ratings to the Vizios (highest in the ratings) in both the LCD category and the Plasma category.