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2010 HDTV Selling Season Begins

Gary — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 04:02:17 +0000

(August 29, 2010) The start of the football season traditionally marks the beginning of the TV selling season. With the economic slowdown continuing HDTV sales have not been up to set makers’ optimistic projections, resulting in swollen inventories. This is great news for consumers. Dealers are offering dramatic price drops aided by factory sponsored deals to try to get sales back on target.

Looking back at our 2009 selling season article, sale prices this year are 20%-25% lower than last year’s equivalent models, with the 2010s offering better performance (such as higher contrast ratios) and more features.

We have scoured Amazon, Best Buy’s latest circular and other retailers to find the most outstanding deals. We have also provided hot links to Amazon (most include free shipping too). Want to buy locally? Use these deals to negotiate with your local retailer. To learn the secrets of how to get the best deal from a brick and mortar store, read our “Getting the Best Price” article (link).

LCDs

With the growth of 2010 LED and plasma market share, traditional LCD HDTVs (with CCFL florescent light type backlights) have become the unwanted step-child of flat panel HDTVs. The result, big price drops from TV makers. You should be aware there are only two inherent advantages to LED (LCD) TVs over conventional LCDs (contrary to what some salesman may say). They are a thinner form factor and better power efficiency. All other factors being equal, there is only one picture quality advantages to LCD available in a number of high-end models, the ability to shut off the LEDs in regions of the panel called “local dimming”. This feature produces blacker blacks, though due to the regional nature halos appear around light objects or text with a black background (disclaimer, many product lines add additional features and better signal processing to their higher priced step-up LED models). HD Guru is all for energy savings, however please note for screen sizes below 40-inches, it can be quite negligible compared to the cost delta for going with the LED model. Consider a LCD over an LED if you are desiring a flat panel in 40-inch or smaller size especially if you are planning to use the table stand (in lieu of wall mounting). Even if you are going to mount the TV on the wall, do you really care if the TV two or three inches thin rather than an inch and a half when saving hundreds of dollars?

LEDs

Set makers have added lower cost 60Hz models to the mix. As noted above, conventional LCDs are a better value.

Plasma

Performance is up and prices are down. Plasma HDTV market share has risen as wise consumers realize plasma provides the best big screen picture quality, widest viewing angle and highest motion performance at low cost . Plasma panel makers (Panasonic, Samsung and LG) have aggressively dropped 720p and 1080p prices while increasing energy efficiency. If you are looking for a 42″ or larger HDTV, you should seriously consider plasma. Don’t believe salesman telling you they are old technology or they permanently burn-in. Not true, all LEDs are LCDs and they are the older tech. Burn-in is no longer an issue (and hasn’t been for a few years) thanks to the new, more energy efficient designs. LEDs and LCD can be cranked to brighter levels, which may fool you into thinking their higher price yields better image quality. Many stores ambient lighting levels are typically 5 to 10 times higher than most homes. Don’t be fooled. Plasmas are far brighter (3-5x) than the old tube type TV or rear projector you may be replacing.

The big news, prices are dropping and vendors are beginning to offer four pairs of 3D glasses with the purchase of a 3D TV and many are throwing in a 3D capable Blu-ray player. LG just started its free four pairs of glasses promotion (link) and industry sources tell us the other vendors plan similar promotions. Remember 3D capability includes the best 2D performance available today. (BB=Best Buy; JR =J&R)

Make/Model	Size	Was	Now	$ Savings	Store	Amazon Price
Sam/PN42C450	42″	$600	$499.99	$100	BB	$497
Sony/KDL40EX700	40″	$1400	$899.99	$500	BB	$807
LG/55LD520	55″	$1900	$1499.99	$400	BB	$1298
Sam/LN46C550	46″	$1050	$894.99	$155	JR	$816
Pan/TCL37X2	37″	$680	$499.99	180	JR	$490
LG/32LD350	32″	$500	$399.99	$100	BB	$358
Sam/LN46C530	46″	$850	$799.99	$150	BB	$799
Pan/TCP65S2	65″	$2800	$1999.99	$800	BB	$1897
Pan/TCP58S2	58″	$1900	$1299.99	$600	BB	$1226

Packages (packages only available from “Store”) Amazon price for TV only (except LG 3D TVs)

Make/Model	Size	Was	Now	$ Savings	Store	Amazon Price
Pan/TCP50S2*	50″	$1550	$999.98	$550	BB	$899
Pan/TCP42S2**	42″	$1150	$799.98	$350	BB	$678
LG/47LE5400***	47″	$2360	$1399.95	$960	BB	$1133
LG/55LE5400****	55″	$3160	$1999.95	$1160	BB	$1124
Sam/LN46C670*****	46″	$1500	$999.99	$500	BB	$1050 (LN46C650)
LG/47LX6500	47″	$3820	$1748	$2071	Amazon	$1748.98

*with Panasonic DMPBD85 Blu ray player

**with Panasonic DMPBD85 Blu-ray player

***Package includes LG LHB355 Home Theater system + ANWF100 WiFi adapter + Geek Squad network setup

****with LG LHB355 Home Theater system + ANWF100 WiFi adapter + Geek Squad setup and network

*****Package includes Samsung BDC5500 Blu-ray player and $20 CinemaNow gift card

Buy the 47LX6500 3D LED TV and get LG 3D capable BX580 Blu-ray player and four pair of LG S100 3D Glasses free (offer good through Sept.11, 2010)

Make/Model	Size	Was	Now	$ Savings	Store	Amazon Price
LG/55LX6500	55″	$4720	$2019.00	$2701	Amazon	$2019

Buy the 55LX6500 3D LED TV and get LG 3D capable BX580 Blu-ray player and four pair of LG S100 3D Glasses free (offer good through Sept.11, 2010)

Make/Model	Size	Was	Now	$ Savings	Store	Amazon Price
Pan/TCP42G25	42″	$1370	$919.99	$450	JR	$869

Buy the TCPG25 and get the Panasonic TY-CC10W 720p Skype Video Camera free.

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Panasonic Introduces Two Lower Priced Full HD 3D TVs

Gary — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 12:49:30 +0000

(August 16, 2010) Panasonic launched its GT25 series of Full HD 1080p 3D plasma HDTVs today. The new line consists of a 42″ model at $1699.95 and a 50″ at 2099.95. Both TVs retain many of the features of the higher line VT25 series including VieraCast Internet content services, THX certification and Skype video phone with an optional camera.

The GT25s add 2D to 3D conversion circuitry, becoming the first Panasonic 3D TVs to offer this feature. The required 3D glasses are not included. Below is the press release.

PANASONIC EXPANDS ITS LINE OF FULL HD 3D VIERA PLASMA TVS

New VIERA GT25 Full HD 3D Plasma Series Introduces New 42-inch Class and 50-inch Class Screen Sizes

SECAUCUS, NJ (August 16, 2010) – Panasonic, a worldwide leader in Full HD 3D¹ technology, announced today the expansion of its award-winning line of Full HD 3D VIERA^® Plasma TVs with the launch of the Panasonic VIERA GT25 Series of Full HD 3D Plasma TVs². The series will feature Panasonic’s first 42-inch class (41.6” measured diagonally) Full HD 3D Plasma TV, broadening Panasonic’s range of Full HD 3D TV offerings and addressing consumer requests for a smaller 3D set for video gaming.

The VIERA GT25 Series features 42-inch class (41.6” measured diagonally) and 50-inch class (49.9” measured diagonally) screen sizes. The TC-P42G25 will have an MSRP³of $1699.95 and the TC-P50GT25 will have an MSRP of $2099.95. Both models will be available in late August 2010. Active Shutter 3D Eyewear required for viewing 3D content is sold separately. Complete technical specifications for the GT25 Series are now available at www.panasonic.com.

The VIERA GT25 series augments Panasonic’s VT25 series (named Best in Show at the 2010 International Consumer Electronics Show) of Full HD 3D Plasma TVs providing consumers with a broader product line which now ranges from 42-inch class through 65-inch class screen sizes. Panasonic also markets 85-inch class, 103-inch class and 152-inch class professional Full HD 3D Plasma models.

“From the beginning, Panasonic has led the charge into the immersive world of 3D home entertainment by offering end-to-end 3D home entertainment solutions including Full HD 3D VIERA Plasma TVs, 3D Blu-ray Disc Players, professional and consumer 3D camcorders, the nation’s first suite of 3D TV channels with partner DIRECTV, and the authoring of 3D Blu-ray movies in cooperation with the Hollywood studios,” said Henry Hauser, Panasonic Vice President, Merchandising, Display Group. “The debut of our VIERA GT25 Series of Full HD 3D TVs further expands our portfolio of 3D offerings and makes it even easier for consumers to join the immersive world of Full HD 3D for the home.”

While the VIERA^® GT25 Series represents a new price point, the models include many of the same innovative features found on the critically-acclaimed VIERA VT25 models including Panasonic’s proprietary IPTV functionality, VIERA CAST™ which features USB connectivity, allowing for the addition of a wireless LAN adaptor, keyboard and USB memory. VIERA CAST now includes such favorite entertainment sites as Amazon Video-on-Demand™, Netflix™, Google’s YouTube™, Picasa™ Web Album, Bloomberg, Pandora, Twitter and a weather service, as well as Skype⁴™ on Your VIERA TV. With ease of use as a major focus, VIERA CAST’s interface implements quick keyword input (like a cell phone) to help retrieve favorite content faster and easier.

Another prominent feature of the GT25 series that is also found in the VT25 series is VIERA Link™, which allows Panasonic owners to control their VIERA Link compatible audio and video products with just one remote. This feature also affords the consumer the opportunity to add a network camera to the mix. And THX® Certified Display certification insures that every Panasonic Full HD 3D TV displays motion pictures and television content with the quality and color palette that the director intended.

Like its VT25 counterpart, the GT25 series also features 600Hz Sub-field Drive; 1080p Full HD resolution; 1080 lines of moving picture resolution; VIERA Image Viewer (for viewing of digital still images), 24p Cinematic Playback and new fast switching phosphors.

The GT25 Series also includes 2D to 3D conversion which can convert a 2D image or video to 3D.

Panasonic’s range of Full HD 3D VIERA Plasma HDTVs, when coupled with Panasonic’s 3D Blu-ray Disc players (DMP-BDT100, DMP- BDT300, DMP-BDT350) bring a new era of immersive visual entertainment into consumers’ homes, by creating a 3D experience that easily rivals the best that can be seen in cinemas. In addition, Panasonic and DIRECTV recently ushered in a new age in the rapid growth of 3D entertainment for the home with the launch of n3D^TM powered by Panasonic – a DIRECTV channel dedicated exclusively to 3D programming. n3D powered by Panasonic is now available at no additional cost to millions of DIRECTV HD customers and features a range of sports and entertainment programming exclusively in 3D. Panasonic is the exclusive presenting sponsor of DIRECTV’s n3D channel, one of three 3D TV channels from DIRECTV that deliver movies, sports and entertainment content from some of the world’s most renowned 3D producers.

All Panasonic VIERA^® Full HD 3D TV models are also Full HD TVs that display pristine 1080p content in two dimensions (2D) for conventional HD viewing.

For more information on Panasonic’s Full HD 3D technology, visit www.panasonic.com/3D.

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HDMI Cable Makers and Dealers Use Misleading Labels to Push Needless Expensive Upgrades

Gary — Thu, 12 Aug 2010 16:56:23 +0000

(August 12, 2010) Have you seen HDMI cables online or in stores labeled “120 Hz,” “240Hz” and “480 Hz”? It’s easy enough to slap such labels on HDMI cables but it’s a sham. HDMI cables can no more be manufactured for specific refresh rate HDTVs than garden hose can be manufactured specifically to water seeded lawns and sod lawns. The same water flows through either one. The same HDTV signal flows through all HDMI cables, whether labeled “120Hz” or “480Hz.”

In fact a set’s refresh rate has nothing whatsoever to do with the signal flowing to that set. The refresh rate is determined by the set’s circuitry once the signal gets there (link), so how can different HDMI cables be manufactured for different refresh rate sets?

Clearly the intent of the refresh rate labeling is simply to confuse you into spending more money on HDMI cables than you need to. TV retailers, including Best Buy, use this new misleading labeling to push naïve customers into buying unnecessary, overpriced cables that can cost 800%-5750% more than necessary (link). Adding such—the latest being “3D”—helps sales clerks persuade customers to overspend. The extra dollars spent will have no effect on image quality but it will lighten your wallet.

To view Blu-ray, Full HD 3D content and any other source at the highest (1080p) resolution you need HDMI cables. It is a single wire solution that conducts a standard definition or high definition 2D or 3D video image and accompanying audio tracks from a source device to an HDTV. Only two types of HDMI cables are included in the HDMI licensing spec: “Standard” (aka category 1) or “High Speed” (aka category 2). The latter is required to assure the cable passes 1080p signals (including 3D), which is the highest bandwidth video signal (now and for the foreseeable future).

Monster, Audioquest and other HDMI cable makers mislead consumers by mis-labeling their step-up quality HDMI cables with the various refresh rates used by set makers to improve picture quality. The signal fed by an HDMI cable to a set never exceeds 60Hz.

The HDMI Standard

HDMI Licensing LLC licenses the design, specifications and requires labeling of cables as either “Standard” or “Hi Speed”. HDMI does not have any rules concerning additional labels, according to its spokesman. While the HDMI standard has been updated to include new (optional) functionality such as passing Ethernet signals, there remains only two speed categories. Any “Hi Speed” HDMI cable should handle any display and any video signal you can throw at it.

HD Guru visited a number of local TV dealers. Best Buy (BB) had the widest selection, offering “Hi Speed” HDMI cables from Monster, Audioquest and Rocketfish (BB house brand) and Dynex (BB house brand). They all display labels that tout their own capabilities. The least expensive is a Dynex 4ft. length “Hi Speed” cable and costs $29.99. The box says 1080p 60Hz. The first step-up is the Rocketfish at $49.99/4 ft and the package reads 120Hz. Next is a 4 ft. $69.99 Monster 700 model cable, with a label stating 60/120 Hz. followed by 120 Hz and 3D labeled model 900 for $79.99. The Monster 1000 model boasts a 240Hz-480 Hz and 3D for $129.99 for 8 ft. Audioquest has a line of “Hi Speed” HDMI cables, its packaging states “Delivers 100% of the data required for 120Hz, 240 Hz, 600 Hz displays” and costs up to a whopping $229.99 for its 6’6″ Carbon model (sold on line at Bestbuy.com) . The BB website states “High-speed 1080p/120Hz-4K”. (Note: there are no 4K consumer video signals).

(continues after photo)

By comparison you can purchase a 6″6″ ”Hi Speed” HDMI cable from Amazon for as little as $3.99 ($20 retail). It is a “High Speed” rated cable that will pass any HD signal (including 3D) to any HDTV. Keep in mind a signal carried over an HDMI cable is all digital, meaning any properly functioning cable will provide a perfect picture. There is absolutely no picture quality advantage of purchasing a cable that is rated higher than the HDMI “High Speed” standard of a 10.2 Gbps!

There are added features available on HDMI “Hi Speed” cables. They are audio return and Ethernet pass through. However no source devices sold today include the Ethernet feature and no some HDTVs today include audio return channel.

There may be differences in the quality of materials, construction and wire gauge using premium priced HDMI cables. These differences could be beneficial if you are constantly disconnecting and reconnecting the same cable. HDMI cables provide a complete signal transfer as long as the cable conforms to the HDMI specifications (if it is defective or improperly designed i.e. a bad HDMI cable will produce a high error rate which can cause signal dropouts, such as the screen going black then the image reappearing ).

To summarize, buying a more expensive HDMI “Hi Speed” cable , regardless of labeling or what a salesman tells you will not give you any improvement in picture quality. Use the money you save from falling victim to misleading HDMI packaging towards the purchase of products or services that will increase your enjoyment of HDTV such as a Blu-ray player, professional set-up and calibration or a surround sound audio system.

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Samsung Breaks the 3D Flat Panel Price Barrier With A Sub $1000 Plasma!

Gary — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 14:10:42 +0000

(August 10, 2010) Tomorrow Samsung will hold a press conference to announce its new 50″ 3D ready HDTV plasma. It is available today for preorder for $989 with free shipping from Amazon. This HDTV represents a 3D price breakthrough that’s over $400 less than the current entry model 3D flat panel, the 40″Samsung LN40C750 LCD.

The new Samsung PN50C490 is a 50″ plasma with 720p resolution (1365 x 768p), ideal for a viewing distance of 9 to 10 feet, (a typical range for most living rooms) Here’s a link to our viewing distance chart.

HD Guru is testing Samsung’s top of the line 3D plasma TV (for a review to be published soon). Preliminary results reveals its 3D performance exceeds Samsung’s 8000 series LED model. It produces fine 2D HDTV images as well. The specs for the Samsung PN50C490 are listed below.

Screen size: 50″ class (49.9″ diagonal) plasma panel / HD 1366 x 768p resolution

Aspect ratio: Widescreen 16:9

Progressive features: E³ Panel technology, including 600Hz sub-field motion

Best video inputs: 3 HDMI v1.4 in (3D capable)

Other inputs: 1 USB port / 2 component video + L/R audio / 1 composite-vid (shared) / 1 PC (RGB) + PC audio / 1 RF

Audio enhancements: SRS TruSurround HD

Built-in speakers: 10W x 2

Mounting options: Table stand included / VESA 400mm x 400mm wall-mount compatible

Remote control: Included

E³ Panel technology: 600Hz subfield motion / 2,000,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio / 0.001ms response time

USB support: ConnectShare Movie fast connection to digital cameras and thumbdrives

Outputs: 1 digital optical audio output

Tuners: ATSC / NTSC / QAM

ENERGY STAR qualified

BD Wise

Clear Image panel

Touch of Color Bezel with black-to-gray gradation

3D active-shutter glasses sold separately

Dimensions: 47.3″ W x 28.4″ H x 2.7″ D, without stand / 47.3″ W x 31.0″ H x 11.2″ D, with stand

Weight: 51.8 lbs, without stand / 56.2 lbs, with stand

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A Solution to the Dreaded Soap Opera Effect?

Gary — Thu, 05 Aug 2010 21:29:20 +0000

(August 5, 2010) Do movies shot on film look like videotape on your LCD HDTV? Does it bother you? If so, you’re not alone. That problem tops the email complaints we get from readers and it comes exclusively from those owning 120Hz or 240Hz LCD or LED LCD HDTVs. It never comes from plasma owners.

The visible reduction of film grain and other film-based irregularities that should be present in the picture is often referred to as the Soap Opera Effect (or SOE) because the increase of the frame refresh rate from the 24 Hz to the rate of the display (120 or 240Hz) appears like a videotaped soap opera. While viewers don’t see the problem when watching sports or other live or taped broadcasts (which are shot at either a 30 or 60 Hz frame rate), they are rightly troubled when movies look like video, though not everyone is bothered by it.

A number of solutions provide a fix for some but not for all LCD/LED TVs suffering from SOE What follows are the SOE “whys” and the fixes currently available as well as news of a possible total solution coming to 2011 models.

The Cause

HD Guru began testing HDTV motion blur in 2007 using a test disc from the Plasma Display Coalition that moves a resolution chart horizontally at a fixed rate of roughly 6.5 pixels per frame. 60 Hz LCDs have very poor motion performance, with a reduction from 1080 lines resolution per picture height (static) to around 300 lines with motion. The TV manufactures followed up with the introduction of 120 Hz LCD (and LED) flat panels and later adding 240 Hz models. The 120 Hz models raised the motion resolution to around 600 lines and the 240 Hz models kicked it to the 900 and up (depending on the model tested), however both types introduced the Soap Opera Effect when viewing 24 frame per second content which includes all film based motion pictures. To achieve 120Hz or 240Hz instead of the standard 60Hz rate requires a circuit called Motion Estimation/ Motion Compensation (ME/MC), which creates interpolated frames between the real frames. The interpolated frames have the artificial appearance that imparts the video look of a soap opera. You can turn off the interpolation on a number of displays, which will change processing to repeating the frame 5 times (in the case of 120 Hz displays) however, degradation remains visible on a many 120 and 240hz displays. According to a MC/ME chip maker this is due to the circuit altering the image even when it is not inserting interpolated frames.

Solutions

Currently the only consistent method to eliminate the effect on LCD and LED HDTV is to bypass the 120Hz or 240 Hz MC/ME circuits thereby forcing an TV from utilizing frame interpolation. This is accomplished on Samsungs or Sonys (we have not had a chance to check other makes and models) by engaging the “Game” picture mode. If you notice the Soap Opera Effect with film based content on your LCD or LED TV (and almost everyone does) you will see the difference in the “Game” mode. Of course motion blur and judder (jerky motion during horizontal pans) will appear without interpolation (or frame repeat), so choose the artifact you prefer. For Blu-ray movies, be sure set the output of your disc player to 1080p/60 to assure 3:2 film conversion occurs. Frame repeat is a better method, although as stated above, many sets continue to create SOE artifacts in this mode too.

Plasma HDTVs have inherently high motion resolution without the SOE. This is due to the way they create a high definition image. Plasmas create moving images by a stream of short bursts of light (at least 600 times per second) instead of a “sample and hold” technique employed in all LED and LCD HDTVs. The result, 900 lines to full 1080 lines of motion resolution (meaning no blur) while maintaining the look of film. If you want film-like image on your flat panel without motion blur, buy a plasma (top end Samsung C590 series, C8000 series, C6500 series, C7000 series and Panasonic models now offer 4X frame repeat to eliminate 3:2 judder as well). Plasma HDTV pricing is at an all time low while sales are at record highs and overall performance is better than ever.

A 2011 Solution

We spoke to a representative of Integrated Device Technology (IDT) the owner’s of Silicon Optix HQV processing technology (obtained when they purchased the company a few years ago). IDT is introducing new MC/ME frame conversion chips. It claims their chips allow LCD and LED TV makers to use 120 Hz or 240 Hz in their respective displays without the dreaded SOE and other artifacts. They have promised us a demo in September at the CEDIA Expo and we will look and report with hopeful but as always skeptical eyes. Here’s the relevant section of IDTs recent press release.

“Integrated Device Technology, Inc. a leading provider of essential mixed signal semiconductor solutions that enrich the digital media experience, today announced the industry’s first motion-compensated frame rate conversion processors with an integrated resolution-enhancement engine for use in 120Hz and 240Hz televisions and high-definition video projectors. The new IDT VHD1200 and VHD2400 devices feature the industry-leading IDT HQV™ MotionSMART™ technology, which provides smooth motion and full-detail images while minimizing side effects seen with competitive solutions.

The new IDT frame-rate conversion processors are also 3-D capable, providing smooth motion with minimal side effects, which is significant for 3-D where varying side effects could be very distracting to the viewer.

“IDT continues to provide its customers with innovative video solutions. These new frame rate converters provide smooth motion and crisp, clear images for today’s HD and 3-D displays,” said Ji Park, vice president and general manager of the Video and Display Operation group at IDT. “The VHD1200 and VHD2400 follow in the footsteps of our other innovative video processing solutions, providing our customers devices that deliver the best picture quality.”

The IDT HQV MotionSMART technology includes per-pixel processing, providing the capability to make intelligent localized decisions in the detection and processing of complex images and motion in video images. The IDT solutions also feature cadence detection, which removes judder from sources with cadence, and a wide detection range to eliminate “flickering” when images move horizontally, vertically or diagonally on the screen.”

An IDT spokesperson says their new ME/MC chips will appear in select 2011 LCD/LED flat panels and front projectors. Stay tuned.

Samsung recently offered a new firmware update they claim shuts off its the ME/MC circuit when its Auto Motion Plus feature is set to the “Off” position. An alternative (according to a Samsung spokesperson) is to set a Samsung 120 or 240 Hz LCD or LED TV to “Clear” mode or to move the “Judder” control to “0″ using the “Custom” mode (post firmware update). You can update your Samsung LCD or LED TV by connecting it to your Internet router. For more on firmware updates read this link.

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HDTV Owners Need To Be Aware of Firmware Updates

Gary — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 03:32:46 +0000

(June 22, 2010) In the days of standard definition analog television, you would take your new TV home, plug it in and watch it. It played exactly as the engineers intended it, only requiring tweaking of the user controls to optimize the available settings, or hiring an ISF calibrator to make fine adjustments via the set’s service menu. For better or worse, those days are over. Today, TV makers design their mid and high end HDTVs (including 3D sets) and Blu-ray disc players to be electronically factory modified after purchase. To get your new TV to perform as best as it can, (in some cases simply properly) you’ll need to get the set’s firmware periodically updated. Unfortunately, all TV retailers queried never tell the buyers of the necessity to perform updates at the time of purchase!

What’s Firmware?

It’s a hardware device, computer instructions and data that reside as read-only software on that device. HDTVs and Blu-ray players’ functions and performance criteria are governed by the software. If it’s not updated with the latest implementation and instead used in the “out of the box” condition, your display may not be functioning as intended by the manufacturer. With “just in time” manufacturing and major retailer demands for equipment makers to ship new product by a specific date or face major financial penalties (such as cancelled orders), equipment makers often deliver products to the retailer and end user that cannot function as they should in order for the manufacturer to meet the retailer’s deadline. The solution, a firmware update to bring the TV up to spec, supplied by the set makers’ websites or servers.

2010 Model Issues

We are in the process of testing a number of 2010 model HDTVs and Blu-ray players. All to date have required firmware updates to enhance performance, add or correct a number of performance functions and in the case of Blu-ray players, allow the playing some newly released discs. Without a firmware update, early and current Blu-ray players can’t play all new discs because disc authoring continues to change.

Why Don’t Retailers Tell You About Firmware Upgrades

Investigating “assisted selling” local stores (Best Buy, Sears, PC Richard and 6 Ave Electronics), we never observed a salesman informing the customer that upgrades are available, or needed and then instruct the buyer as to how to perform them. Nor have we ever heard a salesman ask if the customer was aware the new TVs and players need Internet connectivity near the player to easily perform upgrades. All these stores offer services to connect an HDTV or Blu-ray player to your home Internet router. Best Buy is the only chain we’ve seen advertise Internet connectivity services through its Geek Squad department.

We don’t know why they don’t tell you, however a possible reason, no local retailer suveyed has the Internet connected to their store demo TVs and Blu-ray players. Yes, often the hot new 3D TV demonstration unit does not perform nearly as well as its capable, until the installation of the latest firmware.

How To Upgrade

To perform a firmware upgrade an HDTV requires at least a USB port, memory card slot, Ethernet connector or wireless connectivity. Firmware is either downloaded to the memory device from your Internet connected computer, then inserted into the TV or one can make a direct connection to manufacturer’s server via the Ethernet or wireless Internet connection on the display. The means to obtain the download may vary depending on the brand. The update may be available by direct Internet connection or a download to USB drive or other memory device. However, it is often the case the set maker’s server is where the update first becomes available. Since an Internet connected TV doesn’t need the owner to mess with a PC and memory device, it is the fastest and best way to update your TV or Blu-ray player.

All Internet connected TVs tested to date require the owner to request a firmware download via the TVs on-screen graphics. Panasonic Blu-ray players allow you to opt-in for automatic downloads. It constantly checks for updates and seamlessly downloads and installs them as they become available, keeping your player always up to date.

When shopping for a Blu-ray player or mid to high end HDTV in an assisted store (i.e. Best Buy) ask about your options to get the latest firmware before you leave the store. Inquire how much it will cost to get them to run an Ethernet cable from your router to the TV’s home location, so you can get all the performance and functionality you paid for.

Edited By Michael Fremer

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Are Free Skype Video Calls the Connected TV Killer App?

Gary — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 01:13:22 +0000

(June 15, 2010) Updated and corrections 6/17

Connected HDTVs offer a built-in wired or wireless connection to your home Internet router. The Internet connection enables multimedia applications such as movie streaming (i.e. Amazon), Twitter, news, sports and weather to be streamed to your HDTV without a computer. Over the past year we’ve tried a number of these applications and have been generally unimpressed with either the content or their advantage over discs, cable and satellite (on demand) until today. Enter the Skype Video equipped Panasonic TC-P50VT25.

For those unfamiliar with it, Skype Video is a software application once only available on computers that’s now built into select Panasonic and Samsung HDTVs that lets you make free video calls over the Internet to anyone with a Skype software equipped computer, TV or Skype freestanding video phone. Of course users at both ends must have both video cameras and microphones associated with their computers and/or TVs.

The Panasonic system, consisting of video camera model TY-CC10W and in the case of this review, the TC-P50VT25 plasma TV, allows you to converse using a 50″ screen instead of a small laptop image, allowing the entire family to participate.

The camera, which clips onto the top of the set, contains four unidirectional microphones and a 1/4-inch CMOS sensor with 1280 x 720 resolution. The lens is autofocus, with an F/2.0 aperture and a field of view of 58° (in HD mode).

Set-up and Performance

Panasonic calls its internet applications “Viera Cast”. Skype (video with voice or just voice) requires an Internet connection via an Ethernet cable or a Panasonic wireless adapter (DY-WL10).

The camera interfaces with the TV via a USB cable plugged into one of the two available USB jacks located on the side of the set. Once connected, you hit the remote control’s Viera Cast hot button, choose the Skype application via the on-screen graphic and activate your previously set up Skype account. The Panasonic TV is now ready to make free video calls to any Skype internet connected device in the world (note: both you and the person to whom you intend to speak must have their Skype devices powered on before placing the call).

We tested video and voice performance by making Skype video calls from our New York location to California, New Jersey, Norway and Thailand. The picture quality ranged from acceptable to excellent. Skype picture quality depends upon three variables: the speed of your internet connection (we use Verizon FIOS), the internet connection speed of the party you are calling, and the way Skype routes your video call over the internet (a pathway you cannot control). Once the call is made you will see the party you are calling as well as a picture outside the picture of the image from your camera (in the lower corner) and a signal quality meter.

The meter’s range is one to four bars. We obtained two to four in our tests, providing fair to acceptable quality at two bars with a 4×3 image. If the person you are calling has a wide screen HD camera, the image expands to 16:9 but only if you connect at four bars signal strength, which we were able to observe during a call to Panasonic’s US headquarters in New Jersey. The image from Norway (see top photo) was very good at three bars and no doubt limited in resolution by the standard def camera used on the other end. The wide screen HD (bottom photo) was taken during an video call to Skype’s NY PR office with Techlicious’ Editor Suzanne Kantra (lower left). Overall we were very satisfied with the video and audio quality.

The Panasonic TY-CC10W camera permits electronic zoom and panning. However, this currently must be preset, as you cannot change the settings during a video call. A Panasonic spokesman said this feature maybe accessible during a video call via a future firmware update.

The frame rate can be 22 to 30 frames per second, depending on the speed of the connection. Skype incorporates a type of frame smoothing that makes the picture far less herky-jerky than earlier video phones. The resolution goes from around VHS quality with a poor one bar signal up to 720p widescreen with a full four bars signal.

Our only complaint was with the volume control, which maxes out at 28, just above a minimum acceptable level, which could present a problem in large rooms or environments with high ambient noise levels. The restricted volume is at a much lower level than what the TC-P50VT25 is capable of delivering with normal TV content. According to Merwan Mereby, Panasonic VP of Corporate Development, the volume restriction is imposed by Skype in its design mandates. Mereby added they are looking into ways to work with Skype to permit an increase of the maximum volume.

Video phones have been around for decades, but they’ve never caught on. Panasonic’s incorporation of Skype video, which provides the ability to see high quality, life sized moving images of distant family or friends for free, is a very compelling reason to consider an HDTV with this feature. I believe the application will finally allow video calls to really catch on, which makes this the killer app. Just make sure you’re dressed before dialing (depending upon whom you’re dialing!)

Note: The Panasonic Skype HD Camera ($169.95 retail) is available free via mail-in rebate (link) until July 10, 2010 with the purchase of one of its G20 or G25 series plasma HDTVs.

The following Panasonic models have Skype Video capability

TC-P42G25,TC-P46G25,TC-P50G25,TC-P54G25,TC-P50VT25,TC-P54VT25,TC-P58VT25,TC-P65VT25, TC-P50G20, TC-P54G20 and TC-P50VT20

The Samsung Skype camera is the called the Freetalk. The following Samsung models have Skype Video capability

UN46C7000,UN46C6800,UN40C7000,UN46C7000,UN55C7000,UN46C8000 and UN55C8000

You must use the camera designed for a particular brand HDTV. They will not work with other makes.

Edited By Michael Fremer

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This Week’s Hottest Deals and More

Gary — Sun, 23 May 2010 23:27:39 +0000

(May 23, 2010) As we approach summer the TV industry enters its traditional seasonal slowdown. In past years the new models rolled out from late spring until the fall. This year many major makers introduced their HDTVs in the January through May time frame with just a few high-end models scheduled for June and beyond.

While we can only speculate the cause (slower than anticipated sales?), this past week we’ve seen significant price drops on many higher end TVs from Samsung as well as select bargains from LG, Toshiba and Panasonic. Below is a list of the best deals. All are discounted at least 20% to as much 43% off of the manufacturer’s minimum advertised prices (MAP).

What About Models You Can’t Get On-line?

Panasonic prohibits Internet sales of its 3D HDTVs. A number of other vendors are offering their high-end models at or near MAP. So what do you if your dream HDTV is not available online or is not being heavily discounted? Read on.

How to Get the Lowest Price From a Brick and Mortar Retailer

Negotiate! It will take some effort and time but you will save money. Here is the secret: national retailers Best Buy and Sears wouldn’t bargain down the price due to company policies. However, many regional and local dealers will. One thing retailers don’t want you to know is that many will compete against their own stores!

Yes, a store within a regional chain will often beat the price you get from another location. Nothing prevents you from going to store to store playing one against the other. Once a salesman knows you’ve been shopping and are ready to buy, they want to close the sale. This technique really works.

Below are this week’s hottest deals from Amazon. (Note: Prices are listed as of 5/24/10 and are subject to change. We will track and update during the week).

(Note: Most of the Amazon prices include free shipping. “Was” price listed is original minimum advertised price)

Samsung UN46C7000 46″ 1080p 3D 240Hz LED LCD TV, Was $2599.99 Now $1999.98 Amazon

Samsung UN46C8000 46″ 1080p 3D 240Hz LED LCD Was $2799.99 Now $2199.98 Amazon

Samsung LN40C650 40″ 1080p 120Hz LCD Was $1099.99 Now $879.98 Amazon

LG 50PK750 50″ 1080p Plasma THX Certified, Was $1399.95 Now $1074.93 Amazon

Panasonic TC-P54G25 54″ 1080p Plasma THX Certified, Was $1999.99 Now $1578.47 Amazon

Panasonic TC-P50S2 50″ 1080p Plasma, Was $1399.99 Now $973.73 6 Ave. via Amazon

Toshiba 46SV670 46″ 1080p 240Hz LED LCD Was $2099.99 Now $1199.96 Amazon

Toshiba 55SV670″ 55″ 1080p 240Hz LED LCD, Was $2699.99 Now $1599.96 Tiger Direct via Amazon

Edited By Michael Fremer

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WTF Is A THX Certified Display?

Gary — Tue, 04 May 2010 18:30:03 +0000

(May 4, 2010) Director George Lucus created the THX Certification program in 1983 to institute audio and film reproduction standards for movie theaters. Later, THX began an audio certification program for home theater. More recently, THX introduced new standards for home HDTV certification (for more on THX history click this link). To receive THX certification a display must pass a battery of tests incorporating over 400 data points.

THX chose the HD Guru as the first journalist to reveal details about its display testing program. (Disclosure: THX paid expenses to visit its San Rafael headquarters)

Our host provided a complete copy of its requirements and specifications for certification with the understanding (for competitive and business reasons) we would only publish the list of test categories with a limited number of the exact specifications. We jumped on the chance to pierce the armor of secrecy surrounding THX’s video standards.

Inside THX’s test lab, we observed their array of test signals and procedures. In addition to the legacy test signals we and other reviewers use to evaluate HDTVs, THX created some of their own patterns (see photos).

THX tests signal processing, deinterlacing, color points, black levels and white levels among others criteria. They perform additional testing of display properties that are generally too time consuming or require special test equipment the HD Guru and our fellow reviewers don’t possess. Here is a link to a never before released list of THX tests.

The Secret Sauce

Below, the techies among our readers can see the seven of the dozens of specifications a display must meet for THX Certification. These tolerances are quite tight.

A brief explanation of the seven items

1) Primary and secondary color points must be within a ±0.005 variation. 2) Low panel reflectance allows viewing in an environment with lamps. Please note no anti reflective filter is 100% effective. 3) Uniformity assures no dark or light areas on the panel, a problem that plagues many LCD (and LED-LCD) panels. 4) Off axis color accuracy assures minimal color shift as one moves up to 45º off center, another common issue with many LCD panels. 5) Tests for residual images (called image retention) on a plasma display. 6) Confirms display of 100% of the image, assuring no aliasing artifacts with 1080i/1080p content. 7) Assures the signal processing within the display provides full resolution without adding undesirable artifacts.

THX provided the following italicized section:

The items below are a snapshot of some of requirements to achieve THX Display Certification. The test sample provided by the manufacturer must meet or exceed all THX requirements, as listed in the THX specification, when measured in our San Rafael facility. All requirements pertain to the THX picture mode; the manufacturer may choose different settings in other picture modes.

1. Rec. 709 Standard. THX restricts the color gamut to Rec. 709 as all source material is mastered to these limits. The display must measure within ±0.005 of the coordinates listed below for white, red, blue and ±0.010 for green coordinates (Sec. 3.1.5)

Color	Rec. 709 Chromaticity**
-	x	y
White	0.313	0.329
Red	0.640	0.330
Green	0.300	0.600
Blue	0.150	0.060
Cyan	0.225	0.329
Magenta	0.321	0.154
Yellow	0.419	0.505

2. Panel Reflectance. THX requires a panel reflectance of <2% to ensure good contrast in a moderately lit viewing environment, which keeps the image dark the presence of lamps. (Sec. 3.1.12)

3. Uniformity. THX measures the uniformity by comparing eight locations at the edge of the panel to the center. THX mandates that black and white panel uniformity must be >80% in luminance and within ±0.004 in color. (Sec. 3.3)

4. Four-point viewing angle (LCD flat panel). THX compares the color and uniformity at 45º to the on-axis (90º) measurements for a color of ±0.004 and uniformity >75%. (Sec. 3.3.5)

5. Image Retention Recovery (Plasma panel). THX ensures that the image recovery utility within the panel eliminates image retention. A static checkerboard pattern is displayed for two hours. The retained image must recover >98% within ten minutes. (Sec. 3.3.7)

6. Overscan. The native 1920 x 1080 source must be presented pixel-for-pixel with no overscan. This ensures that no scaling artifacts are added to the image. (Sec. 4.2.4)

7. Video Processing. THX uses proprietary patterns to evaluate the following: judder, deinterlacing, bob and weave switching time, contouring; jaggies (smoothing), etc. (Sec. 4.0)

The requirements described and others within the THX Display Specification are incorporated in the THX picture mode. In addition, THX engineers choose the default settings of the manufacturer-specific features (noise reduction, interpolation, contrast enhancement, etc.).

THX Mode

In addition to the performance testing, THX requires implementation of a THX Movie Mode, with performance characteristics determined by THX after the display is completely characterized.

The THX Movie Mode has specific settings for gamma, color point, luminance, overscan, and other settings specific to the certified display. This setting is intended to provide the optimum settings for playback of movie titles, but can be used for viewing other content as well.

What Does THX Do For You?

THX certification assures buyers a high quality high definition display. TV makers can’t pass the rigid specifications by using low quality LCD or plasma panels and/or mediocre signal processors.

Engaging the THX mode assures HDTV purchasers a simple “out of the box” setting that is as accurate as you will find, without any other adjustments or extra cost post setup calibration.

We’ve tested THX Certified modes in various brand sets and confirmed they measure close to industry image setting standards. While it’s possible that an HDTV manufacturer can do their homework and produce a factory setting that provides the best possible picture quality, to date no vendor does. THX certification is available on select LG LED LCDs including the 47LE8500, 55LE8500 and LG plasmas 50PK750, and 60PK750, Panasonic plasmas TC-P42G25, TC-P46G25,TC-P50G25, and TC-P54G25, Epson front projectors, Runco front projectors and JVC front projectors. Here is a link to all the 2010 THX Certified models.

Bottom Line

If you want an accurate HDTV image, choosing a THX Certified display will get you a top quality unit without fuss. THX Certified displays continue to receive some of the highest ratings from the leading magazine and web HDTV reviewers.

Edited By Michael Fremer

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Model Change Time-Should You Purchase a Demo HDTV?

Gary — Mon, 05 Apr 2010 18:18:22 +0000

With major HDTV makers releasing their 2010 models now in a concentrated burst instead of spreading new model roll outs through late fall as they’ve traditionally done, Best Buy and other retailers are discounting dozens of 2009 display sets to make room for the new ones. Should you buy last year’s model at a discount or pay the difference for the new one? To make the right decision you need to consider a number of factors.

Changes

Many below 40” 2010 LCD models are very similar to last year’s, with changes limited to internet connectivity and cosmetics. However, set makers have added more LED-based LCD sets in this range for 2010.

The larger 2010 screens employ many changes compared to last year’s sets, including more features, thinner profiles, better black levels with local dimming (in selected models) and of course 3D capability in the top three or four model series.

New plasma HDTVs offers better black levels and higher energy efficiency in the mid-end series compared to last year’s models. High end 2010 model lines add improved anti-reflective filters, faster phosphors and 3D capability.

Overall prices are lower than they were last year at this time. If you are looking for a higher end model or want 3D (all 40″ and larger), we recommend going for a 2010.

Wear

Though flat panels don’t have any moving parts, one component does wear whenever the TV is on and that is the light source. The TV industry rarely provides lifespan display specifications but when it does, the spec is based upon the length of time it takes the display to reach one-half brightness. What’s never stated though, is if the brightness spec refers to at home (standard) or store (maxed out) output. We presume it’s the home mode spec. The lifespan shortens considerably, the brighter the display is cranked.

The back-light control setting determines LCD and LED (LCD) wear. The contrast control and picture mode settings determine how long it takes a plasma set to reach one-half brightness. Showroom modes like Vivid or Dynamic, referred to as “torch mode” by salespeople, max out brightness in order to attract the attention of inexperienced buyers, much as moths are attracted to a flame.

Unfortunately, because of this and because of bright store lighting generally, most demo sets run at or near their brightest setting, which accelerates wear by a factor of four and of course these sets are on almost constantly.

(We have an article in out archive link that explains how store lighting can skew your buying decision).

LCD

All LCD TVs use a form a fluorescent tubes (called CCFLs) that look and behave like miniature versions of the lamps found in many American kitchen ceiling fixtures. They use phosphors to produce the light, and as they wear the TV image slowly darkens. Some HDTV makers’ tout 60,000 hour lifespans. HD Guru’s been unable to get any LCD TV manufacturers to provide data to substantiate their lamp life claims. However, we’ve seen a set maker’s internal wear study of a major brand LCD TV. It reached half-brightness in just 15,000 hours.

LED (LCD)

LEDs do not use phosphors to produce white light, and reportedly do not dim like CCFL-based LCDs, or like plasma displays. No TV maker provides a lifespan claim, though LED TV bulb makers rate the time to failure spec range from 30,000 to 100,000 hours. Instead of fading out, when an LED light reaches the end of its lifespan it simply goes out. Just one dead LED lamp will produce an annoying dark area that may result in the TV becoming unwatchable.

Plasma

Plasma HDTVs, like CRTs, use phosphors to create the red, blue and green light. They are rated to reach half brightness after up to 100,000 hours, depending upon manufacturer. However, we presume this is in home mode and not store “torch” mode, which can be two to three times brighter and therefore reduce phosphor lifespan to one-third of the rated 100,000 hours.

In addition, uneven phosphor wear is likely if the retailer kept the plasma on a single broadcast channel that employs a corner screen logo or used a letter-boxed movie with black bars on the top and bottom 100% of the time, especially if the set was in “store mode” throughout, which is also likely. Check by lighting up the entire screen using the remote control’s aspect ratio control in “zoom” mode to stretch the image. This type of severe uneven wear is not repairable, so if you see it, don’t buy the set.

In the home use mode, plasma HDTVs are practically immune to uneven phosphor wear.

What You Need To Learn About Demo HDTVs Before Buying One

Many retailers (including Best Buy) demo larger flat screen sets on the wall, which makes retailing sense. What doesn’t make sense is Best Buy’s wasteful policy of discarding cartons, packing materials, owner’s manuals, cables, accessories and, incredibly, sometimes even the remote controls and table stands!

You’ll need to buy a replacement table stand if you’re not wall mounting your set and most people don’t. Replacing the original stand, assuming it’s even available from the TV manufacturer is usually expensive. Generic aftermarket stands cost around $200 but don’t match the original cosmetics.

To assure full remote control functionality you will need the one that came with the set. If the original’s been tossed expect to pay around $40 for a replacement.

You should have the owner’s manual in order to learn how to operate the set and use all of the features and controls. Most get tossed. Fortunately, many can be downloaded for free from the set maker’s site.

Age Matters

As already stated, the useful lifespan of an LCD TV could be as low as 15,000 hours in showroom mode. Retailers power on demo TVs before the store opens and shut them off after the store closes. You should figure on around 90 hours per week use. However, if the TV was on display during the Christmas holidays, stores generally open for extended hours so estimate 100 hours a week total demo usage.

To check the age of the TV, ask the salesman to let you examine the back where you’ll find the date of manufacture. Assume the set was put on demo within a few weeks of that date. To calculate the usage, take the number of months from that date to the current date and multiply by 4.3 (the number of weeks in a month) and multiply that by 100 hours. So, for example, a 10 month old LCD will have about 4300 hours on it or less than 72% of its remaining brightness lifespan.

Screen Defects

We have seen demo sets with scratches, small chips, cracks or scuffs on the screen’s coating. This type of damage is not repairable under warranty and requires replacing the entire panel at a cost equal to the price of a new unit. Examine carefully the set you’re considering. Don’t buy it even if you discover just a tiny screen blemish because you’ll find over time that the small scratch will become a big viewing annoyance.

What Is the Right Price?

Best Buy initially offers 15% off for a demo set The discount increases the longer the demo remains unsold. Add the purchase of a table stand and the demo model may cost you more than the new unit does. If you don’t need the stand, are you willing to pay 85% for a TV that may have less than 75% of its useful life remaining? The HD Guru advises “no deal”.

HD Guru recommends purchasing a new factory sealed closeout model if it’s at a substantial discount or go for a 2010 model. A demo unit should only be considered if you do not need to purchase replacement accessories and are offered a 40% discount (offer to pay less to the Best Buy store manager, who has demo price discretion) and even then only buy after you’ve checked the TV’s age and verified there’s no screen burn-in, scratches, chips, scuffs or bulb burnout.

A Best Buy salesman told us you can return a demo set for up to thirty days. You must check each store’s policies as demo units are often sold “as is” with only the manufacturer’s warranty. Set maker’s factory warranties do not cover wear and tear or physical damage.

Edited by Michael Fremer

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