Samsung DLP TV

Nice TV. I'm sure L is happy to have that huge honking armoir space finally filled!

Hi,
I am thinking of purchasing this TV. What have been your observations since you got it. Whats the final verdict?

Thanks!

Tony,
I...er...we like it a lot. After about 350 hours on the lamp so far, it's been everything I'd hoped it would be. Given my specific requirements/preferences, I'm still convinced this is the best choice for us. Sports and other good-quality HD feeds (e.g., the US Open Tennis on USA and Discovery HD Theater) look just phenomenal...folks who see it usually just sit there staring for a good 30 seconds before they even say anything. ;-)

Sammy had done it. The 43 inch set is everything I hoped it would be. I've been reading and studying what to do what to do. Plasma, LCD, tubes.. Given the optics, no burn in effects and the fact we'll be in 4:3 for some time this set rocks. ITs also light and portable (43'?) eh I mean you can move it around quite easily without having to worry about convergence alignment issues.

Cant wait to get the HDTV portion hooked up this evening to see how much better that is than the DVD signals and clarity.

The contrast is great the black is black almost rivals the CRT in my opinion.

The remote control, well its so so.. not as programmable as I'd like it, but I bought a TV not the Remote. Consider getting a programmable remote if this is a hang up.

Overall great picture, contrast and brightness. Quiet running, no scann lines, no eye fatigue and great side to side viewability if you happen to not get front and center seating for the big game. Not a bad seat in the house, unless your friends find out you have this puppy in your recroom. Then its likely to be standing room only!

How do you justify the $500 lamp replacment every couple of years? Seems like high maintenance.

How do you justify the $500 lamp replacment every couple of years? Seems like high maintenance.

Actually, the lamp costs around $250. Based on our viewing patterns, with an average lamp life of 8000 hours, each lamp should last us about 5-6 years. IMO, that's an acceptable maintenance expense.

Im sure the lamp prices should come down in a couple of years. It may cost u $250 today, and I wont be surprised if its around 40-50 or so 3 years down the line. So I guess we're alright.

Craig,

I just got the 50" Samsung DLP. While the HD channels are amazing, I am not happy with the other Analog and Digital cable channels. My provider is COMCAST. They hooked me up with a Motorola converter and attached it via the Component2 jacks on the TV. Would the DVI cable help any on Analog channels? Anything else you can recommend, because the majority of our viewing is still analog. Comcast only provides NBC, ESPN and INHD as HD options at this point.

Kurt,
The DVI cable might help a bit, but don't expect miracles. These HDTV's suffer from serious GIGO -- Garbage In, Garbage Out. If Comcast has low-quality SDTV/analog signals, there's not much you can do about it except wait for HD content to become the rule rather than the exception (it *is* happening). As a comparison, Time-Warner Cable offers now around 11 HD channels, so Comcast definitely seems to be behind the curve. You may want to consider another service provider...just a thought.

Craig,

I'm driving myself crazy trying to make the decision between a Samsung 50" DLP TV and a Sony Grand Wega 50" LCD TV. What are your thoughts? Both look incredible to me. Each technology sounds state of the art - which is the better choice?

Frank

Dunno, Frank, I didn't look at any LCD-based rear-projection TV's. If I were you, I'd read up on both sets over at www.avsforum.com (in the RPTV forum) -- those folks have a lot to say on just about everything. ;-)

I just bought my 50" DLP and it was a hard choice between the sony grand and the DLP. It was no contest about the plasma cause once the plasma wears out and the pic gets dim then thats it. IMO it is a high priced disposable TV. I have an Xbox, the new samsung dvd w/dvi, computer, and HD box hooked up. The Dvi dosen't help the analog but is good for HD. I just went with the THX cables for the box and DVI for the dvd and I can say it is the most beautiful pic I have ever seen. On the Sony I have heard, from a friend at Best Buy, they get a lot of service calls for it and not many of the HLN series DLP's. You might just have to ask around but I went with the samsung because of the maintenance costs. In Closing:

Plasma no maintenance disposable...Sony High maintenance no mater what...DLP high maintenance but will come down.

I have a question on Samsungs DLP models. Can anyone tell me why they have so many 50" models and what are the differences? Such as: HLM507W, HLN507W, HLN5065W.

Is the RCA Scenium 50" DLP any good in comparison to Samsung 50" or 46"?

And is the HLN467W a better DLP at 46" for distance of 9 feet than a 50"?
Thanks,
RC

The HLM series are old -- 2002 models, IIRC. Do not buy one of these, no matter how good a deal it is (well, if it's $5, then sure, go ahead :-).

The HLN507 and the HLN5065 are basically the same TV with two differences: the bezel on the 507 is charcoal while the bezel on the 5065 is silver (like the base), and the 507 says it has the Faroudja chip while the 5065 does not say it has it (but it does). The 5065 is targeted at lower-cost retailers like Best Buy and Fry's while the 507 is targeted at Circuit City and Magnolia -- this way, each can carry a "unique" model number so they don't have to price match (yet CC will price match its 507's against 5065's anyway).

I don't know about the RCA...haven't seen one.

The HLN467W is a really nice TV -- we have the 437 and we watch it from 15 feet with extreme satisfaction, so I imagine that 9' from a 467 would be more than adequate.

So what is the difference between the 2002 Samsung 50" and the 2003 models? What is IIRC? We found the HLM 2002 model for $2799 at BestBuy.

HLM's don't have the latest version of the firmware, which can make a big difference in terms of picture quality. IIRC = If I Recall Correctly. Buy an HLN.

Why are so many sites not listing the 56" DLP? I've seen it in the high-end stores, but rarely on any Internet search, which seem to jump from the 50" to the 61" without a mention of the 56". Is there a problem with this particular size?

The 56", like the 46", is a Tantus product, which is Samsung's higher-end line of products. I believe Samsung is pickier about who they'll let sell Tantus devices, since those are its flagship products.

Craig,
Happened upon your site, Is hln considered a rptv? Also,would standard viewing from satalite be so-so, without subscribing to HDTV? [I have standard cable which is yuk.] Can only afford dlp for now. Is there a 46" with silver bezel? The picture is quite incredible. One more thing, What is your uptake on "LCOS" vs. DPL? I'd be interested in your pros vs. cons.
Thanks! Christine

Afterthought:
Would a 46" hln [ thanks for the heads up about the hlM being older] have a better picture than a 50" like the older tv's? How do you know the smaller has "Fardouja" chip and what exactly is that, and how important is it? I saw a lcd [hitachi] next to the hln and they were both gritty [screen door thing] until I adjusted the "fine" contrast on the hln- perfect! LCOS is supposed to be as good. Have you seen one? Christine

Christine,
If you're wanting to learn more about the Samsung DLP sets, including the Faroudja function, I strongly suggest you go to AVS Forum and get the Samsung DLP FAQ there:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=256065

It has so much good info that I could never begin to replicate it here.

I don't know that much about LCOS, so I can't give a good comparison. However, that debate is well-discussed (again) at AVS Forum -- search for "DLP and LCOS" and you should find some good info.

AFAIK, the 46" Samsung is available only with a black bezel (black is less distracting around the edge of the picture anyway). And yes, the Samsung HLN-series DLP are rear-projection TV's (RPTV).

HTH.

I'm just starting to shop big screens/new tv's. The 20+ yr old zenith is just about done. Saw the Samsung 50" DLP at sears - pretty sweet, $3999.00 (ouch). Looked on the internet, saw RCA makes one (DLP)as well, about $800 cheaper than the Samsung. The RCA also has firewire contects for easy hookup. Has anyone seen the RCA DPL set? No one in our small town has one. Also, does the Samsung have firewire type hookups?

Don

How can i get rid of or diminish the greenish tinge/hue on my HLN 5065W dlp set, it' begining to annoy me, aside from this problem, it's a great set. Thanks; Perry

Don, just bought a Samsung 567. Absolutely satisfied. No firewire but has the new Digital Video Interface (DVI) interface for set top box or PC.

Hey my parents just bought a 61 inch... I love it.... but does running an xbox or any game system hurt/effect it anyway?

Chris, if it's a 61" DLP, then no, there are no adverse effects of any kind (to the TV at least) from running a gaming system on it. While plasma and CRT and LCD all can have burn-in damage from running static images (even small areas, like scoreboxes), DLP is completely free from that risk.

My Samsung 43 inch DLP tv really sucks. Since the day I bought it from Best Buy six months ago, the picture and sound have been out of synch. I bought the service contract from Best Buy and guess what? They won't stand behind the set. Their service tech called Samsung and Samsung admitted there is a problem with a large portion of the DLP tv's. They said their engineers are working on identifying a fix for the problem but don't have one yet. Best Buy won't exchange the tv because they claim Samsung should be responsible. Samsung says they can't do anything for me because they don't have a fix. Now get a load of this, the Best Buy "Customer Care" department has advised me to wait until the Samsung warranty expires (in another six months) and at that time I should agian approach Best Buy for a tv replacement since Samsung will no longer be primarily liable for repairing me DLP tv. This really sucks. It means that for another six months I have to watch people's lips move at a different time than when I hear their voice. Believe me, this was the worst $3,500 I ever spent on anything. I wish the best for anyone acquiring one of these Samsung DLP units.

Interesting, Mark. Of the hundreds of Samsung DLP owners over at the rear-projection forum at http://www.avsforum.com, you're the first to state this particular issue. I'm not even sure how it would happen beyond a source problem (e.g., weird cable signal sync issue). Too bad you're getting the run-around from Best Buy. Of course, given that this problem sounds like it was present from day one, it makes me wonder why you didn't return it to the store within a couple days of getting it home (within BB's 14-day or 30-day return period).

I viewed the Samsung and RCA DLPs at Fry's and the main difference was the glare from RCA. The screen is like a mirror while the Samsung has no glare at all. Also, RCA is first generation DLP while Samsung is been making them for three years.

Does Tantus (found in the 46" and 56" Samsung DLP sets) make a noticeable difference in the picture quality?

I have been agonizing over wether to get the 46" at Tweeters or the 50" at Best Buy or Circuit City.

No, the Tantus line is mostly aesthetic and external housing changes. You *do* get discrete codes for all inputs with the Tantus line sets, which is not true on some of the HLN and all of the HLM sets (depends on firmware version).

Basically it comes down to one thing: do you like the look or the size of the 46" set more than the 50" enough to sacrifice 4" of screen size? If so, get the Tantus.

I purchased a 61" Samsung DLP TV from Circuit City, August 2003. I had a variety of problems most of which were related to Comcast's inability to properly hook up the HDTV service to cable.
One of the problems was a very dark picture. Circuit City replaced the TV but I continue to experience a very dark picture. Sporting events in high definition are fantastic but other programs seem very dark.
Since I've had the same problem with both TVs could it be a problem with the Samsung 61" DLP TVs?
I'm wondering if others have had the same problem.

Tom,
There are a variety of ways that picture quality can be improved. One way is to go into the service menu and make low-level changes to the settings there. For a complete rundown on preferred setting parameters, check out the Rear-Projection forum at http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/forumdisplay.php?s=&forumid=63 -- lots of great info there for tweaking your Samsung DLP.

My HLN4365W is an awesome tv with a great picture. I am wondering if anyone else with a DLP TV has complained about how loud the fan is? It seems to be a little loud and bothersome when the volume is low on the tv or when there is a quiet scene in a movie. My only other complaint is that when you use the mute feature, the word "mute" stays on the screen until you bring the volume back up - it doesn't disappear after a few seconds like most other tv's.

RIX, Craig, and Jeff
The HLM Tantus sets are not bad tv's at all. I bought mine very cheap on the internet and calibrated it from the AVS forum website and now the PQ looks awesome! I think it looks as good as the HLN series. My friend with an HLN also agrees.If you want to save a few hundred dollars to a grand and are daring enough to go into the service menu and apply the tweaks the HLM Tantus series can be a great set. It's pretty easy to do the tweaks.

FYI,
I bought a Sony 50" Grand WEGA before the holidays and Best Buy had it back within 24 hrs due to a Very Poor Picture quality. I'm now researching the Samsung 43" DLP. FYI people, I just spent 3 1/2 hours at Best Buy compairing signal inputs. I asked them to put in a signal that you would recieve at home, IE. NON_HD cable/SAT and then saw the difference in picture quality between the everyday signal that you would watch, a DVD and the HDTV signal loop that they play in the store. Oh, lets not forget the format, the panarama picture wasn't bad, but did still show some stretching on either side about 5 inches. This mode seemed to be the best in picture quality for everyday viewing from your everyday input, at least the was the poll taken from 3 of us trying to decide what look good. I'm not keen on the HI $ light bulb replacement, I've also been advised to get a high end surge protector from electrical spikes or better yet, get a battery back up surge protector so the fan can still work to allow for proper cooling of the light bulb. For what is availible now, I want to believe that DLP is the best choice for the money. I'm still researching, but I hope to decide by go time on game day.
Jack

Jack,
Comparing things in the store is a good idea, but I would hesitate to recommend that you base your decision just on that. YOUR cable or satellite box, YOUR lighting and seating arrangement, and YOUR sound system will all make a marked difference in what you experience. Plus, the stores usually have these sets configured very poorly in terms of saturation, color tonality, contrast, etc. So, while you might get some good ideas about how two sets compare side-by-side with the same inputs, you may want to have a DLP delivered and watch it for a week to see how it works in YOUR home -- that's really the best test.

I bought the Rca Scenium HDLP50W151 for xmas
sight unseen. A tech had said the dlp technology
was really out of this world. My first impression
was it was an awesome wide screen but since I have
experienced a constant horizontal flickering that
is quite annoying I have spoken to the retailer
they are saying a set up needs to be done, the problem persists on Sat/inputs and on DVD as well.
Is there a quick fix?

I recently purchased a Samsung HLN467W and have experienced the audio/video sync problem mentioned in one of the earlier posts. I contacted Samsung and they told me a fix would be available in late Feb sometime. The only other complaint I have is the fan noise which is annoying at low volume levels. The store I purchased the set from replaced it with a new one but Im still experiencing the same problems with the new one. I think I will return the set and repurchase one in 2-3 months when the things I mentioned have been taken care of. The picture on this set is phenomenal.

Samsung, Sony, or RCA?
I'm interested in purchasing a 50" HDTV DLP. I keep hearing so many pluses and minuses about each and every manufacturer out there. Since these TV's are so expensive, I'm most likely going to have it for A VERY LONG TIME. Can anyone suggest the best set for picture quality,etc? Thanks.

I bought the 61" RCA from BB. it is fantastic..

You should definately save yourself close to a grand and buy the RCA over the Samsung.

I hope someone can help me. I just purchased a Sony KP-51WS510 RPTV and the new Samsung HD-931 DVD Player. I am happy with the Sony's color, but sometimes I notice pixellation when watching DVD movies, especially during dimly-lit scenes. It is so annoying I find myself paying more attention to a picture's imperfections than to the movie itself.. driving me nuts! I have a week to decide if I should exchange the TV for the Samsung HLN DLP.

Since I seem to be rather particular about video quality, are there any issues like this with the DLP that I should be aware of? If not, I'd run out today and purchase the Samsung.

Thanks, any help is appreciated.

You never answered about the problem of a greenish hue on the Sansung HLN4365W is there a fix or is Samsung working on the problem. It seems a shame that we spent more than we spent on on this TV set than our first automobile and Samsung keeps selling sets with the same problem. I am about ready to send my 4365 back as I cannot get used to all this green unless I can fold it and put it in my pocket.

Well, to fix color problems, I'd first suggest that you try messing with the color settings in the user menu. If that doesn't work, you can try making lower-level changes to the color settings in the service menu (www.avsforum.com has lots of information on tweaking Samsung's DLP sets). If that doesn't work, or you don't feel like fiddling with the service menu, hire a professional calibrator to come to your house and calibrate your set. That service runs about $200 and I'm told that nearly everyone who has it done is amazed -- they didn't think their set could look as good as it does after the calibration. Again, www.avsforum.com has lots of information on calibration services. HTH.

I bought the 50" Samsung DLP last July. I also noticed the sync issue between people's lips and their corresponding movement on the screen. However it seems to me that it doesn't happen all the time. Go figure. So if there's a fix for this in the works, how does one go about getting it?

On to the more serious issue. Yesterday I went home to turn on the glorious picture to watch the State of the Union address, and after the obligatory warmup, I got 9 vertical white bars across the screen. Then I got some screen fill in between the bars, but the picture is completely unwatchable.

I got hold of the local Samsung repair guys, and they're going to fix it, but has anyone else experienced this, and is this something I need to bring up with Samsung? I love the TV, but I paid big bucks for this, and I think I should get something that will work over the long haul. Bulbs are one thing. This is quite another.

I'm looking at a new TV (I currently have an 11 yo Mitsubishi 27") and the guy at Tweeter said if I was going to use regular cable then a RPTV will look just as good as a DLP TV. I was looking at a Mitsubishi series 6 or 7 vs. a Samsung HLN437W. About $1,000 difference. Is the Tweeter guy correct? This will probably be my main TV for 5-10 years. I mainly watch just TV shows and occasionally a video. Thanks!

Trip, well, the guy at Tweeter either was kinda confused or you mis-remembered what he said. DLP TV's *are* rear-projection TVs (RPTV). RPTVs include a wide variety of image production mechanisms, including CRT (oldest), LCD, DLP, LCOS, and probably some others I'm not remembering at the moment. The cheaper RPTVs generally have far inferior picture quality compared to the newest technologies, which is why the newer ones cost more.

IMO, and this is just my opinion, there can still be a big difference between regular cable on a crappy RPTV and regular cable on a good (HD) RPTV. It depends on both the quality of the source material (your cable signal and how much they compress it) and the TV itself. If you're hoping to keep a TV for 5-10 years, they you'd best be waiting about 8-12 months for the newest crop of TVs to come out -- they will have built-in tuners and/or card-slots to ensure they're compatible with future cable technology. That's what I'd do, at least, if you can wait.

Thanks Craig. But in 8-12 months won't there be a "newer" technology? Will it ever stop or do you just jump in and buy when you need to? What would I be waiting on? I can wait since my 27" Mit. is still working but it's started to act funny. I've had it fixed once about 3-4 years ago and will probably throw it away if it goes bad.

I was looking at a Mitsubishi HDTV 48" RPTV for about $2,000. I was thinking that for another $1,000+ I could get a DLP TV. I've been reading of some horror stories and not sure if the technology is really there yet and if it's an overkill if I'll only be using Charter Comm. cable. The Tweeter guy said to get Direct TV Digital for best picture.

Thanks Craig. But in 8-12 months won't there be a "newer" technology? Will it ever stop or do you just jump in and buy when you need to? What would I be waiting on? I can wait since my 27" Mit. is still working but it's started to act funny. I've had it fixed once about 3-4 years ago and will probably throw it away if it goes bad.

I was looking at a Mitsubishi HDTV 48" RPTV for about $2,000. I was thinking that for another $1,000+ I could get a DLP TV. I've been reading of some horror stories and not sure if the technology is really there yet and if it's an overkill if I'll only be using Charter Comm. cable. The Tweeter guy said to get Direct TV Digital for best picture.

Trip, "When to Buy" is the worst question to ask, since there's never the perfect time to buy -- you just decide when you gotta have it and plunk down the cash.

As far as display technology in the next 8-12 months, I don't think much will change. Prices will come down for LCD and plasma displays and DLP might drop a bit, but nothing radical is on its way. The reason I'd wait isn't because of display technology, but because the way the TV interacts with cable and other systems is changing -- it's an interface issue. Plus, it'll be easier to find HDMI connections on sets as a standard plug.

DirecTV makes a lot of my friends happy AND you can get a HDTiVo in a few months with their service (yummy!). If satellite were permitted at our house (zero WAF), I'd really consider dumping cable.

I am at the stage of getting up to speed on HDTV and had a couple of questions. I saw one of the Samsung DLP sets at BB and was very impressed with the picture quality so started looking into the DLP technology a bit. It seems the current chips have a 720p native resolution. From the reading I've done so far it appears that there is some debate as to whether 720p is better than 1080i. Not having seen a 1080i monitor I don't know the answer there but it does appear that a lot of the OTA HD programming is in 1080i format. So I wondered if there is an inherent reason why there are no 1080i DLP sets? As I understand it, all HD sets scale non-native input formats to their native format. I've been wondering if this scaling might not have the potential to be a source of image distortions or artifacts since, I presume, the calculations would have to be done on the fly. In practice is this not a problem? If 720p is good might 1080p be better and is that likely to be a standard we'll see in the future or would that require too much bandwidth to be economical?

I am looking at the Samsung 61" DLP for a room with a lot of side viewing. Can anyone tell me the "optimal" viewing distance for a tv that big? Thanks

Google is your friend. Searching for "TV viewing distance" turned up a few good resources:

http://www.cnet.com/4520-7874_1-5108580-2.html has a handy chart for both 4:3 and 16:9 sets. They recommend 7.5 to 15 feet as an acceptable viewing distance range.

http://www.myhometheater.homestead.com/viewingdistancecalculator.html has an interesting calculator utility.

In the end, everyone is different. Go to a store that has the 61" DLP and see what you feel comfortable with. Make sure to sit with your eyes at least as high as the bottom of the set and no higher than a few inches above -- outside of that and you might start to notice slight brightness drop-off. I haven't personally noticed much difference between front-on and side-angled viewing other than you start noticing the non-square (trapezoidal) nature of the image at drastic angles.

I have the samsung 61 hln TV. My bulb burned out less then 3 months. I bought it at "The Great Indoors" and because they have a 90 return policy should I have them replace the bulb or return the unit and get another one?

I too am experiencing the audio sync problems with my HLN4365W . . . not all the time, but from time to time, especially with analog signals. Someone had mentioned there was a fix in late February . . . I too would be interested in finding out how this works.

Any insight would be appreciated! Other than that, I love this set and would recommend it to anyone. Getting ready to watch the superbowl Sunday and can't wait to see the HD feed.

Craig or anybody else.Where should I buy my dlp and should I stay away fron this places named Konn"s it's based near Houston but there are a few in Dalls.Also thanks on the hln and hlm diferences that really help.

Jeremy,
I'd buy it locally, such as at Circuit City or Magnolia or Tweeters, just so you can get local service and/or return it easily should (gasp) it not work out for you. Don't know about Konn's.

I have an RCA Scenium DLP and notice a strange problem with the TV turns on by itself after a power off (several times I came home and the TV was on). Finally, I did a test of unpluging the power cord and pluged it back in, the front panel light came on for 15 seconds just like the manual said and then the the turned it self on. Can an RCA Scenium DLP owner do this test and report the result? Another thing is the wireless keyboard for this TV is not available anywhere including RCA and Thompson.

Thanks,

Ngoc

I am looking at purchasing a 50" Samsung or RCA DLP. Why would there be any difference between the quality of the two if the chip for both are made by Texas Instruments? Does anyone have any experience with RCA units having any problems? Thanks.

Go over to http://www.avsforum.com and go to the Rear Projection Forum, you'll find all sorts of opinions there.

For my $0.02, I'd vote on the Samsung. They've got about 3 generations of DLP sets in the marketplace where RCA is pretty new to the DLP game.

If you have the patience, I may also recommend waiting until fall. Samsung will be bringing HD2+ and perhaps xHD3 light engines into the marketplace which will provide for better contrast ratios and better definitions in shadowy/dark scenes. They also will have 7 segment color wheels which supposedly reduce the "rainbow effect" seen by some DLP watchers.

In general, I'm not a big fan of the waiting game, but in this case, 6 months could save you hundreds on a current generation set, or bring a significant improvement in the next generation.

This TV rocks!! My wife and I had considered a plasma due to brightness and (lack of) a 'sweet spot' that most projection TVs offer. I don't know why you would want to watch a wide screen at 160 degrees out - but you could with this one. HD broadcasts are intense - and the few bucks you'll spend on maintainence are well worth it if you consider the frequency of bulb replacement vs. the quality and CRT alignment issues. Couple that with an HK Theater package and you're all good! We setup for a 50" and because it was found to be out of stock (after 3 hours of red tape) - the salesman at Circuit City gave us the 61" for the same price... we're stoked! Get one!!

I Bought a Dlp 43" Samsung tv from sears .used it for three days it blew projection blub.returned it for replacement .after using replacement for about a week noticed that audio+video were off.The voices did not match picture .returned it to sears for refund.think I'll wait till samsung gets the BUGS out. Jack

I just noticed a couple of posts on the audio/video sync problem on the Samsung DLP. Guess what. I got my 50" DLP from CC 3 months ago and I noticed the same problem too with some of my music DVDs. I didnt know at first if it was a problem with my DVD player till I noticed that this was happening with the TV broadcasts as well. Its pretty noticable esp in music videos and its annoying. Im glad Im not the only one here to notice this problem. I havent contacted anyone regarding this, but if Samsung claims that this is a problem, hope they find a fix soon.

I got a samsung 43 inch dlp HLN4365W, and hook it up with samsung directv HD tuner with a dvi cable.
however once in a while the dvi input on my tv wont show up anything, and if i switch the cable to component, it seems working so i supposed this is not the box issue,
if you let it be for an hour or so, the dvi will turn on again.
Anyone know what's is wrong?

Samsung DLP TV - HLN437W
At last after a long search on the Samsung and other sites on DLP TV issues I found your site is much more valuable to get the feedback and share the information.
Just yesterday I got my new Samsung HLN437W delivered from Circuit City.
It's an excellent TV overall, eventhough I don't have a digital or HD feeds (will be getting soon) the picture quality is amazing on some local channels. But I noticed the synchronization problem between the audio and video. Also the fan noise is more than normal, disturbing on low volume.
I read in this forum, many users reported such issues with HLN467W.
I don't know what to do, return the TV back to Circuit City ?
Is anyone had this problem resolved ?

Thanks,
Moorthi

Moorthi,
If you see the audio/video sync problem consistently after shutting down the TV and/or changing sources/inputs several times, call the service tech support line.

The fan noise is more likely the "color wheel" spinning, as these TV's run cool enough that the fan shouldn't be loud enough for you to hear it unless the bearings are going bad.
- Craig

We really love what we hear about DLP but were told by the Best Buy guy that the screen is VERY DELICATE and we have a 1 year old. Is the screen really that bad? If, let's say, he touches the screen with his fingers or (gasp) he throws one of those nerf balls at the screen? Any other "family folks" out there with suggestions?

Thanks!
Issy

The screen isn't that delicate, but I wouldn't want Jr. jam-handing it on a regular basis. It's not nearly as robust as the glass front on a CRT, but it doesn't seem to be particularly flimsier than other RPTVs.

The nice thing about this is that if you damage the front screen, the important parts of the TV are still safe, since the screen is really just a special piece of plastic (no moving parts and no electronics).

Just wanted to make a general comment for people looking to buy a RPTV. FOr the same cost,you might want to consider a DLP or LCD front projector plus screen. WIll give you an image size 2x that of a RPTV for the same cost.
Check out http://www.projectorcentral.com for lots of information on this option

Would like to know what the changes are in/from Firmware 214 and 309? Will the same remote operate both systems , is the owners manual any different?
Thank You
JMY

This is a great site, found it by accident while surfing for info on the Samsung HLN 50" TV. I am also in the market for my next generation TV and have been scoping out this Samsung at BB for the last couple of weeks. After reading opinions and remarks especially about the out of sync voice/video problems I am wondering if I should wait a month or two before buying? I'm not sure if a salesperson at BB would give me up to date info or even know what the latest is with this problem. Anyone in the same position, if so what are you going to do.

Thanks,
Glenn

Glenn, I would suggest that if it's what you want, get it. The A/V sync issue happens to a small number of owners (and they all seem to find this thread :-). Samsung has really good warranty service in case something bad goes wrong, so you're safe either way. I've been 100% satisfied with my TV -- wouldn't trade it for anything else.

When are the new xHD3 DLP's due out?

I have had a run through on all these projection sets. I tried the 43" DLP from Best Buy and noticed the A/V sync problem. Then tried the 43" DLP from Tweeter and had the same A/V sync problem and a distortion of color that came from a bad connection, The sales person said "never herd anything about a A/V sync problem from anyone" Im sure he will say that to everyone he meets. So I switched to the Sony 42" LCD with the NEW bulb at Tweeter the color was all grayish and the black enhancement made things too black and covered up detail, also and sound quality did not make my wife happy. So I got the Hitachi LCD 50v500 and this TV has the best user controls of any of the sets I tried, but the picture looked too soft and I could see streaks down the front of the screen in lighter colored pictures. I really liked the Samsung DLP’s too as for as color and style, and when the sync problem is taken care of and if they would add the user controls that the Hitachi has the TV would be worth another chance for me. Maybe when the 3rd gen chip is out I will check it out to see if it ready to keep in the house. Keep in mind that every purchase I made was for a TV to put in my home to keep and the problems I encountered were the reason I returned the sets.

This is a great site. I got my HLN467W 2 weeks ago and think it is great. However, I have noticed the sync issue and am glad I came across this site. For a while there I thought it was just my eyes adjusting to a new TV but apparently not. Any news on when this issue will be fixed or has it and I need to call samsung?

Do not mean to go backwards to much - i have a Hitachi 50" ultravisoin around 6 - 7 years old - the color blue is out of sync and the "magicfocus" sync is not working it's magic any longer. Is there an inexpensive fix?

Thanks,

I just bought and installed the 46" Samsung DLP. I have noticed a sync issue between the sound and people's lips / movement on the screen. Is there a solution to my problem?

I'd call Samsung Tech Support -- supposedly there is a newer firmware that addresses this problem for those who see it.

I just bought a Samsung 46" DLP from Ultimate Electronics. I think the screen is awesome and it also fits like a glove in an "expensive" entertainment furniture piece of which I want to continue to use. I haven't noticed an A/V Sinc or color problem. But, after having it 4 days, when turning it on, it made a horrible grinding sound, flashed multi-lines and a distorted picture and colors on the screen along with a message that read: Check the fan no. 2.

I will be receiving a new one soon from Ultimate Electronics, but am now a little concerned after reading some of the postings here.... Sounds like it is somewhat of a hit and miss situation as to whether one ends up with a particular Samsung unit that operates as it should.

When is Samsun coming out with the 2004 models and the new DLP hd2+

I have spent way too many hour researching DLPs and have decided two things. First, DLP is the sexiest technology to come along in many years. The picture quality is stunning. Secondly, I will wait until later this year to decide which DLP to buy. Here is why. The RCA's give you a bunch for your money (firewire, built in tuners-2,etc.)but here is the current deal breaker. Though they are native 720 - they cannot recieve digital 720p signal. Really sucks. As near as I can glean from 100s of hours of research the RCA converts everything into 1080i and then back to 720p. It makes no sense but I finally got an RCA sales engineer to fess-up that they would be upgrading soon adding that "feature" - that being the ability to accept 720p -duh. The Samsung has a recognized audio/video sync problem - they have issued statements that this problem will be fixed in the HLP series to be released later this year - I assume this fall. So I have remodeled my den, I am going to install the theater seating, curtains, popcorn machine, surround sound, etc., and stick my stinking 32" cyclops in there until I am satisfied that one of these two finally got their stuff together. Of course ViewSonic is jumping in to the game too and should have something out about the same time. It will be their first, but they are a very high quality outfit, so I might put one in my home at least throught the 30 day return period to give it ride around the track.
As for the guy who asked about 1080P - you are correct 1080P would beabout 40% better resolution than 720P but the band width issue and needed commpression(about 96:1 to comply with current FCC bandwidth standards)is a long way off, unless the FCC makes some changes. I will tell you that current 1080i is no match for 720p. Many people assume that because 1080 is bigger than 720 in must be better. Not so. 1080i - interlacing gives you 540 lines of resolution every 1/60 second. 720p gives you 720 lines every 1/60 second. You will here many arguments on this subject, but the people who know (see PixarFilms) are voting 720p, the European TV broadcasters that have recently invested billions in old interlaced technology are lobbying hard for 1080i. Unfortunately out congress people are not very savy - so that bigger number - 1080i could go a lot farther than it should.
Kevin

I purchased a Samsung HLN 50" DLP Tantus from Sound Advice 11 months ago. No problems until a week ago. A white dot(pixel size) has appeared in the center top of the screen. It appears no matter what feed or input is used. Does this mean the bulb needs replacing or is this more serious ?

Tom, it sounds like you have a stuck pixel -- it doesn't move, so it is constantly "on". If that's the case, the light engine will need to be replaced. That's not a tough thing to do for a repairman, but you'll want it taken care of as a warranty repair (quick!). Call Samsung ASAP.

Hi Craig

Really admire what you have done with this site. Serious. Its almost like you have an unofficial tech support site here. Well not exactly :) but you have built a sort of a community. Awesome. Question. About the AV sync problem on my Sammy, should I call Circuit City tech or Sammy directly. I did get an extended service plan from CC but I dont know if they would know anything about it. Has anyone in this forum called Sammy about this and gotten it fixed? thanks
Pronob

Pron, I'd call Samsung if you've owned the set less than a year. I think, and I could be wrong, that CC's extended warranty only kicks in when Samsung's own warranty runs out. If you're really concerned, call both and ask them who is responsible -- that should be fun.

Pron (and all others with samsung audio video sync issues), call samsung if you are still within your 1 year warranty. I have the same problem and that's what I did. They will address the issue with you.

Craig, everyone is right... Great site!

Hi everybody. I like this web site too. I purchased (or paid for) 50 inch DLP samsung from good guys last week. They did not have the TV on their warehouse and told me that I needed to wait until first week of march. Before purchasing the TV, I also looked at all of the internet sites and found that samsung DLP tvs were backlogged everywhere. Does this mean Samsung is trying to find a fix for this A/V sync issue?

Hi everybody. I like this web site too. I purchased (or paid for) 50 inch DLP samsung from good guys last week. They did not have the TV on their warehouse and told me that I needed to wait until first week of march. Before purchasing the TV, I also looked at all of the internet sites and found that samsung DLP TVs were backlogged everywhere. Does this mean Samsung is trying to find a fix for this A/V sync issue?

I purchased a 51" Samsung DLP in Aug03. Shortly after purchased HD931 Samsung DVD and connected with DVI. At 1080i setting from DVD I noticed for the first time the sync issue....dropping down to 720 or 480 seemed to lessen the effect yet the sound was still out of sync. Now I notice it with sat feed also. Samsung has recognised this issue after a number of calls to a very helpful tech support center. Initially service came out and upgraded from 214 to 309 hardware - still the same problem though. Next thing Samsung said was that a chassis replacement was thier fix. Something about a diproportionate quantity of steel to copper in the current chassis causing audio issues. Whatever the case they have decided not to replace the chassis but will ship a replacement set early April. I recomment calling Samsung to get in line for replacement.
The other issue I have is with the picture itself. Using DVD - particularly at 1080i upconvert the quality is amazing - I've seen a couple friends HD feeds on Samsung DLP's and it's equally impressive. I don't have an HD feed and I'm disspointed with the quality from the satellite feed as I was with Comcast signal. I will try some tweeks as shown in previous messages. Thanks for all the info.

I purchased a 51" Samsung DLP in Aug03. Shortly after purchased HD931 Samsung DVD and connected with DVI. At 1080i setting from DVD I noticed for the first time the sync issue....dropping down to 720 or 480 seemed to lessen the effect yet the sound was still out of sync. Now I notice it with sat feed also. Samsung has recognised this issue after a number of calls to a very helpful tech support center. Initially service came out and upgraded from 214 to 309 hardware - still the same problem though. Next thing Samsung said was that a chassis replacement was thier fix. Something about a diproportionate quantity of steel to copper in the current chassis causing audio issues. Whatever the case they have decided not to replace the chassis but will ship a replacement set early April. I recomment calling Samsung to get in line for replacement.
The other issue I have is with the picture itself. Using DVD - particularly at 1080i upconvert the quality is amazing - I've seen a couple friends HD feeds on Samsung DLP's and it's equally impressive. I don't have an HD feed and I'm disspointed with the quality from the satellite feed as I was with Comcast signal. I will try some tweeks as shown in previous messages. Thanks for all the info.

Love the sight.It answered alot of my questions before I made the final decision.I bought the 56" in December and am very pleased.I noticed the voice synch problem only once.I turned off the tv and dvd, waited 5 minutes, and haven't had the problem since(have I just been lucky so far?)I decided to search for replacement bulbs just to have one on hand.No one seems to carry them.Any sight recommendations?

Assuming Samsung will get the audio/video sync issue resolved in the near future, I have a more basic question. Given that cabinet size and wieght are not issues for me, I can't decide whether Samsung's 61" DLP or Mitsubishi's 65" Diamond Series TV is the better product. I want very good picture quality in both High Def and standard DirecTV feeds. I will mostly watch basketball games and movies. I'm concerned that the DLP TV will have a poor quality picture when not on an HD channel or playing a DVD. Can anyone give me advice?

Hi,
Does anybody knows about new samsung DLP 50" TV #5063, which will have 2 options for the signal DVI and HDMI.
It suppose to have even better color
Thanks

Michael,
The DLP sets don't make bad pictures worse, but they can show you the true quality of the signal you're receiving from your cable provider (if that's what you use). I've found (and heard from others) that broadcast quality varies greatly from provider to provider and channel to channel, so don't generalize to a _TV_ any problems you might be seeing with your content source. Chances are that if you don't like the picture quality on the Samsung DLP, it won't be any better on any other HDTV.

do you know when the hlp's will be out?
sound like it will be worth the couple month
wait.
p.s. great site

I understand that the advantage is that DLP doesn't have image burn in on the screen. I have heard that the mirrors could get burned. Can anyone explain what this is or if they have heard of this too. Also, has anyone heard if the new TVs will provide 2 DVI inputs? (1 for Cable/SAT and 1 for DVD) Thanks

JC, there is zero truth to any claim that DLP can have image burn-in of any sort. The mirror technology is incapable of this sort of damage or failure that *can* happen with CRT, plasma, and, to a _very_ limited extent, LCD. Don't know about the dual-DVI (I don't even use the *one* on my current set yet).

Hi, great site!
New to the DLP (or any big screen TVs) technology. I'm thinking of getting the HLN5065, is it a good choice or should I wait for the new models I've been hearing about?

Thanks, Larry

I RECENTLY PURCHASED THE RCA 61"DLP SET FROM BEST BUY. I HAVE MIXED FEELINGS ABOUT THIS SET SO FAR. HD BROADCASTS(BASKETBALL, BOXING AND HOCKEY) LOOK GREAT. FOR THE MOST PART DVD'S LOOK GOOD. MY BIG PROBLEM WITH THIS SET HOWEVER ARE DARK SCENES AND DARK COLORS. I AM GETTING QUITE A BIT OF NOISE IN SCENES THAT ARE NOT WELL LIT. THE DARK COLORS ARE TOO DARK. NO DETAIL AT ALL. IT IS QUITE ANNOYING. BRIGHT SCENES ARE OUTSTANDING.BETTER THAN ANYTHING I'VE SEEN. SHOULD I BE USING BETTER CABLES? DOES ANYONE ELSE HAVE THIS PROBLEM WITH THE RCA? PLEASE HELP.

Greg, get your set professionally calibrated...it will help a ton. Shouldn't cost more than $200 or so, and you'll notice an immediate, and immense, improvement. If not, however, consider trading in the RCA on a Samsung -- those can look excellent.

Craig,
What are your thoughts about my question on getting the HLN5065W or waiting until the new HLP models come out?

Larry

Larry, I can't really help you out there since I don't know anything about the new models and I don't know how anxious you are to get a new set. Waiting is a very personal decision. Sorry. :-\

I don't know what to buy either Plasma TV or Dlp TV , can you tell me which one is better to get, some one tell me that Plasma TV not last for long, and Dlp TV is better to buy right now. or you have any idea some thing will come out better than Plasma and Dlp . thanks for you help

I bought a 50" Samsung DLP and I"m having problems with the tv. Sometimes when I try to turn the tv on it will not come it cycles on and off and finally the lamp light comes on and and the temp light comes and stays. Sometimes I keep trying and some times it comes on and sometimes it won't I thought maybe the room was to warm but at 70 room temp it not be a problem. Anyboby a solution!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hi,

I posted on this site while ago and said I was waiting to get my HLN507 DLP samsung. I finally got it. It is a dream watching this tv. No a/v synch problems. Recently good guys reduced the price, so I got it a little cheaper, but I am not satisfied with the goodguys service. However, the DLP tv works and works great. Recommended!!

Are there any service codes that can be entered on the remote or tv to access special service type menus for Samsungs HLN467W?

Jason, absolutely. Check out this FAQ for instructions on accessing the service menu (and a lot more):

http://www.digiupdate.com/P001_Samsung_HLN_DLP_2003.html

I have been researching DLP TVs and have been very impressed. I have been told that the Gateway 56" is based on Samsumg technology. Is this true? Are the images comparable? Some potential red flags are (1) that reviews say that rainbowing does not exist with Samsung but it does with the Gateway, (2) that the Samsung has greater contrast than the Gateway, and (3) that the Gateway does not work well with Progressive Scan DVD player/recorders. Does anyone have some relevant experience and opinions on the Gateway vs. Samsung?

How do we get the TV "professionally calibrated"? We got the 50" from Circuit City - thank goodness for their price protection policy as we got $1000 back because of the various markdowns that occured RIGHT AFTER WE BOUGHT IT!?!? :>

Anyways, I know the picture is only as good as the feed but I'd like to be sure we have the tv settings correct to maximize the feed we are getting. (And if it is, my next question is do we need to bite the bullet and get DirecTV? Is their feed that much better?) My understanding is Time Warner currently digitalizes only a few channels (the basic local ones and then "premium cable). That means the rest (like Fox Sports) are analog so we've got this great tv but just an analog signal :<.

Thoughts?
Thanks!!

Purchased the HLN567W and this TV is nothing short of amazing. I did spend the extra $$$ and get the Monster Power stabilizer / kit and using the component inputs I have not experienced a single flaw. I was able to get a really good deal because of the new models that will be coming out. If you are waiting for the new models, well by the time they are available, guess what? The next line will be getting ready. I say avoid the catch 22, get a decent warranty, and hopefully you will love this TV as much as I do.

anyone who would like to know real information regarding either dlp, lcd, or any other display device for that matter feel free to ask...

anyone who would like to know real information regarding either dlp, lcd, or any other display device for that matter feel free to ask...

I bought the 50 inch dlp from B.B. two months ago and am having a problem I've only seen one post on. After not turning set on for a couple of day's, ( I travel a lot for work) I turn the set on and it goes through it's routine but the picture never comes on. Instead, the set shuts off momentarily then starts the routine again. The only way to stop it is too unplug the set. Sometimes it comes on after several cycles and sometimes not. The lamp l.e.d. flashes the entire time. Is this a bad lamp?

I bought the 50 inch dlp from B.B. two months ago and am having a problem I've only seen one post on. After not turning set on for a couple of day's, ( I travel a lot for work) I turn the set on and it goes through it's routine but the picture never comes on. Instead, the set shuts off momentarily then starts the routine again. The only way to stop it is too unplug the set. Sometimes it comes on after several cycles and sometimes not. The lamp l.e.d. flashes the entire time. Is this a bad lamp?

David, that certainly sounds like a bad something-or-other in there -- call Samsung and have a technician come out to fix whatever is wrong.

Hey Craig, I posted earlier about what to do about purchasing my HD Sammy now or wait for the new tech stuff to come out. After reading all the threads here and evaluating what I want I decided not to wait for the new stuff to come out (decided if I wait I will never buy a set) and went ahead and bought a Sammy HLN507W. No regrets! Don't know how Sammy can inprove on the HD broadcasts,looks pretty good to me now and with my Bose sound system this thing really rocks! Hopefully Adelphia will be adding more HD broadcast in the future,only get 7 now. In watching the set I looked for synch problems and couldn't find any. Wished I didn't here about the problem cause I sometimes find myself focusing to much on looking at the lips ands sounds trying to find a problem and not paying attention to the program. Anyway, I think this is a great set and the timing was right, bought at CC for $3499.00 +$300 in store credit two weeks ago and last week I went in to brouse and they had it down to $3360.00 on sale, I spoke with an in store rep about it and they beat thier own price + 10% so I got a great deal! I want to buy the HD931 Sammy DVD set but I am reading the same stuff about the synch problem with the Sammy DVD. Anyone, have a review to share about the DVD?
Excellent web site Craig, really helped me decide what to do.
PS, anyone know where to purchase the lamp replacement,could not find it in any web site.

Hi Glen,

I have a similar set up like yours and plus HD931. It works great! I think having a bose home theater system is great complimentary to these samsungs. One other advantage is that the remote control for hd931 operates all of the tv functions therefore you don;t need two remotes to control tv and dvd players seperately. I think you should back off on watching movies to find out whether there is a a/v synch problems, instead just enjoy the pleasure of wathcing movies with these great sets. Thanks.

we were ready to purchase our HLN507W this weekend but after reading these comments, I'm scared to death! If I ordered this Sammy now, would it come with the a/v fix promised? Sounds like others are getting replacements in April, how could I find out if I would get the corrected version? Lastly, what xHD2 and xHD3's?

I have the Sammy HD931 also and have been nothing but satisfied with it. I do have the sync probs with the HLN467W but the DVD has not added to it. My sync probs are sporadic so its not to bad. Get the DVD player!

Everybody worried about burned out bulbs and the cost of them must think about getting a UPS (uninteruptable power supply). The bulb will burn if the power shuts of and the fan can't cool the bulb. You can find a sufficient UPS for under $100 online. The Sammi's run at 200 watts so get something that can cover that amount of power. Don't be fooled by the Monster brand HTS1000. It is small watts for way too much $$$$. Energizer carries an HTS UPS which is comparable to Monster's output but much better on your wallet. I went with a 600 watt UPS which powers my Home Theater and my HLN567W.

Lonnie, is this based on personal knowledge or just speculation? I'd like to see some actual evidence, or a note from Samsung, supporting the need to invest in a UPS before doing so.

I was just about to buy the 43' samsung this week. I am put back though wioth all of the comments regarding the sync issue. Has it been fixed? Is the nest models out?

Pete, i wouldn't let that fear put you off -- the likelihood of you having a problem is low. If you consider the fact that folks who have problems are much more likely to mention it than those who don't (I mean how often does someone post "Hey, just wanted to let you all know that I haven't had problem X."?), then the concerns here are still probably in the minority of all TV owners. In fact, if you never have the problem, you probably don't even get online looking for answers about it, right? I've experienced the sync issue every once in a while, but changing channels a few times or turning the set off and on always fixes it, so I don't consider it much of an issue. In fact, I've read accounts where cable set-top boxes can do this as well, so it's certainly not unique to Sammy DLPs. Anyway, get the TV with a nice warranty...if you have problems, they'll fix it...Samsung has really good customer service for these sets.

Monica asked what xHD2 and xHD3 are. They are the next generations of DLP chips that Texas Instruments has announced and won't be available until the end of the year (with a higher price tag of course). I found the HD3 mentioned in the article at http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,4149,1433482,00.asp

I have enjoyed reading the long list of messages/questions and the great advice from Craig and others. I am trying to find out if and why the Samsung is the DLP of choice. Is it that much better than the Gateway and RCA? Why? Do all three render their images true? Or are there aberations? I have read that the image can have rainbows and the sounds can be out of sync with the picture. Is this more likely with one manufacturer than another? The Gateway is the newest entry to the DLP field. Any general comments on its performance?

HEY CRAIG, I POSTED A COMMENT AND QUESTION A FEW WEEKS BACK WHICH YOU ANSWERED VERY QUICKLY. THANKS. I BOUGHT THE RCA 61 INCH DLP SET ABOUT A MONTH AGO AND WAS NOT SATISFIED WITH THE DARK COLORS AND EXCESSIVE VIDEO NOISE. YOU RECOMMENDED I GET THE SET PROFESSIONALLY CALIBRATED. HOWEVER I JUST READ A REVIEW OF THIS TV SAYING THIS SET CANNOT BE CALIBRATED. WHAT SHOULD I DO? HAVE U HEARD OF THIS PROBLEM BEFORE? IT'S VERY ANNOYING. THANKS AGAIN.

Greg, sorry, I know nothing about the RCAs.

Hey this is an excellent site! I have just gotten myself a Samsung HLN507W, I did experience the audio/video sync problem on some cable programs as well as on a dvd (Pirates Of The Carribean in case you were wondering). The real question I have is has anyone experienced problems using their DVI connection? I have Comcast cable with a Motorola HD box, and a 2 meter Monster DVI 400 cable connecting it to my TV. I just got the cable today and noticed when I was watching HD programming that the picture would go blank for a couple of seconds (sometimes pretty frequently) which became increasingly annoying. I switched from the DVI to the s-video connection and didn't have the problem although I did notice once that the picture jumped for a split second. Could the blank screen be the way the digital handles the jump as opposed to the analog just showing it? I know it wasn't the broadcast as it happened while I was watching the Red Wing/Avalanche game on ESPN HD, Tru Calling on FOX HD, and ER on NBC HD. Is this a problem with the DVI connection on the TV or the box? Should I get Comcast to send someone out? Has anyone else had this problem?

Hey Craig,

Great site! Very informative!

Please help me out... What exactly are Discrete IR Codes? And what are they for?

Does the latest HLN437W model's have the descrete codes option?

Thanks,
Mike

I am using also a dvi cable to connect the hln507w5 to hd931 dvd player but not noticed any a/v sync problems. Interestingly enough I was watching the same movie "pirates of carribean" last night. Huh!

I have another question: Does DLP tv need to be adjusted yearly or not. I still have the 5 year guarantee from GG. I am thinking about given it up. What do you guys think?

Thanks

Mike: Yes, the latest HLN-series sets (they're all firmware 309 and later now, I believe) have discrete codes for inputs, power, and volume.

Duran: Your DLP set should need no regular "adjustment" of any kind. Unlike CRT and other multiple-light stream RPTVs, there are no optical convergence issues on single-chip DLP sets that need to be addressed regularly. Additionally, color/hue/contrast calibration should also be a one-time thing if you have that done professionally (mine didn't need it...I was happy with the picture out of the box). I'd only keep your GG guarantee if it's a replacement/repair warranty, but not if it's just a "maintenance" contract.

Craig,

Listen to your TV, the fan stays on for around 1 minute or so after you power it down. The fan cools the bulb. Many extended warrenties don't cover bulbs for this reason exactly. The only place which covered the lamp/bulb I found doing my shopping was Circuit City. Their warranty was considerably higher. I wonder why. I had three sales guys tell me about the problem at three different places. Best Buy, Showcase (a Tweeter Company) and Ultimate Electronics. The sales guy at Ultimate told me about two returns made to due burnt bulbs because of power outages. Note: they were only able return the T.V.s because of the 60 day satisfaction guarantee, not for bulbs being burnt. He then gave me the spin on the Monster brand UPS.

After listening to him I did my own research on UPS's and found considerably cheaper prices then what Monster has. If $100.00 or less is too much of an investment to protect A $3,000.00 to $5,000.00 T.V. think about the problem some might have when trying to find the bulb. Not to mention the higher cost of replacing the bulb. Don't forget a UPS also serves as a Surge protector. Which in my and hopefully your opinoin is a MUST for all electronics with this high a price.

I am sure you can find the purpose of the fan staying on after powering down you DLP screen somewhere in your handbook. You can pobably get this info directly from Samsung as well. Lets not forget these companies are intending to make money. Replacement bulbs will cost us money to purchase. They still haven't figured out this sync problem and haven't been so informative about it with many. I would be a little cautious when assuming Samsung is there to protect the consumer. I will find a link somewhere about the fan cooling and post it a little later.

Duran: I'm glad you haven't had the sync problem, it is one of those little details that will really bug you hahaha. Unfortunately I am not connecting my DVD player with the DVI cable, it is too old and doesn't have the DVI connection :-( The cable box is what I hooked up with the DVI and all the HD programming that I have watched on the DVI mode so far will at some point or another lose the picture for a second or two and then come back just fine, but sometimes it happens pretty frequently which makes me not want to watch HD at all :-( I have Comcast and I live in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area, has anyone else experienced this problem with Comcast (Motorola STB) and the DVI connection?

If you are listening to audio on your stereo receiver, does this eliminate the audio sync problem?

I purchased the Samsung HLN5065W 50" DLP about two months ago and I couldn't be more pleased with its performance. Picture quality is really quite good across all of the analog source inputs. I primarily keep the input set to DVI as the bulk of my viewing is DirecTV through a Sony SAT-HD300 reciever (can't say enough good stuff about it either).

I actually foud this site looking for replacement lamps. I want to have one on hand just in case.

A number of the posts (e.g., AV sync problems) have gotten me a little worried and hope I don't find myself actually looking for imperfections in what to this point has been as close to perfection as I could expect to see in a TV.

Based on my experience so far, I'd have to say that Samsung makes one hell of a product!

Hi,

Just checking in. After reviewing all the posts on your site, I went out and bought the 61 inch RCA DLP. This tv is awesome! I have standard cable (comcast) and on most channels the picture is as good as my 36 inch direct view Sony tv. I am so delighted. The sound quality is excellent as well (I've got nothing hooked up to it). My only concern is the lamp....Sure hope it works for a while. CC's service contract was just too high for me to buy. I know that the RCA is fairly new, so my fingers are crossed, but thus far I am pleased (and pleased to see that it doesn't have the sync problems that Samsung have). I was wondering...is there a place that one can buy a service package on a new tv other than the place you bought it? Just curious if there was something cheaper than CC.

I've been looking hard for a dlp tv and saw the optoma rd-50 on ebay. This set has the TI hd2 dlp chip. Does anyone know the quality of this set.

I bought the Sammy HLN507W a few weeks ago and noticed the AV synch problem as well while watching some DVD's, especially those encoded with DTS. To confirm, I hooked up my 20" Sony WEGA in parallel (composite video into one unit and component video into the other, and vice versa). The Sony was perfectly in synch while the Sammy's video output clearly lagged by a split second (especially noticeable during scene changes). I was killing myself trying to adjust the sound delays on my receiver so, in a way, I'm relieved so many others have had the same problem.

I bought the TV at Circuit City and I purchased the extended warranty. Should I return/replace this unit now (it's still within the 30-day guarantee) or wait until a fix is available and use the warranty to obtain a replacement?

Brian,

Call Samsung customer service. They will help you out and work with you to come up with a solution. Their tech support people are friendly and very helpful.

Craig,

thanks for all the hard work of keeping the site going. I am curious if you have also bought the Samsung dvd player HD931 and tried it out. I was going to get it, but after reading the specs, I realized that the dvd has the same Faroudja DCDi processor as the one in all HLN set. I surmise that using the HD931 with most HLN set is an overkill, but would like to know from those that own the HD931 what they thought of it. Is it worth the extra $200, as compare to cheaper progressive scan dvd player?

I have a huge problem with my new 50" dlp! For some reason today when i was watching tv the picture would turn off the sound would still be playing. I would then change the channel and the picture is then flipped upside down and the colors are all messed up. Anyone know what may be causing this problem???? Also i own the HD931 and until i had this problem today i've enjoyed the dvd player greatly. Watching a movie like finding nemo will definately show off how beautiful it can upconvert the picture it's definately worth the price.

Richard,

The HD931 is definetly worth it. I am not as technical as everyone else here is but can tell you from experience the chips in the tv and the dvd player, although the same, are not responsible for the upconversion. The dvd player alone uses a different tech. to convert the signal. I compared the picture of LOTR with a standard dvd and the hd931 and the picture quality difference is amazing. It's worth the extra money.

I purchased an HLN 5065W about 6 months ago.
Everything worked fine until yesterday - turned on the TV, and no audio or video from any of the components. I can still see the menus, and the lights aren't blinking at me, so I don't think the lamp is burnt out. Samsung's repair guys can't come out until next week, if you can believe it.

Has anyone had this problem?

If you can still see the menus, Yale, then the bulb and light engine (stuff that physically generates and creates the light that forms the picture) isn't the problem. Sounds like a signal processing bad board of some sort.

Craig,
Very good info provided on the site, thank you. Positive feedback leans toward DLP in most every case with some of the bugs (rainbows, A/V Sync) still lingering. With that in mind, I called Sansung CS and chatted with some very helpful and polite people. They appeared to be aware of the A/V sync issue and she said the newest version of thier DLP will have the latest chip #3 and new firmware as well. She called the line "HLP" and said May or June release. Just an FYI.

Just got the 43" variety, and so far am very pleased. But I have one fairly big gripe:

The audio implementation for external speaker systems is about the worst I have seen on any set ever (except for ones that don't even pretend to support that.).

Let's assume most people who get a $3000+ set are very likely to have something like a home theater system. In that case, for non-5.1 surround broadcasts, the easiest way to pipe your sound through your external components is to route the TV sound "out" into your audio receiver. Three bad things about the Samsung here: #1) The audio monitor out is always in "fixed" mode, that is, adjusting the volume on the TV won't change the level coming out of the outputs. #2) You can't turn off the internal speaker unless you turn the volume all the way down, and #3) if your input source on the TV is any of the component inputs, the sound will NOT pass through the audio outs. All of this means a lot more futzing with your audio receiver in tandem with your tv.

John,
You raise some excellent criticisms and ones that I, myself, have fretted over since owning this TV. I very much wish that at _least_ I could use the set's internal speakers as a center channel. That way, I could get rid of my existing center, which is just taking up valuable space right now. The very best implementation of TV sound I've seen was in my old Toshiba tube TV -- not only did it have powered external speaker leads, the audio out was variable _and_ selectable by input. Truly awesome stuff. Funny that a set that costs 10 times that one doesn't have half those features.

I was getting ready to purchase a Samsung HLN-5065W tommorow at BB when I ran into your site. I spent a couple hours reading every comment. You have an awesome site fyi I noticed a few people had mentioned that they were getting replacements (TV's) in April. How are these replacements they are getting in April different from the ones they originally purchased if the newer models are not due out till the fall?
Since we are in April, would I be getting the same replacments they are waiting for? Thanks

just curious, has anyone picked up zoom broadcasting. Is it worth the money? I've heard the have something like 33 hd channels. Scott

Is, or will ther be, any fix for the A/V sync problem for existing sets?

John, I suspect the folks at Samsung would be more likely to know the answer to your question than anyone hanging around here. Have you called them?

No have not called yet, but good point and thanks for the speedy reply. Just got set at CC and could return it. Unfortunately, I have been looking for a while and otherwise love the set, would hate to have to take it back.

Hi: I stumbled upon this site looking for info about my samsung dlp, and I think it's very helpful. I just took delivery of a 43' HLN 4365W, and I am not blown away. Initially the Comcast guy totally hooked it up wrong (he had it so that the feed was coming over the 'air' rather than the component) and the picture was awful. After calling samsung customer service, I found out the problem was the motorola cable box was not properly configured. So I fixed that, and the pic is much better. HDTV is very crisp, but most of my channels are digital and analog, and are a bit fuzzy. Also I notice a high pitched whirring noise, which I assume is the fan or DLP spinning. My questions (if anyone can help me out on any or all of these, I'd appreciate it!): (1) is this audible noise something everyone experiences, or do I have a particularly loud model (I can hear it when the volumw is at medium setting); (2) any suggestions on how to improve the picture?; (3) at bestbuys urging, I purchased monster component cables, but after reading this site re: DVI, will switching to DVI improve the picute on regular digital cable?; (4) what's the diffenece b/w the model I bought, and the HLN's with different model #s; (5) is the poor picture with the non-digital channel a function of the DLP, or if I switch to one of those giant RPTVs will I get a better picture?

Any help will be appreciated. BTW, I got a great deal at best buy; I purchased this TV for $2564, tax included (lowest list price I've seen is $2999).

David,
First, and I don't mean to be callous, but Google is your friend. A little bit of reading can save you a bunch of writing. To answer some of your questions...

If your Comcast box is a HD box, make sure your component cables are going into either component2 or component3. Do not use component1, as that's only a 480p/i input (for your CD player). The other two will handle any HD standard you throw at 'em.

The fan noise should not be noticeable. But, you may actually be hearing the color wheel (google for that if you don't know what I'm talking about). Either way, call Samsung about it or have your store bring you out another one.

Assuming your calibration settings (contrast, tone, tint, etc.) are correct (or at least reasonable), the picture you're seeing is an accurate portrayal of the signal that Comcast is sending you. Comcast is pretty notorious for high compression cable signals, so don't expect your non-HD digital channels to look very good on _any_ HDTV larger than about 24". Remember, garbage in, garbage out (it's not the TV, it's the source).

DVI won't improve your picture on crappy source material. You'll only notice the difference on the high-quality HD material and on DVD's (assuming the DVD is high quality and your DVD player isn't total junk). Stick with component till you get it to where you're happy with the picture, then muck around with DVI.

I'll leave #4 to your research (remember, google is your friend).

As far as #5, the answer is no for the reasons I've already stated. DLP is awesome technology -- it's so good that it reveals every flaw and shortcut that your cable/satellite company makes with its signal. Your options are (A) learn to live with it or (B) move further away from the TV or (C) squint your eyes so it's more blurry or (D) just watch HD and DVD content. Any TV that makes the blurriness on regular digital channels go away will likely greatly reduce the quality of your HD and DVD content (not good...after all, isn't that what your good old tube TV did?).

Thanks for the info Craig! Your site rules!!

FYI on the A/V sync problem, called samsung today they were freidndly but not much help. I also hooked up a second TV to the source and watched both. I watched a VH1 video since they change scenes so rapidly, and the lag is very noticable from one scene to the next. I was fortnate enough to have a video on with a clock running to the 1/100 of a second on it. Pure luck.

Anyway I videoed it with a camcorder, digitized it and froze a frame with both clocks. The samsung was 4/100 second behind the regular TV. I don't know if there is a fix or not, but it is not my imagination. FYI

John,

It sounds from your description that the video as well as the audio is lagging the regular TV (since I'm sure the clock is part of the video). I see the same thing when I have both my hdtv and analog tv on at the same time. However, I have always attributed this to there being a small delay in the hdtv signal - and if you don't have both tvs on at the same time, no one would notice. A more accurate comparison would be to have 2 different hdtv's on at the same time using the same HD signal and see if the videos match, but the audio from the Samsung is delayed. I think that is what previous posters were talking about - that the audio of the Samsung sometimes (or maybe most of the time for some) does not match the video. Now if you could get that on tape, I'm sure that Samsung would be interested in seeing and listening to it.

Has anyone hooked up a multimedia centre pc to their DLP. I'm looking at the Samsung HLN4365WX. Dell has an awesome looking MM pc 901x with PVR. Does anyone know if the output from PVR or even the DVD on this pc will be equivalent to stand alone dvd players and recorders?

Great site, Craig. Thanks for putting so much effort into it. For all of you asking about 2004 Sammy models and new chip release dates, go to the avsforum.com site and RPTV discussions and threads Craig has recommended. There are threads to the 2004 CES show, TI's own recent publicity releases and so on. Three new chips are coming based on model and screen sizes(HD2+, HD3 and xHD2+, maybe the "x" is after the 2+, I don't remember). There are new Pedestal models, one called Capt. Kirk (obvious why when you see it). Each chip has it's own contrast ratio, etc.

As for me, I ordered a Sony 70" XBR950 for the main viewing room (get it delivered next week), along with a Sony GRAND WEGA 42" 610 model for the den. After reading this and other sites that discuss DLP experiences and viewing the Sammy DLP models, I cancelled the Sony 42" because it's the same dimensions as the 50" Sammy and the price difference isn't that much considering the bigger screen size (size is important to fit the den AV furniture). I won't try to discuss technology differences or picture qualities, the value just seems better to me on a 50" Sammy vs. 42" Sony.

However, I did decide to wait for the new HLP-HD3 chip model (gets 7 segment color wheel too vs. 6)to first get the newer technology and second just as insurance on the problems mentioned here regarding the HLN series. Again, thanks for all the great site info.

Mac

That's a nice A/V budget, Mac! :-D Good thoughts, though. One thing I want to point out is that there's never a risk-free way to buy electronics. If you buy current stuff, you know there are problems, but you also know of fixes. If you buy brand new products, while problems with the previous model may be fixed, there's certainly no guarantee that new problems won't be found that are equally (if not more) aggravating. I'm not advocating either approach -- do what you think is best -- just to make sure that you realize that there are risks and rewards associated with both buying strategies.

Hi - My husband and I just purchased the HLN437W1 - 43" Samsung DLP. Supposedly, you can determine the updated model if it contains a "1" at the end of the model number. The updated model number will appear right on the box, on the back of the TV and on the remote control. After having the TV for only 3 days, we've already noticed several seconds of lag time with the a/v sync. Unfortunately in our case, this update has not fixed the a/v problem. I will be contacting Samsung directly to find out if another fix is in the works. Will keep you all updated.

Great sight, I purchased the 50' Samsung dlp in July of '03 from BB. Was very excited to have it delivered, and then very dissappointed when it would not even start up AT AlL! -- Spoke with BB and they referred me to Samsung for repair. After dropping that much money for a TV I was alittle put off that it didn't work. I refused to wait for repair and didn't want a unit that had problems from the start so waited until September for another unit as there happened to be a waiting list. Well finally got the thing and all has been great.... until I began experiencing problems with start-up. There seems to be no rhyme or reason as to when it will happen but sometimes the unit will not start up and goes through the cycle as described in a previous post. the only remedy so far is to unplug the unit and try again. I've also noticed the a/v synch problem as described by others-- at first i thought I was just imagining it -- but after reading these posts, know that the problem is with the tv and not me.....

Great sight, I purchased the 50' Samsung dlp in July of '03 from BB. Was very excited to have it delivered, and then very dissappointed when it would not even start up AT AlL! -- Spoke with BB and they referred me to Samsung for repair. After dropping that much money for a TV I was alittle put off that it didn't work. I refused to wait for repair and didn't want a unit that had problems from the start so waited until September for another unit as there happened to be a waiting list. Well finally got the thing and all has been great.... until I began experiencing problems with start-up. There seems to be no rhyme or reason as to when it will happen but sometimes the unit will not start up and goes through the cycle as described in a previous post. the only remedy so far is to unplug the unit and try again. I've also noticed the a/v synch problem as described by others-- at first i thought I was just imagining it -- but after reading these posts, know that the problem is with the tv and not me.....

Craig, just got the 43" Even though I read all the stuff, I think your right...it is not on all ,models and I made sure I got the extended warranty. I also opted not to buy the Big buck monster cables. For $150 plus it made no sense. I picked up some great cables at www.showmecables.com great prices and they came in 2 days. I tested them against the monster, ( ok I bought them and then brought them back.) I had to make sure that that the monster was just smoke. It was and I saved myself $100!!

My tip is to buy from Circit City. Their warranty is much better then BB. They have a bring it back policy and a we cover anything for three year policy that was just not worth the extra $100 of reward zone points from BB.

Thanks for the advice Craig

I am on my second 50' Samsung. Same sync problem. Called Samsung and they admitted the problem. Told me I should return the set for a refund and repurchase when they have the problem corrected, hopefully, in April or early May 04. Picture is great but sync problem is driving us crazy. It's going back for now.

I am on my second 50' Samsung. Same sync problem. Called Samsung and they admitted the problem. Told me I should return the set for a refund and repurchase when they have the problem corrected, hopefully, in April or early May 04. Picture is great but sync problem is driving us crazy. It's going back for now.

Craig,
Thanks for creating such a great site. I just bought the Samsung 50" HLN 5065 and after upgrading my cable to HD & fine tuning my screen modes, the picture is great!! Almost purchased the 50" Plasma, but my 26 yr old son talked me out of it. (Supposely has probs after 5yrs).
I do have one problem though, its the A/V sync. It happens occasionally & can be very distrubing. My question is this. I have a 30 day, no questions asked, return policy from BestBuy. In addition to a 5yr extending warranty. Since I
'm still in my 30 day period (day 25), should I just return the set and wait for the new models in a few months or should I call Samsung as suggested in earlier messages? I did note one mess. indicating that Samsung, although responsive, did not resolve the problem.

Craig,

You're right that waiting for new models to come to market doesn't guarantee better performance or fewer problems, but I liken waiting for the HLP models (HD3 and HD2+ chips) to what happened with Sony Grand Wega's. The 2004 Sony's (610 and 950 Series) are third (maybe fourth) generation LCD RPTV's and have FAR superior color, brightness, black levels, etc. compared to the 2003 models. Sure, most brands make incremental improvements every year, but in '04, the picture quality was a MAJOR step-up from 2003 Grand Wegas. In other words, 2004 Sony's compare quite favorably to dlp's in PQ -- something previous models could not. That's a MAJOR improvement, not the usual incremental one-year advance.

Likewise, the HLP Sammies are third generation evolutionary products and should incrementally improve on HLN models (just as HLN's improved on HLM's). But, MAYBE as with Sony, Sammy's THIRD generation improvements may be a MAJOR step-up from generations 1&2 (just a guess but we'll see soon). Anyway, that's the rationale for hopefully minimizing problems by giving them time to tweak the software some more. But the MAIN reason (in my case) to wait a couple of months for HLP's is to get the next generation chips that may be much more than just incremental advances (e.g. HD3 has a 1500:1 contrast ratio, HD2+ has a 3000:1 ratio versus 1000:1 on HD2 chips ... plus the new chips have other black level and motion advances per TI's press releases). Improving contrast ratio 50% to 200% should be VERY visible over current models. The fourth generation "x" chips (1080p -- yes "p" not 1080i and this chip has a 5000:1 contrast radio) will be available in '05 models. But, as you said, you have to pull the trigger sometime, even if you know there will always be newer models coming later. If I had to wait 6-8 months for HLP, I'd probably buy HLN. Fortunately, the HLP's are just a couple more months away -- and might be worth waiting for.

Question. Other than price per square inch of screen, cosmetics (speaker grill color, bezels) and different screen sizes than offered in the base models, how does Tantus differ from regular
Samsung DLP's? HLN models in both brands names have the same chip (although HLP models will have HD2+ in Tantus vs. HD3 in base models). Chip differences in HLP models will further distinguish the two brands, but how did they differ before this (other than in screen size and cosmetics)?

Craig,

You're right that waiting for new models to come to market doesn't guarantee better performance or fewer problems, but I liken waiting for the HLP models (HD3 and HD2+ chips) to what happened with Sony Grand Wega's. The 2004 Sony's (610 and 950 Series) are third (maybe fourth) generation LCD RPTV's and have FAR superior color, brightness, black levels, etc. compared to the 2003 models. Sure, most brands make incremental improvements every year, but in '04, the picture quality was a MAJOR step-up from 2003 Grand Wegas. In other words, 2004 Sony's compare quite favorably to dlp's in PQ -- something previous models could not. That's a MAJOR improvement, not the usual incremental one-year advance.

Likewise, the HLP Sammies are third generation evolutionary products and should incrementally improve on HLN models (just as HLN's improved on HLM's). But, MAYBE as with Sony, Sammy's THIRD generation improvements may be a MAJOR step-up from generations 1&2 (just a guess but we'll see soon). Anyway, that's the rationale for hopefully minimizing problems by giving them time to tweak the software some more. But the MAIN reason (in my case) to wait a couple of months for HLP's is to get the next generation chips that may be much more than just incremental advances (e.g. HD3 has a 1500:1 contrast ratio, HD2+ has a 3000:1 ratio versus 1000:1 on HD2 chips ... plus the new chips have other black level and motion advances per TI's press releases). Improving contrast ratio 50% to 200% should be VERY visible over current models. The fourth generation "x" chips (1080p -- yes "p" not 1080i and this chip has a 5000:1 contrast radio) will be available in '05 models. But, as you said, you have to pull the trigger sometime, even if you know there will always be newer models coming later. If I had to wait 6-8 months for HLP, I'd probably buy HLN. Fortunately, the HLP's are just a couple more months away -- and might be worth waiting for.

Question. Other than price per square inch of screen, cosmetics (speaker grill color, bezels) and different screen sizes than offered in the base models, how does Tantus differ from regular
Samsung DLP's? HLN models in both brands names have the same chip (although HLP models will have HD2+ in Tantus vs. HD3 in base models). Chip differences in HLP models will further distinguish the two brands, but how did they differ before this (other than in screen size and cosmetics)?

Great site. Am in process of looking at the 50" and 61" Samsung (HLN617W) and am about ready to pull the trigger on the latter. After looking at the feedback will probably buy the extended warranty from BB. The posts have only mentioned this problem referring to the 50" though - anyone seen it on te 61"? Do you have any suggestion either way - 50/61?

Also, another site listed the the new 56" HLP unit being available in June 2004 at a suggested retail price of $4,999. Has Samsung been true to it's word in the past re release dates and would you wait since its already mid April? They also note that thee is an optional HDTV tuner - is this the same as the current HLN617W - correct? or would you need another Samsung add-on?

Yeesh...all this debate...wait or not, return it or call customer service...I'm not sure I can offer any sage advice that will be the magical answer for you guys.

If you're having significant problems with a brand-new set, I'd have the store you bought it from come and take it back. If they offer to swap it out, I'd let them try -- it costs you nothing but a bit of time and might make you happy (especially if you're satisfied with the picture quality like I am).

If you're able to wait for the new HLP models, do. Of course, once those hit the stores, it's likely there will be something announced by somebody that sounds even better. It's a never-ending cycle. Basically I put off taking the plunge until I'm convinced that what is out there will satisfy me regardless of what comes later -or- I just get tired of thinking about it (mulling is hard work!) and either go for it or drop the subject for a while.

The forthcoming HLP's sound marvy. To be honest, I don't want for anything from my current set, so I'm not going to be jealous over the new models coming out. To me, that's about all I can ask from a piece of electronics.

Has anyone heard more about all these "fixes" Samsung is putting into newer models? The a/v sync problem will stop me from buying a hln set anytime soon.

Craig,
I plan to purchase a Samsung DLP soon but would like to know if you have any experience with picture quality for those of us still using the 10 foot dish antenna's and digital receivers (4DTV). I receive both analog and digital with some High Definition channels available.

I have the samsung sir-ts 160 directv receiver and the samsung hln467w dlptv. I have them connected with component cable. Is there any real advantage in using dvi input cable ( I would need about 12 ft., about $100.) ?
Thanks !

Great site. Thanks for your time to keep it up. Am considering HLN 617WX, but haven't seen much about the "X". Heard it's the 'tantus' series, but can't find much about that. The guy I'm considering buying from is offering it new for $3697, and I wouldn't have to pay tax. And as another poster asked, has anyone with the 61 series had the a/v synch problem?

Thanks again for hosting so much useful information (and I read every post).
Greg

Just purchased an RCA DLPHDTV 51". This tv is the best!!! Picture is outstanding!! We have a regular antenna for all local channels and are picking up all the HDTV channels! We also have a 10ft. backyard dish and are recieving digital channels. The color is superb and the TV itself is awsome. Would recommend this TV over Samsung in a heart beat.

Just bought my 43" DLP TV and I too have the audio sync problem. Very annoying. I'll call Samsung in the morning and see what they say and let this site know what they say.

Called Samsung about the audio sync problem and they told me a meeting with Korea was happening today. I should call back in a few days to see if a fix was forthcoming. If it was, I would be added to a list of people who would get updated with the fix for no charge. If a fix was not soon, he suggested I should return the TV if the sync problem was going to bother me.

On another note, Comcast came in today and hooked up Digital Cable and HD. The HD looks OK but the other stations look awful. The picture was much better with just the analog cable. Any ideas?

Ah, yes, the old "Comcast over-compression of its digital content" problem -- there's nothing any TV can do to help this, except to blur everything so you can't see the artifacts. Alternatives include plugging the cable directly into the TV (then you can tune the analog channels directly, but you don't get the digital ones) or switching to a content provider who doesn't compress as much (e.g., some satellite carriers).

Grig, I posted previously about wheather or not to go ahead with the HLN507W and decided to purchase the set a little over a month ago. I was concerned about the A/V issue but figured Samsung has to do something about it, now that more than a few are having this problem. I did not notice the problem until last night when I hooked up a new HD931 Sammy DVD player and noticed the sync thing. It does not occur all the time but once was all I needed to get Samsung involved. I love the set except for the A/V thing. Talked to a Tech a got the same response as others. Waiting for a fix. They offered to refund my money or wait for a fix. This is what I am going to do, if the new HLP's come out before the fix I will get a refund and apply it to the new set. If a fix occurs first great, I really enjoy the picture and would rather keep it than return it and pay additional for a new version. Anyway, I have a choice and I like choices. I am on the list for a call when the fix happens and I would recomemd others concerned to get on the list also.

Regarding the audio/video sync issues for the Samsung DLPs, has anyone run the component video cables through one of the new AV receivers with composite inputs (50 to 100MHz bandwidth)? I understand that HD signals require a lot of bandwidth, and that any type of boosting can help, in theory. Additionally, the cables might not offer enough bandwidth as well. Here are the requirements for high-end video signals: DVD (480i/480p) - 7 MHz/14MHz, 720p or 1080i HDTV - 37 MHz. So, if the composite video feed is not strong enough, then quality loss will occur.

If anyone could post the results of this experiment, noting the bandwidth of the composite video OUT from the receiver (see manual), cable bandwidth (printed on packaging and/or cable), and whether or not the sync issue is fixed, that would really help things out, technically. Otherwise, then it's definitely a timing/bandwidth circuit issue that needs replacing.

I've just uploaded a site for television buyers. It's at http://www.television-and-tv-buying-guide.com. Any feedback would be great.

Thanks, alex

I have clocked 1400 hours (it tells you on the service menu) on my 61" DLP since I purchased it half a year ago at Circuitcity for $4300 before tax, and I have not had a single syn problem.

Being one of those fortunate ppl whom never had anything bring on him before, (My NoFriendo and my old atari still runs!) I have only purchase a 2 year warrenty, and plan to cancel it soon. Was organizing the box in which I keep my payment info just now and realize that my warrenty starts on the day I purhcase the TV (before I took delivery), NOT 1 year after Samsung one expires first like everyone else said. Actually pretty steam up right now because I feel like I paid $400 for a 1 year warrenty, and I am pretty sure they're not going to extend a year for me just because I call them up to complain.

I must say, the new HLP series does look quite attactive to me. Believe it or not, I still don't have the stand for my TV yet. Yes yes, it's still sitting on my floor. :-) It's purely impossible to locate a stand anywhere in the eastern sea board or internet for that matter. I had my eyes on the VS74377 from Bush but those have been in backorder for the last 3 months also- I just can't justify spending close to $700 for the official Samsung stand myself.

BTW, to get into service menu. Power off, mute, 1 8 2 then power. Just make sure you write down all the default before you mess with the setting since there's no go-back-to-default settings. Oh and yes, to get out of the menu, you have to power off the TV, no other ways around it :-)
Oh, a word of recommendation, don't change anything more then the gamma setting (most ppl like 0 or 5) or else you might find yourself tacking down a IFS pro to come fix your TV calibration for you. Oh heck, just do yourself a favor and head over to avsforum.com before you do anything.

Oh, when I said I like the HLP series better, performance aside, I was referring to the design of it. I found a pix via avsforum. It has the exact look of the HLN series minus the speaker on the bottom, and is rasied up by a thick tripot (for the lack of a better word)... Samsung is definitely bringing it's look toward the plasma route, which I like.

Please don't call me superficial. When it comes to design. The new HLP looks 5 grand, my HLN doesn't - and I never thought it has :-)

Oh, when I said I like the HLP series better, performance aside, I was referring to the design of it. I found a pix via avsforum. It has the exact look of the HLN series minus the speaker on the bottom, and is rasied up by a thick tripot (for the lack of a better word)... Samsung is definitely bringing it's look toward the plasma route, which I like.

Please don't call me superficial. When it comes to design. The new HLP looks 5 grand, my HLN doesn't - and I never thought it has :-)

ONE YEAR LATER, and my unit wouldn't even power up! The service tech said that my "power board" went out on my HLN5065W. It just so happened that the failure happend just 5 days before the 1 year warranty expired. After the tech determined that the replacement part was compatible with my unit(?), he intalled it and now it works. Also, Best Buy convinced me to buy the Monster Power Strip to protect the unit. However, it seems that I needed more. If it goes out again, I'll let you know.

I'm also having a/v sync issues. Who do I call to get the fix when it becomes available?

Wow, thanks for letting us know, Bryan.
Just be glad that it broke 5 days BEFORE the year-mark, not after!

Question for anyone who also owns the Samsung HD931 up-conversion DVD player. Is it worth the money? Review are very mixed about this player, but once again, not everyone is pairing this with the DLP when testing.

The more I am reading about it, the more I get scare about my TV break now. :-)

Im an electronics tech. and have been for years. Nothing is perfect and tradeoff is a big factor. Some things may improve but other things may get worse. I bought the Samsung 50" DLP set at the beginning of April. (HLN507W). I've noticed the sync problem ( worse on video mode than component) I don't notice a problem on component source which I use because Brighthouse can't use the DVI connector because of legal issues. ????
And yes ! I am one of those lucky people that gets a milli second rainbow effect sometimes if I move my head or eyes just right. So What! This set on high def. to me is like a window on the world. What an absolutely beautiful picture. I have a 32 inch Toshiba which took second place to this Samsung because I wanted size and high def. Well I got it. Maybe on analog pictures it appears not as good as my very good Toshiba, but it was a trade off I wanted. Samsung along with other brands will make improvements in the years to come, but I might not be here. For now it is to me as good as it gets. A few design anomilies, but good job Samsung. I also bought the expensive extented warranty. New technology / new problems!

Good thoughts, Chip -- I think you summed up my own position quite well. This is good technology, folks -- I absolutely adore the picture on my DLP when watching HD or DVD (normal TV ranges from tolerable to mediocre, but that's not the TV's fault). No tech is perfect, but for me (and obviously for some others), this is certainly more than good enough.

So another call to Samsung and they have told me a fix is available for the A/v sync problem but Samsung is still working out the logistics of how to get the fix to people. The person I spoke with said it could still be a few weeks. Get on the list by calling Samsung. He also suggested to exchange the TV at Circuit City since the problem was only occurring on ~1% of the TV's. Does anyone believe its that low?

I decided some time ago on purchasing the 50" DLP, as in my opinion, it blew everything else away. However, I have been waiting for the new generation sets. I see no point in buying when I know that a new launch is imminent. My problem is that, at 46.6", the HLN5065 is 3/8" too wide for my armoire. So what I'm trying to find out is when is the 5063 going to be released (original launch date was March 2004), and how can I find out the set dimensions?
Thanks for the help!!!

Mark, at 40" wide, the HLN467W would fit your armoir well, yet it's only 4" smaller on the diagonal.

Yeah, I get that, but it's not that much bigger than my existing 36", and doesn't warrant the change for me. I got my heart set on at least the 50", or the 56", even if it means dumping the armoire. But right now, I'm holding onto the hope of holding onto the armoire, so I'm waiting for info on the 5063!

I am preparing to purchase a HLN567W. I always figured that there were risks when buying anything, including beef! My only question is about connecting an X-Box. They offer a "High definition" connection package for better quality graphics. Only one game currently (Dragons Lair 3D) supports 1080i. Most other games support 480p, 480i and occasionaly 720p. Has anyone enjoyed playing their games with these DLP tv's? Also, how does the DVD quality look from the X-Box on screen?
Thanx -

I recently bought a Samsung HLN 437W. To make sure I was making a good purchase I read the forum here before buying the TV (btw great site!). In store and at home the picture is incredible but like so many others the TV also gave me the audio-video synch problem. I called Samsung customer service about it. They are having a service person come out the the house to fix it. Apparently this problem has been solved! I'm keeping my fingers crossed that this actual fix works! I'll post with info about if this fix worked after they come to the house.

Hey, Craig. Let me echo the "nice site" comments you've gotten. There's a lot here.

I bought a 50" Samsung DLP, and while there are half a dozen audio inputs, only one audio output in the back. And that doesn't appear to work when the TV source input is in one of the "component" inputs. There was a brief post on this about a month ago, but I haven't seen how to fix it--or if there's a fix to be had. Anything new here?

M@

Just a little to wet ones whistle. I hooked my new computer into the DVI connector of the DLP50 Samsung. It blew me away. Granted I have the 9800XT ATI graphics card, but talk about a flat screen monitor. "WOW". A 50 inch desktop!! Sofa Surfing! Believe me, It is beautiful. Just in case anyone was thinking about doing this "It Works". Thanks for your web site Craig! Well done. If I can be of any assistance let me know. I really do love this HLN507W. Last nite I actually took some digital pictures of a high def. underwater program just for fun (not for redistribution), People would think that I was actually diving to get these pictures. My best wishes for all that purchase this set. Samsung I understand is a manufacturer that will stand behind their poducts.

Hello! I bought an HLN507W last week from Circuit City. I LOVE this forum!

I am constantly blown away by the high def picture. It's pretty amazing - I'm seeing stuff on TV that was never seen (i.e., faces in crowds, makeup on actors, etc.).

Unfortunately, I've had the A/V sync issues. It's not bad, just a few random stations. I haven't had the TV long enough to figure out when it occurs, but I decided to call Samsung and register my complaint early. I just got off the phone with Samsung - same results as most others - they don't have a fix yet, but are working on it. The rep said they don't have a list, and I should call back every two weeks to get an update. I'm still torn as to whether I'll return it and try my luck with a new one, or just wait for a fix (I do also have the CC 5-year service plan). I'm definitely not switching TV's though.

I have a couple of questions you may know:

1. Is there a way to switch inputs without scrolling them? I.e., I want to program my Sony remote to go to a certain input when I push a certain button (as opposed to pusing one button and having to scroll through them all). I know I may be asking about "discrete codes".

2. I have the HD cable hooked up through the 3 component inputs - would the DVI input give me a better picture? I can't imagine getting better than what I've got now, but if it can, I'd be pretty happy.

3. Is there a good, simple website that explains the 16:9 aspect ratio? I expected widescreen DVD's to fill the picture completely, but when that didn't happen, I realized that it shouldn't have to begin with and that I need a refresher course on that stuff.

Thanks again for everything (especially this board).

Hello! I bought an HLN507W last week from Circuit City. I LOVE this forum!

I am constantly blown away by the high def picture. It's pretty amazing - I'm seeing stuff on TV that was never seen (i.e., faces in crowds, makeup on actors, etc.).

Unfortunately, I've had the A/V sync issues. It's not bad, just a few random stations. I haven't had the TV long enough to figure out when it occurs, but I decided to call Samsung and register my complaint early. I just got off the phone with Samsung - same results as most others - they don't have a fix yet, but are working on it. The rep said they don't have a list, and I should call back every two weeks to get an update. I'm still torn as to whether I'll return it and try my luck with a new one, or just wait for a fix (I do also have the CC 5-year service plan). I'm definitely not switching TV's though.

I have a couple of questions you may know:

1. Is there a way to switch inputs without scrolling them? I.e., I want to program my Sony remote to go to a certain input when I push a certain button (as opposed to pusing one button and having to scroll through them all). I know I may be asking about "discrete codes".

2. I have the HD cable hooked up through the 3 component inputs - would the DVI input give me a better picture? I can't imagine getting better than what I've got now, but if it can, I'd be pretty happy.

3. Is there a good, simple website that explains the 16:9 aspect ratio? I expected widescreen DVD's to fill the picture completely, but when that didn't happen, I realized that it shouldn't have to begin with and that I need a refresher course on that stuff.

Thanks again for everything (especially this board).

Well Larry, there's no way you can jump from one channel to another without scrolling thru them, but has it occure to you that you can simpily punch in the channel number on the remote to get there?

Secondly, unless you have really bad component cable, switching from that to DVI wouldn't give you too much of an improvement, some people will tell you otherwise, but I for one couldn't tell the difference.

Last but not least, you don't really need to read up on the technicality of aspect rations. Just rememebr, there are 2 type of ration that's both consider "widescreen", one is 1.8X to 1, the other is 2.3X to 1 (sorry about the "X" at work right now and am too lazy to check out the exact number) The first one will fill your screen completely, and the second one won't. Since pretty much if not all movies are film and play at the theather at 2.3X, I would rather see that on my TV rather them have details cut off on both side just to fit the screen to full.

Just remember, there's NO SCREEN BURN with DLP
:-) you don't have to worry about the bars on the side of the TV like RPTV user does.

I have purchased a 43 inch samsung dlp. I have not noticed any prblems with audio sync but I have had problems turning the t.v. on.

Sometimes when I try to turn it on it goes through its warm up but then the picture doesnt come and and it shuts off and resets itself. It will happen three times then all three lights on the front will blink. You have to unplug the T.V. to reset it and try again. Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesnt.

I have noticed some other people have had the same problem. Actually this is my second T.V. because I bought it from ABT and they replaced the T.V. once already.

I've had three HLN507W sets, all with the same audio sync problem. My retailer is willing to work with me to solve this problem, but it has been frustrating to say the least. Samsung told me today that a resolution is still not determined, but I see previous posts suggest that a problem has been made and will be rolled out soon. Does anyone know if this is true?

I recently purchased the 50 inch samsung DLP. Can someone advise me about the connection of tv/hometheatre /av receiver/dvd player and dish satellite receiver, as I tried but I couldn't get the dish satellite channels hooked up to the home theatre sysyem. I really appreciate the help.
thanks. I bought all the monster cables but unfortunately I was not able to get good connection. Only DVD player is working fine with the home theatre but the Dish channels only have TV sound. please advise

I recently purchased the 50 inch samsung DLP. Can someone advise me about the connection of tv/hometheatre /av receiver/dvd player and dish satellite receiver, as I tried but I couldn't get the dish satellite channels hooked up to the home theatre sysyem.I have dvd/vcr combo player. I really appreciate the help.
thanks. I bought all the monster cables but unfortunately I was not able to get good connection. Only DVD player is working fine with the home theatre but the Dish channels and vcr only have TV sound. please advise

I was at Fry's today and they said that Samsung is no longer using Furuji chips because they want Samsung to pay a big royalty. The Fry's salesman said that Samsubg is now using a generic chip and the picture quality is a bit less sharp.
What's the story?

If I was reading this and looking for info and trying to decide which TV to choose I wouldnt go samsung. My dam TV wont even turn on half the time. I have seen other people having the same problems in this thread and I am on my second TV now.

All the talk about HLM vs. HLN vs. HLP seem to assume that newer is always better. But more often new models are brought out because they are cheaper to make, thus improving manufacturers profit margins. And that does not always translate into technological advances. As an example, I bought a very early model stereo VCR when TV BTSC stereo first came out (yes, I am old enough!). It used some dozen off-the shelf chips to process the stereo, whereas modern TVs and VCRs can do it with a single custom one. But the stereo separation and sound quality of the old one leave most new ones in the dust.

Eric,

Thanks for your answers above! That first question refers to "inputs", not "channels". That is, can I change from Cable 1 to DVI input without having to first scroll through COMPONENT 1, COMPONENT 2, etc.?

Also, I did purchase a DVI cable to try it out -- I had Monster Component Cables before, so they weren't bad, but I still want to check out the DVI input. I hooked it all up and got a message saying "Your TV doesn't support HDXX" (I forgot what letters the "X's" were). I assume the Sammy supports everything, so is this just some setting I need to adjust? I have Charter Cable HD, if that's relevant.

Once again, thanks for everything.

Larry:

Tough luck buddy, you really do have to scroll one by one. If it is of any consolation, you can scroll upwards and wrap around! :-) I do that all the time from Cable to DVI or PC with just 1 scroll.

By the way, I hope you didn't buy those 100 bucks monster cable. DVI is an all digital medium, signal either gets there or it doesn't. Unlike all others (like component) $10 DVI cable are just as good 100% as the $100 monster one.

About your TV saying it doesn't support HDMI, that's strange. I brought this TV myself because it supports it. (although I have nothing that has HDMI yet) It is rumor that HD-DVD players will require HDMI ... this is very distrubing indeed. Do all of us a favor and try to figure that out with your cable company and with sammy, can you? Would REALLY love to know this one.

Larry:

Tough luck buddy, you really do have to scroll one by one. If it is of any consolation, you can scroll upwards and wrap around! :-) I do that all the time from Cable to DVI or PC with just 1 scroll.

By the way, I hope you didn't buy those 100 bucks monster cable. DVI is an all digital medium, signal either gets there or it doesn't. Unlike all others (like component) $10 DVI cable are just as good 100% as the $100 monster one.

About your TV saying it doesn't support HDMI, that's strange. I brought this TV myself because it supports it. (although I have nothing that has HDMI yet) It is rumor that HD-DVD players will require HDMI ... this is very distrubing indeed. Do all of us a favor and try to figure that out with your cable company and with sammy, can you? Would REALLY love to know this one.

Larry,
Yes, you certainly can program a remote to jump straight to your desired input without scrolling IF you have firmware 2.11 or later on your HLN-series Samsung DLP. I have firmware 2.09 and all I have are discrete power on/off (no inputs).

For more info (and to find out your firmware version in case you don't already know), Google for "samsung dlp discrete codes" or something similar. HTH.
- Craig

Craig and Eric -

Thanks guys. I did retry the DVI input and it worked beautifully (except I did unknowingly fork out $99 for the Monster Cable). I think before, I had both the DVI and the component plugged in at the same time, which may have caused the error message(?).

Anyway, I am currently learning about discrete codes (www.remotecentral.com) so I can program my Sony RM-AV3000 to go directly to the inputs (if I have firmware 2.11 or later). I have to check my firmware version when I get home, again. I did check it last night and wrote down "T-DLPGVE03_1017", but I have a feeling I was on the wrong page.

I think that's it for my questions for now. Thanks a lot guys.

I checked it out and my firmware version is in fact "T-DLPGV03_1017"

Anyone know if that's good, bad, or indifferent?

Hi, newby here. Just purchased the HLN437W on Friday, 5/7/04. Noticed the A/V sync problem today at 1 pm PDT, the Laker-Spurs game on ABC and the PBS feed. Called the Samsung folks and the tech said this is a problem with the network feeds, not the monitors. DLP sets are extremely sensitive to these type things, and he mentioned the networks involved expect to have their equipment upgraded in two years to eliminate the problem. I believe him because when the commercial breaks hit during the game, there is absolutely no sync problem. Hope this helps! BTW, the picture is awesome, I think I will be watching a lot more movies from now on!

Craig:
Trying hard to love my 43/DLP. It definately has potential!
1) Have Comcast, motorola box.
2) The HD channels occasionally (usually) have a flickering line at the top of the display. Very annoying.
3) Bought DVI cable to see if it improved #2. (yes, $100. I know, I know). Get a 'Mode Not Supported' error when I switch to DVI.

Before I start making calls, in your opinion, how much of this is sammy, how much is comcast? (I'm assuming they will point at each other....)

why can't I control my Samsung 43" dlp with an IR blaster.

Dave: Comcast is likely to be the source of most, if not all, of your problems. Sounds like their HD feed or signal is poor -- have you tried other sources on those inputs to compare? Also sounds like the DVI port on your STB is either finicky (it needs to output to a certain format, such as 1080i) or disabled. I'd have a long chat with Comcast tech support. G'luck!
- Craig

Al,

I don't believe the audio/video sync problem is because of the network feed. I had the HLN437W1 and returned it after 3 weeks because of the audio/video sync problem.

I am now waiting for the HLP models. (Does anyone have any new info on when the HLP models are coming??)

The reasons I don't believe it's a network feed problem are:

- If you look at other posts and forums, you'll see this problem is relatively new. If it was a network feed problem, why haven't people been complaining about this when the first HLM models came out years ago??

- I experienced the audio/video sync problem while watching standard TV AND DVD's. It can't be a network feed problem if it happened during an ENTIRE DVD movie!

- Some forums say that Samsung has found a fix and they are sending out a service tech to replace the boards on the bad TV’s...

If I were you, I'd call Samsung back ASAP and talk to someone else and get a service tech out there to fix your TV.

-Mike

I am interested in buying this new Samsung TV with the XHD3 chip. However, after reading about the sync problem with samsung I am a bit concerned. Anyway, I've decide to wait for the new Samsung to be released. Any info on the release date? BTW, anyone know anything about Sony and the release date of the Kdf-60xs955? It is the new version of the kdf-60XBR950. Either way when purchasing time comes I will have to decide between The Samsung or the Sony! If you could provide me with any info about either of these 2 sets it would be greatly appreciated....Thanks Menexxus

Mike,

Appreciate your comments. If the DVD is having sync problems, then it has to be in the set. Today, we had no sync problems at all with ABC, PBS, or Fox (Standard TV signals). My HD cable box will be hooked up on Wednesday, so I will wait until after then to see what is happening. I'm planning on using my DVD tomorrow, hopefully no sync problems will occur. If I experience it again, and if it occurs with DVD, Samsung will hear about it. FYI, have you seen this URL? It discusses the sync problem and blames it on the source also. Maybe Samsung is doing this because they really don't have a viable fix.

http://www.digiupdate.com/P001_Interview_Steve_Panosian_HLNW1.html

I bought the 50" Samsung DLP a little over a month ago and just like everyone else I was amazed and just sat back and stared at it for hours.

BUT....about a week ago the picture started looking a little funny. Especially with reds and flesh tone colors. It looks kind of fuzzy. Almost like an effect (don't know how else to describe it) that my sony handycam offers. Now it is getting really bad and I'm not sure what this means. Is something going bad in it? I think I'm going to take it back.

At first I thought it might just be the crappy signal I was getting from Comcast, but I checked out a DVD and got the same result.

Please if anyone knows anything about this I'd appreciate any help.

Thanks

The new Sammys are out in Europe. They should be in the USA very soon. About 3 inches slimmer. Hope the sinc problem is fixed

The new Sammys are out in Europe. They should be in the USA very soon. About 3 inches slimmer. Hope the sinc problem is fixed

Hey there everyone - just found these forums although i have been reading http://www.avsforum.com a lot. Anyway - i am in process of exchanging my Hitachi 50V500 (50" LCD RPTV) for a 56" Sammy Tantus. (Hitachi has too few inputs - great TV though)

Anyway - in reading literally hundreds of posts on the Sammy DLP's i have noticed one thing - quite a few of the A/V synch problems seem to be on Comcast. Not saying there isn't a genuine set issue either - if you're seeing it in DVD's - but something to think about.

Had my Cox HD box hooked up today to my HLN437W1..all I can say is the high-def picture is unbelievable. One of the stations we have is the San Diego Padres HD channel, saw the Padre-Reds game, amazing color, sound, everything. Haven't had the sync problem in days, not too worried about it. The HD picture is just too damn good with this set.

how much is the bulb really....i work at sears and our warranty wont cover the bulb.....i first heard it was 500 dollars....250 is still high but only half of 500 so it seems a little better...is that how much the bulb is

how much is the bulb really....i work at sears and our warranty wont cover the bulb.....i first heard it was 500 dollars....250 is still high but only half of 500 so it seems a little better...is that how much the bulb is

Great site! I"m ready to move back to my fire ravenged house(ca) and thought I found the perfect TV 50" samsung DLP. But after reading all this I'm not so sure. Would any of you that have purchased these sets or similar, do so again if given the choice? Also I find this TV $1000 cheaper on the internet. Anyone have any experience doing this? Good Idea or bad. Thanks to all that reply

Bart, I would do so again in a heart beat, no buyer's remorse here.

I have the HLN617W set, and strangely, with all the forum reading I have done, NO one seem to have syn trouble of any sort with the 61" set! Aside, bigger is better :-) right?

Word of advice, don't buy from internet, this is not a camera that you plan to use for as long as the next model or 2. Buy from circuitcity as they have the best warrenty around (they cover the bulb also, and THREE service calls in which they find real trouble get you a new TV). Don't ever buy 2 year warrenty, go for 4 and pay that $599, you will sleep much easier knowing.

This TV started my whole Audio/Video/HTPC/Automation pilgrimage, and I am most pleasured for being next gods' ears.

Ditto what Eric said...totally. I love my HLN-437W every time I sit down to watch, ESPECIALLY when I pop in a DVD or tune in some HD material. Do I wish some things were different? Sure...i wish it started immediately like our old tube set did and I wish I had discrete remote commands (the new ones do), but I'd still buy this exact same set today...no question. And yes, definitely buy locally in case there is a problem.

Sometimes my DLP tv just cycles on and off and the sounds works but the picture wont come on does any one know how to fix this problem?

I have a 50" DLP Samsung and Have had a new problem with the TV. When I'm watching the TV the picture goes away and the image is still on the screen but it is like "etch a sketch" and in black and white just got it back from repairs had the engine drive replaced. Does anybody know what the heck causes this.Unit still under warranty

Does anybody use this site anymore

Which site, William...this one (GearBits)? Um, yes? :-)

If you don't get a response to your question, it could be because no one knows the answer.

I just read through all the comments, which seem to be mostly from 2004. We bought the Samsung HNL507WX DLP 50" from Good Guys, April 2004. I have two questions: 1) The TV (Adelphia Cable) is breaking up, but DVD's work fine. 2) My husband thinks it's better to leave the TV on when no one is watching it, rather than turning it off and on frequently, to save wear & tear on the projection light. Can anyone answer?
Thanks,
Lesley
Please respond to Ldrich2001@yahoo.com

Lesley, I've no idea about #1, but for #2, I would definitely turn off the TV on when not watching it for more than 20 or 30 minutes. Even if the screen is black/dark, the projection lamp is _on_ the entire time. Since replacing the lamp costs $200-$300 or so, and they only 5-8 thousand hours of usable life in each, you'll end up replacing it much more frequently than if you turn the TV off when not using it. Cycling of the bulb is less likely to lead to burn out than is usage (on time), at least that's what I've read.

HLM 4365w needs a lamp. Anyone out there can tell me how the upper cover comes off???

Mick, no need to remove the upper cover -- the light assembly slides out the door covered by a panel that can be removed with a single screw (IIRC).

I have a Samsung hln5065w and I went to turn in on the other day.. and the green lights in the front come on and everything but I get NO picture... what could the problem be?

Dan, ours has done this a few times, too. First, try unplugging the unit, wait 30 seconds, and then plug it back in. That usually works for us. If that does not work, and the blinking lights match the pattern in your manual indicating that your bulb is out, then it's time to get a new bulb. Hope that helps.

No, I left it unplugged for almost a day... and it still does the same thing.

I do not have the manual as I just purchased the TV a few weeks ago... I was wondering if it could be anything else, or if it is just a bulb...

Just wondering if you had any hunch of what it could be... or should I just have a TV guy take a look.

Thanks for your help!

Dan, the manual should have come with the TV in the box...or did you buy this off a guy on a street corner? As I said, your bulb is probably out, so unless you feel adventurous, having a "TV guy" look at it is probably your safest bet.

Craig,

I didn't buy if off a guy on the street, however I didn't buy it at Circuit City either.

You know the first thing people lose is the manual... It sucks... but nothing I can do.

Is this typically what happens when a bulb goes out? If so... is it difficult to change the bulb? Where is the best place to get a bulb?

Thanks for all your help.

I tried changing our bulb, but I ended up buying the wrong one (in advance...figured I'd be prepared, but ended up eating $45 even after selling it on ebay), so unless you're adventurous and have some time on your hands, I would recommend getting a service guy to check it out and make sure you're getting the right bulb. If it _is_ the bulb, and the guy doesn't have one in the truck, you may be looking at a 2-to-4-week wait on a new one. Just preparing you for the worst. BTW, on my set, when the bulb blows, all three green lights blink in unison. I think.

I am thinking about buying a DLP 50" or so. Can anyone tell me which brand is best and what is all the talk about bulbs? How many are there and what is the cost? Sounds like everyone should buy an extended warranty plus bulb warranty if there is one.

Need some help guys / gals.

Thanks

Tommy D

I would never again buy a Samsung DLP tv.On june 30 2004 I bought a 46 inch TANTUS model DLP from a very reputable Audeo/Video dealer.Witin 9 months the colour wheel and sound board/module had to be replaced.Then again in march 2006 the colour wheel motor,digital PCB and video PCB were repaired?replaced.In march 2007 the digital I.C. had to be repaired/replaced.And now in september 2007 the unit again died!Plus for the last 2 repairs Samsung tried to disavow any responsibility for on the 3 year waranty on the tantus model.Also repairs take 3-4 weeks for parts delivery. This week one service rep even tried to tell me that "yes there is a 3 yr waranty on my TV but only 2 yrs on parts and labour!"???What?? He cvouldn't explain what the third yr covers! They basically told me that im SOL and to go away.
I now own a 55 inch Hitachi plasma from very reputable video(not Future Shop/best Buy,Cuircut City) and while looking was told by several places that Samsung has been droprd by them or will be in the near future.
If you want the best unit get #1 Pioneer
#2 Panasonic
#3 Hitachi
Song does not make plasma as they are concentrating only on LCDs.

We purchased a 61 Samsung TV Model HLN617W May 2004 from Circuit City with an extended warranty which expires 4/08. We've replaced the lamp and the color wheel (covered by warranty). However, they are making another trip here next week because the TV randomly shuts off when it feels like it. This has been a recurring problem. Any insight? Is this a common problem.

I bought a Samsung 50" DLP TV in April of 2006. I have no problems with it until this past week, when a tech told me that the Digital circuit board needs to be replaced. I chose not to buy the extended warranty (shame on me). I find it hard to believe that a 2500 TV with bulbs that need to be repalced every 2500 or so hours can not have a main curcuit board last as long as a bulb!! I will NEVER buy a Samsung TV again, and I can not a will not say anything good about them again.

I purchased a Samsung tv HLS5086 DLP 18 months ago about a week ago I started to see black and white dots about 2 of them now there is over 35. Black dots turn white. Any idea what the problem is? I tried to find info here but no one seems to have this problem. Sure hope someone can help.

I have a Samsung HLM5065W that is out of warranty. It works fine for 20 seconds, then the lamp goes out and the three blinking lights come on. The lamp has less than 1,000 hours. How can I tell if the new lamp is bad already, or if it is a bad ballast, power supply, or something else? TIA, Bob

I have a 2 year old Samsung 46" DLP and experiencing white dots on the screen, 6 or 7 of them. Started out with only one dot. Have you heard of this problem before and what to do. Thanks

I have a 18 months SAMSUNG DLP TV 42" few days a go there was 3 horrizontal lines accross the screen(red,blue and green)an engineer came to have a look at it but he he open it he found a capacitor of 2200mf was blown wiht a big cracked on top of it.Please i need your help what to do or who to call to fix it URGENT.Thank you.Meech

I have a 50 in DLP Samsung and just lost the pix after playing a defective DVD. I only get spckled screen now. I have a newer bulb so that is okay and the model is HLR 5078
Any ideas how to get the pix back. Sound is fine.

I bought the Samsung DLP exactly 3 years ago. The TV started not powering up. It would make the noise as if it was turning on then would shut off and the red Stand by light would come on. The TV would continue to do this and not turn on. We would still have sound. We finally called the TV repair guy and they stated that it was the Power supply that failed. We had this repaired to the tune of $711.....they did give us a 90 day warranty. Now..we have had the TV back just 1 week and the same issue!!! Has anyone else had this problem and what was your experience???? I will not continue to put money into this TV for repair but almost hate to give up on it because of all the money that we have sank into it already...any advice or similar problems???

Ive got a(4 yr old) 46" samsung DLP tv and a couple days ago it started having lines vertically on the screen. Any ideas what's going on?

Samsung? No!

Bought my Samsung DLP TV 4 years ago. Already crapped out. $600 to fix it. They certainly don't make them like they use to!