Know your ISP.

User #79501   4381 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

Continues on from
/forum-replies.cfm?t=944426

I think 43 pages is more than enough for one thread.

posted 2008-Aug-1, 11am AEST
User #130027   4243 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

These things must be bloody popular! 1 month in and i'm still thrilled with my 42" 80A! It has a noticably better picture than my brothers Samsung too.

posted 2008-Aug-1, 11am AEST
User #95868   282 posts
Forum Regular

i_like_chicken writes...

noticably better picture than my brothers Samsung too.

Do you know what model Samsung it is?

posted 2008-Aug-1, 11am AEST
User #130027   4243 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

Mudwiggle writes...

Do you know what model Samsung it is?

To be fair, it is last years model, but the difference is huge!

Although, I did compare the Panas to the new Sammys in store and to me the Panasonics were still ahead.

posted 2008-Aug-1, 11am AEST
User #240416   16 posts
Participant

i noticed the sammys have a graining issue(4series) when watching blu-rays as compared to the Vierra series, was wondering if this issue exists when playing ps3 games? are there any noticeable differences between the 4 series and Vierra series in terms of games?

posted 2008-Aug-1, 12pm AEST
User #49350   3285 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

I just rang panasonic promotion department regarding to the swim2win prize. I was told the prize will be delivered around 28-35 days after panasonic receiving and validating the claim.

posted 2008-Aug-1, 2pm AEST
User #151544   792 posts
Whirlpool Enthusiast

h4vok writes...

i noticed the sammys have a graining issue(4series) when watching blu-rays as compared to the Vierra series

TBH I've seen the graining on a BR playing on a 50" 800A. I think you need to make sure that the Panel has been set up properly in the store. I'm not sure if this caused it, but I did notice that it was set to 'zoom' to take out the letter box black stripes. Dunno...

posted 2008-Aug-1, 3pm AEST
User #170128   2133 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

Blimey, 43 pages.

I've settled on getting a TH-50PX80A. Apparently you can get it as cheap as $1500 but I doubt it. I'm expecting to get it for hopefully $1600-1700.

I haven't seen many reviews for the 50PX80A though, anyone aware of any?
Those who have one, what do you think of it?

posted 2008-Aug-1, 3pm AEST
User #204497   329 posts
Forum Regular

Mr FienD writes...

TBH I've seen the graining on a BR playing on a 50" 800A.

Aren't some films 'grainy' as part of there visual style??? Also, i believe some early blu ray transfers were poor.

posted 2008-Aug-1, 4pm AEST
User #203345   80 posts
Forum Regular

I believe you are totally correct. The only "grainy on purpose" film I can think of is 300 though? Some older films arent filmed with todays tech so you don't get that HD look and quality. I got about 45 blurays and some are comparable, but slightly better, to DVD but the newer ones blow them out of the water.

Could be something simple, connected by HDMI?

posted 2008-Aug-1, 4pm AEST
User #53679   13929 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

Aggregate writes...

I just rang panasonic promotion department regarding to the swim2win prize. I was told the prize will be delivered around 28-35 days after panasonic receiving and validating the claim.

thanks for that reminder – two more weeks to go as I posted my claim two weeks ago :)

posted 2008-Aug-1, 8pm AEST
User #196509   592 posts
Whirlpool Enthusiast

We need to start a thread where people can donate receipts so they have bargaining power. would be cool

posted 2008-Aug-1, 8pm AEST
User #27113   586 posts
Whirlpool Enthusiast

mazzarx
there are some people who have emailed receipts on the dtvforums

posted 2008-Aug-1, 8pm AEST
User #196509   592 posts
Whirlpool Enthusiast

larry1 writes...

mazzarx
there are some people who have emailed receipts on the dtvforums

CHeers

posted 2008-Aug-1, 9pm AEST
User #57721   15 posts
Forum Regular

Just got back from good guys frankston having done a deal for th50pz800a for $2600 + $209 (4 year extended warranty) + $35 delivery.

Cant wait for it to be delivered this Wednesday.

I managed to also win the Lumix camera (should keep the wife happy)

posted 2008-Aug-3, 3pm AEST
User #141151   1933 posts
Whirlpool Enthusiast

just bought a 46pz800a +3yr warranty for $2300

posted 2008-Aug-3, 4pm AEST
User #170128   2133 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

boedz writes...

just bought a 46pz800a +3yr warranty for $2300

nice price.. friend of mine at good guys told me the cost price was $2400 or so

posted 2008-Aug-3, 4pm AEST
User #141151   1933 posts
Whirlpool Enthusiast

jazzyjeff writes...

nice price.. friend of mine at good guys told me the cost price was $2400 or so

thanks :). it was a staff price (work at warehouse in a retail store)

posted 2008-Aug-3, 4pm AEST
User #238309   104 posts
Participant

Today I went to 3 places and they pretty much all gave me a similar price for the Panasonic TH42PZ800A with just 1 year warranty and retails for $2599, didn't haggle cause I was just interested in finding how low they could go paying cash, so here are my results;

- Clive Peters = $2150
- Good Guys = $2120
- Bing Lee = $2140

posted 2008-Aug-3, 4pm AEST
edited 2008-Aug-3, 4pm AEST
User #53679   13929 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

boedz writes...

just bought a 46pz800a +3yr warranty for $2300

excellent price – its a great size for that plasma -I am loving it as watching the V8 supercars right now

posted 2008-Aug-3, 5pm AEST
User #170128   2133 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

Destroyerz writes...

Today I went to 3 places and they pretty much all gave me a similar price for the Panasonic TH42PZ800A with just 1 year warranty and retails for $2599

Wow... There is just no way I would pay an extra $1000 just to go 720p to 1080p on a 42" screen.

posted 2008-Aug-3, 5pm AEST
User #53679   13929 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

jazzyjeff writes...

Wow... There is just no way I would pay an extra $1000 just to go 720p to 1080p on a 42" screen.

its a nice plasma – what model 720p plasma you comparing it to? PX70a/80a or PZ800 series

posted 2008-Aug-3, 5pm AEST
edited 2008-Aug-3, 5pm AEST
User #170128   2133 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

PX8A....

720p for $1350-1500 or 1080p for $2150-2400?

posted 2008-Aug-3, 5pm AEST
User #53679   13929 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

jazzyjeff writes...

PX8A....

720p for $1350-1500 or 1080p for $2150-2400?

no wonder – the PZ800 series is much nicer IMHO due to higher contrast ratio

posted 2008-Aug-3, 5pm AEST
edited 2008-Aug-3, 5pm AEST
User #236398   185 posts
Participant

Received my portable DVD player from swim to win on Friday.
Took one month almost exactly...

posted 2008-Aug-3, 8pm AEST
User #141151   1933 posts
Whirlpool Enthusiast

just set up the tele. looks BEAUTTTTTTTTTTTTTIFUL (th46pz800a).
i have never been so amazed at a tv. looks alot better than the ones setup in the stores.
my dad got blown away by the quality of a black and white movie lol. we love it.

posted 2008-Aug-3, 9pm AEST
User #53679   13929 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

boedz writes...

just set up the tele. looks BEAUTTTTTTTTTTTTTIFUL (th46pz800a).
i have never been so amazed at a tv. looks alot better than the ones setup in the stores.
my dad got blown away by the quality of a black and white movie lol. we love it.

its a great plasma – we are still blown away by it too – my young son loves watching ABC kids

posted 2008-Aug-3, 9pm AEST
User #203345   80 posts
Forum Regular

720p is great... for people who like watching SD...

posted 2008-Aug-3, 9pm AEST
User #186579   73 posts
Forum Regular

dalemissen writes...

720p is great... for people who like watching SD...

What a silly thing to say...

Check your Facts

posted 2008-Aug-3, 10pm AEST
User #36352   246 posts
Forum Regular

dalemissen writes...

720p is great... for people who like watching SD...

Fact is -as far as Television is concerned, not a lot of program material transmitted on HD channels is actually HD anyway!

Sure stuff gets transmitted on HD channels, but a significant amount of it is SD that's simply been upscaled!
-Either that or is from dubious sources of poor quality.

And not much 5.1 surround sound either.

And BTW: 720p IS NOT classed as SD.

posted 2008-Aug-3, 10pm AEST
User #109521   600 posts
Whirlpool Enthusiast

After entering the swim2win promo around the 29th June, I received one of the prizes via registered post on Fri 1 Aug.

Got the SD Video Camera – is a nice small unit, but why the hell it does not come with a lens cover is absolutely beyond me.

Still havent got the other prize we won (the cheapo camera), and still havent won the major prize.

posted 2008-Aug-3, 11pm AEST
User #203345   80 posts
Forum Regular

Sorry, was a quick post as I was busy at the time.
I didn't mean it is a SD resolution, but I have a rather large BluRay collection and there is no way I would downscale a 1080p source to a 720p display, just isn't the same. Some people don't mind it, but the PQ is so much more sharper and able to display the pic at natural resolution.

therefore, I wrote the above post. But I admit I was wrong, HD tv is a prime example.

I should of said if you weren't watching a full HD source, 720p are great. I wasn't being sarcastic. just had to post quick. I would choose a 720p set if i were only using it to watch FTA and even paytv. Better dollar value.

Sorry if I offended anyone... Next time will try to explain self bit better.. ;)

posted 2008-Aug-4, 3am AEST
User #170128   2133 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

dalemissen writes...

I have a rather large BluRay collection

wow, I knew someone had to be buying them...

posted 2008-Aug-4, 8am AEST
User #53679   13929 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

ssar writes...

still havent won the major prize

check the panasonic website – the list the names of the daily prize winners

posted 2008-Aug-4, 8am AEST
User #151544   792 posts
Whirlpool Enthusiast

Well I just spent about and hour and a half in Hardly Normal yesterday monkeying around with the 46" 800a... This model is DEFINATELY for me (dunno whether to go for the 46" or 50" yet).

Although the colors are quite muted when not on 'Dynamic' Mode, I think that's just a subjective error you get in the store (ie. get it home and away from all the other panels and the colors would look fine!). Watched a DVD of 'Hero' and the quality of picture was exceptional for a non HD source. Also hooked up BR of 'Van Helsing' and again was impressed.

The only let down, IMO, is SD FTA... Although it seems that this is a problem with all 1080p panels. In particular the footy (which I watch regularly) is pretty good for close in shots, but wider angle shots are fairly poor. I suppose all I can hope is that they start transmitting Footy in HD soon!

So... Nearly finished painting the spare bedroom... Next is the Living room, and then it's time for my new 'precioussssssss'!!!!!! (with the blessing of SWMBO!!!!) :D

posted 2008-Aug-4, 9am AEST
User #53679   13929 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

Mr FienD writes...

Although it seems that this is a problem with all 1080p panels. In particular the footy (which I watch regularly) is pretty good for close in shots, but wider angle shots are fairly poor

was the frame technology turned on / off and what picture mode was it set at?

little tweaks make all the difference as well good quality quad shield cables

posted 2008-Aug-4, 10am AEST
edited 2008-Aug-4, 10am AEST
User #141151   1933 posts
Whirlpool Enthusiast

Bionic Wombat writes...

was the frame technology turned on / off

where's that option?
i found one little 'issue' while watching F1 last night.
when the cars were driving and the camera lost them from view for half a second and they reappeared from the trees, u could see them kinda warp back into the screen. it looked like half the car was there but the rest of the pixels were catching up to it.
other than that its my favourite gadget in the house so far :)

posted 2008-Aug-4, 10am AEST
User #151544   792 posts
Whirlpool Enthusiast

Bionic Wombat writes...

was the frame technology turned on / off and what picture mode was it set at?

little tweaks make all the difference

IFC was turned off. As for Picture mode, it was set to Dynamic, then I changed it to whatever the one that is 50% on Contrast/Brightness. Is there another setting to have a look at?

posted 2008-Aug-4, 10am AEST
User #1408   1302 posts
Whirlpool Enthusiast

Mr FienD writes...

I suppose all I can hope is that they start transmitting Footy in HD soon!

AFL Football is broadcast in HD. Make sure your on the HD channel next time.

posted 2008-Aug-4, 10am AEST
User #53679   13929 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

Mr FienD writes...

then I changed it to whatever the one that is 50% on Contrast/Brightness

you have four picture modes
1. dynamic
2. normal
3. cinema
4. eco

posted 2008-Aug-4, 10am AEST
User #53679   13929 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

boedz writes...

where's that option?

hit the menu function on the remote

select setup – set up menu – ICF on/off

ICF – automatically compensates the picture frame rate to make the image smooth

posted 2008-Aug-4, 10am AEST
User #141151   1933 posts
Whirlpool Enthusiast

Bionic Wombat writes...

hit the menu function on the remote

select setup – set up menu – ICF on/off

ah thanks. was already on.

posted 2008-Aug-4, 10am AEST
User #204497   329 posts
Forum Regular

Turn it OFF!!!! for FTA tv anyway.

posted 2008-Aug-4, 11am AEST
User #151544   792 posts
Whirlpool Enthusiast

Indiana Jones writes...

AFL Football is broadcast in HD.

I don't think it is. At least not on 7/Prime. AFAIK the AFL broadcast on the HD channel is SD.

Make sure your on the HD channel next time.

ROFL... I WAS talking about SD transmission in general, with the footy being my example. Regardless of whether the footy is or isn't broadcast in HD, the SD performance of the panel was my only concern... But as I said, I think you'll probably have this problem with any large HD panel.

Thank you for your help though.

posted 2008-Aug-4, 11am AEST
User #194938   40 posts
Forum Regular

Hi all, just need a few opinions on pricing for a 50'pana plasma 700 1080 full HD (can get for $2400 incl 3 year warranty) or 50' pana plasma 800 1080 full HD (can get for $2900 incl 3 year warranty from GG.Is the 800 really that much better ??Thanx.

posted 2008-Aug-4, 6pm AEST
User #53679   13929 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

siberia writes...

Is the 800 really that much better ??Thanx.

look at the specs – better contrast / better sound?? / better looking glass screen / not sure about extra ports here and there and plasma is slimmer / longer panel life 100,000 hours

posted 2008-Aug-4, 7pm AEST
edited 2008-Aug-4, 7pm AEST
User #170128   2133 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

Most reviews have said the changes have been 'evolutionary'... have a look at them side by side if you can and just choose which one you want.

They will be trying to get rid of the 700 so screw them down on price imo... I didn't think there was many left out there.

posted 2008-Aug-4, 7pm AEST
User #109521   600 posts
Whirlpool Enthusiast

Bionic Wombat writes...

check the panasonic website – the list the names of the daily prize winners

Sweet – I have 21 more chances to win the daily prize.
Come on baby!

posted 2008-Aug-4, 11pm AEST
User #9184   5617 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

Just bought my 42" 8A today. Fantastic TV.

Is there any advantage of running my xbox360 at 1080i over 720p?

posted 2008-Aug-4, 11pm AEST
User #54246   176 posts
Forum Regular

I have the TH-50PZ800A as of 1 week ago and it is a stunning screen.

Admittedly, I was upgrading from a 'large' Sony CRT, but night and day. This thing is phenomenal!

Paid $2900 with full extended warranty

posted 2008-Aug-5, 12am AEST
User #36   10794 posts
Admin / News Editor

Must.. resist.. TH-50PZ800A ..

I've been getting the impression that some people think the 800A's handling of SD upscaling is worse than the 700A.. or am I totally wrong there?

From what I've seen of my parent's 700A, the upscaling is great.

posted 2008-Aug-5, 12am AEST
User #92240   2019 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

castleman writes...

I have the TH-50PZ800A as of 1 week ago and it is a stunning screen.

One of the Cnet reviews noted on the PZ800U;

"We tested the Panasonic's "24p direct in" mode by setting it to 48Hz and switching our PS3 to 1080p/24 mode. After doing so, the first thing we noticed was significant flicker, which was most obvious in brighter areas of the picture, such as the overcast sky or sun-scorched desert hardpan, but was present throughout. The flicker made the image basically unwatchable, and we much preferred the look of standard 60Hz mode. If it weren't for the flicker, however, the 24p mode would be great, because it did make movement appear more natural, removing the hitching in motion associated with 60Hz's necessary 2:3 pull-down process. We feel most viewers will notice and object to the flicker enough to abandon the 48Hz setting, however. "

Perhaps the U model is unique to the U.S.?

Can anyone confirm the TH-50PZ800A handles 24p movie mode correctly?

From everything else I've read and seen in store the new Viera's are the bee's knees, must check out in store further :)

posted 2008-Aug-5, 1am AEST
edited 2008-Aug-5, 1am AEST
User #238807   17 posts
Participant

Hi all. I came back to tell you how I went. I changed my mind about that TomTom satnav deal with DS powerhouse...

I went to JB Hi-fi in the city (Mel.), here is what it says on the receipt:

$229 – 2yr ext. warranty
$79 – delivery
$119 – HDMI cable
(http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o80/brotherfrancis/DSC04207.jpg)
$89 – surge protector
(http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o80/brotherfrancis/DSC04215.jpg)
$750 – Panasonic SCPT865W (5.1 HT pack)
$50 – optical cable
(http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o80/brotherfrancis/DSC04210.jpg)
$1484 – Panasonic TH-50PX80A

TOTAL = $2800

I have to state that the TV didn't really cost $1484, it was more like I paid $1742 and got the cables and surge protector thrown in for free. Anyway, either way, I paid $2800 for the deal.

Setup:
http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o80/brotherfrancis/DSC04219.jpg
http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o80/brotherfrancis/DSC04228.jpg
http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o80/brotherfrancis/DSC04235.jpg
http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o80/brotherfrancis/DSC04330.jpg
http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o80/brotherfrancis/DSC04236.jpg
http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o80/brotherfrancis/DSC04261.jpg
http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o80/brotherfrancis/DSC04276.jpg

I have done a lot of "amateur" testing (please excuse my inexperience...), watched a couple of DVDs: 300, the Incredibles, Red Hot Chili Peppers: Live at Slane Castle, Futurama: Bender's Big Score, and the Firefly tv series box set. Listened to FM radio, a CD (Radiohead – In Rainbows), and my mp3 player via the USB connection on the DVD player (there is an iPod dock as well...). Watched the footie (Hawks v Pies) as well as the other footie (Storm v Titans)... as well as the other footie on SBS (beach football WC final – Italy v Brazil), as well as the Hungarian Grand Prix (which was obviously shot in SD), and last but not least a podcast and some downloaded HD content via the PC input (Diggnation podcast and the Watchmen 1080p trailer and video journals).

http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o80/brotherfrancis/DSC04244.jpg
http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o80/brotherfrancis/DSC04255.jpg
http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o80/brotherfrancis/DSC04256.jpg
http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o80/brotherfrancis/DSC04314.jpg

I also played various games on the Wii (via component cable): Resident Evil 4, Wii Sports, Wii Play, Pro Evo Soccer.

I even tested a VCD (Shoot 'em Up) and the quality was expectedly shit, it was like watching a pirated cam video – not that I've ever watched pirated cam videos... :p

Amateur test results: so far so good! Didn't spot any flaws except watching the 1080p Watchmen trailer, there was significant/noticable lag but I think that was the graphics card (Nvidia 8600GT) to blame. SD content looked like shit relatively speaking (i.e. the Hungarian Grand Prix), but what do you expect on a freakin' 50" screen from 3.5 metres away? I chose to buy the PX80 over the PZ800 mainly because 1080p is still not mainstream, you need to pay a premium price to have the Full HD experience on comparative screen sizes, my budget was $3000 for plasma + home theatre system, and I don't have a Blu-Ray player.

Let me just say that from an amateur's eyes, it is quite obvious when something is HD or SD: Rove was definitely HD on the TEN HD channel as well as the AFL footie on 7.

I had to go out and buy some cables for the PC input (a VGA cable and a "3.5mm stereo plug to 2 RCA plugs" cable) but everything was easy to setup – almost plug & play (had to play around with the graphics card for clone monitor setup).

And yes, it's 3 a.m. when I posted this... had to wait for the photos to upload. I hope all of you appreciate my amateur review and gain some useful insight. :)

posted 2008-Aug-5, 3am AEST
User #194938   40 posts
Forum Regular

Thanx for advice guys...as soon as i posted my question last night, i was booted off the computer by cyber mum!!
Hence late reply. I will go & purchase the 50' pana plasma 800, to my eyes the picture seems very natural(i'm no expert!!) After seeing my first plasma all those years ago and saying one day...one day. I really can't wait. Will be asking you guys for tips on setting the thing up soon!

posted 2008-Aug-5, 6am AEST
User #204497   329 posts
Forum Regular

brotherfranciz writes...

Setup:

http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o80/brotherfrancis/DSC04219.jpg

When i saw this first photo, i thought you were takin the piss :)

posted 2008-Aug-5, 11am AEST
User #136924   555 posts
Whirlpool Enthusiast

brotherfranciz writes...

I chose to buy the PX80 over the PZ800 mainly because 1080p is still not mainstream

Thanks for that! I just had a great laugh at this quote, hmmm
Otherwise excellent post/info...

posted 2008-Aug-5, 1pm AEST
User #53679   13929 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

brotherfranciz writes...

home theatre system

Panasonic?

posted 2008-Aug-5, 4pm AEST
User #238807   17 posts
Participant

Yeah, I posted the link before but here it is again:

http://panasonic.com.au/products/details.cfm?objectID=4293

I must say though that the Viera Link is a little disappointing. I didn't looked into it too much during my amateur testing, but from what I experienced so far, I still used both remotes – I probably need to read the manual over again... and I have no idea why the TV remote has play/pause/stop buttons at the bottom – they don't seem to work with the HT system.

Also forgot to mention a few things in my review:

The TV came with a microfibre cloth – came in handy when I needed to wipe away the fingerprint smudges on the glossy frame after I lifted the panel into place.

There were also 2 "clampers" provided to tie up the cables at the rear of the TV, I didn't feel like I needed to use them though.

The TV remote is very comfortable to hold, and there are nice chunky buttons for big hands. I love the Info, Aspect, Viera, and TV guide buttons, which give quick access to the most common functions I use. If you press the OK button at the top, you can see a list of all the channels – makes it a lot easier to switch channels – and you can set up to four favourites lists.

You might have noticed from the Diggnation podcast photo that the PC input doesn't fill the entire screen, the TV can only display certain resolutions at certain refresh rates. I looked into this a bit more – turns out I just needed to make the TV my primary display...

The home theatre system came with a nifty "auto speaker setup microphone" that is used to automatically adjust the speaker output levels during the initial setup process. By the way, if any of you are worried about the wireless speakers, they have worked flawlessly so far.

Lastly, as you could tell from one of my photos, I upgraded from a 5 y.o. Sharp 12" LCD to this Panasonic 50" plasma... so my review is completely biased towards positive comments! But since I am a geek, I did conduct a lot of research before whipping out the cash... hopefully it's money well spent. :)

posted 2008-Aug-5, 11pm AEST
User #112985   392 posts
Forum Regular

Gangrene writes...

Just bought my 42" 8A today. Fantastic TV.

Gangrene do you mind me asking what you paid? (And what city you're in?) I'm about to buy one of these. I'm in Toowoomba so probably won't get a deal as good as in a caital city, but it would be handy to have some comparisons. thanks

posted 2008-Aug-5, 11pm AEST
User #9184   5617 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

utedog writes...

Gangrene do you mind me asking what you paid?

I work at JB and paid the ticket price which is 1394 at the moment in the catalogue. The set usually runs for $200 more. You might be able to squeeze another 10 or 20 bucks out of that for cash/credit card, but as I got interest free finance, ticket price right now is cheaper than staff getting cost + markup of the interest free plan to the company.

EDIT: In Melbourne, but the sale is nation wide.

posted 2008-Aug-5, 11pm AEST
edited 2008-Aug-5, 11pm AEST
User #77740   2697 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

Gangrene writes...

I work at JB and paid the ticket price which is 1394 at the moment in the catalogue.

You got ripped , I bought the same one from HN for $1170, no I am not even an employee !!

posted 2008-Aug-6, 12am AEST
User #53679   13929 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

brotherfranciz writes...

I must say though that the Viera Link is a little disappointing. I didn't looked into it too much during my amateur testing, but from what I experienced so far, I still used both remotes – I probably need to read the manual over again... and I have no idea why the TV remote has play/pause/stop buttons at the bottom

once you get the hang of it – it gets easier – I am using the viera link for the panasonic DVD/PVR recorder which is handy having the play / pause / stop buttons on the TV remote

Some functions from the TV remote are not on the DVD remote, nothing major

But beats having two misplaced remotes as my three year son loves hiding the damn things

Read the user manual twice or four times to digest the info and "trial by error"

posted 2008-Aug-6, 7am AEST
edited 2008-Aug-6, 7am AEST
User #107480   769 posts
Whirlpool Enthusiast

brotherfranciz writes...

$750 – Panasonic SCPT865W (5.1 HT pack)

Hi Brotherfranciz,

How are you finding the Pana HT, can you please share your thoughts on it, I am thinking of buying this as well. Some people have been complaining about a buzz noise coming from the speakers, is that the case with yours too.

posted 2008-Aug-6, 10am AEST
User #9184   5617 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

Davy Jones writes...

You got ripped , I bought the same one from HN for $1170, no I am not even an employee !!

yeh, its shitty that way. Depending on the market, some stores do go under cost price to get sales, and staff get ripped off by the stores own deal. Saved money on accessories, warranty and delivery was free for me. Did you get anything else with it?

posted 2008-Aug-6, 10am AEST
edited 2008-Aug-6, 10am AEST
User #22646   261 posts
Forum Regular

Davy Jones writes...

You got ripped , I bought the same one from HN for $1170, no I am not even an employee !!

It cost me $1150, i ended up getting it through a mate at HN's (he said cost price was $1148), but could get this price ($1150) at dse and the good guys. Its just a bit of bargaining that needs to be done, 1200+ seems expensive. Awesome tv for its price though

posted 2008-Aug-6, 11am AEST
User #54246   176 posts
Forum Regular

Kujayee writes...

How are you finding the Pana HT, can you please share your thoughts on it, I am thinking of buying this as well. Some people have been complaining about a buzz noise coming from the speakers, is that the case with yours too.

Bought this HT as part of the Panasonic buy-up. I have HDMI out to plasma (TH-50PZ800A) for DVD playback and digital optical in from plasma (and via connection, blu ray recorder DMR-BW500).

I've not noticed any hum from speakers, in fact with real central sound set ON and the audio problem from the DMR-BW500 sorted (/forum-replies.cfm?t=1025655) it is superb!

Olympics ready!

posted 2008-Aug-6, 12pm AEST
User #107480   769 posts
Whirlpool Enthusiast

castleman writes...

["Bought this HT as part of the Panasonic buy-up"

Do you mind telling me how much you paid for it? and what is the best price around?

posted 2008-Aug-6, 12pm AEST
User #54246   176 posts
Forum Regular

Kujayee writes...

Do you mind telling me how much you paid for it? and what is the best price around?

I don't mind, although bear in mind this was part of a deal with the other Panasonic gear I bought together, just over $6K.

I paid $880 for the SC-PT865W including a 5yr extended warranty, from HN Adelaide (Enfield). I've seen the unit on shopbot for $789 standalone.

posted 2008-Aug-6, 1pm AEST
User #115891   660 posts
Whirlpool Enthusiast

castleman writes...

I have the TH-50PZ800A as of 1 week ago and it is a stunning screen.

With 4 years warranty: $2699:

http://www.dtvforum.info/index.php?showtopic=68182&view=findpost&p=1128858

BH

posted 2008-Aug-6, 2pm AEST
User #54246   176 posts
Forum Regular

BanHien writes...

With 4 years warranty: $2699:

Have seen this – after the purchase (of course).

Still happy at the price I paid, did some sweet deals on HDMI, optical and RF cables, and a surge unit.

These will always get cheaper – just got to be happy at the point of sale – I was!

posted 2008-Aug-6, 2pm AEST
User #107480   769 posts
Whirlpool Enthusiast

castleman writes...

I paid $880 for the SC-PT865W including a 5yr extended warranty, from HN Adelaide (Enfield). I've seen the unit on shopbot for $789 standalone.

I bought a Panasonic tv for a friend from HN a few weeks ago and I will go back and see the same sales guy to see if he can give me a better deal.

I have also been looking at the models below this which can be had for around $500 or a bit more, I am not too sure whether or not it's worth paying the $800 or so for this particular model.

posted 2008-Aug-6, 2pm AEST
User #92240   2019 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

I just went down for a good look at the new 50PZ800A and I had a revelation.

Beside the 800 was a TH-50PX80A (the 720p) model. I asked to see some hi-def content and they put on that LG demo disk, you probably know the one seaside scenes, still life (static images of flowers and stuff) – I think its 1080p?

For the life of me I could not see better image resolving quality with the 800. In fact the TH-50PX80A looked BETTER!!!

I intend to use the screen with a HTPC so I guess 1920X1080 would look better but jees at almost twice the price and 90% of the time I'll be watching tv or movies?

I'm a big fan of Full HD but on a 50" from 2.5m can you even see a difference?

The TH-50PX80A looked fantastic, this has really confused me. Has anyone seen same brands/ different resolutions side by side? Could you see a difference?

posted 2008-Aug-6, 2pm AEST
User #151544   792 posts
Whirlpool Enthusiast

Don't worry, I've seen the same thing!!

The contrast, blacks and colors on the PX80a seem to be a bit better than the 800a IMO. It's just a matter of setting it up in the shop how you'd have it at home (specifically seating distances and different sources) and seeing which one looks better TO YOU!! of course there is that little thing called money as well!!! :)

posted 2008-Aug-6, 3pm AEST
User #92240   2019 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

Mr FienD writes...

The contrast, blacks and colors on the PX80a seem to be a bit better than the 800a IMO.

I'm glad I'm not the only one that thought this. With some adjustment I got the 800A looking better but it still didn't look quite as 'pretty' as the 80A.

of course there is that little thing called money as well!!! :)

Indeed, I suppose I'm trying to ignore that for now because I was so impressed with the 80A even if they were the same price I would pick the 80A – but surely it could be that simple.

I think more source material in store and further eyeballing will be required :)

posted 2008-Aug-6, 3pm AEST
User #172837   534 posts
Whirlpool Enthusiast

hoxygt writes...

For the life of me I could not see better image resolving quality with the 800.

Same here, so I bought the 50PX80, put most of the savings into a nice HD PVR and still had money over :)

posted 2008-Aug-6, 3pm AEST
User #151544   792 posts
Whirlpool Enthusiast

hoxygt writes...

but surely it could be that simple

You betcha it is: Like the PQ get the Telly!!! :D You gotta remember as well that once you've got it home, you won't be comparing it to all the other panels in the store.

I think more source material in store and further eyeballing will be required

I did that last w/e with the 46PZ800A. Just sat in HN with the sales dude and got him to hook up BR, SD-DVD (to see upscaling), SD-FTA & HD-FTA. The only thing I didn't look at was gaming (I'll be doing a bit of that!!) but after about an hour with a salesman I was brain-dead (some of them can really drive you crazy!! :P)

------------------

On another note: Can anyone tell me whether the 24p frame rate will automatically switch on when you run DVD or BR disk into it (via component or HDMI), like the salesdude said, or whether you need to manually set it?! Thanks

posted 2008-Aug-6, 3pm AEST
User #54246   176 posts
Forum Regular

hoxygt writes...

I'm a big fan of Full HD but on a 50" from 2.5m can you even see a difference?

I reckon big differences, in favour of the 800A. Twice the native contrast and viewable colours, plus intelligent frame creation (IFC).

True IFC is a no-no for sports (AFL etc) but it is seriously brilliant on HD TV and DVD/Blu Ray playback – incredibly 'live' feel.

See for yourself: http://panasonic.com.au/products/category.cfm?objectID=46 compare side-by-side

posted 2008-Aug-6, 4pm AEST
edited 2008-Aug-6, 4pm AEST
User #92240   2019 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

castleman writes...

See for yourself: http://panasonic.com.au/products/category.cfm?objectID=46 compare side-by-side

That allows me to compare the specs. The 800A has better numbers for sure.

Contrast on paper might be better too but in store it wasn't that impressive.

posted 2008-Aug-6, 5pm AEST
User #53679   13929 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

hoxygt writes...

Contrast on paper might be better too but in store it wasn't that impressive.

its excellent in our home theatre – nice and dark

posted 2008-Aug-6, 5pm AEST
User #105632   290 posts
Forum Regular

castleman writes...

See for yourself: http://panasonic.com.au/products/category.cfm?objectID=46 compare side-by-side

Just done exactly that. I was going to buy the 800A but now, I dunno. On that comparison it seems that apart from the 1080p and increased native contrast (admittedly both important) the 80A is actually better specced in some areas. 68 billion or 134 billion colours — does that kind of spec really mean anything.

One thing I couldn't work out — are the HDMI inputs on both models 1.3a? And does it matter if they're not?

Jeez, as someone who is just about to upgrade everything this whole exercise is making me realise how little I know about this stuff these days. Especially in speakers and AVRs etc. Last time I did this (back in the distant days of the mid-90s) I thought I knew what I was doing. Now? It's another world.

posted 2008-Aug-6, 5pm AEST
User #151544   792 posts
Whirlpool Enthusiast

jump100 writes...

68 billion or 134 billion colours

PZ800A – 5120 steps of Graduation – 134 Billion Colors – x.v color (not deep color though, that's on the 850)
PX50A – 4096 steps of Graduation – 68.7 Billion Colors

does that kind of spec really mean anything

Only if you're a 'stat whore', or you like the actual PQ better!! :P

are the HDMI inputs on both models 1.3a?

Pana docs say yes for 800's and v1.2 for the 80's...

posted 2008-Aug-6, 6pm AEST
User #108564   7336 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

Has anyone actually received anything from the Swim2Win promotion?

I know it says 28 days after it's received, but was just wondering whether they have started sending prizes out.

posted 2008-Aug-6, 6pm AEST
User #204497   329 posts
Forum Regular

over at dtvforum, some are saying that they have started to recieve their prizes.

posted 2008-Aug-6, 9pm AEST
User #19836   1841 posts
Whirlpool Enthusiast

freeradical writes...

over at dtvforum, some are saying that they have started to recieve their prizes.

I received my Video Camera on Monday. Took about 1 month all up

posted 2008-Aug-6, 9pm AEST
User #108564   7336 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

Monaro writes...

I received my Video Camera on Monday. Took about 1 month all up

Did they delivered straight to your door?

posted 2008-Aug-6, 9pm AEST
User #19836   1841 posts
Whirlpool Enthusiast

? Fungus ? writes...

Did they delivered straight to your door?

Sure did...I was at home sick on monday so kinda worked out well :)

posted 2008-Aug-6, 9pm AEST
User #54246   176 posts
Forum Regular

? Fungus ? writes...

Has anyone actually received anything from the Swim2Win promotion?

Not yet, but I won 2 Lumix cameras out of 3 attempts (3 Panasonic items) – would have been cool to win a video camera or the like.

posted 2008-Aug-6, 9pm AEST
User #108564   7336 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

Monaro writes...

Sure did...I was at home sick on monday so kinda worked out well :)

So they send it through AusPost like a normal parcel, right?

castleman writes...

Not yet, but I won 2 Lumix cameras out of 3 attempts (3 Panasonic items) – would have been cool to win a video camera or the like.

LOL. What are you going to do with 2. I won the Lumix in one go.

posted 2008-Aug-6, 9pm AEST
User #19836   1841 posts
Whirlpool Enthusiast

? Fungus ? writes...

So they send it through AusPost like a normal parcel, right?

Nah...i had to sign for it. And if i wasnt home on monday i would have had to go to the post office to pick it up

posted 2008-Aug-6, 9pm AEST
User #54246   176 posts
Forum Regular

? Fungus ? writes...

LOL. What are you going to do with 2. I won the Lumix in one go.

I won one on 1st (plasma) and 2nd attempts (home theater) 1 day apart (you are allowed up to 8 per household but need to be 1 day apart when actually 'swimming'). Missed anything on the 3rd attempt (HDD recorder).

I have 2 daughters 8 and 10, problem solved :P

posted 2008-Aug-6, 9pm AEST
User #108564   7336 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

Monaro writes...

And if i wasnt home on monday i would have had to go to the post office to pick it up

Yeah, I know what you mean. Thanks for that.

castleman writes...

I won one on 1st (plasma) and 2nd attempts (home theater) 1 day apart (you are allowed up to 8 per household but need to be 1 day apart when actually 'swimming').

Nice work. Me and a friend bought a plasma each. I won a camera and he won a portable DVD player.

posted 2008-Aug-6, 9pm AEST
User #54246   176 posts
Forum Regular

? Fungus ? writes...

Nice work. Me and a friend bought a plasma each. I won a camera and he won a portable DVD player.

Cheers! HN threw in a Phillips portable DVD with the Panasonic purchases as well as part of a local promotion, so I can't complain at all </smug>.

posted 2008-Aug-6, 9pm AEST
User #108564   7336 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

castleman writes...

HN threw in a Phillips portable DVD with the Panasonic purchases as well as part of a local promotion, so I can't complain at all

Damn, we only got a family ticket to Taronga Zoo with $20 spending money from Bing Lee.

Which model did you get?

posted 2008-Aug-6, 9pm AEST
User #54246   176 posts
Forum Regular

It was a Phillips PET702 – looks the goods, although must admit I haven't done more than the cursory operation. It supports multiple DVD/VCD formats plus MP3-CD, JPEG and picture CD as well, and is a 16:9 screen.

A great option for longer road trips though for back seat passengers (see above)!

Still, you have something to show extra for your efforts...

posted 2008-Aug-6, 10pm AEST
edited 2008-Aug-6, 10pm AEST
User #108564   7336 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

castleman writes...

It supports multiple DVD/VCD formats plus MP3-CD, JPEG and picture CD as well, and is a 16:9 screen.

Sounds cool.

I actually meant which Plasma model you got. ;)

Still, you have something to show extra for your efforts...

Yeah, but not as much as you. :P

posted 2008-Aug-6, 10pm AEST
User #54246   176 posts
Forum Regular

? Fungus ? writes...

I actually meant which Plasma model you got. ;)

Sorry, mentioned this on page 4, I bought the TH-50PZ800A.

posted 2008-Aug-6, 10pm AEST
User #141151   1933 posts
Whirlpool Enthusiast

brotherfranciz writes...

$750 – Panasonic SCPT865W (5.1 HT pack)

how was the sound quality on these speakers? im planning on getting them next payday.

posted 2008-Aug-7, 9am AEST
User #112985   392 posts
Forum Regular

Gangrene writes...

I work at JB and paid the ticket price which is 1394 at the moment in the catalogue.

Thanks for the info Gangrene – appreciate that.

posted 2008-Aug-7, 9am AEST
User #107480   769 posts
Whirlpool Enthusiast

I went to HN and picked up the Panasonic SCPT865W for $824 including 5 years warranty and a 1.5 meter Philips HDMI cable. The unit itself was for $695.

posted 2008-Aug-7, 12pm AEST
User #77740   2697 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

Gangrene writes...

. Did you get anything else with it?

5 year warranty for an extra $139 Back to Back Std 1 + 4 yrs

posted 2008-Aug-7, 12pm AEST
User #108564   7336 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

castleman writes...

Sorry, mentioned this on page 4, I bought the TH-50PZ800A.

Ah right. :D

I got my camera today. ;)

posted 2008-Aug-7, 5pm AEST
User #36649   4831 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

freeradical writes...

When i saw this first photo, i thought you were takin the piss :)

lol so did I!!!

posted 2008-Aug-7, 6pm AEST
User #53679   13929 posts
Whirlpool Forums Addict

? Fungus ? writes...

I got my camera today. ;)

now take a photo of the plasma :)

posted 2008-Aug-7, 7pm AEST
User #36   10794 posts
Admin / News Editor

My TH-50PZ800A arrived today (details on purchase here). Very impressed with the picture quality and everything else about it.

Stuff playing on my xbox via XBMC looks great also! That's probably more to do with the great scaler in XBMC though :) The image was a bit jerky to start with but I remembered to turn off IFC for the AV input and it went away.. man why would anyone want that crap on?

posted 2008-Aug-7, 8pm AEST
User #204497   329 posts
Forum Regular

Phil Sweeney writes...

The image was a bit jerky to start with but I remembered to turn off IFC for the AV input and it went away.. man why would anyone want that crap on?

Does anyone have an answer to this?? Is it supposed to be used with blu ray???

posted 2008-Aug-7, 9pm AEST
User #196535   92 posts
Forum Regular

Here's mine. Still in the box! Modifying the loungeroom wall unit so it will fit.
[URL=http://img150.imageshack.us/my.php?image=1006500bm1.jpg][IMG]http://img150.imageshack.us/img150/8247/1006500bm1.th.jpg[/IMG][/URL]

posted 2008-Aug-7, 9pm AEST
User #45397   137 posts
Forum Regular

Hey I received my prize from Panasonic yesterday – a portable DVD player!

I'm sure the grandkids will enjoy it....

posted 2008-Aug-7, 11pm AEST
User #107480   769 posts
Whirlpool Enthusiast

I entered the Swim to Win competition and won a blue ray player DMP-BD30, not bad at all. I am now going to post my receipt.

posted 2008-Aug-8, 9am AEST
User #54246   176 posts
Forum Regular

freeradical writes...

Does anyone have an answer to this?? Is it supposed to be used with blu ray???

IFC creates a smooth, 'live' picture that is best for HD-TV, DVD and Blu Ray playback, see: http://www.panasonic-europe.com/vieraexperience/v5/lang/en-gb/tech3.html. It does however seriously mess with fast action live TV, for example general play in AFL is excellent but the ball fragments when kicked full field.

It is easy to turn off in this setting and instantly improves, but is well worth having on generally – you do notice the incredible 'live' effect.

Of course, as the OP suggested – this may not be as successful with other inputs device feeds. Might need to experiment and decide. Easily done!

posted 2008-Aug-8, 10am AEST
edited 2008-Aug-8, 10am AEST
User #204497   329 posts
Forum Regular

Cheers castleman,
Yeah, i understo