Video Asylum

Posted by Dalton on February 25, 2001 at 23:22:07:

In Reply to: Seeking opinions on Mitsubishi WS65807 RPTV posted by Dave Duvall on February 25, 2001 at 20:31:35:

I have the Platinum Plus version of the Mits 65" (the WS65857) which has the VGA input. I have never used it, I'd be too concerned about CRT burn-in to use a computer with this set. The reason I stepped up to the Platinum Plus set is the EDF lenses, which greatly improve focus in the corners and edges of the picture. I'd advise you to look at both sets side by side with the same input to see the difference. I believe it's worth the extra cost. I got my set from a local authorized dealer for $3850, a good (not great) price considering that the retail is $4499. Yes, you could probably get it on the internet cheaper, but you'll pay for shipping and it's likely the dealer won't be an authorized Mitsubishi dealer. I've seen the WS65807 available at Sears for around $3200, on sale if you use a Sears account. Keep in mind though that Mitsubishi credit runs special 12 months interest-free financing on the purchase of your set - and you won't get this option at Sears.

I recommend going to hometheaterspot.com to find more information/tweaks for the Mitsubishi sets. There are several knowledgeable techs there who have come up with some great tweaks (for example, eliminating the "red push" common on all Mits sets), and can tell you how to access the service menu to optimize the set.

Don't be scared by the warning that Mitsubishi puts on its sets claiming that using it in 4:3 mode for more than 15% of viewing will cause burn-in of the CRTs and void the warranty. If the set is calibrated properly, you shouldn't have a problem. I haven't. Just be aware that the set is shipped in "torch" mode (brightness and contrast maxed out) and should be calibrated properly with an Avia or Video Essentials DVD before extended use.

The Mitsubishi sets must be properly set up to maximize picture, seemingly moreso than other sets like the Pioneer and Toshiba. They do not deliver a great picture "out of the box", as most store displays are shown. Any Mitsubishi set you see at the average store (Sears, Circuit City, Barretts, etc.) is likely to be displaying only a fraction of its potential.

OK. Enough rambling. Hope this helps...