Is it TW or my set?

[kinger]

Just got the 3100HD and I am having problems. I have had the set (Toshiba 36HF71) for about 11 months now and I have not had any problems. Now, when I view any of the HD stations, the picture has the following problems.

1) The sides of the screen bow in. I'm a computer guy and it looks like the pincushening is way off. When non-HD content is shown on the HD channels (commercials and such), it looks horrible. The screen also looks like it is being cut off on the sides. I have tried all of the "pic size" adjustments on the set and they all show a similar problem.

2) There is a horiz. line of distortion about 1/5 of the way up the screen from the bottom. It is about 1" tall. It looks like the picture is shifted within this line of distortion. As the picture changes, the line will move slightly up and down. In other words, the distorted lines moves around depending on what is being shown on the screen.

TW has been very responsive, if not helpful. They have tried several boxes and cable 'fixes' all of which have not helped. Associated Electronics was out today (Toshiba authorized warranty provider). The guy swapped the comp. inputs with the DVD player and said this proved that the cable was at fault.:bang: I wasn't home (wife), so he escaped unscathed. I'm not an expert, but 480p is not 1080i... that's not comparing apples to apples.

Anyway, it looks like I'm caught in a finger pointing match. I think it's the TV, but I would appreciate any help or ideas.

Thanks:confused:

[Gregg Lengling]

I hate to say it..but it does sound like a problem with the set.  Even though you have both units feeding the same component inputs it seems like the 1080i is causing the problems you are seeing.  Looks like the set needs a complete alignment.    I guess the best you can do is call the dealer back again and tell them that running a DVD is not the real way to calibrate a HD set..you need to have a Hd generator that produces 1080i for proper convergence.

[kinger]

Gregg,

Thanks for your input. I have called another Toshiba shop and they are going to bring out a HD generator and do a proper test of the set. I'm with you... I think the set is hosed.

The good thing is that it works fine at anything under 1080i, so most of what I watch now is OK... and it is still under warranty.

That having been said, does anybody have anything good or bad to say about buying an extended warranty from 'somewhere'? I have seen several online outlets that sell these things and I was curious if anybody might have any feedback or could share any experiences.

Thanks,