I'm seriously contemplating pairing this TV with my Axiom speakers and my Harmon kardon AVR-525, and was just wondering if there has been any common complaints about the set?

Get it...you'll be happy. I have the 50" version.

Halen, all these new technologies (DLP, LCD, LCoS, Plasma, etc.) which are still in their infancy, are experiencing growing pains. They all are having problems of one kind or another. On the other hand, they are also providing a home viewing experience beyond anything ever experienced before.

The problems I refer to are not so much QC problems as they are problems inherent in new technologies. Since the introduction of these new technologies, we've gone from purchasing $300 TVs that last 20 years to purchasing $3000 TVs that last 3 years (that statement is meant as hyperbole, and is not to be taken literally).

When you purchased a CRT TV 15 years ago, the technology had evolved to the point where it was easy to set up, relatively trouble free, and long lasting - pretty much "take it home, plug it in, set it up, and watch it." Well, I remember our first TV purchased in 1951, and trust me, it wasn't that way in the beginning.

As time goes by, these technologies will be improved, probably to the point where, just like our old $300 CRT TVs, they will be "take it home, plug it in, set it up, and watch it."

My point is, if you like the 55A2000 then go ahead and get it. I have a couple of recommendations before you buy however.

1. Know and understand the vendors return policy. Can you return the set, for any reason, within 30 days? If the set has a problem, will the vendor replace it, or will you have to deal with the manufacturer?

2. Generally speaking, I'm not a fan of extended warranties. But, these new technologies are expensive to buy, are not trouble free, and are expensive to repair. I wouldn't buy one without an extended warranty.

I've got the 60" and LOVE it. My only problems have been stemming from the new dang HD cable box, not the tv.

I am thinking of purchasing the top end XBR2 60". When is the best time to buy at the lowest cost. I was quoted $4000 CDN. I was also told hold as long as you can as TVs always go down, but new year is a good time

Craig, good to see that you're enjoying the TV; since you hadn't mentioned it I was beginning to wonder if some disaster had struck. In case you haven't seen the fine review and test results on the S&V site it also has some setup tips that might be useful.

Sorry I haven't gotten around to posting my thoughts and pictures yet. It's coming.

I had the XBR1 in 50in which had loads of problems - mostly that dreaded green blob most noticable on b&w films Finally I was able to get a somewhat working one. But my local BB stated it was 1080p which it was not. Sony has since come out with a non-XBR verision which is 1080p. Some folk are putting up fuss about this so I used it as a way to exchange my fair XBR1 or new non XBR. I was going to wait for the new 1080p XBRs but since contacting SONY I was told the new XBR, which have a brighter picture, also burn the buld quicker thus SONY supplies 2 bulbs with every uint - one in the set and an extra for when it burns out. This 1/2 life expectantcy is dumb to sa the least. So I was able able to exchage my old 50in XBR for a new 60in non-XBR due to the price being the same. So far it show none of the problems my first set had and I'm very happy. Unless you need the SONY picture card, cable card input and PIP features save money and go with the set you want, the 55A200

Well, I've been stashing cash away in a boot for over two years in order to purchase a new Hi-def TV. No rent or food money mind you, but just some extra change, bonuses or whatever I had lying around. I figured it'd give me time to do some good research. Now I'm ready to take the plunge! It's gonna be the Sony KDS-55A2000. At Amazon it's got a price tag of $2250 with FREE shipping. This is the best price I've found anywhere, and I've been happy with all my Amazon purchases to date.

The one and only thing I think I will slightly miss is the PIP. During Football season I love to watch two games at once. Oh well, I'll just have to keep my laptop handy and hook it up to my Slingbox.

I deposited the cash yesterday at the bank, and you should have seen the teller look at all the change I had!! LOL!! It was about $230 worth of coins! We have a family owned construction company and they are my business and personal bank, so that's the only reason they counted it! The cash should clear late today or early tomorrow, so I'll place the order for the TV tomorrow.

Oh, does anyone know of a good stand other than the Sony stand that will fit this TV?

I'll let yall know how the TV looks. And I can't wait for Microsoft to release the HD-DVD player for the Xbox 360! And they just released an update that allows for 1080p playback on the 360! I'm glad I waited for this set!! Can you tell I'm excited?

halen,

I read a review this month in Home Theater magazine and they were saying that the picture is a bit soft compared to the xbr1, even though the xbr1 could only input a 1080i signal and this new set can display a 1080p signal. The new set is significantly cheaper though. I don't know if they have fixed this green tint problem that shows up in black and white movies. This sounded like a big turn-off to me. This would make me tend to want the xbr2 if they have the green tint problem fixed. But, I'm waiting a year or so for the price to come down.

- Nick