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there's a nice film-like quality to the picture


I've read this about the AE series. What exactly does 'film-like' imply? Softer edges rather than sharpness? Softer rather than vibrant colours?
Or that grainy speckle dust look like when one is at the movie theatre?

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I'm viewing an 88" screen from distances of 8-12 feet


Well this will just about define my setup exactly as well. Something in the 80-95" range (diagonal correct?) at a 10' viewing distance.
Did you have pics of your setup?

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Watched the Red Sox on ESPN2HD and the colors were awesome.


How is the HD viewing? As sharp as on other tv types?
Doesn't that Panny only do 720p?

Our basement room is completely light controlled, no windows and french doors with a heavy curtain (down at the present time). As such, i'm leaning away from an overly white screen, just a shade into the grey i guess, but looking at samples certainly would be helpful.

"Those who preach the myths of audio are ignorant of truth."