Picture Quality with TH42PX60U

[Ratman]

Originally sent via PM.

Hi, hope I'm not imposing on your time..I just bought Panasonic TH42PX60U...have Directv HD receiver...did not buy their HD programming..have connected HDMI cable..have connected coax from dish to HD receiver, then HDMI between reciever and TV..not real impressed with the picture quality...not as sharp and clear as I hoped for..I've read all the instruction manuals and recommended connections.I think I have the best connection done...I understand the HD programming will give me the "wow" factor but they only offer about 10 channels in true HD...not worth the extra $10 a month for me...I thought the regular channels/and sports (espn,oln) would be much clearer..the graphics and depth are not as clear as my 20" sony standard tv in my other room...

Does it sound like I'm doing anything wrong, or is there a perferred connection I should try?

sorry again for the questions....kinda frustrated with the experience so far

thanks
Chris

[57U]

Have a look at the HDTV FAQ on "Poor SD PQ".

[pettman1970]

I have the same set on Comcast cable. Plasma TVs have a "soft look" to them over other technologies so some of "clearness" you're missing is due to that. The 4260u will shine on DVD or really shine on HD DVD and HD programing. I think a lot of what you are seeing is just a side effect of enlarging and image to 42 inches rather than the 20 inches you are used to. Sometimes component will give a more natural look to SD so you could try that out. Enjoy your set and remember it was designed for higher resolution sources.