I just bought an Element HDTV and I need help

[Shelbster]

This is my first HDTV experience. I just set up the tv, and the picture looks washed out no matter what I try. Is this a common complaint for Element tvs, or do I need to try out one of those calibration DVDs?

PS...I have tried decreasing the brightness and contrast, as I have read about "torching". However, even when the brightness and contrast are down very low, faces still appear washed out, while the rest of the picture looks dark.

Any help would be appreciated.

[kevinw]

turn down the back light? New TV??

[57U]

http://www.hdtvoice.com/voice/showthread.php?t=1440

[Shelbster]

Thank you for the replies. Kevin, this is a new tv. How do I turn down the backlight?

[Shelbster]

I am really frustrated with my new tv. I purchased an Element 2610. Since I got it out of the box, faces appear to be completely washed out, no matter how I adjust the settings.

Does anyone know if this model has a backlight that can be turned down? I've been looking everywhere and can't figure this out.

Also, is anyone else having this problem with an Element tv?

p.s. I am still waiting for my cable company to hook up an HDTV box. Will the brightness of the tv change once it is connected to an HDTV source?

[Splicer]

The backlight brghtness is controled by the brightness control in the user menu.

It is possible the picture will darken when connected to a STB but don't hold your breath on that. Also contrast and color controls may help what you are dealing with.

[Ratman]

Check your video settings and see if there are "picture modes" (I.E. vivid, sports, cinema, off, user, etc).

try other modes and see if that helps. "off" would be good, then you may be able to get the "brightness" down to an acceptable level.

Also... check "color temperature". Set to warm or normal. Using "cool" will make the colors more bluish and possibly attributing to the perception of "washed out" or too bright.

[Shelbster]

Thanks for the suggestions, I'm going to try them out tonight.