This is all quite odd. I've been using the S-Video switching in my 1050 since I first recieved mine in May of last year - I've not noticed any video problem.

I've got only my LDP and SVHS VCR feeding through the 1050 via Monster S-Video cables. My DVDP feeds directly to the TV via Component and the CATV feed comes directly from the wall into the TV (since I don't have a CATV set-top box). But both the LD and Video tape images look just fine?

Like I said above ... t'is quite odd.


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pat----

home: psklenar@home.com ... office: psklenar@uhc.com

no home page yet, so ...
Entertainment Center ---==*==--- DVD Collection

We have seen a number of comments in recent weeks concerning the performance of the Model 1050 with regard to the video switching circuits. We have looked into the source of the comments, and hope that the following will give you some insight into the design of the 1050 as it relates to S-Video. Except in some rare, isolated situations, the issues reported are not the result of malfunctioning units, rather, as this note will explain, they are an unintended by-product of the 1050’s circuit design.

By way of explanation, the 1050’s video section was designed to accept and pass through video signals at the industry standard of 1 volt peak to peak maximum. Unfortunately, we have seen that a number of video components exceed that standard output level. The problem is elusive as it varies from model to model, and sometimes sample to sample of the same brand and model due to tolerance stack-up or improper design or internal factory adjustment of the video source product.

In some cases we have seen the use of different interconnect cables solve the problem, most likely due to differing resistance characteristics. However, due to the random nature of the problem we cannot recommend a specific cable brand or model, or guarantee that this option will solve the issue in every case.

Unfortunately, it is not possible to make any changes to the 1050’s hardware design at this point. It is designed in full compliance with industry standards and practices, but it appears that in some cases we simply end with undesired performance due to a combination of factors due as much to the design of certain source products as with the 1050.

If you encounter video overload artifacts that cannot be cured with different interconnects, the only other option is to connect your video sources directly to the display device and let it do the switching, if possible. For the small percentage of our customers who have encountered this problem, we apologize for this inconvenience. Rest assured that while we cannot make any changes to the 1050, we have taken this experience into account in the design of the Model 950’s video section, and we will make certain that it, and any future Outlaw products, do not share this issue.

Scott, thanks for the insiders update. This kind of reply is what builds a reputation and a dedicated, fanatical group of customers.
Although the video switching has given me much frustration (not to mention I'm out $50 for giving the 1050 a try), I am impressed with the 1050's quality, attention to detail and audio performance. If I can try a different DVD player or cables before my 30 day trial is up it is a keeper. If not, maybe the 950....

I have experienced it most when using the Sony PS2, Monster Cable s-video to 1050, Tributaires s-video to monitor. Maybe my particular PS2 is exceeding the standard output level.

I will be disappointed if I have to send the 1050 back. But I am a believer in your products and Outlaw's dedication to affordable hi-fi sound. Keep up the good work OUTLAWS!!!

Scott indicates that the source problem is often so random that it can't be pinpointed to specific brands, but it might help folks here to offer what their setups were (video source and cables). Stanley cup had problems with a Playstation2 and Monster S-video. I have not had problems with a Panasonic S-VHS VCR or a Panasonic DVD-A310 using both Monster S-video cables and BetterCables S-video.

By the way, kudos to Scott and the crew -- sounds like somebody's been doing some serious digging into video signal switching recently.

Thanks, Scott, for the insight. It makes perfect sense to me.

Now I am curious as to the make and model of the DVD players being used by those of you having these "flicker" problems ( and those who are not). I am not too confident in my el-cheapo Daewoo player, but I still have time to return it.

This message board has been helpful. Thanks for everyone's input.

Well, I'm one of those having no video problems. As mentioned in another post above, my DVDP is going directly to the TV To take advantage of the Component Video outs. I do have an LDP (Pioneer CLD-3080) and an S-VHS (Mitsu HS-U775) both going through the 1050's S-Video switcher. I've got 1 meter Monster Video-2 S-Video cables both connecting the two sources to the 1050 and connecting the 1050 to the TV. I think these were the "high end" Monster video cables at the time I bought them.

That's my report,

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pat----

home: psklenar@home.com ... office: psklenar@uhc.com

no home page yet, so ...
Entertainment Center ---==*==--- DVD Collection

Thanks for the response Scott! That really clears things up. Kudos to a company that actually listens to its customers!

I've got the rolling picture (see post above) and am using Monster S-video cable (1 meter) with my Toshiba SD-2109 dvd player.

Having had my question answered from 7/31, I am no longer a fence sitter. I just finished clicking the "submit order" box for my new 1050.

I will test the final launch scene in the movie CONTACT with my DVD player and s-video connection. If this scene doesn't cause a problem, I doubt any would.

I have a SONY RM-AV2100 and haven't been successful finding the correct "code" for the 1050. Could you help me out or send me to some source of information. I tried to scan for the code with no success. Thanks.

Another good test scene is immediately following the plane crash in Castaway. When he's in the raft among the fire and the lightning is flashing. I had the roll a few times in that sequence. 100% repeatable in the same spots.

But I tell ya, I love my Outlaw. My wife is finally getting just as excited over it as me. She watched Titanic the other day and was amazed at the sound she heard!