Sony KDS-R70XBR2 - Repaired OB, Looking to Buy

[SullyE]

Hi Guys.

I have a decent lead on buying a used and repaired Sony KDS-R70XBR2 1080p SXRD RP LCD set, for (hopefully) around $175.00 if the seller agrees (asking $300.00). I talked with him briefly... he said the optical block in the set was replaced back in 2014 and has been fine ever since.

I searched for info on this set and didn't see anything... and forgive me if I am not in the right forum (I've only been on here a few times), but I'd like to know if this is something I should just 'steer clear' of or if this thing is worth buying and own for say 5 years, as a rec room TV? Any input/comments are truly appreciated.

We currently have a 55" Grand Wega (which didn't seem to have the optical block issue) down there now... and is working just fine, but the kid in me always looking for bigger (not always better).

Please post any thoughts on background/reliability of these. Again, the OB has been replaced... according to the seller. Oh, and it's about an hour away from my house... so that factors in to the "is it worth the hassle" question I keep asking myself.

Thanks much!

Gregg

[tom66]

Re: Sony KDS-R70XBR2 - Repaired OB, Looking to Buy

I regularly see older HD rear projection sets go for less than £50 here, so the asking price seems a little high. There are questions over bulb longevity, as that will need replacement and also, if the block was replaced outright or just refurbished with a new blue panel (the most frequent failure, but not the only failure.)

The picture quality on rear-projection sets has always left a lot to be desired from my point of view compared to conventional flat panel displays. Also, the 3-LCD models have convergence issues, especially on refurbished optical blocks, as the individual LCDs aren't lined up perfectly, which creates fringing on the image edges...this is more obvious on larger panels and isn't a problem with DLP rear projection. If I were you, I would look for a good used 60-65" plasma TV. It'll cost more, but you might be able to get one for around $300 now, and you'll get a significant improvement in picture quality with such an upgrade.

[SullyE]

Re: Sony KDS-R70XBR2 - Repaired OB, Looking to Buy

Thank you Tom, I appreciate your time and comments.

The seller offered the TV for $100.00... so I plan to take it, pending a confirmation that the picture is decent on it. If I get a few years out of it in the basement, I'll be ok with that.

Take care and thanks again.

Gregg