Panasonic Viera TH-50PZ80U

After only 2 yrs. tv wouldn't turn on and red power light started blinking. Caused by faulty power board. Found out too late that this model is prone to power failures. Called the "red light of death." Problem seems to happen when tv is just out of warranty. Don't make the same mistake. TV is now a paperweight. Will never buy Panasonic again!!

I have had very good luck with Panasonic products in the past, but I can guarantee my next electronics purchase will not be Panasonic.

I'm not sure where Consumer Reports got its info, but Panasonic Plasmas have serious dependability issues. I suspect that Panasonic knows this. Unfortunately, I didn't find out until my television was just out of warranty.

It's a very common issue. Google "10 blinks of death" and you will find hundreds of cases. Google "ETX2MM704MGN Panasonic TV Module" to find out how much you'll be spending for parts to keep one of these fine pieces of machinery operating if you should choose to buy one. Of course, Panasonic repair parts are in high demand, so you'll likely have to wait until parts are in stock (about 1 month in my case). I'd be wary of the many ETX2MM704MGN repair services available on Ebay.

I understand that things break, but this product wreaks of planned obsolescence. In this case about 2 years. I'm very disappointed in Panasonic.

I hope this review spares you the same grief that I experienced with this product. But, if you insist on purchasing a Panasonic Plasma, here is an important link: http://www.scribd.com/doc/51556094/Panasonic-TH-50PZ80U-Service-Manual. You'll need it.





ETX2MM704MGN Panasonic TV Module