Sony KDF-42WE655

Pros: Lovely picture; was nice when I bought it

Cons: Optical block failure due to flaw in design,
Sony refuses to deal with this problem.

Summary: Before you buy this set, search online for :
"Sony optical block problems"

Bought this set in 2004. March 2009 I notice a blue haze at the bottom of the screen. After some research I discovered that this is a very common problem and is essentially a flaw with the design that runs throughout the range of Sony Grand Wega sets;
Specifically, failing optical blocks ultimately make the set unusable, due to artifacts of many different hues and sizes to appear on your screen.
Repair runs to the order of $1000. I contacted Sony and thought that I would get this resolved as they admit that this problem is known and they indicate on their website page detailing the problem that they are resolute in their desire to maintain high quality, blah, blah etc.
On my first point of contact I indicated that I did not want to foot the bill. The Sony service rep mumbled " oh yes sir, I fully understand..."
.. eh?
I contacted a service center, and described the problem. I had to contact Sony again to verify something so this time I asked directly if Sony would pay for it.
The rep said the warranty had expired, and that the limited extended warranty that Sony put in place specifically to cover this *known* flaw had also expired, so the repair would be at my expense.
Hmmm, so they know that they have a pandemic-sized problem that shows up only after a while for which they provide a limited window of support, then close up shop leaving many of their customers with junk too costly to repair.
Even if you repair it, I understand that the design is such that the proximity of the lamp to the block is likely to again degrade the replacement part over time.
Anyways, I indicated my displeasure to the rep, pointing out that the number of people being affected by this is fast approaching one that simply can't be ignored, and that I would be adding my voice and review-writing time to the clamor.
In fairness to the poor, powerless guy on the phone, he did register my complaint, but I would be surprised if it will go anywhere.. if it does, then I'll repost here.
So at this point I'm left with limited options other than to get loud enough for them to consider me a pest..
I hate doing this because I have a life to live and work to do, and I really like to come away with nice fuzzy feelings about customer service ( check out Oppo for a great electronics company that knows how to make you happy).

Updated on Apr 23, 2009

I managed to get my TV fixed under the extended warranty that I purchased with the set ( initially thought it had expired, but I guess I got lucky)
For anybody thinking about buying *ANY* sony LCD rear-projection TV, please go to this forum first; you will see a growing number of unlucky owners who are busy chasing down Sony in and out of court :
<http://forum.ecoustics.com/cgi-bin/bbs/show.pl?2/137540>