That's depressing. I was hoping it was just some loose solder or drifting components.
I'd better have that confirmed this weekend while there are still TVs on sale.
Tapatalked
I actually attempted to fix by disassembling the LCD and cleaning and reheating the IC parts in case of cold solder joints without success. I then disconnected the ribbon cable from the main controller to the LCD panel. I noticed that the same area of blurred display still persisted. That's when I concluded the panel itself was busted.
You were right to conclude it's a defective panel.
I went to an official Sony Service Center today. Apparently, double image and discoloration is a very common problem as, after I described the symptoms, the receptionist was able to give me an estimate of the repair - a whopping 9.7k! She says with utmost certainty that it's the 2nd layer of the panel that's defective and needs to be replaced. They also have spare parts on hand and I can have the set back within the day should I opt get it repaired. Wow, they're practically experts at repairing this defect by now.
I'm actually wondering, if this is such a common defect, why hasn't Sony issued a product recall or offered free replacement of the obviously defective parts? I recall Canon issued a free repair of their Powershot digicams due to defective Sony sensors. Is Sony's quality and customer care slipping?
Anyways, since this is going to be an unplanned purchase, I'm looking for the cheapest replacement branded TV possible. I've seen a couple of Sharp Aquos 32 inchers at 8k to 10k online and at Abenson. Are these any good? I've had good experience with Sharp's CRT TVs, washing machines, and aircon but I've never tried nor seen their LED TVs yet. I just want something decent that my family can binge watch TV series on and will hopefully last for at least a decade.
Can anyone vouch for Sharp? Or any other suggested brands? I'll pass on LG and Samsung coz their reputation is just as awful as Sony right now.
Tapatalked