text: Watch a video Watch a video review from one of our experts Front Angled left Angled right Angled top view Back (A/V inputs) Back (full view) EnergyGuide label Pop-up camera hidden when not in use Pop-up camera on top Remote Remote - angled view Side With pop-up camera extended Photos (13) Video View larger Samsung PN60F8500 60" 1080p 3D plasma HDTV with Wi-Fi® and voice/gesture control Item #: 30560P8500 42 Reviews This item is not available at this time. Shop all Plasma TVs Need help? 1.888.955.6000 Email Chat Ask an expert advisor No pressure, no commission — just lots of good advice from our highly trained staff. Overview Reviews Details Accessories Staff Reviews Articles & Videos by Steve Kindig A new picture quality benchmark from Samsung The PN60F8500 is not only Samsung's top 60" plasma TV for 2013, it's part of the finest plasma series they've ever made. At the recent Consumer Electronics Show, while OLED and 4K TVs were grabbing the headlines, the F8500 series was definitely the most talked about "real world" TV. When our photo sample arrived and we had some time to play with it, the verdict was unanimous: It's the best plasma picture we've ever seen. Super Contrast Panel gets bright, goes deep We love plasma TVs anyway for their deep black levels, fluid motion and wide viewing angles. But plasmas generally aren't as bright as LED TVs, so we haven't always recommended them for rooms with lots of light. The PN60F8500 uses Samsung's new Super Contrast Panel, which is 250% brighter than last year's panel. It also produces incredibly deep black levels. Colors don't just pop off the screen, they explode. How did Samsung do it? They reduced the thickness of the cell walls in every pixel, allowing more light to pass through. That, combined with a nanocarbon anti-glare filter, delivers the picture quality advantages of plasma and adds LED-like brightness. Each pixel in a plasma screen has red, green, and blue cells. Samsung's F8500 panel has thinner cell walls, allowing the screen to produce a brighter, more colorful picture. Beauty on the outside, brainiac on the inside The PN60F8500 is one of Samsung's smartest Smart TVs ever thanks to a 1.35GHz quad-core processor. That's more horsepower than most tablets have, so besides surfing the web you can do things like multitask or use one app while downloading another. Whether your connection is wired or wireless, you can do a quick web search while you watch movies and TV shows, and enjoy TV while you chat with friends and family online. Along with built-in apps for services like Netflix®, Hulu Plus™, and YouTube™, you can download new ones from Samsung's large libray of apps. Samsung's Galaxy phones and tablets add handheld viewing and control Samsung's AllShare™ Play lets you wirelessly access and stream content from any compatible device. If you have a Galaxy S3 smartphone or Galaxy tablet, you can share movies, photos, and music via the PN60F8500. Your Wi-Fi® network lets you do things like toss photos from your phone or tablet to the screen with the swipe of a finger. Or push streaming video like Netflix movies from device to screen. Sending content from your phone to your TV is cool, and going TV-to-phone is even cooler. Just download Samsung's free Smart View app and use the TV View feature to mirror whatever's on the PN60F8500's screen on your Galaxy S3 phone or tablet. You can leave the room anytime without leaving your entertainment behind. It's whole-house television you can hold in your hand. A 3D experience whenever you want The Samsung PN60F8500 delivers a spectacular picture in 2D or 3D. Just slip on a pair of the included active glasses to enjoy a deeper view, and not just with true 3D video sources — switch on the TV's 2D-to-3D conversion for added depth with regular 2D video. And even if you're not interested in 3D this set still deserves consideration if picture quality is your number one priority. The PN60F8500 offers the richest, most vivid colors and the deepest black levels this side of OLED. Learn about the ins and outs of HDMI connections at the Crutchfield Learning Center. Shop our selection of HDMI cables. Tip: For a list of over-the-air digital TV stations you can receive, as well as antenna recommendations for your location, enter your zip code in AntennaWeb's mapping tool. Features:59.9" screen (measured diagonally)glossy screen, "Metal Flow" design with brushed metal bezel and curved basetuner receives over-the-air HDTV broadcasts (antenna required)QAM cable TV tuner (subscription required to receive cable channels contact your local service provider for details)Super Contrast Panel for exceptional brightness with deep black levels600Hz Subfield Motion for clear video motionReal Black Panel Pro enhances picture contrast and black levelsdisplays 3D images when you wear Samsung's active 3D glasses (4 pairs of glasses are included)2D-to-3D conversion adds 3D-like depth to non-3D video sourcesInternet-ready Smart TV plays Netflix® video and more (subscription required for some services)supports up to 5.1-channel audio with streaming movie services like Netflix and Vudu (audio quality depends on your connection speed)built-in Wi-Fi® to link to a wireless networkSmart Interaction 2.0 voice and gesture controltop-mounted pop-up cameraquad-core processor for improved web browsing and app multitaskingAllShare video and music streaming from a DLNA-compatible Windows® PC2-way screen mirroring via Wi-Fi send content wirelessly from device-to-TV or TV-to-device with compatible Samsung smartphones and tabletsSkype Internet calling (subscription required)wireless keyboard-compatible (keyboard not included)built-in stereo speakers (10 watts x 2)illuminated touchpad remote with built-in microphone for voice controlfree downloadable Android app lets you use a compatible smartphone or tablet as a remote controlAnynet+ simplifies control of compatible Samsung components via the HDMI connection (HDMI-CEC)Connections and Dimensions:5 A/V inputs, including:4 HDMI1 component video (selectable component/composite)RF input for antenna/cable signalsoptical digital audio outputEthernet port for a wired connection to a home network3 USB inputs for connecting a camera or thumb drivedetachable standwall-mountable (bracket not included)54-13/16"W x 32-3/8"H x 3-3/16"D (34-3/8"H x 12"D on stand)weight: 71.4 lbs. with stand; 64.3 lbs. without standwarranty: 1 year parts & labor in-home service or pick-up for serviceOur 60-day money-back guarantee The pros of plasma If you're into picture quality, and you want a cinema-like home viewing experience, you owe it to yourself to check out plasma for your next TV. Plasma holds the edge when it comes to smooth motion and rich colors high-def movies and TV shows look effortlessly real. Plasma's superior picture contrast and deep black levels are best enjoyed in rooms without a lot of windows or lamps, where you can dim or darken the lights. Samsung PN60F8500 Reviews Average Customer Review: 42 reviews Review this product Submit a review and then enter to win a $350 rewards card Filter by rating: 5 Star: (0) 4 Star: (0) 3 Star: (0) 2 Star: (0) 1 Star: (0) Review this product: Thanks for taking the time to share your experiences about this product. Please be sure to focus your comments on the product itself. Read our Review Guidelines for more information. Review title * Email Your email won't be visible. Please use the email address that is associated with your order. Display name (e.g., JohnD) Your review will be signed using the display name and location * Your location (e.g., Charlottesville, VA) * Your rating Click on a star to rate the overall product on a scale of 1-5 Rate the following specific attributes Value Ease of Use "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Picture Quality 1500 characters left * Your review Attach a YouTube Review Crutchfield Video Review Guidelines Only submit videos that you made or are authorized to use. Do not submit videos that contain music, video or visuals that are copyrighted and belong to someone else. Please see our Review Guidelines for more information. Enter the URL of your YouTube™ video review or product demonstration. e.g., "http://www.youtube.com/v/o79TWHh598U" 500 characters left Pros 500 characters left Cons * Agree to Terms By checking this box you agree your review becomes the property of Crutchfield, that you are over 18 years of age, that you own or have owned this product, and that you are located within the United States or its territories. Please see our Review Guidelines for more information. We reserve the right (but are not obligated to) review all submissions and edit or remove any review in any manner which we deem necessary. Your review should be posted within seven days. A visual feast Written By Rian, Minnesota on Tuesday, January 20, 2015 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value The fact that a 2013 model plasma can beat out newer led and 4k models is a testament to plasma technology. So far have just done a basic video calibration , a more advanced calibration of display and sound I'm leaving until we move into new home . But just with the basic calibration the picture is unbelievable and compares very well with my Pioneer plasma . I toyed with the idea of going to a high end led or 4k and read many good reviews until you read one by someone who owned a plasma . I was so relieved I snagged one of the last 60" especially since it was half the price of the, impossible to find, 64" model . Pros: Outstanding picture quality. Reasonably intuitive smart TV features. Cons: Death of plasma ! Was this review helpful? Yes No Performance Plazma Written By Anonymous, New York on Tuesday, January 06, 2015 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value Fantastic picture. I originally purchased a 4K-Ultra 60 inch TV from a big box local retailer, but returned it once this became available. Made the right decision. The reviews were correct. The picture is unbelievable. Pros: Great picture, best color I've seen on a television, deep blacks, and the brightness is equal to most LED's. Cons: None Was this review helpful? Yes No Samsung PN60F8500 = Stunning Visuals Written By Zenzilla, Texas on Thursday, January 01, 2015 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value The Samsung PN60F8500 performs above and beyond my expectations. Pros: Excellent picture quality = colors are true + the deepest blacks! The 3D is also a nice option to have = some titles excellent. The "App" area has many options for a variety of users. The screen is good in both a light and dark room. No extraneous audible buzz that some Plasma TVs have. Cons: Extra features are sometimes intrusive = voice control pops up unless you disable it. The remote is a bit thin with a rounded bottom, so when you push a button on the side, it slides & twists in your hand. Earlier remote models were better = I still use one, but it lacks a few functions. The other modern "touch" remote that comes with it is too much of a "bells and whistles" approach for me. Was this review helpful? Yes No Excellent picture qulity Written By dp, California on Thursday, December 18, 2014 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value Best TV I ever had. I am glad I was able to get it. Pros: Picture Quality, Smart TV features Cons: None Was this review helpful? Yes No Samsung PN60F8500 Written By Anonymous, Illinois on Sunday, November 16, 2014 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value Great TV, the picture is the best of anything out there. One of the last great plasma TVs. Pros: Incredible picture Cons: The stand isn't my favorite design. 1 out of 1 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes No Great TV Written By Anonymous, Rochester, NY on Monday, November 03, 2014 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value My new Samsung 60" Plasma is awesome. Was this review helpful? Yes No Great TV.....but........... Written By BobS, Ohio on Thursday, October 09, 2014 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value This is probably going to be plasma's swan song, so, buy this TV before it is gone. Before I go any further, my 60 inch is going back. The HDMI inputs died. I am getting another, though. Everything people say about this TV is true. Fantastic picture. It is so good that 3D is a afterthought. The sound is alright, but, who cares? The TV is super thin for a plasma. TV has tons of features (Smart Hub, WiFi, etc....) It does take two people to set up. There is a heck of a sale going on right now. Buy one. Pros: Picture, features, remote diagnosis Cons: None, except for my HDMI inputs Was this review helpful? Yes No Samsung PN60F8500 Written By Bill, Austin, TX on Tuesday, October 07, 2014 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value Fantastic picture! I have a surround speaker system so haven't listened to the built in speakers. Pros: Best picture I have seen. Handles sports very well - no pixelation. Cons: Voice recognition is sporadic. Was this review helpful? Yes No Last of the Plasmas Written By casemiro, Fairfax, VA on Tuesday, September 23, 2014 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value I got this because unfortunately Plasma TV's are going the way of BetaMax. Plasma is by far the better format (as was Beta VCR), but marketing knows best! Anyway, the TV did not disappoint; absolutely beautiful picture. The frame and stand are unique in style and construction - very nice. As usual, Crutchfield delivery and customer support were super. Pros: Perfect picture, easy setup. Cons: Sound as with ALL current TVs is sub-par. 2 out of 2 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes No 8500 samsung Written By sam, 182 Sharon school Rd Statesville NC on Sunday, September 14, 2014 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value The best TV I ever purchased .All the features work great , and very satisfied with the service i receive at Crutchfield you guys are great and prompt in delivering my purchase thank you Pros: All you need in one unit Cons: Smarter than me 3 out of 3 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes No Awesome TV Written By Paula H., North Little Rock on Tuesday, August 26, 2014 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value After researching for TVs for months I came across this Samsung Plasma TV. No one had it to display in Little Rock because they claimed it was an upper scale TV and it had to be special ordered. With Crutchfield's 60 day return policy I thought that this was the answer if we didn't like it. We bought the TV sight unseen and just love, love it! The picture is awesome and we couldn't be happier! Pros: The best picture that I have ever seen on a TV! Cons: We have had the TV for almost month now and I can't think of anything that I don't like about it. 4 out of 4 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes No Samsung plasma Written By J.T., New Jersey on Thursday, July 10, 2014 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value Wanted a Plasma for my summer condo. I have a Panasonic Plasma at my house that has a great picture, but they Panasonic no longer make Plasma. Samsung was about my only choice and I did not go wrong. Great picture evan in bright light. Pros: Great picture Cons: it does thing That I do not need. 1 out of 3 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes No Great tv. Slight humming Written By Junior, Denver, CO on Monday, July 07, 2014 "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value Just picked up this tv. Wow the picture is amazing. I didn't purchase from here I ordered from a local store instead. But the tv is awesome. There is a slight buzz but only noticeable at low volumes. I agree the tvs sound in not impressive. But I'm using my 7.1 surround sound so it's not a big deal. Pros: Great picture. Great 3D. Purchase this you won't regret. Cons: Slight humming 5 out of 5 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes No Samsung PN60F8500 Written By Anonymous, California on Tuesday, June 24, 2014 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value We have had the TV for about 2 weeks and love it. Picture quality is awesome ! 4 out of 4 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes No Buyer beware! Dont buy samsung! Written By Angry in Texas, Houston on Thursday, May 29, 2014 "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value I purchased 40 Samsung TVs for my business. Unfortunately I only realized my mistake in purchasing Samsungs later as they started to go down one by one and I had to attempt to deal with Samsung technical and then customer support. THE worst technical/customer support for any product or service I have ever encountered. Save yourself hours of frustration and anger and look at a different manufacturer. As my Samsungs continue to go down and are just now out of warranty, I will start replacing them with Sonys. I'll check back later to update the review with my Sony experience. Cons: Poor internal build quality and Terrible technical/customer support. 3 out of 19 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes No Meets & exceeds expectations Written By Bill, central Maine on Sunday, May 11, 2014 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value This is my third plasma tv - following a Dell (short term: O.K., long term: disaster) and a Panasonic (excellent). Divorce occasioned need for a replacement, and after refusing delivery on a used - and broken - Panasonic from another retailer. I turned to Crutchfield for the highly rated Sansung 8500. A month or so later I am very pleased with everything but the sound, which is irrelevant as I've retained my surround receiver and speakers. The 3-D (which I'd only experienced in theaters) is really impressive, and there are so many other bells & whistles & adjustments that I expect an extended learning curve. Part of the fun, for me. Crutchfield's purchase, delivery and support routine was flawless, with the exception of the available no interest financing, which is best avoided. Pros: Everything else. Cons: Available financing. 10 out of 10 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes No Top Notch Written By SW, Seattle on Wednesday, May 07, 2014 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value Really awesome and I'm really picky. Pros: Picture quality is AMAZING. Cons: Voice recognition has a mind of its own, better just to leave off. 9 out of 9 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes No Incredible picture, but the humming.... Written By Ryan, Steamboat CO on Monday, April 21, 2014 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value Disclaimer - I live at 7,000ft above sea level. I've heard that altitude can have an effect on the electric humming caused by power consumption of a plasma tv. Everything about this tv is amazing, from the apps, to the picture quality. Unfortunately, there was a slight electronic humming coming out of the back left side. I called tech support and they indicated that, due to power consumption, that was normal. I tried moving the tv, and putting sound absorbing material behind it, but even with my surround sound turned up, I could still hear it in the background. It proved to be too annoying, and I returned it for the Samsung UN60F8000, which turned out to be great. Pros: Almost everything Cons: Annoying electronic hum from the back panel 5 out of 5 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes No Samsung PN60F8500 Written By Anthony, Orange Park, Florida on Tuesday, March 18, 2014 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value Best TV I have ever owned. This is the 3rd. Samsung TV in a row that I have owned. I got them all from Crutchfield. Crutchfield has Great Customer Service. Pros: Great Picture & Built with quality. Cons: Remote has a learning curve. 10 out of 10 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes No Samsung PN60F8500 Written By Jason, Springfield, MA on Sunday, March 16, 2014 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value Hands down the best looking picture I have seen on a 1080P TV. I used the CNET picture settings to adjust the display, the contrast, blacks and color are almost as good as a professional calibration. The TV itself it very well made, the remotes and accessories provided are also quality pieces. I didn't score it high on value because it is an expensive set. My only consideration when making this purchase was picture quality, this Samsung definitely delivers. SMART features are well done and very fast since the TV is equipped with a quad core processor. If you are looking for the best picture and don't want to pay for an OLED this is it. Pros: Picture, features, build quality Cons: Value 10 out of 10 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes No Samsung PN60F8500 Written By Brian, Michigan on Saturday, March 15, 2014 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value After much research I decided to replace our old LCD TV in the living room with a plasma. The reflections from the many windows are what drove me away from getting a plasma TV for this room years ago. This TV does indeed have a bright enough picture to view in the daytime and the anti-reflective screen is astounding (less glare than our LCD had). The smart features generally work well but that is the icing on the cake for this model. Pros: Picture quality Overall appearance Cons: Built in speakers lack punch so plan on using a home theater sound system or sound bar. 11 out of 11 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes No Samsung 8500 Written By Ron, Gardiner, ME on Saturday, March 08, 2014 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value First I must I was a little hesitant about purchasing a Samsung, but decided to after reading positive reviews. I must say that Samsung got it right this time with this 8500. I purchased the 60" and quite impressed. This t.v. is truly a smart t.v. and has all the bells and whistles but it is the picture quality and the impressive plasma picture that truly impresses. The colors are deep and rich and live like and in bright light it still is impressive. The speakers on this t.v. are quite good for a flat screen. Pros: picture quality, speaker sound, wide array of applications Cons: The swipe remote is a little difficult to learn but you need to use it to get used to it. 10 out of 10 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes No Samsung PN60F8500 Written By DavidB, Tn on Sunday, February 16, 2014 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value I was hesitant about a plasma due to some reviews concerning the brightness but this tv hits a home run. I had to turn it down because it was to bright for me. It is a great value. Pros: It is a little hotter than I would like, but not a significant problem. Cons: Unlimited viewing angle, no motion blur, easy to set up. 4 out of 5 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes No The best TV I have ever owned Written By jbeg, OH on Friday, February 14, 2014 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value After a tragic accident befell my beautiful Panasonic plasma, I thought my days of beautiful high quality TV were over. I took a somewhat pricey gamble on this Samsung, and frankly if I had known how good this TV was I would have broken my Panasonic some time ago. 13 out of 13 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes No like it so far Written By tim, FL on Tuesday, February 04, 2014 "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value this tv is impressive. now i've always been a huge panasonic fan, and really really wanted the zt60, but there were just a few specs the samsung had that i couldn't ignore. and since i'm not a panny fanboy, it wasn't a problem. plus this came with the free soundbar, which ended up being a huge get for me cuz it fills a huge need i had. i've only had it for a day, but the picture is impressive. i'm not super picky, but it looks as good as anything i've ever had. and i know some don't, but i actually really like the stand. it was somewhat tricky to get tv onto it, but once there i think it looks super slick. i'm gonna mound to wall, but didn't have m8 screws, so for now it's on stand. i did have a sample of thor 3d that i downloaded that i got to test out, and it worked great. not sure how i feel about a movie in 3d, but it definitely was a unique experience that the tv handled great. 4 included glasses was nice, as so many only include 2 or none. my only gripe is the remote. the thing looks as stunning as the tv, and it does work quite well, but it requires a lot to do the simplest tasks. i'll eventually program my harmony one for the tv, so it won't matter. but even just pausing or typing in a channel is a pain. i do, however, really like it when navigation through the apps and stuff. Pros: - fantastic picture - mount (subjective, but i really like it) - remote (looks, performance, and when using smart hub) - 4 glasses - left running all night as part of break in, wasn't warm at all in morning, other plasmas i've had ran quite warm - gets ridiculously bright, when messing with settings i turned offf the eco mode thing and it went full bright, wow, my eyes had artifacts for a few minutes - built in wifi works great, and it's actually ac, made updating firmware very easy Cons: - remote (ease of use with regard to easily accessible buttoms) - voice recognition, thought it was supposed to recognize real speech, but for me it hasn't, yet, don't plan to use that function and i'm not done hooking everything up, but seemed less than expected so far - silver bezel, i'm more a fan of black personally, but it's a darkish silver so whatever - sound sucks, but if you buy this to use onboard sound, well, you should just sell it and look out the window 9 out of 9 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes No Priced right Written By Expernow, Las Vegas, NV on Saturday, February 01, 2014 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value Great picture for TV shows and movies. Sports not as good as my panasonic plasma but, better than LCD or LED. While voice recognition and motion control are cool they work sporadically. Pros: Sale price, Wireless works well, the apps are easy to get too and operate, Picture quality is excellent for shows Cons: Sports should be smoother with no lag, voice recognition comes on out of the blue and disrupts dialogue on the tv I had to turn it off in the smart hub menu. 5 out of 5 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes No Love it! Written By Alexander, New York City on Wednesday, January 29, 2014 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value Purchased this samsung F8500 from you guys at Crutchfield and I am loving this TV. Upgrading my Sony 40-inch LCD purchased back in 2007. Its a great TV but I felt like it was to small for my living room and I wanted something bigger and better. With the upcoming major sports events, the Super Bowl, Olympics and the Fifa World Cup I decided to go online and research the best TVs of 2013, I came upon to great plasma models, the Panasonic VT/ZT60 vs the Samsung F8500. I headed to every electronics store in NYC and I came to the conclusion that my eyes liked the Samsung better. Even though I've read and seen that the Panasonic produces a deeper black level in dark environments. I was called by Crutchfield and UPS to make sure I was the real deal, LOL UPS called and gave me a delivery date and the TV box came in good condition even after that big storm that hit NYC on Tuesday Jan 21. I would Highly recommend this samsung plasma. Pros: Built Quality, Picture Quality, Big screen, Motion. Cons: Sound and one stuck pixel. Does not affect my viewing experience. I use a surround sound system :D 13 out of 14 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes No Samsung PN60F8500 Written By Ron, North Fork, Ca on Thursday, January 16, 2014 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value This television picture is as good as promised. The true black was something was so different than the LCD. I know there are adjustments but I have been satisfied with the factory settings. The detail is fantastic. I have watched movies that I have seen before and picked things I didn't see on the LCD. Sports is so much more detailed. Beads of sweat from a players helmet and no hesitation in any action. The best television I have purchased. Pros: Just about everything. Cons: Much warmer than a LCD but in a big room, no problem 15 out of 15 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes No So far so good Written By Nello, Bridgeport, CT on Sunday, January 05, 2014 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value I haven't been using this very long but so far I'm completely happy. Pros: BIG! SMART! Very good picture and easy to use. Cons: Not cheep. 4 out of 5 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes No Samsung PN60F8500 Written By Anonymous, Wisconsin on Saturday, December 14, 2013 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value The PN60F8500 was purchased in August 2013 based on reviews from top sources. After 3 months of use, I have used most of the features, and the unit stacks up to any out there. Picture is clear with no burn in. Watched 3D movies with great satisfaction. I watch in a room with lots of natural light and it is fine for most viewing - primarily cable and sports. When watching dark movies, I do so at night with lights off. You can see every hair on a characters face. Speakers are not the greatest, however, I use an AV with surround without a hitch. Family viewing of normal programming is not an issue with the built in speakers. Mounted the unit on the wall with a multi articulating wall mount. No issues, and I have been very happy with the purchase. Not a gamer so can't review how the unit works with gaming units. Pros: Great picture, plenty of input options, general appearance, easy to setup and use. Cons: Built in speakers. Not a big deal if you are an audio/video phile. I would use a surround system for movies 90% of the time. Not a big issue for regular family viewing. 14 out of 14 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes No Samsung PN60F8500 Written By MikeF, Sacramento, Ca on Wednesday, November 06, 2013 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value This is so much more than a TV. I have been waiting to buy the right one for over 2 years. This is it. Crutchfield's team was very good their knowledge was very good price was very good. Love this TV it's upgradeable so in 5 - 10 years they want to do something new the set automatically over the net dose it. The TV programs to you and its place no worries. Pros: Sets up fast Awesome picture Cons: hand jester works but kinda funkie along with voice. They still need to work on that. . 18 out of 18 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes No Samsung PN60F8500 Written By JC, Castro Valley Ca on Saturday, November 02, 2013 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) rating "Coolness Factor" rating Build Quality rating Ease of Use rating Picture Quality rating Value Best picture I have ever seen on a TV well worth the money 8 out of 8 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes No Samsung PN60F8500 Written By Rick, Collierville, TN on Friday, September 27, 2013 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value Amazing picture quality. I own five TVs through out the house, all Samsung. My last purchase was a Samsung 60" 8000 series. Brilliant colors, but the "whites" always seemed dull and gray. I had the TV professionally tweaked, but no improvement. So when it was time to furnish the media room, Samsung wasn't my first choice. But after researching and reading reviews, I decided to give Samsung another shot. I'm glad I did. Probably the best picture I've ever seen. As for the cool "smart TV" features, not really interested. I've played with them, but if I want to access the internet or use apps, it's so much easier/faster to pull out my iPad. I enjoy streaming TV shows and movies, but haven't figured out how to run the audio from the TV back to my receiver/speakers. Much easier to use a Smart DVD player to stream audio/video via a receiver to speakers and TV. Pros: Best picture I have ever seen. Easy set up. Lots of bells/whistles for the tech savy. Cons: None 5 out of 8 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes No Samsung PN60F8500 Written By Gregory, Richlands, VA on Monday, September 09, 2013 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value Great TV. Once set up was complete - very happy with product. Great picture quality. Sound was only fair so added Samsung HT-F6500W. 3D is neat but may use rarely. Would definitely purchase the exact same TV again. Researched heavily on CR and other sites prior to purchase. Pros: Picture quality Ease of set up Links well with Samsung Home Entertainment System Cons: TV Sound Quality Price 6 out of 6 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes No Great Samsung TV Written By JeffN, Greensboro, NC on Thursday, September 05, 2013 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value Although it was expensive, I am very happy with this purchase. The picture quality is superb, and the set-up was extremely easy. This TV almost seems to think for you. It also looks fantastic. Pros: Picture quality Ease of set-up Cons: Expensive 9 out of 9 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes No AwesomeTv Written By Ryan, Charlottesville, Va on Tuesday, September 03, 2013 "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value This is the best picture I have seen on a tv, outside of the new OLED. Even compared it side to side with a Crutchfield employee with Sony's new 4k and this tv was just as good if not better, which is very impressive. There is a slight buzz and I don't even notice anymore. Would recommend this tv to anyone. You really can't get any better unless you have a ton of money to throw down on a OLED!! Pros: Picture Quality, Styling, Fast Internet, Tons of options, Bright picture, Deep Blacks Cons: None 11 out of 11 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes No Motion blur ruins a great picture Written By Mark Q, Southington, Connecticut on Saturday, August 17, 2013 "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value First off I have to say the picture is pleasing at a distance but as you move closer than 2 meters there is a bad case of double images which can not be defeated with any combination of settings, I've owned four plasmas and none of them had a problem with motion blur from computer sources it makes gaming unplayable once you notice it and I'm just holding out for an update to rectify this problem because the picture is otherwise great Pros: Nice stand, good set of smart features Cons: Motion blur, soft buzzing sound (not apparent from 2 meters) 2 out of 11 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes No Great TV Written By Bill, Greensboro, NC on Monday, May 27, 2013 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value Great TV in every way. Did not believe the picture Quality Would be this great. Don' t know how it could be any better.TV was delivered in two days and set up was no problem. Great job Crutchfield. 15 out of 16 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes No Samsung PNF8500 Written By Charlie, Long Island on Sunday, May 12, 2013 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value Very impressive picture. It will be professionally calibrated after it breaks in. No hum, no negatives. Connecting to network is easy. Ordering and delivery was quick and efficient. The TV, on the stand , makes a unique visual impression, especially with the BDI Valera. Pros: Picture and styling. Cons: Why can't manufacturers of flat panels put HDMI inputs facing downward, or not so close to the edge of the panel? 9 out of 9 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes No Beyond my highest expectation Written By Robert S Corvallis, Oregon, Corvallis, Oregon on Sunday, April 21, 2013 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value Wow!!! The picture quality is amazing. I feel the people are in the room with me. The Smart features are really neat and fun to play with. If picture quality is important to you, I'm not sure you can get better. There are not regrets with this TV and couple that with the quality service of Crutchfield, and you have an unbeatable combination. Pros: Picture quality, Smart features, Wi-Fi connectivity and for a TV, the product is an elegant addition to your entertainment area. Cons: None 15 out of 17 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes No Excellent Plasma HDTV Written By AG, Lancaster County, PA on Saturday, April 20, 2013 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value Ordered this TV based upon reviews and the Crutchfield reputation. It arrived in perfect condition, 2 days after placing the online order. Very easy to assemble the TV stand and connect to the cable box. All the features worked as advertised (still learning how to control the hand gesture commands). Pros: - Beautiful HD picture; very vivid blacks; -TV includes 4 pairs of 3D glasses; excellent 3D picture -Decent sound from TV speakers -Screen menu is easy to use Cons: A little pricey. 12 out of 12 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes No Gorgeous picture, sleek exterior Written By Scott F, Atlanta, GA on Thursday, March 21, 2013 Crutchfield Customer Review (What's this?) "Coolness Factor" Build Quality Ease of Use Picture Quality Value I received this TV yesterday. I'll post this review with some initial thoughts, and I'll update it in a couple weeks once I get some more experience with it. My early impression is the picture's brilliant, better than any TV I've ever seen. My room is very bright (multiple windows on both the south and east sides), so I increased the brightness from 45/100 to 68/100, and it's much more pleasant to view than our outgoing 2007 Panasonic plasma. The blacks are so dark my wife and I were initially disoriented. We've watched 1080P HD sources (Dark Knight Rises on Apple TV), 720P HD sources (Comcast STB) and SD sources (TV shows on Apple TV). All look great. I'm particularly impressed with the SD content. The exterior is dark, sleek metal. Both my wife and I love it. The fact my wife took to it is a big deal, given her discerning taste. So, based on one day's use, both my wife and I are thrilled with the set and would highly recommend it. Pros: Incredible picture Beautiful metal exterior and stand Cons: Slight amount of buzz. I'm not sure if this is a normal amount for a TV of this size. I stopped noticing it reasonably quickly. My wife hasn't said anything about it. 30 out of 38 people found this helpful Was this review helpful? Yes No Hands-on research Features and specs chart | What's in the box? | In-depth notes What's in the box? Download owner's manual 60" Plasma TV 5' AC power cord Base 2 Metal guides Smart Touch Controller (AA59-00758A) IR Blaster (VG-IRB2000) 2 "AAA" batteries 4 Pair of 3D active glasses (SSG-5100GB) Four CR2025 3V batteries Component video adapter Composite video/stereo RCA adapter Twelve M4 x 12mm screws 3 Ferrite cores Cable clamp 2 Blanking brackets Cleaning cloth User Manual Smart TV Quick Setup Guide Important Safety Precautions "Stop/Samsung Support" note 3D Active Glasses Instructions Ferrite Core instructions Cleaning cloth instructions Features and Specs Display Screen Size 59.9" Screen Design Flat Aspect Ratio 16:9 Screen Resolution (pixels) 1920 x 1080 Screen Refresh Rate N/C Backlighting Type N/A 3D Active Features Instant Internet Movie Streaming Netflix,Hulu,Vudu,Amazon,YouTu Wi-Fi Yes MHL-compatible Yes Picture In Picture Yes Parts Warranty 1 Year Labor Warranty 1 Year Type of Warranty Service In-home Connections Total Video Inputs 5 HDMI Inputs 4 Component Video Inputs 1 Composite Video Inputs 0 RF Inputs 1 PC Input No Ethernet Port Yes USB Port Yes Optical Digital Audio Output 1 Rear Coaxial Digital Audio Output None Analog Audio Output None Power Consumption Estimated Yearly Electricity Use (EnergyGuide) 401 kWh Estimated Yearly Energy Cost (EnergyGuide) $44 Dimensions & Mounting Information Width (inches) 54-7/8 Height with Stand (inches) 34-3/8 Height without Stand (inches) 32-3/8 Depth with Stand (inches) 12 Depth without Stand (inches) 3-1/4 Stand Width (inches) 54-7/8 Weight with Stand 71.4 lbs Weight without Stand 64.3 lbs Wall Mountable Yes Wall Bracket Included No Pedestal Stand Assembly required Product Research Video Features Audio Features Network/USB Functions Convenience Features Remote-Voice-Gesture Control Mounting Options Video Features Super Contrast Panel: The Samsung F8500 series Plasma TV's new Super Contrast Panel delivers incredible brightness, contrast, and clarity. Larger Red/Green/Blue sub-pixel color areas within the panel create a picture that rivals LED-LCD TVs for brightness. To further improve the already impressive picture, the Super Contrast Panel combines two key innovations for enhanced black levels and color reproduction Real Black Pro II: Through technology advancement to both the hardware and software of the TV, you can now experience a richer picture quality with deeper blacks, bolder color, and higher contrast. By improving the reflection reduction proprieties of the panel, combined with improving the reset pulse algorithm in the software, you can get the most cinematic viewing experience in a bright or dark room. Wide Color Enhancer Plus: Wide Color Enhancer Plus allows you to see picture color the way the director originally intended. Witness the entire RGB spectrum brought to life on your screen to bring you exceptionally vibrant, yet natural-looking images faithful to the director's original intent. Clear Image Technology: The Samsung F8500 series Plasma TV employs two advanced Clear Image technologies which help eliminate blurring caused by off-axis viewing or fast motion video. Single Layer Panel: The Plasma TV employs a single layer panel structure which eliminates the production of dual images and blurring, especially at off angled viewing. 600Hz Subfield Motion: The Samsung F8500 series Plasma TV generates a frame of video at 600 times per second. The result is smoother images with unprecedented picture quality, especially beneficial when viewing sports and fast action movies. Cinema Smooth Plus: Movies are shot at 24 fps (frames per second); Cinema Smooth Plus is a refined playback process of 24p movies from Blu-ray and Satellite TV sources that accurately converts and displays content originally shot on film at 24fps as compared to the 30fps of DVD and Blu-ray disc. This allows for smoother motion scenes when watching sources shot at the standard movie rate of 24fps. HDTV Tuner: The TV has built-in over-the-air HDTV (ATSC) and Digital Cable (QAM) tuners, so you don't need a separate set-top box to receive and decode over-the-air HDTV/SDTV or unencrypted Digital Cable signals. 1080p Resolution: The Samsung F8500 series Plasma TV displays all inputs at a resolution of 1080p (1920 x 1080). The television's HDMI and component video inputs will accept 1080p (24/60Hz), 1080i, 720p, 480p and 480i video signals. HDMI (v.1.4): The Samsung Plasma TV features four HDMI 1.4 inputs to connect to your Blu-ray/DVD player, Satellite/Cable receiver, or AV receiver. All HDMI inputs support x.v.Color, Deep Color, 3D, and CEC. The HDMI 3 input also supports the ARC function. The HDMI 4 input is MHL (Mobile High-Definition Link) compliant. In addition, any HDMI input can be used to connect a PC to this TV. Component Video: The Plasma TV features a single component video input. The TV's component video input can also be used as a composite video input (480i only). HDMI (MHL) Port: The HDMI 4 port is designed for the connection of select mobile phones and other portable electronic devices using the new MHL (Mobile High-Definition Link) standard. Simply plug your MHL compatible smartphone into the TV's HDMI 4 (MHL) port using the HDMI cable that is included with your mobile phone. MHL allows you to display full 1080p video and still images on the Samsung TV from your mobile smartphone. The TV's IR remote can be used to control basic playback functions (such as Play/Pause, Stop Fast Forward/Rewind, and Menu navigation). Your MHL compliant device will also charge while connected to the TV's HDMI 4 port. To find MHL-certified devices, go to www.mhlconsortium.org. Full HD 3D (via HDMI 1.4): The Samsung F8500 series Plasma TV offers Full HD (1080p) 3D capability. Samsung 3D TV utilizes Bluetooth-enabled active shutter glasses (two pair included) for a full 1080p 3D viewing experience when coupled with a 3D source, such as a 3D-ready Blu-ray player or an HD 3D broadcast from satellite or cable providers (connected via HDMI 1.4). The Samsung F8500 series Plasma TV automatically adjusts the overall picture to provide an optimal 3D effect. The Samsung 3D TV also offers a unique feature that allows you to intensify your 2D viewing experience by up-converting it to virtual 3D. In addition, you can adjust the overall 3D perspective (+/-5) and overall 3D image depth (1-10). Samsung 3D TV supports Full HD 3D for 1920 x 2205p (24Hz) or 1280 x 1470p (60Hz) video signals; and virtual 3D for 1920 x 1080p (24/30/60Hz), 1920 x 1080i (60Hz), or 1280 x 720p (60hz) video signals. The Samsung F8500 series Plasma TV offers various 3D modes to match your 3D viewing needs. 2D-3D: Changes a 2D image to 3D; you can adjust the focus and depth of the image to maximize 3D experience. Side-by-Side: Displays two images next to each other. Available when the resolution is 720p, 1080i or 1080p. Top & Bottom: Displays one image above another. Available when the resolution is 720p, 1080i or 1080p. 3D-2D: Displays the image for the left eye only. Off: Turns the 3D function off. Note: 2010 Samsung IR 3D glasses and3D glasses from other manufacturers are not compatible. Some 3D modes may not be available depending on the format of the image source. PIP, Auto Program, and some Picture Adjustment functions will also be disabled in 3D mode. Included 3D Glasses (4 pair): The Samsung F8500 series Plasma TV includes four pair of 3D active glasses with built-in Bluetooth. Samsung's 3D Active Glasses (SSG-5100GB) offer a comfortable fit through its lightweight frame and flexible noise- and ear-pieces. The Samsung 3D Active Glasses are powered by a single CR2025 3V lithium coin-type battery (pre-installed). The battery can last up to 150 hours when powered on. The Samsung's 3D Active Glasses provide a viewing range between 6.5' and 19.5' from the Samsung 3D-ready TV. Note: If the 3D glasses move outside of the recommended operating distance, the signal from the TV will be disconnected and the display of the 3D glasses will turn off after several seconds. If you lie on your side while watch TV with 3D glasses, the picture may look dark or may not be visible. When viewing 3D video under fluorescent lighting (50-60Hz), you may notice a small amount of screen flickering. Picture Control: You can make the following adjustments for an optimum picture. Screen Sizes: You can choose one of the following screen sizes. 16:9: Sets the picture to 16:9 wide mode. Zoom 1: Vertically enlarges the size of the picture and allows you to move the enlarged picture using the arrows on the remote. Zoom 2: Vertically enlarges the size of the picture more than Zoom 1 and allows you to move the enlarged picture using the arrows on the remote. Wide Fit: Proportionally enlarges the picture to fit the entire screen without changing the aspect ratio. 4:3: Sets the picture to 4:3 normal mode with pillars on the left and right of the screen. Screen Fit: See the full image with no resizing when HDMI (720p/1080i/180p) or Component (1080i/1080p) signals are inputted Picture Modes: Picture Modes apply preset adjustments to the picture. Dynamic: increases the brightness of the screen (suitable for bright rooms) Standard: suitable for a normal environment Relax: useful for reducing eye strain Movie: darkens the screen and reduces glare (appropriate for dark rooms) Entertain: sharpens images for a more dynamic viewing experience (only available when connected to a computer) Manual Picture Settings: The TV has several options for manually adjusting the picture quality. Cell Light: sets the individual pixel brightness Contrast: adjusts the contrast level of the picture Brightness: adjusts the brightness level of the picture Sharpness: adjusts the edge definition of the picture Color: adjusts the color saturation of the picture Tint (G/R): adjusts the color tint of the picture Advanced Picture Settings: The TV also offers more advanced picture adjustments for fine tuning. Dynamic Contrast: adjusts the screen contrast so that the optimal contrast is provided Black Tone: adjusts the black level on the screen to adjust the screen depth Flesh Tone: emphasize the pink flesh tone in a picture RGB Only: displays the red, green, and blue colors so you can make fine adjustments to hue and saturation Color Space: adjusts the range of colors available to create the image (Auto/Native) White Balance: adjusts the color temperature for more natural picture colors 10p White Balance: controls the white balance in 10 point intervals by adjusting the re, green, and blue brightness Gamma: adjusts the primary color (red, green, blue) intensity Expert Pattern: use this function to calibrate the picture using shades of grey and black, plus color Motion Lighting: The TV automatically adjusts the brightness of the screen in response to the brightness of the room. In bright light, the screen brightens. In dim light, the screen dims. Picture Options: Additional picture options provide you with a better viewing experience. Color Tone: adjusts the overall color tone of the televisions using one of four presets: Cool, Normal, Warm 1, Warm 2 Digital Clean View: if the broadcast signal received by the TV is weak, you can activate the Digital Clean View feature to reduce any static and ghosting that may appear on the screen MPEG Noise Filter: reduces MPEG noise to provide an improved picture HDMI Black Level: select the black level on the screen to adjust the screen depth when you have a component connected via HDMI to the television Motion Judder Canceller: Optimizes the TV screen for displaying face paced movie scenes. Black Optimizer: Adjusts overall black color depth to give a change to picture depth. This is not available when playing a media file or using the TV as a computer display. Note: Picture settings can be applied to all sources or only the current source. Film & Game Modes: The television provides Film & Game modes. Film Mode: The TV can be set to automatically sense and process film signals from all sources and adjust the picture from optimum quality. Film mode is supported in TV, AV, Component (480i/1080i), and HDMI (480i/1080i). Game Mode: When connecting the television to a game console, you can enjoy a more realistic gaming experience when selecting Game Mode. BD Wise: BD Wise provides the optimal picture quality for Samsung DVD, Blu-ray, and Home Theater products which support BD Wise. When BD Wise is set to On, the TV's picture mode is automatically changed to the optimal resolution. Anti Burn-In Technology: To reduce the possibility of screen burn-in, this Plasma TV is equipped with screen burn-in prevention technology. Samsung's Anti-burn-in technology uses auto pixel shift and signal pattern processing functions to ensure that no images are burned into the plasma panel. The Time setting allows you to program the time between movement of the picture in minutes. Pixel Shift: This function shifts the pixels of the displayed image every 1-4 minutes to prevent burn-in. Scrolling: This function removes after-images on the screen by moving all the pixels on the PDP according to a pattern. Side Gray (Dark/Light): When you watch TV with the screen ratio of 4:3, the screen is prevented from any damage by adjusting the white balance on both the extreme left and right sides of the television. Auto Protection Time: If the screen remains idle with a still image for a certain period of time (10, 20, 40, 60 minutes) defined by the user, the TV's built-in screen saver is activated to prevent the formation of host images on the screen. PIP (Picture-in-Picture): You can watch the TV's tuner and one external video source (component/HDMI) simultaneously. The component/HDMI source will be displayed as the main picture, while the TV channel will be displayed in a sub-screen, while which can be moved to each corner of the television's screen. You can switch the audio between the main screen and sub-screen. Audio Features Sound Customizer: The Samsung TV's Sound Customizer function lets you calibrate the television for the optimal sound quality based on the your hearing level and your room's ambient conditions. DNSE+ Processing: The Samsung Plasma TV employs DNSe+ processing which provides selectable custom settings for experiencing surround sound with maximum bass response, dialog clarity, and consistent volume levels from any content source, including Blu-ray movies, TV programming, streaming, and games. Virtual Surround: The TV delivers a compelling, virtual surround sound experience through its two-speaker system. Dialog Clarity: This function allows you to increase the intensity of a voice over background music or sound effects so that dialogcan be heard more clearly. Auto Volume: Auto Volume automatically adjusts the volume of the desired channel, lowering the sound output when the modulation signal is high or raising the sound output when the modulation signal is low. This reduces the difference in volume when changing channels. The Auto Volume feature can be set to Normal, Night or Off. 5-Band EQ + Preset Sound Modes: You can manually adjusts the TV's built-in 5-band EQ (100 Hz, 300 Hz, 1 kHz, 3 kHz, and 10 kHz) for a more customized sound, or you can simply choose from the following Preset Sound Modes: Standard: Selects the normal sound mode. Music: Emphasizes music over voices. Movie: Provides the best sound for movies. Clear Voice: Emphasizes voices over other sounds. Amplify: Amplify mode is for people who have difficulty hearing. Audio Extras: The Samsung TV offers a variety of audio adjustments to meet your listening needs. 3D Audio: 3D audio technology provides immersive sound that matches the pop-up effect of 3 Video by using perspective in the audio depth control. 3D Audio in only available while viewing 3D content. Audio Delay: The Audio Delay function corrects audio/video mismatch, when watching TV or video, and listening to a digital audio output using an external device such as an AV receiver. You can adjust the audio delay from 0ms to 250 ms. Picture Off: You can turn the television's screen off and still listen to audio. Digital Audio (Dolby Digital/DTS compatible): The optical digital output terminal will output Dolby Digital/DTS (when available) or 2 channel PCM.The digital optical output terminal only sends an audio signal in Dolby Digital/DTS when receiving Dolby Digital/DTS surround sound from a digital broadcast channel through the tuner, network apps, and USB ports on the LED-LCD TV. The optical digital audio output will only output in 2ch stereo or a matrixed 5.1ch signal (DTS Neo 2.5) from sources connected to the TV via HDMI orRCA. ARC (Audio Return Channel): The Audio Return Channel in HDMI 1.4 enables a TV, via a single HDMI cable, to send audio data "upstream" to an A/V receiver; increasing user flexibility and eliminating the need for any separate S/PDIF audio connection. This feature allows audio to be sent from the television to your A/V receiver through the same HDMI cable already being used to send audio/video to the television. This eliminates the need for extra cables connected to the TV. ARC allows audio from the TV tuner, Network connection, inserted USB device, HDMI inputs, or any analog connected device to be heard through your ARC compatible AV receiver via the television's HDMI ARC input. The audio from the TV's tuner, network connection, and USB port can pass as Dolby Digital or 2ch PCM. HDMI and analog connected devices will be output as 2ch PCM only. Note: Both the television and the receiver must support ARC for this function to work properly. When connecting an A/V receiver that is compatible with Audio Return Channel (ARC), connect it to the TV's HDMI 3 input. If connecting a system that is incompatible Audio Return Channel (ARC), an additional audio connection via Digital Audio Out (Optical) is necessary. SoundShare: The TV is compatible with the SoundShare feature found on some Samsung Crystal Surround AirTrack active speaker systems (sound bars). SoundShare makes a wireless connection between the TV and the speaker system via Bluetooth. Once the two are paired, you can control the volume and mute the sound by using the remote control from the TV or the speaker system. If you change the AirTrack from TV mode to another mode or turned off, the TV audio will resume playing from the TV's speakers. SoundShare can be found on the Samsung HW-F450, HW-F550, HW-F551, HW-F750, and HW-F850. Network/USB Functions Samsung's Quad Core Processor: Samsung's Quad Core processing speeds allow you to perform multiple tasks at the same time, such as using an app while downloading another one. It also enables extremely faster web browsing and application access. Network Connection (wired/wireless): You can set up the Samsung Plasma TV so that it can access your home network and online Samsung Apps through your local area network (LAN) using a wired (RJ-45 Ethernet) or wireless connection (built-in WiFi). You can setup a wired network connection automatically or manually. You can setup the wireless network connection using these four methods; PBC(WPS), Auto Network Search, One Foot, or Manually. Note: The TV's built-in WiFi supports IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n wireless LAN networks and WEP (open/shared), WPA-PSK (TKIP/AES), WPA2-PSK (TKIP/AES) network security. WiFi Direct: When using WiFi Direct, you can connect directly with other devices without using a wireless router. You'll be able to wirelessly transfer personal content (such as photos & videos) to the Samsung Plasma TV without connecting to your home network. WiFi Direct completely bypasses your WiFi access point/router, so it's easy to set up. Streaming of copy-protected content and other certain formats are not supported. AllShare/DLNA Certified: The Samsung Plasma TV's AllShare function, along with its DLNA Certification allow you to watch videos (Divx/AVI/H.264/MPEG/MKV/MOV/WMV), photos (JPEG/PNG/BMP/MPO), and listen to music (MP3/WMA/AAC/FLAC/OGG) saved on your Windows PC (or other DLNA Certified media server) through the TV via its Ethernet (LAN) port or built-in WiFi (wireless). This eliminates the need to copy your photo, video, and music files to a separate USB storage device. Note: Windows PCs with XP and Vista installed require Samsung's PC Share Manager software, which can be downloaded for free at www.samsung.com. Not compatible with older Windows OS versions and Mac. Screen Mirroring: This Screen Mirroring function lets you view the screen of your WiFi-enabled Samsung Android smart phone or tablet (with support for AllShare Cast) on the Samsung Plasma TV. Samsung Apps: Once you have connected the Samsung TV to your home network, you gain access to Samsung Apps. Samsung Apps lets you download for pay or free-of-charge applications and services to the Samsung Plasma TV. You can enjoy a variety of content from various downloaded applications; such as videos, music, photos, games, and news. Samsung Apps has a growing collection of pay and free-of-charge online applications that connect you to some of your favorite online content; such as movies from Netflix or Vudu, TV shows from Hulu Plus, videos from YouTube, music from Pandora, and social updates from Facebook or Twitter. Movies: Watch movies and TV shows on Netflix (5.1ch), Vudu, HuluPlus, Amazon Instant Video, HBO GO, & CinemaNow. Music: Listen to music from Pandora, Spotify, TuneIn, SHOUTcast Radio, & vTuner Social Networks: Share your thoughts and comments about a program on the air through social networking services. Social Networks displays social network services such as Twitter, Facebook, & Google Talk, on a single screen. You can post messages and comments in the same manner as you would using a computer. You also have access to YouTube, & Picasa. News & Weather: Includes apps that provide information content; such as news (USA Today), weather (AccuWeather), and more. Fitness: Fitness is an application that helps you stay fit. Create a profile, set up an exercise plan, and start exercising according to a structured regimen. Kids: A recommended list for applications and content that is suitable for children and even provides services not currently installed on the TV. Using Kids, you can download applications and content for your children to your TV. Certain services, however, are fee-based. Note: Samsung Apps require an Internet connection with a speed of 1.5mbps or greater. Some application services may be provided in English only and the content available may vary, depending on your area. Visit Samsung's App Store for a complete list of available Samsung Apps. Web Browser You can access the internet using the player's Web Brower application. You can search web pages using Google or Bing. You may enter a URL addresses or enter a keyword search. The player will archive your web browser history. You can also save "Favorite" web pages and create a "Home" page. The playback of Flash videos is also supported. The Web Browser is optimized to fill your connected TV's screen. Use a USB- or Bluetooth-enabled keyboard and mouse (both sold separately) for a more convenient web browsing experience Note: The browsing experience, however, may not be the same as it is on your computer. The Web Browser is not compatible with Java applications. E-commerce, for purchasing products online is not supported. ActiveX is not supported. Skype w/ Built-in Camera & Mic: Samsung's free Skype app, plus the TV's built-in pop-up camera & mic lets you make video calls from the comfort of your living room. Using the TV's remote control, you can create free Skype accounts, log into existing accounts, and navigate via a simple Skype interface made for the big screen. You can make free Skype-to-Skype voice and video calls to friends and family, wherever they are in the world from the Samsung TV. Note: The built-in, pop-up Camera adds 0.5625" to the height of the TV. Tickers: The Ticker application provides useful News, Weather, and Stock Market information on-screen. Link Service Accounts: The Link Service Accounts function lets you link your player to your accounts with Internet services (such as Twitter, Facebook, etc.) so that the player can log you into the service automatically when you start the app for that service. Firmware/Software Updates: The television's Software Upgrade menu allows you to upgrade the TV's software & firmware for performance improvements & additional services. You can upgrade in four ways; USB, Internet, Alternative Software, or Standby Mode. The tested television contained firmware version (T-FXPAKUC-1013.2, BT-S as of 3/27/2013). There was an immediate firmware update (1015) available. Visit the Samsung Download Center for the latest Firmware/Software updates. Triple USB Ports: The television is equipped with three USB (type-A) ports. Two of the USB ports can accept a USB mass-storage-class device (5V, 0.5A), while the other USB port will accept a USB hard-disk-drive (5V, 1A). Either USB port lets you view photo and movie files, as well as listen to audio files saved on a compatible USB device. Files must be formatted in FAT16/32 or NTFS. The TV can recognize up to 1,000 files in each folder. Video Playback: The TV supports the following video file types; AVI, Divx, H.264, MPEG, MKV, MOV, and WMV. Movie files are displayed in a folder and title list in either date or alphabetical order. The TV offers Play, Pause, Search, and Resume playback functions for compatible video files stored on a compatible USB device. Still Image Playback: The TV supports the following still image file types; JPEG, PNG, BMP, or MPO. Still image files can be viewed as a slide show with background music or as a thumbnail view. Still images can also viewed full-screen and zoomed or rotated. Audio Playback: The TV supports music files supports the following music file types; MP3, WMA, AAC, FLAC, and OGG. Music files are displayed in a folder and track list, and can be sorted by Artist, Album, or Genre. Music files can be repeated or shuffled in a selected folder. Convenience Features Smart Hub: This TV features Smart Hub, an interactive multi-purpose menu system. With Smart Hub, you can surf the web, download applications, and stay in touch with family and friends through social networking services. In addition, you can enjoy photo, video & music files stored on external storage devices. The new Smart Hub interface organizes your entertainment and content into 5 convenient panels. Social: Connect to YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter. You can also make Skype video calls to friends by connecting the TV to a camera (sold separately from Samsung). Apps: Samsung Apps offers an extensive collection of free and paid news, sports, weather, and gaming content you can directly download to and enjoy on your TV. On TV: Check a listing of TV programs that are currently airing and are scheduled to be aired (supports off-air, cable, and satellite programming). Movies & TV Shows: Purchase and watch movies and TV shows from an online service provider. You can browse content by Favorites, Featured, Movies, or TV Shows. Photos/Videos/Music: Play back photo, video, and music files from an external USB or network storage device. Content Discovery: The TV offers unique ways to search and access your favorite and new content from the TV's tuner and network apps. Recommendations (w/ voice control): The Recommendation feature helps you discover what you want to watch on TV or the Internet with customized content options based on your preferences. Select Timeline View to display program recommendations for different times of the day. You can even use the TV's voice control system to ask the TV to find things to watch and get program suggestions. Favorite Channels: You can designate frequently watched channels as "Favorites". You can create up to 5 favorite channel list for each member of you family. You can also rename and edit favorite channel lists. Genre: It is possible to filter channels by genre, if the channels contain proper genre information. Schedule Manager: Using this function, you can set the TV to display a desired channel automatically on a day and at a time of your choice. The Schedule Manager can be set to repeat only once, everyday, Mon-Fri, Mon-Sat, or Sat-Sun. Input Source Names: You can assign a pre-programmed name to each of the inputs. When input naming is completed, you will no longer have to remember which component is connected to each input when selecting a source to watch. Source names include VCR, DVD, Cable STB, Satellite STB, PVR STB, AV Receiver, Game, Camcorder, PC, TV, DVI PC, DVI Device, IPTV, Blu-Ray, HD-DVD, and Digital Media Adapter. Hearing & Visually Impaired: The Samsung Plasma TV offers Close Captions and an Audio Guide for the hearing and visually impaired. Close Captions (CC): The TV provides Analog Closed Captions and Digital Closed Captions. The Digital CC offers customizable text, font, and size. The Caption feature does not work for Component and HDMI input sources. Audio Guide: Activate the audio guide for the visually impaired. This is only available with broadcasts that provide this service. Program Rating Lock: The Program Rating Lock feature automatically locks out programs that are deemed inappropriate for children. You can block TV program based on their ratings and Movies based on their MPAA rating, so you have more control over what your children watch. The Program Rating Lock function is protected by a 4-digit PIN. ECO Settings: The Samsung Plasma TV provides ECO settings to reduce the TV's power consumption and cut-down on energy costs. Eco Sensor: Samsung's unique Eco light sensor measures the intensity of the room's light and automatically calibrates the brightness of the image on the screen. In a sun-filled environment, the screen gets brighter and in dim surroundings, the intensity is reduced. This feature optimizes the viewing experience while also saving you energy. Energy Saver: This feature adjust the brightness of the TV in order to reduce power consumption. When watching TV at night, set the Energy Saver feature to High to reduce eye fatigue as well as power consumption. You can set this feature to High, Medium, Low, or Picture Off (sound remains on). No Signal Standby: The TV will automatically switch to standby mode, if no picture is being received for a predetermined set amount of time (15, 30, or 60 minutes). Auto Power Off: The TV will be automatically turn off after 4 hours of being left idle to prevent overheating. Self Diagnosis: The Samsung Plasma TV provides a Self Diagnosis menu which allows you to check the television for picture, sound, and signal problems. Picture Test: Use to check for picture problems. If the problem appears in the test picture, select "Yes" and follow the directions on the screen. Sound Test: Use the built-in melody sound to check for sound problems. If the problem occurs during the test, select "Yes" and follow the directions on the screen. Signal Test: An HD digital channel's reception quality is either perfect or the channels are unavailable. Adjust your antenna to increase signal strength. Timers: The Samsung Plasma TV offers On/Off and Sleep timers for your convenience. On/Off Timer: The three On/Off timers allow you to program the television to turn itself on and off by selecting a specific on time and a specific off time. An On/off timer can be set to repeat only once, everyday, Mon-Fri, Mon-Sat, or Sat-Sun. You can also choose the On Timer's content (TV, USB, or Antenna) and volume. The on and off timers work independently of one another. Sleep Timer: The sleep timer switches the television off after a specified amount of time. The sleep timer can be set to 30, 60, 90, 120, 150, or 180 minutes. Remote Support: The Samsung Remote Support service offers you one-on-one support with a Samsung Technician who can remotely diagnose your TV, adjust the TV settings, perform a factory reset, and install recommended firmware updates. Your TV must be connected to your homes wired or wireless network. Smart Evolution Port: The Smart Evolution Port on the rear-panel of the TV allows you to update the TV in the future. Samsung's Smart Evolution Kit (sold separately; available in 2014) plugs into this port on back of the TV and updates it with new software and technology that will improve the TV's performance - faster speed, more content, more features. E-Manual: The television only comes with a brief User Manual. A complete instruction manual is built-in into the TV and can be viewed on-screen. Open the e-Manual to learn how to use the TV's many features. Remote-Voice-Gesture Control Smart Touch Remote (w/ IR Blaster): The new Samsung Smart Touch Remote Control makes it even easier to navigate the television's entertainment sources, menu settings, and Smart TV features. Improved user convenience has been provided so that you can switch the channel and adjust the volume with just your fingertips while focusing on the TV screen. The built-in touchpad removes the need for a mouse when you change the menu settings or search for something on the Internet. You can even activate a virtual on-screen remote controller (w/ numeric keypad, playback controls, and shortcut menu) on the TV which can be operated through the remote's touchpad. It also has a built-in microphone that you can use to give the Samsung TV voice commands. In addition, the remote can be programmed to control satellite/cable boxes, Blu-ray players, and home theaters from other manufactures using the TV's setup menu and the included IR blaster. You can turn on the remote's backlight function for a brief moment with a press of a button. Note: The Smart Touch Remote communicates with the TV through wireless Bluetooth communication. This means you don't have to point the remote directly at the TV. The remote will need to be initially paired with the TV. Smart Interaction: The Samsung F8500 series Plasma TV offers Smart Interaction with voice & motion control, as well as face recognition through its built-in pop-up camera and integrated microphone. The camera is retractable and its viewing angle is adjustable. Using the TV's Smart Interaction, you can access and control menu options and functions using speech, hand gestures, and face recognition. Voice Control: Using the TV's built-in microphone or the microphone on the included Smart Touch Remote and the voice control function of the TV, your voice is all you need to turn on the Samsung television, navigate menus, and get to your favorite Smart TV content. You can use only your voice to switch the channel, adjust the volume level, and launch online apps while focusing on the TV screen, which removes the need for the conventional remote control. The Smart Touch Remote's mic even lets you use "natural language" to search for content on the TV, your network, and online apps. To use Voice Control, you must pronounce words and phrases clearly and correctly in the language (English/French/Spanish) you selected. The Voice Control function can be affected by unclear pronunciation, voice level, or surrounding noise. Make sure to speak in a loud (~40dB) and clear voice and reduce any background noise (below 40db) in the room. Use the TV's voice control management test for best performance. Motion Control: Thanks to the television's built-in camera and motion control function, a simple hand gesture is all it takes to access your favorite movies, sports, apps, and other Smart TV content. Use a specific hand motions to switch the channel or adjust the volume level, as well as to move the mouse pointer to a desired position while surfing online content from the Smart Hub. Simply use your hand to control TV functions by swiping (moving your hand left or right) to navigate and grabbing (closing your hand or making a fist) to select. The motion control function can be affected by user's location, motion posture, or ambient brightness conditions. The built-in camera's angle is adjustable to compensate for the television's mounting height (high on wall or low on stand). Make sure the palm of your hand is open, flat, and facing the TV when making "swiping" movements (not too fast or too slow). If your hand moves outside of the camera's view, motion control will be deactivated. Your room should be well lit room (50-500 Lux) with the light illuminating you. Use the TV's gesture control environment test for best performance. Face Recognition: The built-in camera also recognizes your face and logs you in to your profile, giving you instant access to your favorite apps, your personal Skype address book, and more. In order for Face Recognition to function, the TV's built-in camera will take a snapshot of your face and a thumbnail image of your face will be stored in the TV for logging-in purposes. The TV can store up to five face recognition profiles. Note: Samsung recommends using the Voice & Motion Control function within approximately 5-13' of your TV. The motion control's range may differ depending on the angle of camera or other conditions. Voice Control performance levels will vary based on the language spoken. Some TV and menu functions will require the use of the included IR remote control. Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC): This TV is enabled with Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC); a feature that makes it possible to control Samsung external devices connected to the TV with ease. With Anynet+, you can use the TV remote control to operate all your compatible Samsung devices that are connected to the TV via HDMI. Anynet+ can control up to 12 compatible external devices (up to 3 of the same type). Smart View Mobile App: Download the Smart View Mobile App from the Android Market on select Samsung smartphones and tablets (Android 2.2-up) for yet another way to control the Samsung F8500 series Plasma TV. If both your Samsung smartphone or tablet and TV are connected to the same wireless network, your smartphone or tablet will link to the TV automatically where you can use your smartphone or tablet like a remote control. The TV can also transfer live feeds to your smartphone or tablet. Main features include: Remote: Your Samsung mobile device can work as remote for the Samsung Plasma TV and a connected Samsung Blu-ray player or home theater system. TV View: Enjoy TV and other multimedia right from your Samsung mobile device that's connected to the Samsung Smart TV. You can watch the same content as on the TV or different content from other input source. Keyboard & Mouse Compatible: The Samsung F8500 series Plasma TV will also support either a USB or Bluetooth enabled keyboard and mouse (both sold separately), which makes web browsing a lot easier. 5-Way Joy Stick: The television is equipped with a 5-way "joy stick" like button on the bottom right side of the TV's rear-panel that lets you control the TV without the remote control or Smart Interaction. Mounting Options Base: The TV is shipped with its base unattached. The base attaches to the television using the supplied hardware. The television weighs 71.4 lbs with the base. Wall Mounting: The TV has four threaded inserts on the back for use with an optional wall-mount bracket. The spacing of the mounting holes is 600mm (h) x 400mm (v) in accordance with the industry standards set by the Video Electronics Standards Association. The threaded inserts require M8 (8mm) machine screws (not supplied). The television weighs64.3 lbs without the stand. Note: When mounting the TV on the stand or a wall (with optional bracket) leave 4" of clearance on each side of the television and 4" above/below the television for adequate ventilation. Detachable AC Power Cord: The Samsung Plasma TV comes with a 5' detachable AC power cord. The power cord sits 0.9375" from the back of the television. The power cord is fitted with a right-angle AC plug that sits 0.875" from the wall. Our Product Research Team At Crutchfield, you'll get detailed, accurate information that's hard to find elsewhere. That's because we have our own in-house Product Research team. They verify what's in the box, check the owner's manual, and record dimensions, features and specs. We stay on top of new products and technologies to help people make informed choices. Product reviews from the Crutchfield Labs Video: Samsung F8500 Plasma HDTVs by Tara W. The F8500 series plasma TVs from Samsung are the finest they've ever made. In fact, at the recent Consumer Electronics Show, while OLED and 4K TVs were grabbing the headlines, the F8500 series was... What are the Labs? Sorry, the Samsung PN60F8500 is no longer available. Email me when available Go Looking for a similar item? Shop all TVs


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Kipling Glider and Ottoman
by Gus Modern
At A Glance:
Sometimes all you need for a comfortable afternoon is a little motion - especially when it's as easy and gentle as the motion produced by the Kipling Glider. Its matching ottoman also glides, giving you the pleasant experience of synchronous head-to-toe rocking. With a shape inspired by children's wood blocks, and FSC Certified wood frame, the Kipling Glider is both reminiscent and responsibly produced.
What's To Like:
- Ergonomic proportions offer comfortable neck support and let you place your arms in the right place. Not only that, but the motion that the Kipling Glider allows gives a more restful sitting experience than an immobile lounge chair could.
- If you love modern, you'll love the style of this glider and ottoman set. Straight lines, French seams, and well-chosen color options round out the look.
What's Not to Like:
If you're looking for a glider that won't need upkeep, look for one that's leather-covered. This one will need vacuuming every so often.
The Bottom Line:
The Kipling Glider and Ottoman from Gus Modern combine the styling touches you're used to from Gus with the versatile functionality of the best kind of furniture - the kind that can be used in different areas of the home to equal effect.
- Chair: 32" h x 27.5" w x 34" d
- Ottoman: 16.5" h x 22" w x 20.5" d
- French seam detailing on all edges of the upholstery
- Versatile chair can be used anywhere in the home
- Fabric is comfortable and easy to clean
- Hardwood frame is constructed with FSC Certified wood in support of responsible forest management
- Matching ottoman also glides
Also In This Collection
Materials & MeasurementsMaterials: FSC-Certified wood legs and frame
Glider: 32" h x 27.5" w x 34" d
Seat depth: 21"
Seat height: 17"
Arm height: 24"
Ottoman: 16.5" h x 22" w x 20.5" d
Your FurnitureGenius Recommendations
Environmental InformationContains FSC-Certified Wood harvested from a well-managed forest.
About The ManufacturerWith a focus on simple forms and honest materials, Gus Design Group's vision is to bring comfortable sofas, modern tables, and striking accent pieces to modern interiors everywhere. Their sofas, lounge chairs, and ottomans are an excellent choice for anyone with a fondness for mid-century design, from which Gus Modern draws much of its inspiration. Gus Modern is based in Toronto, Canada.
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Friday, April 13, 2007
The difference the ERA won't make
Andrew Koppelman
In a recent interview with Steve Chapman of the Chicago Tribune, I was briefly quoted as saying about the Equal Rights Amendment, which is being pushed again by Congressional Democrats, that "it's hard to imagine it making any difference at all." Ilya Somin of The Volokh Conspiracy has challenged this claim, noting that it could potentially be construed to prohibit male-only draft registration, single-sex bathrooms, civil unions limited to same-sex couples, Title IX rules that protect women's sports teams. He also cited an earlier post by Eugene Volokh that noted the possible invalidation of limits on women in combat, sex-based affirmative action programs, exclusion of boys from girls' sports teams, and the limitation of marriage to opposite-sex couples.
Nice post.
You are very correct in that the ERA likely won't do much to change the fact that women earn 77 cents to every dollar a man earns.
But, doesn't this illuminate why it would be so bad? It isn't going to help with what is (probably?) the main goal. Who the heck really knows what sort of otherwise reasonable policies or programs by the government will be struck down under the ERA.
Unlike race, there are in fact real sex-based differences. The law should be allowed to recognize them as long as it isn't used to artifically restrict or subordinate men or women.
Now, the Court could sidestep this with the invidious/benign distinction, but that seems to me an even more problematic system of scrutiny going forward.
It's not the pay issue. It's the respect and consideration issue. And if there is just the potential to sue someone because you are discriminated against, it often stops the discrimination. Women are still considered 2nd class citizens in the U.S. I don't know of a single woman who does not think it would be a good thing to pass the ERA. Sometimes you have to legislate respect, unfortunately.
There seems to be implicit distinction drawn in this post between "real" things like money and "unreal" things like feelings. But no foundation for such an ontological conclusion has been laid. The kind of upper middle class women (Ruth Bader Ginsburg is a perfect example) who supported challenges to statutory sexual discrimination weren't trying to earn as much as their husbands; they just didn't like being told that they couldn't do something because of their sex.
Using to law to send symbolic messages seems perfectly appropriate to me, if that's what people want to do.
citizen shelly,
Umm, I hate to be the one to have to tell you this, but you can't legislate respect--at least not very well.
On of the big issues with this amendment, is that the most prominent example (wage gap) of a divide between men and women is largely (if not mostly) explained by the career choices between men and women. For example, women far more often than men stay home to raise the children. This stalls their career for years. And many do not return or return in different capacities. This is but only one example.
2nd class citizens? Things may not be perfect, but that's just a joke.
On[e] of the big issues with this amendment, is that the most prominent example (wage gap) of a divide between men and women is largely (if not mostly) explained by the career choices between men and women. For example, women far more often than men stay home to raise the children. {emphases mine}Post a Comment
I'm sure there is, at some levels of employment, a causal link between women 'choosing' to stay home and raise children and the wage gap. I'm fairly certain, however, that it doesn't move in the direction you think it does, and doesn't work at all in some classes.
For instance:
- Almost every woman I know who 'chose' to stay at home listed as a reason that her income wasn't high enough to support childcare, or support the family while her husband stayed home. Her husband's income COULD support the family, and so her career is stalled, by her 'choice.'
- Um, the whole world isn't middle class. Poor women have worked for sustenance for...ever. Her children don't eat if she doesn't work, and that work is STILL paid at a lower level than work requiring similar effort,training, and danger that a man would be expected to do.
And, someone, I'm glad you think 2nd class citizenship is a joke. Now, let's imagine that you and I are both accosted today by someone we know. And let's imagine that we're both hurt badly enough that someone calls the police. Which of our attackers do you think is going to prison? Or, let's not even go that far down the road. How will you explain to the police that you didn't voluntarily offer your alleged attacker the right to beat you? How does the policeman know that you didn't want to be beaten? Maybe the policeman's buddy only understands if he beats him, too, and you are all ugly, bruised, and snivelly which is unattractive of you and therefore against the social code.
And, no, sadly, you cannot legislate respect, but you CAN legislate equal protection under the law. And that's kind of the point.
Books by Balkinization Bloggers
Stephen M. Griffin, Broken Trust: Dysfunctional Government and Constitutional Reform (University Press of Kansas, 2015)
Frank Pasquale, The Black Box Society: The Secret Algorithms That Control Money and Information (Harvard University Press, 2015)
Bruce Ackerman, We the People, Volume 3: The Civil Rights Revolution (Harvard University Press, 2014)
Balkinization Symposium on We the People, Volume 3: The Civil Rights Revolution
Joseph Fishkin, Bottlenecks: A New Theory of Equal Opportunity (Oxford University Press, 2014)
Mark A. Graber, A New Introduction to American Constitutionalism (Oxford University Press, 2013)
John Mikhail, Elements of Moral Cognition: Rawls' Linguistic Analogy and the Cognitive Science of Moral and Legal Judgment (Cambridge University Press, 2013)
Gerard N. Magliocca, American Founding Son: John Bingham and the Invention of the Fourteenth Amendment (New York University Press, 2013)
Stephen M. Griffin, Long Wars and the Constitution (Harvard University Press, 2013)
Andrew Koppelman, The Tough Luck Constitution and the Assault on Health Care Reform (Oxford University Press, 2013)
James E. Fleming and Linda C. McClain, Ordered Liberty: Rights, Responsibilities, and Virtues (Harvard University Press, 2013)
Balkinization Symposium on Ordered Liberty: Rights, Responsibilities, and Virtues
Andrew Koppelman, Defending American Religious Neutrality (Harvard University Press, 2013)
Brian Z. Tamanaha, Failing Law Schools (University of Chicago Press, 2012)
Sanford Levinson, Framed: America's 51 Constitutions and the Crisis of Governance (Oxford University Press, 2012)
Linda C. McClain and Joanna L. Grossman, Gender Equality: Dimensions of Women's Equal Citizenship (Cambridge University Press, 2012)
Mary Dudziak, War Time: An Idea, Its History, Its Consequences (Oxford University Press, 2012)
Jack M. Balkin, Living Originalism (Harvard University Press, 2011)
Jason Mazzone, Copyfraud and Other Abuses of Intellectual Property Law (Stanford University Press, 2011)
Richard W. Garnett and Andrew Koppelman, First Amendment Stories, (Foundation Press 2011)
Jack M. Balkin, Constitutional Redemption: Political Faith in an Unjust World (Harvard University Press, 2011)
Gerard Magliocca, The Tragedy of William Jennings Bryan: Constitutional Law and the Politics of Backlash (Yale University Press, 2011)
Bernard Harcourt, The Illusion of Free Markets: Punishment and the Myth of Natural Order (Harvard University Press, 2010)
Bruce Ackerman, The Decline and Fall of the American Republic (Harvard University Press, 2010)
Balkinization Symposium on The Decline and Fall of the American Republic
Ian Ayres. Carrots and Sticks: Unlock the Power of Incentives to Get Things Done (Bantam Books, 2010)
Mark Tushnet, Why the Constitution Matters (Yale University Press 2010)
Ian Ayres and Barry Nalebuff: Lifecycle Investing: A New, Safe, and Audacious Way to Improve the Performance of Your Retirement Portfolio (Basic Books, 2010)
Jack M. Balkin, The Laws of Change: I Ching and the Philosophy of Life (2d Edition, Sybil Creek Press 2009)
Brian Z. Tamanaha, Beyond the Formalist-Realist Divide: The Role of Politics in Judging (Princeton University Press 2009)
Andrew Koppelman and Tobias Barrington Wolff, A Right to Discriminate?: How the Case of Boy Scouts of America v. James Dale Warped the Law of Free Association (Yale University Press 2009)
Jack M. Balkin and Reva B. Siegel, The Constitution in 2020 (Oxford University Press 2009)
Heather K. Gerken, The Democracy Index: Why Our Election System Is Failing and How to Fix It (Princeton University Press 2009)
Mary Dudziak, Exporting American Dreams: Thurgood Marshall's African Journey (Oxford University Press 2008)
David Luban, Legal Ethics and Human Dignity (Cambridge Univ. Press 2007)
Ian Ayres, Super Crunchers: Why Thinking-By-Numbers is the New Way to be Smart (Bantam 2007)
Jack M. Balkin, James Grimmelmann, Eddan Katz, Nimrod Kozlovski, Shlomit Wagman and Tal Zarsky, eds., Cybercrime: Digital Cops in a Networked Environment (N.Y.U. Press 2007)
Jack M. Balkin and Beth Simone Noveck, The State of Play: Law, Games, and Virtual Worlds (N.Y.U. Press 2006)
Andrew Koppelman, Same Sex, Different States: When Same-Sex Marriages Cross State Lines (Yale University Press 2006)
Brian Tamanaha, Law as a Means to an End (Cambridge University Press 2006)
Sanford Levinson, Our Undemocratic Constitution (Oxford University Press 2006)
Mark Graber, Dred Scott and the Problem of Constitutional Evil (Cambridge University Press 2006)
Jack M. Balkin, ed., What Roe v. Wade Should Have Said (N.Y.U. Press 2005)
Sanford Levinson, ed., Torture: A Collection (Oxford University Press 2004)
Balkin.com homepage
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Laura Ashley Soft Pink bath rugs can add style and comfort to your bathroom. Bath rugs are offered in medium and large sizes. The trellis design is woven into the bath rug. Absorbent cotton with help keep your bathroom floor dry and looking good.
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Bath Rug Large (Laura Ashley Diamond Trellis)
Bath rug (45" x 27") is 100% cotton. Machine washable.
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Own a rare and beautiful collector's item, commemorating Super Bowl XLV in Dallas! This brilliant pennant, from Wincraft Inc.'s limited-edition premium series, gives you a great collector's item - the bold Super Bowl XLV script, the game date, and a spectacular backdrop of the Dallas city skyline lit up at night. A beauty for your wall, and a valuable collector's item for years to come. Part of WinCraft's premium pennant line, the clear and brilliant photography and graphics are printed on a revolutionary soft-and-durable "Roll-it-and-Go" felt that can be tucked tightly away if necessary, and look just as good when unfurled again, ensuring your pennant will continue to look great and last a lifetime. A must-have addition to the wall of any fan, and a valuable collector's item that won't last long.
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