Envision 19" monitor deal at Staples - $99, partial repost PLEASE READ

[dud]

I read the original post for this deal and did not find it listed for the $99 price I will end up paying. I decided to risk the flamers by posting my experience with this opportunity - and asking some questions of those who own this monitor. first, I purchased the EN-910e (sku 450431) monitor at Staples B&M on tuesday, 6/4. I had been in Staples looking over the floor model and when the $50 of $200 coupon became available I decided to purchase for $219 - $50 coupon - $70 rebate = $99 + tax). At home I opened the box and set up the monitor only to discover that the monitor I had was not the same as the floor model. The display model had a rather ugly case and a "wheel" at the center-bottom of the case used to change the vert/horizontal, etc. The monitor I had was much nicer and flatter that the display model and no wheel, just a few buttons. Ever so happier with my purchase I plug it in and away I go.

Some of my observations: 1) the display is GREAT for the money - a great value. The display is easy to set up and very crisp/clear. PLEASE READ THESE AND COMMENT: 2) After getting the display set up I decide to put it through a set of tests so I run SS2, MOH-AA and Empire Earth. The games seem to come alive with this monitor (over my older 17" Gateway vivitron). I was very impressed UNTIL I started getting pains in the eyes and head. I tried the monitor 3 times last night and each time I started to experience eye strain after only 30 minutes of use. Is this normal? Is it that my eyes are not used to such a large display. Please help me explain this. 3) Has anyone else who purchased this unit noticed the chemical smell arising from the back of the unit? It is the worst of any monitor I have ever owned. I was wondering if this is normal (for a new monitor) and how long it will take to burn off?

I appreciate any feedback/comments (and yes, even you flamers). I was hoping that by re-posting this that potential future buyers would be better informed. Remember, this deal is still available until 6/15 if any of your local Staples has them in stock. It would be soooo easy to purchase online (free shipping) but unfortunately they seem to be OOS.

 

[royaldank]

I got mine yesterday and hooked it up. I noticed that it did smell. It was putting off some heat, as well. Not that the smell was overbearing, but it was def. a scent that wasn't in my room until yesterday. I'm hoping the smell wears off after a few hours of use.

 

[HTNut]

Sounds like you have your refresh rate set to low. Go into your display properties & bump it up to at least 70Hz.

HT Nut

 

[cremefilled]

Yeah, what HTNut said. I never trust Windows to adjust the "optimal" refresh. Read through your manual and set each resolution/refresh yourself. If you need to because of a lack of an install CD, install a different 19 or 21" monitor in Windows that gives you the same flexibility. This Envision can do 75Hz @ 1600X1200, so every resolution should have at least that refresh.

 

[mindwarp]

How can I use the $40 off 200 in store? Just tell them the code?

 

[dud]

Sign on at Staples.com and they will send you both coupon codes (usually 5 digit #s) that you use on-line OR printable coupons you print out and use at the B&M stores. I used a rare $50 of $200 printable that expires on 6/7. If you cannot get one from Staples there are sources online.

 

[knightc2]

I can not vouch for Envision monitors as I have never used one, but the reviews seem positive. The prices are certainly good. Like others have said the refresh rate is the biggest contributer of eye strain. Definitely take a look at that. You might try lowering the brightness a little and adjusting the focus (if your monitor allows) if something still just doesn't seem right. As for the "new monitor" smell that royaldank speaks of, this is usually a normal occurance and it should go away after a couple days.

 

[slaman]

This deal went perfectly for me!

The monitor is the Envision 910-E and is listed for $229.99 - there is a $10 Instant Rebate that shows up at the till. Use the printable $50 off $200 coupon (fat wallet) which works fine in the store or online, and fill out the $70 rebate! Wow! A 19 incher for less than a $100

The monitor is blurry for text, but it beats my other ghetto KDS 19 incher.

Just a quick question for those who bought this - where the HELL is the UPC? I see a bunch of stickers with barcodes, but none on the cardboard box. Anyone want to enlighten me with specifics on where to find this UPC for the rebate? Thanks

 

[bdunosk]

I've noticed that new monitor smell tends to take a month to go away... but it really depends how much you have it on and if the room is well ventilated... if you can have windows open, it's even better (of course). I wouldn't worry about the smell... and the refresh rate is going to be messed up if you have win2k or XP... you'll have to search for a work-around.

Anyway... bump for a good deal.

 

[Garet Jax]

Originally posted by: bdunosk
I've noticed that new monitor smell tends to take a month to go away... but it really depends how much you have it on and if the room is well ventilated... if you can have windows open, it's even better (of course)

bdunosk,

What does having windows open have to do with airing out a Monitor. Why won't Linux work just as well?

 

[slaman]

I'm running Win2K and set my refresh rate to 75Hz at 1280x1024... the text is a bit blurry - any ideas?

Plus, any hints on finding that UPC?

 

[mainomega]

Hmmm, havent been able to find it online. I need a new monitor for the pc i'm building because of all the "deals" i find.

 

[Jack159]

Yeah, I didnt see it online, either. Went to the local staples, they had it in stock - the newer version without the dial on the monitor. Took my printed 50 off 200 coupon no problems (it expires today). So I now have a spare monitor for 99 after rebates!

good deal!!!



Jack

 

[DTBH]

... smell from monitor.... eye strain.... sounds more like a hazard to me.... But 19inch monitor for 99 bucks? It might be worth it as long as I dun die from the smell or lose my eyesight.

 

[grappa]

Originally posted by: slaman
I'm running Win2K and set my refresh rate to 75Hz at 1280x1024... the text is a bit blurry - any ideas?

Plus, any hints on finding that UPC?

The sharpness of the text is also dependent on your video card... what are you using? Some are better than others in 2-D display quality and clarity.

And if I remember correctly, the barcode is around the lower portion of the side of the box, and it may be a sticker. I just cut it out and sent it in, and the check came pretty quickly (this was from a previous offer several months ago.)

So far I've been happy with my 910e...

G

 

[slaman]

I'm using an ATI RAdeon 8500 OEM and I know it's not at fault because I had it running fine on two other monitors...

I know which sticker you're talking about - I think i'll submit the rebate request online though - is it slower online?

 

[dud]

It's been almost 5 days now and the "new" smell from the monitor is about gone. The eye-strain problem was prob the refresh rate. I am running Win 98 and the refresh rate was set to "optimal". I changed it to 70 Hz and my eyes are OK now. I tell you this is a great monitor for the price.

 

[Jack159]

Originally posted by: dud
It's been almost 5 days now and the "new" smell from the monitor is about gone. The eye-strain problem was prob the refresh rate. I am running Win 98 and the refresh rate was set to "optimal". I changed it to 70 Hz and my eyes are OK now. I tell you this is a great monitor for the price.

Ah, dunno about the smell issue, but for 99 bucks, its a heluva backup monitor. How can you go wrong, unless they start popping out monitors like cdrws - ie, 30 bucks after rebates? Hardware is really going nuts....