NEC 23" IPS EA231WMi

Yes, definitely IPS. As posted earlier in the thread those sites are mistaken.
 
MrRoper said:
is this definitely an IPS panel ? both of these sites say that its a TN
http://review.zdnet.com/product/lcd-monitors/nec-multisync-ea231wmi-bk-lcd-display-tft-23/33765719

http://accessories.us.dell.com/sna/...etail.aspx?c=us&l=en&s=dhs&cs=19&sku=A2989270
Click to expand...

First, these are no reviews...
If you go to Nec Display solutions website and download the pdf on the EA series you will find out that all models except the 231 use a TN panel.
Only the EA 231wmi uses an IPS one..
 
I pulled the trigger on this one, it really fit all of my needs (I thought) at a great price point.

My main need is one display for my two workstations, (both have quadro nvidia cards with dual DVI) and both using a monitor digital connection at 1920x1080 (or higher :) ) at 60hz.

...Had thought I did a lot of research before buying, I rarely ever buy anything without some serious reviews beforehand though.

I'm going to be canceling my order since using the Displayport connection on the monitor from a DVI-only video card (what most people still own I'm sure) is a pricey option, shockingly no one has brought this up in this thread. I've been through all 16 pages a few times, on page 2 the detractors of Displayport were shut down pretty much by those in favor of it, heh.. But the detractors never quite explained why they were against it.

To be fair I can't think of many IPS monitors with a Displayport connection and without two other digital connections, HDMI..DVI..etc. Nor many people who connect two computers through one monitor like I always seem to find myself doing..hah

Anyone trying to connect two computers to this monitor, heads up that one... Unless of course you have a Displayport OUT video card, or don't mind using VGA, then you're all set.

ThomasD said:
I'm very interested in this screen, but I would like a confirmation : will I be able to get audio through this monitor using a hdmi to displayport adapter?
Click to expand...

And to answer this old question, if you haven't already discovered, you will not be able to find an HDMI in to Displayport OUT adapter.. yet.. The only adapter I've found, that even comes close is DVI in to Mini Displayport Out.. and it's about $180. That's about 1/2 the cost of the monitor, and you could buy a brand new Displayport Video card for cheaper. Although another poster noted problems (thus far) with audio from Displayport.

ps. I hope I'm wrong and someone tells me the monitor can use a passive adapter from a DVI video card, then disregard all of the above....? ;)
 
There are other threads that have since died re: the DP issue.

I was a big whiner about it. I still think the lack of an HDMI input is a mistake given it has speakers. Plus, there is nothing about the panel itself that makes use of DP's advantages. So, really, I don't see any reason why they picked it beyond marketing and saving 4 cents/unit on royalties.

That said all of the new ATI cards have a DP out, which is what I bought. Ya its extra money, but if you are on the market for a new card then its no biggie.

The only other issue is that ATI does not have a DP sound driver for their new cards, yet, so really its just a glorified DVI in terms of functionality. I think its a flaw, but I am living with it.

And, ya, I can't think of many monitors built to handle dual DVI inputs as it is, so I'm not sure the NEC can be faulted for that.
 
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PaulyCC said:
I'm going to be canceling my order since using the Displayport connection on the monitor from a DVI-only video card (what most people still own I'm sure) is a pricey option, shockingly no one has brought this up in this thread. I've been through all 16 pages a few times, on page 2 the detractors of Displayport were shut down pretty much by those in favor of it, heh.. But the detractors never quite explained why they were against it.
Click to expand...

? This monitor has DVI in. Look at the specifications page. Maybe you were referring to the lack of dual DVI inputs since you're looking for a 2-in 1-out system. I recommend the DVI switchbox from monoprice for around $40. I use it to hook up my xbox 360 w/ a HDMI->DVI adapter and my computer to my monitor at home. Works fantastic aside from the usual HDMI->DVI audio sync issue that xboxen have. Could do without those damn lights on the front, but that's probably about the cheapest you're going to find anywhere and is a hell of a lot cheaper and more useful with other devices than a pricey DVI->DP adapter would be.
 
Gee,

It's worth a shot.

I mean, there are cheap DVI splitters, that can switch between two computers with DVI and one monitor.

And about the dual-link DVI cards, give it a try when the display arrives. If one works, then just get the cheap splitter and switch it there, instead of at the monitor input, which would remain unchanged, I think.

Personally, the dual link DVI cards seem overly-specialized or high-end for the EA321WMi, but I'm just guessing. Maybe they are backward compatible with the more typical DVI connection, in the manner you're suggesting (a single DVI-D cable, right?).

Please let us all hear what you do or what works for you.

Peace,
C. Livingstone
 
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Silent.Sin said:
? This monitor has DVI in. Look at the specifications page. Maybe you were referring to the lack of dual DVI inputs since you're looking for a 2-in 1-out system. I recommend the DVI switchbox from monoprice for around $40. I use it to hook up my xbox 360 w/ a HDMI->DVI adapter and my computer to my monitor at home. Works fantastic aside from the usual HDMI->DVI audio sync issue that xboxen have. Could do without those damn lights on the front, but that's probably about the cheapest you're going to find anywhere and is a hell of a lot cheaper and more useful with other devices than a pricey DVI->DP adapter would be.
Click to expand...

Thanks for the response, I thought I was pretty clear on my "issues". ;)
PaulyCC said:
My main need is one display for my two workstations, (both have quadro nvidia cards with dual DVI) and both using a monitor digital connection at 1920x1080 (or higher :) ) at 60hz.
Click to expand...
I'm aware of the spec's and that it has a DVI input..

The switcher box you linked has a maximum res of 1600x1200, although there are some users who've had success with this switcher at 1920x1200, I've had not so great results from switchers in the past (slow switching, do not always switch correctly) and the ones spec'd at 1920x1200 are more costly than the one you linked. But it can be an option. Thanks.

I just wanted to bring attention to it, I'm sure the DVI/HDMI to Displayport "issues" are or soon will be common knowledge.
 
Yeah,

Maybe if the dual-link DVI is backward compatible with typical DVI, then you could use one computer on the monitor's DVI port, while purchasing only one additional video card with DisplayPort, and do the switching at the monitor input button.

Apple doesn't currently support audio over its Mini-DP yet (maybe a firmware update will someday change that). But there's no Dolby or good audio that will be coming out of the display speakers anyway. Of course, a single mini-jack audio cable will enable those speakers, for those who don't rely on a 2.1 or better audio system.

Peace,
C. Livingstone
 
chrisliv said:
Anyway, mine will reportedly arrive Wednesday, and I plan to hook it up to my 2009 Mac Mini (which has Displayport and a DVI port) in a Mirror Mode with my current Dell 2005 FPW (IPS) to see how they compare. e
Click to expand...

Wow. Seems to be a common trend, as I see a lot of ppl - myself included - upgrading from a 2005FPW. Cannot wait to see how this new NEC compares. From the Dell U2410 vs 2005FPW, it seems there are too many issues w/ the U2410 to consider it a valid upgrade. Anyway, please report back w/ your review when ready. It will be appreciated.

< Anxiously awaits :)
 
I was just wondering how the bezel on this monitor is. I recently jumped on the dell deal for the ultrasharp 2209wa. Having used low res tn monitors for the longest time I really do like the dell except for 1 minor problem, I find the reflection off the bezel rather annoying. Also was wondering if the warrenty service is good or bad with nec in canada?
 
Sure,

It has a VESA 100 mount, which I'm intending on using with a Ergotron LX arm.

Peace to you all,
C. Livingstone
 
Yeastwood said:
Wow. Seems to be a common trend, as I see a lot of ppl - myself included - upgrading from a 2005FPW. Cannot wait to see how this new NEC compares.
Click to expand...
Heh, I'll be upgrading from my 2005 also (well, going dual monitor) if I get the NEC :)
 
Ankle said:
http://h10010.www1.hp.com/wwpc/uk/en/sm/WF06c/A1-329290-64268-1844682-1844682-3769762-3806461.html

From my understanding DP and DVI are electrically and signal compatible so this should work for DVI to DP short of some hardware level mis-implementation of the specs on either the GPU or the display?
Click to expand...
The exact opposite. DP and DVI are not compatible in any way. You can only use passive adapters like that if your GPU has special DP+ connectors which can passthrough DVI signal. In most cases you need an active adapter (~100$).
 
Skulker said:
I was just wondering how the bezel on this monitor is. I recently jumped on the dell deal for the ultrasharp 2209wa. Having used low res tn monitors for the longest time I really do like the dell except for 1 minor problem, I find the reflection off the bezel rather annoying. Also was wondering if the warrenty service is good or bad with nec in canada?
Click to expand...

It has a similar reflection on the bezel like the 2209WA does. It is not as bad, but it is there.

Someone else asked if the blue led can be turned all the way off. It can be.
 
Has anyone who has this monitor been able to use the headset sound jacks on the left side of the monitor separate and apart from sound coming from the speakers? I'm trying to run sound through the line-in sound on this monitor, use the headset jack, but I can't get a way to play it only through the headset w/out volume out of the 15watt speakers attached. It seems like there should be a way to have headset sound but no other sound (else what would be the purpose?) but I can't get that and I wonder if I'm missing something terribly simple. Obviously my intent is to listen to headsets w/out disturbing others when I want, but I can't get the speaker volume to be turned down separately. Thanks!
 
Does anybody have 3 of these monitors in Eyefinity yet? How does it look? Have you tried 3x1 landscape vs 3x1 portrait? How did those modes compare??
 
What color is the power LED, is it blue? Also how is the coating on this panel? Is it really grainy like the Dell 2209WA and U2410?
 
zod96 said:
What color is the power LED, is it blue? Also how is the coating on this panel? Is it really grainy like the Dell 2209WA and U2410?
Click to expand...

It is blue.

The coating is less grainy than the Dell 2209WA, which I have, too. The NEC w/r/t the coating is much improved.
 
spritex said:
EDIT: Prad.de have their German review up:
http://www.prad.de/new/monitore/test/2009/test-nec-ea231wmi-bk.html
Click to expand...

Here's my translation of the "conclusion" on page 14:
The NEC EA231WMi revealed only few weaknesses in our test. For hardcore Gamers the panel is not recommended, as ghosting is a little stronger, than with current TN panels. Another minor negative aspect is the -not perfect- color, of the factory setting, and in particular the sRGB mode. In the calibrated state, the EA231WMi can compensate for this weakness, however.
A major point of criticism however, is the uneven distribution of brightness, which was even visible without measuring equipment. This circumstance has prevented the NEC EA231WMi to get a "highly recommended" (SEHR GUT) score, but due to the relatively low price, still a clear BUY recommendation.

GUT (Recommended)
 
Geuh. I've been on the fence for a monitor for months now, and every time I seem ready to pull the trigger, I check out other user's experiences and go back on the fence.

I can snag a 2209WA for 200+tax with my company, the NEC for 330, and a U2410 for 450. Thoughts? I'm seriously tired of the old 17" Viewsonic at home.

I ended up selling the 2208WFP I bought months ago, hated the grainy picture and harsh, jagged text. The 2209WA seems to fix that, to my eyes at least. I'm typing on two 2209WA's on my desk, which seem to be much improved over the 2208WFP.

I thought the NEC was a fair middle ground for my situation finally, but it seems like just as many people are unhappy with this as either of the Dell's. Unfortunate.
 
I think the pros and cons of each net out at the end of the day, and you need to pick the monitor based on the resolution (or combo of monitors) you wish to work with. They are all eIPS and all have roughly the same benefits and flaws. Once that's done, your choice will be clear since each serves a different market with respect to size/res.

Adam12176 said:
Geuh. I've been on the fence for a monitor for months now, and every time I seem ready to pull the trigger, I check out other user's experiences and go back on the fence.

I can snag a 2209WA for 200+tax with my company, the NEC for 330, and a U2410 for 450. Thoughts? I'm seriously tired of the old 17" Viewsonic at home.

I ended up selling the 2208WFP I bought months ago, hated the grainy picture and harsh, jagged text. The 2209WA seems to fix that, to my eyes at least. I'm typing on two 2209WA's on my desk, which seem to be much improved over the 2208WFP.

I thought the NEC was a fair middle ground for my situation finally, but it seems like just as many people are unhappy with this as either of the Dell's. Unfortunate.
Click to expand...
 
Adam12176 said:
Geuh. I've been on the fence for a monitor for months now, and every time I seem ready to pull the trigger, I check out other user's experiences and go back on the fence.

I can snag a 2209WA for 200+tax with my company, the NEC for 330, and a U2410 for 450. Thoughts? I'm seriously tired of the old 17" Viewsonic at home.

I ended up selling the 2208WFP I bought months ago, hated the grainy picture and harsh, jagged text. The 2209WA seems to fix that, to my eyes at least. I'm typing on two 2209WA's on my desk, which seem to be much improved over the 2208WFP.

I thought the NEC was a fair middle ground for my situation finally, but it seems like just as many people are unhappy with this as either of the Dell's. Unfortunate.
Click to expand...

I know how you feel man - this is why I'm just giving in and going with 3 2209WA's - now, just to find a rep that will give me 212 per unit or less.....
 
I thought the U2410 was a S-IPS panel?

What I want to avoid is getting a monitor, and hating the picture (re: 2208 text/colors). In that respect, I might order a 2209 just because I'm staring at one right now, and I'm satisfied with the picture. Honestly, I wanted to go 24" for the res and overall screen real-estate, but I don't want to spend 450 and hate the damn thing.
 
Adam12176 said:
I thought the U2410 was a S-IPS panel?

What I want to avoid is getting a monitor, and hating the picture (re: 2208 text/colors). In that respect, I might order a 2209 just because I'm staring at one right now, and I'm satisfied with the picture. Honestly, I wanted to go 24" for the res and overall screen real-estate, but I don't want to spend 450 and hate the damn thing.
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Adam - the U2410 is H-IPS

I hear you on the price thing though, if I can get 3 2209WA's for around 600, then why get a U2410?

I'd rather have 3 22's personally
 
I don't do enough multi-monitor stuff at home to want three 22's versus one 24".

I'd keep the small viewsonic, I can drag stuff over to that if I need two windows open. If the U2410 was getting rave reviews I would have already pulled the trigger. I'd prefer one 19x12 (or 1080, I'm not that picky) over a few 1680x1050's. An eyefinity setup would bug the beejezus out of me, the bezels in the way, ugh.
 
jantjooh said:
Here's my translation of the "conclusion" on page 14:
The NEC EA231WMi revealed only few weaknesses in our test. For hardcore Gamers the panel is not recommended, as ghosting is a little stronger, than with current TN panels.
Click to expand...

That review is rather disappointing especially considering it's a NEC monitor. You would think they would have better quality control standards. I wonder what the chances are of DELL releasing a 23" eIPS considering the success of the 2209wa? Didn't the 2209wa seemingly come out of nowhere or was it known ahead of time that DELL was going to release a 22" eIPS?
 
Well after using the Dell U2410 for the last couple of days its going back. The graininess on the screen is really bad imo. And the bezel is rather thick as well. I'm going to give the NEC a try and see how it is...
 
That's most disappointing Zod, as that was my worst complaint about the 2208. I guess it's down to the NEC or the 2209.
 
spritex said:
EDIT: Prad.de have their German review up:
http://www.prad.de/new/monitore/test/2009/test-nec-ea231wmi-bk.html
Click to expand...

I can't read german... ?

zod96 said:
Well after using the Dell U2410 for the last couple of days its going back. The graininess on the screen is really bad imo. And the bezel is rather thick as well. I'm going to give the NEC a try and see how it is...
Click to expand...

Don't you have to pay an expensive restocking fee? Like 15% or something? 50 dollars or so sounds like an expensive test drive.
 
Not if you say their is a problem with it. Like say red blotches or something
 
I get my Nec weds. Can't wait to see how it compares to the Dell U2410 I just sent back...
 
Ok, NEC have got back to me regarding the colour uniformity issues almost everyone with this monitor is experiencing and very surprisingly (despite including a picture which shows it) say they can't see it in the pictures. To me, it's obvious from my picture (posted earlier), it's obvious from another owners picture also posted earlier and it's most obvious on the picture at prad.de. NEC say they will take a look at the actual monitor when they receive it back and will update me then as to my options.(I'm currently using a replacement which has the same issue but slightly less backlight bleed at bottom left corner and slightly better brightness uniformity.

In situations like this, most companies normally go on the defensive and blind themselves to what is pretty obvious to most others without any responsibility to do something about it. Consequently, you cannot argue with them because they will already be at the stage where they genuinely "can't see a problem". Whethere it will go this way with NEC I don't know, but I'm not expecting anything either way and keeping an open mind at this point.

All in all, the issues i'm having I have to admit are slight and while they may interfere a little with graphic design work, to be honest, it's just about liveable for what is otherwise a fantastic monitor. I'm hoping to get one from Batch #2 to see if they're any better but we'll see how that goes next Monday now probably.
 
alsheron said:
Ok, NEC have got back to me regarding the colour uniformity issues almost everyone with this monitor is experiencing and very surprisingly (despite including a picture which shows it) say they can't see it in the pictures. To me, it's obvious from my picture (posted earlier), it's obvious from another owners picture also posted earlier and it's most obvious on the picture at prad.de. NEC say they will take a look at the actual monitor when they receive it back and will update me then as to my options.(I'm currently using a replacement which has the same issue but slightly less backlight bleed at bottom left corner and slightly better brightness uniformity.

In situations like this, most companies normally go on the defensive and blind themselves to what is pretty obvious to most others without any responsibility to do something about it. Consequently, you cannot argue with them because they will already be at the stage where they genuinely "can't see a problem". Whethere it will go this way with NEC I don't know, but I'm not expecting anything either way and keeping an open mind at this point.

All in all, the issues i'm having I have to admit are slight and while they may interfere a little with graphic design work, to be honest, it's just about liveable for what is otherwise a fantastic monitor. I'm hoping to get one from Batch #2 to see if they're any better but we'll see how that goes next Monday now probably.
Click to expand...

What you need to do is clip out the middle of the picture, so that the difference is stark and contrasted.

necmultisyncea231wmiyel.jpg
 
Ouch. On a gray background, the test doesn't lie. I did it myself. My result was similar but maybe not as severe. It seems more noticeable on the lower left of my shot. Funny, it's not really noticeable until you really look for it.

screen5.jpg


Edit to add another test shot in what was supposed to be an all beige background. It looks more gray. Still not too terrible but the lower left is noticeable.

screen6.jpg


Larry
 
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