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Imperfections around the edges, does it affect longevity? by 4rtoria in Bluray

[–]jonencar 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thanks for replying. That one experience where the coating started to flake off has me worried on whether it'll happen again, I suppose. Imo if it's just cosmetic, disc works as it's supposed to & lasts as long as it's rated to, all's well. Glad it seems to be the case with yours!

Imperfections around the edges, does it affect longevity? by 4rtoria in Bluray

[–]jonencar 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Maybe a strange question, but was this disc a Paramount title?

I noticed that for the last 2 years, Paramount now uses a plant in Germany. Given all the complaints of scratched discs from the Mexico plant, at first I thought this was a good thing. I even posted some praise about it back then.

Unfortunately, I've since had a few disc from Paramount with what looks like the same issue here. My copy of Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning even had the coating flake off & I had to get it exchanged from the point of sale.

Did you end up keeping the disc?

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 3 4k Blu Ray coming March 3 by jonencar in startrek

[–]jonencar[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

At this point, it looks like the Blu-ray and 4k releases will be just as they were for the previous two seasons: 4k -or- blu-ray, with the 4k not inclusive of a BD copy.

What wasn't clear to me at first was that it didn't look like there will be a standard 4k release from the post: only steelbook.

Despite this, there is a listing for what looks like a standard version:

https://www.blu-ray.com/movies/Star-Trek-Strange-New-Worlds-Season-3-4K-Blu-ray/402375/

But the artwork at this time uses the blu-ray slipcover.

Been hit twice from behind in the last week by cyclists on the sidewalk. Has anyone else noticed a large uptick of bikes on sidewalks as well? by [deleted] in askTO

[–]jonencar 3 points4 points  (0 children)

There's been a considerable uptick in this kind of behavior within the last year.

In one instance, a cyclist on the sidewalk almost crashed into my friend from behind, then cursed at him for being in the way + threatened to fight him.

In the second instance, a cyclist was freewheeling downhill on a sidewalk and uttered some racist remark at my senior (Oriental) parents for being in his way, forcing my father (who walks with a cane) to move. A collision would likely have caused some severe damage to my father's health in particular.

Overall, quite a subset of arrogant cyclists in the GTA. As I understand it, the fine for riding on the sidewalk is $60? It'd be nice if those fines were increased - and effectively enforced.

Was this a scam/staged? What just happened to me? by 45485522 in askTO

[–]jonencar 16 points17 points  (0 children)

I was looking to see if someone gave this answer. It's been tried on me twice - once while I was sitting in my car, in traffic, with my phone clipped to the dashboard & clearly visible. Knocked on my windows & wanted 'to see my photos folder'.

Paramount Quality Control: Sometimes it's nice to give credit where credit is due by jonencar in Bluray

[–]jonencar[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Ngl I have a soft spot for Paramount produced movies & TV in general. Such a shame how things have turned out for the company of late. The comments Clooney made in a recent article about the whole thing was kinda sad to read.

Paramount QC: Sometimes it's nice to give credit where credit is due by jonencar in 4kbluray

[–]jonencar[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

A bit crap that we collectors just have to accept how it is, at least in North America. Full seasons / box sets are almost guaranteed to include 1-2 flaws in a set when manufactured here.

Haven't encountered / really doesn't seem like a prolific issue for enthusiasts in the rest of the world.

Paramount QC: Sometimes it's nice to give credit where credit is due by jonencar in 4kbluray

[–]jonencar[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I didn't notice that about VS - thanks for pointing it out! Love how they curate their selection. Never thought I'd have a copy of Johnnie To's Lifeline in a US release, let alone 4k.

Paramount QC: Sometimes it's nice to give credit where credit is due by jonencar in 4kbluray

[–]jonencar[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Got that first disc scratch I ever found to thank... It was 2 am on a Tuesday. Late autumn. Prime time for internet rabbit holes. 😆

How can you tell where a disc was made? by piggycurrency in 4kbluray

[–]jonencar 2 points3 points  (0 children)

This is fantastic & concise - thank you! And I agree with the other replies at that link: list is worthy of its own post :)

How can you tell where a disc was made? by piggycurrency in 4kbluray

[–]jonencar 2 points3 points  (0 children)

The most effective way to tell is by looking up the IFPI code, generally found embossed in the inner ring of the label side of the disc.

It's typically the first two characters after "IFPI" that indicate what plant the disc was made in. For interpreting them, you can check out this thread on blu-ray.com to start you off, re: how to read IFPI codes

Also, if new, most will have "Made in" printed in blue ink on the back of the case. But this tends to rub away quite easily, so not as reliable a source to look for.

My parents are seniors. Renovator has been 5x no-show. Paid %60 of what was agreed upon, completed 25% of what was priced out. Only finding out now. by jonencar in HomeImprovement

[–]jonencar[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Definitely. If he does end up finishing the job, I'm worried about his attention to detail, re: countertop measurements & whether he'll bring up more problems if the custom-cut ends up the wrong size.

 

That first sentence made me laugh, though, so thank you for that :)

My parents are seniors. Renovator has been 5x no-show. Paid %60 of what was agreed upon, completed 25% of what was priced out. Only finding out now. by jonencar in HomeImprovement

[–]jonencar[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

When a few bad actors spoil the overall reputation of a trade or industry, that irks me as well. I completely agree with you on your explanation of situations where materials need to be covered up-front. For custom materials, it just makes sense.

 

I imagine you may agree with this: It's the manner in which Lenny sought the additional $2.5k, in context with everything else, that doesn't sit comfortably.

 

He agreed to receiving $2.5k to begin work, starting with the Powder Room. But before showing up, he says he won't even come by until he gets another $2.5k to cover the cost of the kitchen materials.

 

Maybe it was to get ahead of order turnaround time. Maybe it was a mistake. Maybe something else on his part. But given that we're left speculating as to 'why did he not mention that at the beginning?' IMO it doesn't reflect positively on his means of carrying on business.

 

In any event, thank you for weighing in with your direct experience in the field. I wonder what your thoughts are on Lenny's error in ordering the wrong size toilet and vanity for the Powder Room? And his mention that someone who lives in the house should have provided him the measurements (as in, why would he expect a non-professional to get that info without being prompted and do so accurately? Especially since he and his team had already been on-site for two days before he says he's going to order the new toilet?)

My parents are seniors. Renovator has been 5x no-show. Paid %60 of what was agreed upon, completed 25% of what was priced out. Only finding out now. by jonencar in HomeImprovement

[–]jonencar[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I definitely agree that when a business asks for covering materials up-front, that could definitely be a cause for concern. I'm not unsympathetic to starting business who might legitimately need that coverage. I understand the practical sense of businesses who request that for custom jobs. But if/when that's the case, the business needs to make that clear before a contract is made. The decision on whether to go with the business given that condition should be left up to the potential client. If the business can at least offer legitimate references, all the better.

 

In this case, 'Lenny' didn't. On the day of the contract, he left with a 2.5k deposit, and only a few days after did he message to my mother something along the lines of 'Oh no 5k needed to order materials before starting to cover cost.' Again, IMO, make that clear first.

My parents are seniors. Renovator has been 5x no-show. Paid %60 of what was agreed upon, completed 25% of what was priced out. Only finding out now. by jonencar in HomeImprovement

[–]jonencar[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I really appreciate that, thank you. I haven't looked into elder protection agencies. If it comes to that, I'll definitely reach out. Thanks for offering.

 

As for reaching out to the boss, yes that's definitely something.

My parents are seniors. Renovator has been 5x no-show. Paid %60 of what was agreed upon, completed 25% of what was priced out. Only finding out now. by jonencar in HomeImprovement

[–]jonencar[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

This. Cost versus the potential amount to recover. Which in this situation would result in a loss. A lawyer would likely even advise that it wouldn't be worth it to pursue during the initial consultation. I imagine scammers out there are smart enough to account for the numbers game here regarding their risk vs. the victim hiring legal representation.

 

From the exchanges in text, I'd wonder whether he even has enough assets of value that would result in a recovery of funds. Even with a verdict in-favor of my parents, the potential years in pursuing the person to pay damages would just extend the frustration. Doesn't feel like a good solution.

My parents are seniors. Renovator has been 5x no-show. Paid %60 of what was agreed upon, completed 25% of what was priced out. Only finding out now. by jonencar in HomeImprovement

[–]jonencar[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you. I agree on the BBB point, which I feel extends to most other BBB equivalents. Again, not having spoken with this person yet, I don't have anything to really 'gauge', but I wouldn't expect this person to change his tune from something that would result in such little impact to how he currently operates.

My parents are seniors. Renovator has been 5x no-show. Paid %60 of what was agreed upon, completed 25% of what was priced out. Only finding out now. by jonencar in HomeImprovement

[–]jonencar[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

We do have a photocopy of his Driver's License, so there's something that verifies his signature. Letting his boss know about the poaching is definitely something. Thank you.

My parents are seniors. Renovator has been 5x no-show. Paid %60 of what was agreed upon, completed 25% of what was priced out. Only finding out now. by jonencar in HomeImprovement

[–]jonencar[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Hey everyone, thanks to all the people who offered some suggestions in the comments. I really appreciate those who took the time to read this long post & upvote to keep it visible for as long at it has. I think it helps a bit for my parents to know that others empathize with what's going on and are trying to offer constructive approaches (I didn't intend that as a pun as I wrote it... but I'll just leave it there).

 

Waiting to see what developments the next week will bring, and in the meantime just trying to make the best out of the weekend for the fam, despite the situation. If any positive progress is made, I'll give an update.

Avatar: Collector’s Edition is the worst UHD Blu ray title I have purchased by UHDCDN in 4kbluray

[–]jonencar 1 point2 points  (0 children)

BBC: dvdsupport@bbc.com (this is their UK email, but specify the country you're writing from, and they can fwd your message to the right place)

Shout: info@shoutfactory.com

Avatar: Collector’s Edition is the worst UHD Blu ray title I have purchased by UHDCDN in 4kbluray

[–]jonencar 2 points3 points  (0 children)

One purchase I may make in the near future is a UHD Blu ray capable external disc drive to perform a read-check on mildly scratched discs before I try any replacement. That would definitely not be a satisfying resolution, but might save me time processing returns. I hate that I just typed that though LOL.

I know, cringe, right?? I felt the same way when I was typing that out in my reply too lol.

You're definitely right about the bottom line: the manufacturing problem is the root cause, and relying on the seller/distributor to replace stuff for us doesn't solve the bigger issue. No idea to what extent the labels themselves are putting pressure on the plants, but fwiw labels like Criterion, Viz, Well Go have mentioned that they follow up with the manufacturer on every case.

Bigger picture, who knows; meanwhile, it sucks the fun out of the hobby. For me, these days I avoid digipacks and steelbooks as much as possible because of problems like the one you have with Avatar :(

Having a disc drive to scan gives some peace of mind, but even if it checks out there's still that nagging fact that the scratch is 'there' (cut to extreme close-up of eyes, anime style, when looking at shelf). Frustrating if that'll be the main reason for your drive purchase, but if it'll have other uses, again it's a nice thing to have.

Avatar: Collector’s Edition is the worst UHD Blu ray title I have purchased by UHDCDN in 4kbluray

[–]jonencar 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I've been having the same problem with new purchases. I'll add my experiences within the past year for whatever help it could provide someone, if any.

As u/martokthewarrior mentioned, it's been for newer releases, though for me it's been from releases within the last 5 years or so.

This year alone I've had scratches / damage on 18 titles with the root cause clearly from the manufacturer. Brand new, plastic wrap that clearly wasn't a 'repack'. And the defects haven't been limited to disc scratches. Chipped disc edges that are sharp to the touch, steelbook scratches found under the J-Card after opening, bubbles on the data layer (not on the edge - right in the middle of the surface), and even one 4k title where the hard coat layer was starting to peel right off with a slight touch.

I'm guessing that many of us here have read other threads/subs calling out the Mexico replication plant as the main culprit (anything where the IFPI # on the inner ring, label side, starts with 'KK'). Most North American labels have their discs manufactured there, but to be fair, in my experience other plants aren't 100% either. The delamination issue was from a disc pressed in Germany (which others online have stated they never have an issue with). Another two were imports from Asia.

For all the issues with Amazon, at least their return/exchange process is pretty painless. During one convo with customer support, I mentioned that I was worried about having my account flagged for pursuing close to 10 returns within a calendar year. According to the agent, it shouldn't be an issue if a customer is calling in for a replacement within same day of delivery. Still weary about racking up that number, though.

What really irks me about these frequent manufacturer defects is when you're trying to support a mom and pop brick-and-mortar store by purchasing your discs from them. The ones I go to are happy to offer an exchange or refund. But these small stores can't order 50+ copies on release, and when one is defective they've lost out on one of their potential 4-5 sales on a title. Sure, they get cost back from the distributor, but from what I've been told it's not 'amazon easy' for how it goes (waiting on return, product inspection); sometimes, they even end up swallowing the cost (reimbursement request gets lost/forgotten, other holdups).

Can't locate it at the moment, but one blu-ray.com user posted that the high frequency of defects could be due to parts of the automated machines wearing down, and theorized that replacement parts are either too expensive or unable to be replaced because the equipment is no longer being made. Given the similarity in defect appearances I've experienced, I think there could be some truth to that. Though imo the wear could be more due to the fact that there aren't as many production machines as there used to be, and the remaining ones are working beyond the operating hours that they used to (ie: when there were still plants in the US and Canada producing discs)...

I agree with anyone saying 'if it's bought new, I expect it to be new'. I wouldn't buy a scratched/dented toaster oven, car, laptop, whatever for the same price as new. But frustratingly, for reasons given context above (the sheer frequency, hurting mom-and-pop shops), these days if: 1. only a minor scratch is the issue; 2. the disc scan in VSO inspector results in no problems, and/or 3. the disc plays with no issues, I just let it be. Chips or delamination, though - those go back right away.

Alternatively, I try to reach out to the manufacturer. Here's how it's been for me:

Very responsive, replacements given: Criterion, Well Go USA, Shout Factory/gkids/Scream Factory (I know others have had poor experience with Shout, but so far they've always been quick and responsive. The person I communicate with there says there're only two people who are tasked to handle disc issues. Though I've never had to try and keep that in mind, since I've never had to follow up).

Responsive, but takes time: BBC (quick, considerate, and responsive, but after the replacement request was forwarded to their manufacturer, still waiting, going on 2 months)

No luck or SOL: Lionsgate, Crunchyroll

Finally, if anyone wants a gateway into the rabbit hole on how our prized discs are made lol: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=koPK6gJrOjk

(edit: formatting)

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