We got a 70" XBR2 - it had a faulty optical block which was replaced under warranty - during that we got a new bulb and there was a big difference in brightness - so definatly a good idea to replace the bulb if you have many hours on the set. Since we use our TV as a monitor for our gaming PC we go through bulbs relativly fast - one for every 2 years.

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- Ravenheart