A google search turned up numerous reports of this exact problem, where a linear dark band covers the top half of the screen.

It developed a dark band from the top to the bottom of the screen, about 6 - 8" wide

Only problem I have ran into is with a dark band on the bottom of the TV

Twenty days in and there is a dark band covering the top 25% of the screen.

To me, when looking at components for a home theater, I want as large and as close to top of the line as I can afford

About as Perfect as it can Be, Bold & Beautiful Colors, Outstanding TV.. Luv it..:)

Remembers most recent settings for startup, as well as by source, that is, can have different source settings for TV, Blue Ray movies, and other sources.

When changing channels, they display 3 channel numbers at once, making it very confusing as to which one you're watching.