Hastings expands Blu-ray rental with sharing

Via Video Business:
Hastings Entertainment has significantly expanded Blu-ray Disc rental in all 150 of its stores following a revenue-sharing deal with Sony Pictures Home Entertainment.

The Amarillo, Texas-based chain, which also sells DVDs, music, books and other merchandise, now offers Blu-ray titles for rent in all stores as well as improved copy depth at each location. Currently, Hastings’ offers HD DVD titles for rent in about one-third of its stores, which are found primarily in secondary U.S. markets.

Deal terms were not disclosed by either Hastings or Sony.

“It basically helped us to spread [Blu-ray] to all of our stores and not have to make that much of a financial investment,” said Mason Goodfellow, Hastings video category manager. “We might be able to get in as many as eight to 10 copies per title [in one store]. Without revenue-sharing, that might have been three to four copies.”

Sell-through selection of HD DVD and Blu-ray remains evenly matched at Hastings.

For the most part, Goodfellow believes HD DVD and Blu-ray performance depends mostly on what’s being released on each. Universal Studios Home Entertainment’s Sept. 25 bow of blockbuster comedy Knocked Up exclusively on HD DVD, for instance, was expected to make for a dominant HD DVD frame last week at Hastings.

Sony sees the Hastings shift in its rental operations as a win for the Blu-ray camp.

“Naturally, SPHE is delighted about this since Hastings obviously acknowledges the fact that consumers have voted for Blu-ray as the high-definition format of the future,” said Marshall Forster, Sony senior executive VP of North America.

Sony did not comment on the progress of its revenue-sharing offerings with accounts elsewhere. Sony and Rentrak in July unveiled a Blu-ray revenue-sharing plan designed to help rentailers begin offering the format.

Slow News weekend so here's something about cables

The Benefits Of Using HDMI 1.3 Cable

The HDMI 1.3 cable is the newest version of the multiple multimedia interface cable that can be used to connect a number of electronic devices into the same interface. Compared to past models of the cable, which have changed relatively little compared to their predecessors, the 1.3 version has an array of new features that makes it the most adaptable of the bunch. But just what are the real benefits of using the HDMI 1.3 cable compared to the others? You would be surprised, I'm sure, to learn of all the ways that this new version will expand your multimedia interface and make it easier for you to combine your electronics.

To understand how this HDMI cable is going to help you, let's first talk about Digital Visual Interface (DVI). This is an uncompressed digital connection scheme that was actually originally developed for a network of personal computers. It was to be a low-cost, high-bandwidth digital connection between PCs and digital monitors, so that you could view your work on the best of television sets. Now it is the most widely used digital display interface in the computer industry. What does all this mean for your home theater system? Well, it means that you can include the DVI with it, especially by using DVI connections on projectors, monitors, and advanced DVD players, such as the new HD-DVD players.

More after the link

Sub $80 ATSC OTA tuner

Via Amazon.com

Sales chart comparison for this week

Shrek 3 up for Pre-order on Amazon

Win a $25,000 Home Theater makeover from HD DVD

Link:

HD DVD wants to high-def your home! Enter for a chance to win a home-theater makeover valued at up to $25,000, complete with a high-definition TV, HD DVD player and movie library, surround
sound, interior design consultation and more.

Wow, even an MS MVP hates the new Microsoft Media Extenders!

Chris Lanier's Blog:

v2 Extenders Let Down Big in Price Points

Well, so much for v2 Extenders being anything close to a success. I’ve been talking about what price points a successful Extender needs to be at for years (2005 here people), and today we find out that D-Link’s offering is set to retail for $350, and considering that Linksys’ is most likely built on the exact same hardware it isn’t likely to be much different in price (Updated: Just announced at $300 for standalone, and $350 for DVD/Extender. Not bad in comparison to D-Link, but nothing to get excited about)

What doesn’t Microsoft understand here? First the public’s feeling is that they are limiting Extenders to the Xbox 360 so they can grab all the profit (not really since they lose on every 360, but that’s the general public’s feeling) so their solution is have partners add Wireless-N and additional codec support in standalone v2 Extenders and sell it for $80 more than an Xbox 360? Even better, codec support on the Xbox 360 Extender doesn’t seem like it will improve much so their is no "good" Extender to purchase for someone like me.

Oppo makes an affordable HDMI 1.3 switch

Via Oppo digital

The OPPO HM-31 Advanced 3x1 HDMI Switch is able to expand a single HDMI input port on your HDTV to connect up to three HDMI sources, such as DVD, Blu-ray or HD-DVD players, cable or satellite receivers, and gaming consoles. No longer bound by the limited HDMI connectivity on most HDTVs, home theater users can expand the number of source devices thanks to the OPPO HDMI switch.

The OPPO HM-31 is among the very few HDMI switches to pass the official HDMI 1.3 certification test. The certification ensures that the HM-31 is compatible with all HDTV resolutions up to 1080p and PC resolutions up to 1920x1200. Equipped with advanced HDMI 1.3 features such as Deep Color, higher bandwidth and a signal equalizer, the HM-31 is ready to support the latest generation of home theater products.

The HM-31 transmits rich, vibrant images and sound while maintaining the highest in video and audio quality. It is EIA/CEA-861D, DVI 1.0, and HDCP 1.1 compliant and supports DDC and HPD switching to ensure maximum device compatibility. Equipped with a remote control, this switch provides the option of resting on a table-top or mounted on a wall. Custom home theater installers will find the IR input and RS232 remote control convenient options for integration. With the worries of HDMI connectivity problems put behind by the HM-31, it’s now time to enjoy your HD entertainment, whether it’s from your favorite OPPO up-converting DVD player or any other HDMI source.

'Halo 3' nabs $170 million on first day

Via "Variety":

Videogames don't exactly have opening weekends, but if they did, "Halo 3" just crushed them all.

Sci-fi action sequel bowed to a boffo $170 million in the U.S. on Tuesday, its first day on sale. Microsoft, the game's publisher, didn't release the number of "Halo 3" units it sold. Based on the game's price and company sources, however, it's believed to be over 2.5 million.

Microsoft boasted that the figure makes "Halo 3" "the biggest entertainment launch in history." Comparisons to other media are tough, of course, since a copy of "Halo 3" typically costs $60 and is meant to be enjoyed for months or even years, while the average movie ticket cost $6.55 last year, but was good for about two hours of entertainment.

There's no denying, however, that even compared to the opening weekends this year's other big threequels like "Spider-Man 3" and "Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End," "Halo 3" generated a massive amount of consumer spending.

It also handily beat 2004's "Halo 2," which made $125 million in its first day on sale. Even accounting for the price increase for the standard copy of the game from $50 to $60, it appears that "Halo 3" outsold its predescessor. That's particularly impressive given that Microsoft's Xbox 360, the only console on which "Halo 3" plays, has been out for less than two years and sold 6.3 million units in the U.S. as of August 31.

Though more gamers undoubtedly bought a 360 along with "Halo 3," that's still substantially lower than the approximately 10 million unit install base of the original Xbox when "Halo 2" came out in 2004.

"Halo 2" eventually sold over 9.2 million units worldwide. Based on its initial sales, "Halo 3" has a good shot at beating that figure and ending up amongst the top console games of the modern era, alongside titles like "Grand Theft Auto: Vice City," which sold 13 million copies globally.

"The initial demand we've seen for 'Halo 3' has been astounding, and the game is on track to become the number one gaming title of all time," Jill Hamburger, VP of movies and games at Best Buy, said in a statement released by Microsoft.

Harry Potter collection to be most decorated HD DVD/Blu-ray movie set

A box set slated for release just in time for Christmas will give HD viewers the first five Harry Potter movies at a high price - $150.

Warner Bros, the last major supporter of both high definition formats, will release "Harry Potter: Years 1 - 5" on Blu-ray and HD DVD later this year. It is poised to have one of the most impressive box art and bonus material packages in the HD disc market.

Each movie will receive new bonus features. The box, presented in the form of a wizardry book, will also come riddled with physical supplements including film art and specially created Harry Potter literature.

Both the Blu-ray and HD DVD sets will be available December 11, and both will carry a suggested retail price of around $150.

Warner Dropping combo HD DVD/DVD's?

according to Robert at AVS forum:

Beginning in January 2008, the HD-DVD Combo will be discontinued by Warner Home Video for the Theatrical New Release Business Unit. Warner will be offering the HD version only.

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix will be the last title we are offering the HD-DVD Combo for. The Invasion will be the first HD only title on the TNR release slate.

Review: HD Video With a Small Camcorder

(AP) -- Consumers are racing to replace their aging televisions with high-definition TVs. Trouble is, many are still using devices and services that can't fill those HDTVs with enough visual information to make them look their best.

read more | digg story

Ding Dong: Plasma is not dead, group says

yeah, Plasma is still not dead...we here at Sirdvd applaud this news since we own and love our 50" Vizio model

via EEtimes.com

Sharp To Sell 7 new Blu Ray Models

Sharp to Introduce Seven New Blu-Ray Disc Recorders from PhysOrg.com

Sharp Corp. will introduce into the Japanese market seven AQUOS Blu-ray Disc Recorders that reflect Sharp's persistent focus on true image quality and easy operability.

[...]

Dragon's Lair Blu-Ray review

I talked about the HD DVD that was coming out for this soon, here's a review for the Dragon's Lair Blu Ray disc

Link

More Microsoft Media Extenders in the works

The big news this week is all about Windows Media Center Extenders. Today (Thursday) sees the launch of the 2nd generation of Windows Media Center Extenders.

These include: the DMA2200 (with built-in DVD player - pictured) and the DMA2100 from Linksys; the D-Link DSM-750 MediaLounge HD Media Center Extender; and the HP MediaSmart LCD HDTV. You can read Microsoft's full press release about the new Extenders here.

Extenders are hardware devices that enable you to extend the Media Center interface to your TV without having to have a PC connected to it. This means no more noisy PC in your living room. Instead you get a wife-friendly slimline box connected to your TV that has the slick Media Center user interface. It can stream all the content from your PC - recorded/live TV, pictures and music.

You can have up to five Extender devices connected to a PC simultaneously, which means five people can stream their preferred content over a wired or wireless network. Some of the new devices (the two from Linksys, for example) come with wireless N built-in, so they are capable of streaming HD.

via Tech.co.uk

Slow News Day

In a recent survey of HDTV owners by NPD Group, a full 73% were satisfied with the picture quality provided by upconverted DVDs for them to become too interested in a high-definition disc player of either format. Other figures are equally shocking, suggesting that the high-def format war may already be over. BetaNews spoke at length with the NPD report's author, analyst Ross Rubin.

If there were just one universally embraced format for high-definition video discs, it would most likely have been introduced just over two years ago, probably at the $1,200 price point. By the spring of 2006, the budget-priced versions would have appeared at around $699.

The video game console manufacturers would have been racing to be the first, and the best, to bring the format to market. Their competitive breakthroughs might have driven the stand-alone console price to $399. And today, we would have probably been trumpeting the entry of low-price manufacturers from China, ready to flood world markets with $150 models.

This is how it might have been. Unfortunately, groups of intellectual property rights holders with dueling portfolios have maintained the present state of stalemate between two high-def formats, Blu-ray and HD DVD, whose physical and technical distinctions from one another are perhaps notable, though often trivial.

We are well beyond the point in time where we should have been talking about the new, single high-def format eclipsing that critical juncture that marketers and analysts search for, that peak period when titles for high-def exceed those for first-generation DVD. Instead, we're still treating the owners of the first- and second-generation high-def consoles as early adopters, and every other customer as a potential market.

Among those early adopters, infighting remains fierce as they strive desperately to discover whatever new justification may remain, like shrinking mud puddles in a hot desert, for the investments they've already made. Their collective dissatisfaction is the clearest sign that the true potential for both formats has never been realized.

It is a sad end for a hopeful technology, perhaps the last generation of discs for distributing movies. However, it looks to be a long and dreary end, as the champions of both formats remain unwilling to concede any ground.

Going Format-Agnostic, The Cool Way to Fence Sit in the Blu-Ray vs HD DvD Fight

ScreenDigest has released their report on High Definition media storage, which has revealed a host of companies heading down the Format-Agnostic path by producing titles for both High Definition DvD (HD DvD) and BluRay.

Format warfare is very similar to two children fighting over who gets to kick off in a game of soccer, if they had of done the sensible thing and agreed on a compromise from the beginning then they could be playing already. Much like in the schoolyard, both sides in the HD DvD and Blu-Ray fight are uninterested in compromise and want to keep on fighting for supremacy.

What does this mean for the companies who actually produce the media that will be stored on those little disks? A major nuisance and lately, a push to go �format-agnostic� and produce titles for both formats depending on demand.

According to analysts at UK�s Screen Digest, Hollywood studios that opt to support a single format only could be missing out on significant revenues, potentially eschewing over $270m of consumer spending in 2008 alone.

Previously there had been a strong push to have companies sign exclusive deals to produce content for either Blu-Ray or HD DvD. This was seen as a way to win the war by signing up the largest distribution companies such as Apple, TDK, Dell, Hewlett Packard, The Walt Disney Company, Fox Studios and MGM who all went to the Blu-Ray camp.

HD DvD wasn�t to be outdone as it signed on its own host of supporting companies such as Toshiba, Microsoft, NEC, Sanyo, Dreamworks and Paramount. The two formats also have supporting associations, such as the Blu-Ray association which has 250 supporters, contributors and members of the association. HD DvD has the �DvD Forum� which was initially founded for the DvD format and now supports new developments for HD DvD and has over 250 members of its own.

�Christmas 2007 is going to be critical for the hi-def video business. Both formats will be seeking to secure consumer buy-in to their proposition during the critical holiday season but with so much at stake on both sides we think it is highly unlikely that one format will emerge as the 'winner'� said Richard Cooper, Screen Digest Video Analyst.

With such incredibly high bankrolls on both sides, this format war is showing no signs of giving up the ghost, as such companies are turning to the format agnostic choice in ever increasing numbers. For smaller niche distribution companies like First Look, who distribute indie films in the US, picking a side is just going to hurt their sales as they are selling to a much smaller crowd then the big dogs. First Look have been the latest company to go format-agnostic in a trend that most companies are likely to adopt, no matter how sweet the tempters offered by either of the format camps may be.

via idm.net.au

HTSA Confirms Blu-ray Support

Home Theater Specialists of America (HTSA), the $500 million buying group for A/V specialty dealers and installers, has formally confirmed that it is backing Blu-ray Disc technology based on sales trends among its 62 members.

The group announced during the recent CEDIA Expo that it will make Blu-ray its exclusive format choice for high-definition disc players. According to the results of an internal study released today, 92 percent of category sales by HTSA members were in Blu-ray players, with the balance comprised mostly of dual-format players that combine BD and HD-DVD playback capability.

HTSA said it expects its exclusive support of Blu-ray to “strengthen retailer commitment to providing more BD-based devices to meet growing consumer demand.”

“The industry looks to HTSA as an expert for custom home theater, built upon a foundation of the top consumer electronic retailers across the country,” said executive director Richard Glikes. “Based on our member research and observations in the field, it is clear that HTSA customers have made Blu-ray Disc their preferred HD format for movies and other packaged video content.”

Glikes cited greater device capacity, better resolution, larger manufacturer adoption and content availability as deciding factors for consumers in choosing one high-definition disc camp over the other.

Blu-ray/HD DVD war to run another 18 months: report

Sales of next-generation DVD players are not seen as likely to take off for another 18 months as consumers are still waiting for prices to fall and for the battle over two competing technologies to be resolved.

Referring to the high-definition DVD format war between HD DVD and Blu-ray, Forrester Research said in a report on Monday that while the two camps have "been fighting what seems to be a war of attrition for consumers' hearts and minds," few consumers are warming to either type of device.

Sony Corp backs the Blu-ray standard against Toshiba Corp's HD DVD.

Hollywood and electronics manufacturers hope new high-definition DVDs, with better picture quality and more capacity, will revive the slowing $24 billion home DVD market.

But the format war has curbed adoption in a way reminiscent of the Betamax-VHS videotape format battle of the early 1980s, experts say.

Forrester analyst J.P. Gownder stood behind his company's view that Blu-ray would eventually win out over HD DVD, but he said the Blu-ray camp needs to cut prices.

A stand alone Blu-ray player sells for about $500, while HD DVD players cost about $400, and prices are expected to drop further as the holiday shopping season nears.

Gownder said Blu-ray's content advantages are somewhat diminished since the recent decision by Viacom Inc's Paramount studio to commit exclusively to HD DVD. HD DVD hardware prices have also dropped into consumers' preferred price range, he said.

"Weakened by these developments, Blu-ray needs to offer a viable hardware model at the $250 price point by Christmas 2007," he said in the report. "The Blu-ray camp must also stave off further studio defections, and employ more aggressive promotional tactics to counter HD DVD's recent momentum."

Via Reuters

Adobe opts for Blu-ray only support in latest software

Adobe has said that its latest Premiere Elements package; version 6, will only support export options for Blu-ray rather than HD DVD.

An Adobe spokesman told Pocket-lint that he wasn't sure why the next gen high-def format isn't supported in the company's software, however talking to industry insiders who wanted to remain anonymous, they believed that it was pressure from laptop maker Sony insisting that the rival format isn't supported in the software.

According to Pocket Lint

Knocked up On HD DVD up for Pre-order

Organizing a Personal Media Library, Part 2: Keeping It

How big do you want your library to get? The size of it right now is important, but it's only a guideline. If you expect to grow your media library, you'll want to plan ahead -- especially if you're the electronic equivalent of a pack rat. If you're willing to delete movies, pictures and old songs, you'll be able to save yourself time, money and maybe even a few headaches.

Link for more of the article:

Storage start-up fits 250 hours of HD content on one disc

An Israeli start-up has created a way to store a whole lot of data on optical discs using fluorescence.

The TeraDisc looks like a regular CD, except it's chartreuse and see-through. Mempile says its disc will start off able to store 600GB to 700GB and in a year will be able to write 1TB worth of data. There are two physical layers of plastic, but 200 virtual layers on the one-sided disc. That means 250 hours of high-definition content or 300,000 digital photos. HD DVD and Blu-ray Disc can currently hold about 50GB of data on dual-layer discs.

link:

High-Definition Discs and Video Players: Industry Must Do More to Motivate Consumers, but Opportunity for Growth is Abundant

The NPD Group reported today some reasons for the slower than expected start of high-definition video players and high-definition content sales (i.e., HD DVD and Blu-ray Disc). NPD’s new High Definition Video Report Series examines consumer awareness, ownership, usage patterns, and intent to purchase high-definition players and content, since these new technologies were introduced last year.

Among those who currently own HDTVs, half (52 percent) are familiar with the availability of high-definition DVD players, but only 11 percent expressed strong intentions to buy one in the next six months. Seventy-three percent of HDTV owners reported that their current traditional-format DVD player still works well for them, so they do not need to replace it; while 62 percent said they are waiting for the prices of high-definition players to fall.

Link:

ReplayTV Introduces ``Personal HD'' Solution for the PC with HDTV, Multi-Tuner and iPod Support

ReplayTV^®, the pioneer of personalized digital video recording, today announced its new “Personal HD” all-in-one solution for the PC with HDTV, multi-tuner, and iPod^® support.

Bringing hardware & software together to give consumers a living room quality DVR experience on their PCs, “Personal HD” goes the extra mile and easily makes shows “Good-to-Go.” With ReplayTV Personal HD, shows can be taken on the road to watch on Apple iPhone^TM, video iPod, iPod nano, iPod touch, iPod classic and other portable devices. Additionally, shows can easily be streamed over Apple TV^TM.

ReplayTV’s popular DVR technology lets you pause live TV, rewind, skip ahead, find and record all your favorite shows on your PC with living room quality ease and reliability. Sit back with the included remote control, or lean forward with your mouse or keyboard.

“Customers are going to be thrilled with the new ReplayTV Personal HD,” said David Riley, Director of Marketing at ReplayTV. “You can now take your shows with you on the new iPod nano, iPod touch, or iPhone as well as the older video iPods! ReplayTV’s intuitive menus, ease of navigation, powerful searches, and our channel guide that works the way you want have always been popular. And now we are offering a tuner, antenna, and remote for an all-in-one solution. ReplayTV Personal HD is a terrific hardware/software solution at a great price.”

The complete package includes a USB 2.0 ATSC/NTSC hybrid tuner, HD antenna, remote control, USB cable, software CD, Quickstart guide and one year of ReplayTV Electronic Program Guide service (annual EPG fee thereafter: $19.95 per year). ReplayTV Personal HD is slated for shipment this fall.

Disney's Iger says easy money behind HD DVD stance

Walt Disney Co Chief Executive Officer Bob Iger said on Tuesday he was disappointed by some studios' recent decision to back the HD DVD high-definition technology format and accused them of taking "easy money" for their decision.

Iger did not name the studios to which he was referring.

Disney backs Sony Corp's Blu-Ray Disc, which had appeared to be pulling ahead of Toshiba Corp's HD DVD in the format war before Paramount Pictures and DreamWorks Animation SKG Inc signed exclusivity deals in August to distribute next-generation films on HD DVD for the next 18 months.

"We believe it's a no-brainer ... that the industry should be behind Blu-ray," Iger told investors at the Goldman Sachs Communacopia Conference, noting that a decision by certain "entities" was disappointing.

"I think those studios were likely taking easy money. We haven't taken any money because we believe it," he said.

What I am reading right now

I know this has absolutely nothing to do with my blogs subject matter but I have to pass on a recommendation for a really good book I am reading. It's called "Walt Disney: The Triumph of the American Imagination" by Neil Gabler. I normally read books about sports figures but this one interested me because of our trip to Disneyland last year. If you like biographies and reading about people that built something that has transcended their time on this earth...read this book. Here's a link to Amazon:

Intel to support both HD-DVD and Blu-ray

In a major step toward bringing an end to the much-buzzed-about format war that has pitted HD-DVD technology enthusiasts against the backers of Blu-ray technology, Intel Corp.'s CEO Paul Otellini today said during the Intel Developer Forum opening keynote that the company's fifth-generation Centrino mobile platform codenamed Montevina will have native support for both HD DVD and Blu-ray media when it launches next year.

Hollywood execs clash on DVD formats

Walt Disney Co. chief executive Robert Iger criticized studios Tuesday that dropped support for the Blu-ray high-definition DVD format.

Other Hollywood executives defended their support of the rival HD DVD format during an investor conference in New York sponsored by Goldman Sachs.

Consumers remain profoundly confused by the two formats, both of which deliver crisp, clear pictures and sound but are completely incompatible with each other and do not play on older DVD players.

Iger said he was disappointed that the industry had not backed one format and predicted that a victory by Blu-ray over rival HD DVD was a "foregone conclusion."

Disney backs Blu-ray exclusively along with Sony Corp.'s Sony Pictures, News Corp.'s Twentieth Century Fox and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer.

Viacom's Paramount Pictures, which also owns DreamWorks SKG, recently dropped its support for Blu-ray and said it would start distributing films exclusively in the HD DVD format.

Universal Pictures, a unit of General Electric, also releases films only in HD DVD. Warner Bros., owned by Time Warner Inc., releases in both formats.

Viacom CEO Philippe Dauman told investors at the same conference that the decision to switch was made because HD DVD players were more affordable. He also said Paramount decided it made more long-term economic sense to back a single format.

read more | digg story

Frickin Sweet!

Via Electronic House

42" Plasma built into Hot Tub?

so apparently Mark Cuban has way too much money!

there's a 61" version too.

MGM nabs library for hi-def network

Via Variety:

MGM has quarried its 4,100-title movie library to create a 24/7 high-definition cable network called MGM HD, which has signed a carriage deal with DirecTV.

The network, which will debut on DirecTV before year’s end, starts with titles such as “The Black Stallion,” “West Side Story,” “Leaving Las Vegas,” “RoboCop” and “Hotel Rwanda.” MGM HD will be advertiser-supported.

“The growth of the MGM library and the further expansion of the MGM channels worldwide are the studio’s primary objectives,” said Harry Sloan, chairman and CEO of MGM.

Although MGM HD is the studio’s first foray into the cable-network business in the U.S., MGM movie channels reach viewers in more than 100 countries across the globe.

Initially, MGM HD will consist of nothing but movies. But in the works are “exclusive behind-the-scenes coverage of red-carpet events, sneak peeks at new films in production, seasonal promotions and world premieres of newly re-mastered hits from the MGM library,” according to the studio.

The hands-on MGM executives who put together the U.S. launch of MGM HD are Jim Packer, co-president of worldwide TV, and Doug Lee, executive VP of worldwide digital media.

Derek Chang, executive veep of programming and strategy for DirecTV, cited MGM’s “brand recognition and entertainment assets” as the reasons he signed MGM HD as part of an ambitious plan by the satellite distributor “to launch up to 100 HD channels by the end of the year.”

LG announces new combo computer

Via Akihabara news: (love the second language translation!)

Its about time! So finally some manufacturers have come to their senses and we can finally see more computers that include "dual" HD Format disc compatible drives. For example the LX97WH, which will include a drive that not only supports DVD and HD-DVD but also Blu-Ray!. When design and PC meet, LG XPION), with a Core 2 Duo CPU, an Nvidia Geforce 8 series video card and all of this stuck together in a 8.9cm slim PC case. No available price information as of this point.

Flying onto DVD for the Holidays: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix Available December 11 from Warner Home Video

Via Press release

The rebellion begins in Harry Potter’s fifth year at Hogwarts and no Muggle will want to miss the excitement when Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix arrives on DVD this December 11^th from Warner Home Video. In Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, Lord Voldemort has returned but the Ministry of Magic is doing everything it can to keep the wizarding world from knowing the truth – including appointing Ministry official Dolores Umbridge as the new Defense Against the Darks Arts professor at Hogwarts. When Umbridge refuses to teach practical defensive magic, Ron and Hermione convince Harry to secretly train a select group of students for the wizarding war that lies ahead. A terrifying showdown between good and evil awaits in this enthralling film version of the fifth novel in J.K. Rowling’s series. Prepare for battle!

Total HD disc format looks to be a total bust

according to arstechnica:

Warner's plans to straddle the fence on the HD disc format war have hit a snag, as the company has decided to shelve its vaunted Total HD hybrid format. Announced at the 2007 Consumer Electronics Show, Total HD was slated to arrive on store shelves by early 2008.

As you may have surmised from the name, Total HD offers both Blu-ray and HD DVD content on a single disc. Warner CEO Barry Meyer pitched the format as an easy out for consumers wondering what type of HD player to purchase and studios trying to decide which of the two (make that three) high-definition disc formats they want to support. It would also make life easier for retailers that would only have to stock one HD disc instead of two.

In late June, Warner indicated that it might be having second thoughts about the format, saying that Total HD would miss its anticipated holiday-season debut in favor of a launch early next year. At the time, there were questions raised about whether there was any real demand for the format from either consumers or the studios.

Bourne Ultimatum HD DVD release date announced

The third movie in the Jason Bourne series was announced for a release date of December 11th. Here's a picture of the whole collection.

Studios leaving money on the table

Screendigest thinks:

The latest research released today by media analysts Screen Digest, examines the evolution of the high-definition video market. The research includes detailed forecasts to 2011 for consumer sales and revenues of both new video formats for W Europe and the US. Screen Digest believes that whilst Blu-ray Disc (BD) is selling more units than rival HD DVD at the moment, in the longer term both formats will establish a viable installed base, allowing them to co-exist for the foreseeable future.

Blu-ray, HD DVD will co-exist

Variety is saying that both formats will co-exist until 2011 at least:

Both the Blu-ray and HD DVD high-definition formats can get a firm foothold and co-exist "for the foreseeable future" in the U.S and Western Europe, according to a report by media analysts Screen Digest.

The report, which examines the evolution of the high-definition market until 2011, suggests that studios supporting only a single format will be missing out on significant potential revenues in coming years by not making their product available on both Blu-ray and HD DVD.

The U.K.-based research org predicts combined consumer spending for both formats will reach $1.55 billion in 2008, up from the $438 million mark projected for this year.

Screen Digest estimates that studios supporting one format are missing out on an estimated $270 million in consumer spending next year.

"Christmas 2007 is going to be critical for the hi-def video business," says Richard Cooper, Screen Digest Video Analyst. "Both formats will be seeking to secure consumer buy-in to their proposition during the critical holiday season but with so much at stake on both sides we think it is highly unlikely that one format will emerge as the 'winner.'

"Once it becomes clear that both formats are gaining customer acceptance, studios that have chosen to support one format over the other will realize that they are missing out on potential sales and will have to decide how long they can afford to place principle over profit.

"We believe that eventually most will decide to offer their titles on both HD DVD and Blu-ray in order to maximize their returns."

Back To School 2007: HD TVs for Cheap

Via Crunch Gear:

It’s that time of year when those of a certain age are heading off to school. It’s a middle step in life, not moving into apartments or houses but into dorms, frat houses and various off and on-campus residences. For a lot of you, it’s your first time away from home for an extended period of time. I don’t think I would be going out on a limb by assuming that both money and space are going to be scarce. If this is the question you ask yourself, “how can I get my HD situation together?” then this round-up is for you. Prices have dropped and options have expanded to the point where more solutions are within reach. This info should help you make the right choice, while bringing you up-to-date about the HD marketplace.

Target shelves in favor of Blu-ray About twice as many BD titles than HD DVD in stores

Via Videobusiness.com

Target is shifting the balance of its high-definition software merchandising toward Blu-ray Disc, now devoting twice the amount of display space to that format than it does to HD DVD in some or all of its stores.

When the chain first launched a high-def section within its new release DVD wall last year, display space for Blu-ray and HD DVD discs was equal. At a number of Los Angeles stores, there were 12 designated title slots, aligned along two vertical rows, for each format.

But in the last several weeks, various industry sources have noted Target doubling the room for Blu-ray titles, while keeping shelving for HD DVD titles the same. At three Los Angeles and two Orange County, Calif., locations, Target had space for 24 Blu-ray titles along four vertical rows and 12 HD DVD titles along two vertical rows. At one Philadelphia-area Target, there appeared to be four times the room committed to Blu-ray than there was to HD DVD software.

Blu-ray camp responds to 51GB HD DVD claims

via Tech.co.uk

The Blu-ray Disc Association has responded to claims that the HD DVD Promotional Group is to release triple-layer 51GB HD DVD discs. Frank Simonis, chairman of the BDA, told Tech.co.uk that he is not surprised by the announcement and that the HD DVD Group is reacting to the market instead of leading it.

Simonis indicated a belief that the HD DVD Group's BD-trumping 51GB disc announcement is purely a publicity stunt.

Publicity stunt?

"I'm not surprised at all," he told us. "But we believe they are very much in a reactive mood. Based on their format one would expect that a triple layer disc is three times a HD DVD single layer adding up to 45 GB. Now suddenly they change it to 51GB for promotional reasons.

HDMI versus Component: Deathmatch!

Tom's hardware has an excellent write-up on the difference between the two...

Infodisc is Europe's first independent Blu-ray Disc manufacturer

Via Pocket-Lint

It's been described as a "key milestone" in the Blu-ray Disc's strategic roadmap. Recent news that Infodisc has come online as Europe's first independent Blu-ray disc manufacturer may be shrugged off as dull industry blurb by those not realising the implications of this development.

It is in fact very significant, and in time, will have an effect on the consumer, as well as possibly the entire format war on our continent. This news means that the Blu-ray disc market in Europe has been opened up to the independent sector - as all other disc producers prior to this were owned by, or tied into, the big movie studios.

Merry Christmas to Toshiba HD DVD owners

New firmware out supports 24mhz output

As part of our commitment to provide world-class service to our customers, Toshiba is supplying this firmware update for use by purchasers of Toshiba HD DVD Player models HD-XA2 and HD-A20. This firmware update includes support for 1080p/24Hz OUTPUT, additional OSD languages, improved network connectivity supporting the download of web-enabled network content associated with certain HD DVD discs, and also addresses certain disc playback and HDMI/DVI related issues identified by Toshiba.

Via their website

Here's a direct link to the HD-XA2 Firmware 2.5 file


Here's a direct link to the HD-A2 Firmware 2.5 file


Here's a direct link to the HD-A20 Firmware 2.5 file

** Firmware 2.5 Update Notes:

* Full 1080p/24Hz support for both HD DVD and standard DVD (HD-A20 and HD-XA2 only; 1080p/24 HDTV required)
* RGB Output Range Selection (Standard RGB 16-235 and Enhanced RGB 0-255)
* Improves network connectivity for supporting the download of web-enabled network content associated with certain HD DVD discs
* Addresses certain disc playback and HDMI/DVI related issues identified by Toshiba

Note: If your model is a Toshiba HD-D2 then all you need is the HD-A2 firmware. Likewise, if your model is a Toshiba HD-D1 you'll simply need the HD-A1 firmware.

AC/DC on Bluray

Via The Sony Store

Aiptek cranks out 720p pocket camcorder for $170

Via Engadget

I might need to get this for my trip to Disneyland with the family in December. This will be my first HD recording purchase, I'd love to replace my Mini-DV camcorder.

Where to buy

The Five-Year Forecast For Consumer Technology Growth

via CRM2day.com

Devices that make up the digital home, such as digital video recorders, high-definition televisions (HDTVs), and home networks will be the consumer technologies that grow the fastest over the next five years, according to the 10th annual guide to consumers' technology adoption and attitudes by Forrester Research, Inc. (Nasdaq: FORR). "The State Of Consumers And Technology: Benchmark 2007" is based on the responses of more than 58,000 consumers in the US and Canada, and is the second-largest survey in the world after the US Census regarding consumers and technology.

New Knowledge Networks Study Shows How High-Definition TV Reception Changes Viewing Habits; No Effect on Advertising Avoidance

About 50% with high-definition reception say they 'always' make the effort to watch in HD; also more likely to plan viewing


MENLO PARK, Calif., Sept. 12 /PRNewswire/ -- According to a just-released Knowledge Networks study, access to high-definition television (HDTV) programming -- one of the key digital technologies being embraced by mainstream consumers -- significantly affects viewing behavior, making users more selective about what they watch and more likely to plan viewing in advance. High-definition (HD) reception does not seem to make consumers more likely to watch commercials, though; while they find HDTV ads more "relevant," they are just as likely to click away from them as regular ads.

The Knowledge Networks report -- which is part of The Home Technology Monitor(TM), an ongoing source of definitive data on ownership and use of media technologies -- indicates that, while 20% of homes now have an HDTV set, less than two-thirds (61%) of those homes have true high-definition reception. But the effects of having HD programming are substantial; among those who get high-definition reception signals:

    -- one-third always check their HD channels first when channel surfing or
     checking for a program
  -- about half "always" make the effort to watch in HD if a program is
     simulcast in both standard definition and HD
  -- about 70% plan their viewing ahead of time, compared with just over
     half of viewers in non-HD homes

The survey also compared advertising attitudes between HD and non-HD viewers:

    -- overall ad avoidance is similar among HD and non-HD persons: about half
     of each group say their usual response to a commercial break is to
     change channels
  -- HD viewers are more likely to agree that ads in HD programs are
     relevant to their needs and interests (41% vs. 35%).  However, HD
     viewers are less likely to say they are inclined to purchase from
     advertisers during HD programs than non-HD viewers are from advertisers
     on regular TV programs (23% vs 37%)

New Sony VAIOs pack recordable Blu-ray

Via Tech.co.Uk

has today unveiled three new additions to its VAIO range - the AR50-Series and FZ20-Series laptops and the L-Series desktop. Each features a recordable Blu-ray disc drive.

Ultimate entertainment laptop

The AR50-Series has, according to Sony, been created to be "the ultimate HD1080 entertainment notebook". Leading the line is the VGN-AR51SU, which combines a 17-inch WUXGA X-black LCD with a Blu-ray drive (capable of writing to 50GB discs), a 500GB hard disk and integrated TV tuner.

The FZ20-Series, meanwhile, is more compact, featuring a 15.4-inch WXGA LCD instead of the 1920 x 1200 pixel screen of its AR50 brother. There's no TV tuner in this one either, but the AR50-Series also boasts a recordable Blu-ray drive and an HDMI port for HD output to a compatible TV.

Finally, the L-Series VAIO is the successor to Sony's LA-Series. This desktop PC system includes a slot-in BD-R drive, twin analogue/DVB-T tuners and a 320GB hard disk. Sony also supplies a wireless keyboard and mouse, plus a glossy 22-inch X-black LCD.

A rallying cry for Blu-ray

"We want to give more people a clear path into HD," says Nicolas Barendson, head of VAIO Marketing at Sony UK.

"At its simplest, this means the ability to watch HD movies at home. For those who want to go further, some VAIO products have the power to edit HD content... We see Blu-ray Disc as the key to an HD future."

DirecTV Prepares to Launch New HD-Only Programming Tier

Via Multichannel:

DirecTV plans to create a tier of HD-only channels when it rolls out its much-ballyhooed expanded high-definition TV packages, possibly as early as next week.

The new tier will include services that are not simulcasts of standard-definition networks and exist only in high definition. This tier will be one part of the DirecTV’s overall revamping of its HDTV services, which will jump to more than 70 channels this fall.

At one point, the rollout of the satellite provider’s overall expanded HD offering appeared to have been set for next Wednesday, Sept. 19. That was the date cited in an internal DirecTV document first posted on the Web site SatelliteGuys.us.

HP to launch PCs supporting BD/HD DVD dual-format burners

Via Digitimes

Hewlett-Packard (HP) will begin launching its next-generation PCs with a Blu-ray Disc (BD)/HD DVD dual-format burner in the US and Europe starting October 2007 and in other markets later on, the company said at a product presentation held in Singapore on September 11.

High-Definition Recording: What's the Hold-Up?

Via PC World

No one will question that the high definition format war will be full-tilt this holiday season. However, I must say that in many ways, I'm unimpressed by what I'm hearing coming soon, from either Blu-ray or HD DVD. Still no news of a high-definition recorder here in the U.S.--even though Japan already has an HD DVD recorder from Toshiba, and a selection of Blu-ray Disc recorders (new Sony models were introduced in Japan today).

A year ago, I'd heard whispers of a high-definition recorder conceivably coming in time for the holiday season this year. At this point, I think we'll be lucky to hear about recorders at CES--for next year's holiday season.

So why the delay? For one thing, we're still waiting on the final version of the Advanced Access Content System, the copy protection scheme used by both Blu-ray and HD DVD, and which will govern things like recording and the oft-talked about yet currently non-existant managed copy (which will enable legal copies of movies from disc).

The World's Not Yet High-Def

AllthingsHighdef thinks no one wants Hidef media

(editors note: I think the format war has killed any chance of either being accepted mainstream anytime soon)

Warner Remains Loyal To Dual HD Formats

Denver — Despite reports that Warner Home Video has been offered lucrative payments to follow Paramount’s path and become an exclusive HD DVD high-definition disc provider, the company’s president Ron Sanders told TWICE at CEDIA Expo that the company has enjoyed strong sales in both formats and will likely continue to support both until that changes.

Sanders also revealed that Warner will be releasing all four “Harry Potter” movies on high-definition discs in time for the holidays, and confirmed reports that Warner’s plans for its TotalHD flipper disc remain on hold.

TWICE: What is the status of your plans for TotalHD?

Sanders: We’re concerned that as the only one publishing on it, it would be hard to make it go. We’re still looking at, though. We’re still talking to retail, but it’s kind of on hold right now.

TWICE: With plans for THD on hold, what do you think about the new dual-format players on the market?

Sanders: I’m excited about dual-format players. It takes out that worry about picking the wrong format, and with the studios lining up on one or the other format it’s kind of a nice solution, but until the price points come down — they are still around $1,000 — it’s not going to be a mass product. As more and more drives go into computers for both formats, I think that will drive the price down for drives going into set tops.

TWICE: Have you received offers from HD DVD or Blu-ray to be exclusive with either format, as Paramount recently did with HD DVD?

Sanders: We’re talking to both sides and it’s crazy right now. We remain committed to both for the time being. We’ll see how the fourth quarter plays out. The consumer is still kind of divided, and we still believe that we should offer the content in both formats. Now, we will watch the marketplace very closely, and see how it plays out, but for now we are supporting both.

TWICE: Do you actively encourage retail accounts to stock both formats?

Sanders: We do. There are no special incentives to support both but they will chase the consumer, and the consumer wants both. In software, new release titles are selling around 2-to-1, Blu-ray to HD DVD. But it varies by any given title. On “Planet Earth” we sold more HD DVD than Blu-ray and on “300” we sold more Blu-ray than HD. It’s probably two-thirds to one-third, but you’re going to give up a third of that. We’re about returning the best profit on the asset of a film, and it’s hard to give that up. So, let’s see where it all plays out.

TWICE: What do you expect will happen?

Sanders: It’s really hard to handicap. I can’t tell, which side, if any, will win. Right now it’s like a Mexican standoff. If the consumer continues to support both formats, the industry will as well. It will be really pivotal what Toshiba does this fourth quarter in hardware. If they sell through everything they ship, and it’s a big number at the price points that are coming out, then I think [HD DVD] will be around for a long time. If they don’t, then it could go Blu-ray’s way. But Toshiba is getting very, very aggressive on pricing, which is putting pressure on Blu-ray player manufacturers to bring prices down. As a content company we just want more hardware in the homes. So what ever drives more hardware is good to see. Right now it looks like there is price pressure on both sides because there are two formats — more pressure than there would be if there was only one format. So, for our interests, more razors means we’ll sell more razor blades down the road.

TWICE: What will be the hot WHV high-definition releases for the holidays?

Sanders: We will have new versions of the complete “Harry Potter” catalog, I through IV, coming out this Christmas in high definition, we’ll have “Oceans 11” and “12” coming out in both high-def formats this fall with “Ocean’s 13”, and we’ll have popular TV series releases including “Nip Tuck” in high-definition this fall with more coming.

TWICE: How are you finding HD disc sales so far?

Sanders: “We have 60 titles released in Blu-ray already and we will be cranking that up further. We are just thrilled at how well they’ve been doing. Our top seller to date has been “300,” and before that it was “Planet Earth,” and before that was “The Departed.” We have had the top-selling HD title since we released “The Departed” at the Oscars.

By Christmas, we’ll probably do half a million units in high definition for “300,” so the marketplace is off and running. It’s becoming meaningful on a title basis.

TWICE: What reaction have you observed to the Web-enabled extras you’ve included in select HD DVDs and what are the plans to add similar capability to Blu-ray?

Sanders: I think with Blu-ray 2.0 coming this fall, we are going to see a lot more Web-enabled content coming from everyone. Consumers want it. We’ve had quite a number of downloads of ringtones on our “300” connected DVD and HD DVD. We don’t know where it’s going to go. We are kind of in the nascent stage of what is possible, but I think it’s going to be great. I think there is going to be a pent-up demand that is going to be very interesting to watch once [Web-enabled Blu-ray] products launch into the market.

TWICE: Will you differentiate the extras between the formats in any way?

Sanders: We plan to do exactly the same thing with both formats. The only thing we can’t do with Blu-ray yet is the connectivity

TWICE: Do you have any concerns about content security for either format as the market evolves?

Sanders: None. DRM is robust on both sides. There is no appreciable difference.

FCC to cable: You must support analog TVs until 2012

While the federal government has worked out a plan to help buy digital-to-analog converter boxes for Americans who rely on over-the-air broadcasts and still have analog TV sets, the rules for cable operators were not finalized until yesterday. The FCC voted 5-0 to require that cable operators must continue to make all local broadcasts available to their users, even those with analog televisions.

ArsTechnica

MSNBC thinks you can get HDTV for cheap

only for the higher-end PC:

You don’t need to spend big bucks to watch high definition television on an expensive flat-screen TV.

Pinnacle Systems has created a much cheaper way. All you need is their $129.99 PCTV – HD Pro Stick and a laptop computer.

The Pinnacle PCTV HD Pro Stick lets you watch high quality, over-the-air digital, high-definition and standard definition TV shows. No monthly fees or subscriptions are necessary.

Tony Sachs: Whatever Happened To The Super Audio CD?

Like the cavalry charging over the hill to save the day, the Super Audio CD was poised to rescue the ailing music industry five years ago. It promised far better sound quality than standard CDs, surround sound capability, and best of all, the Hybrid SACD could also play in standard CD players.

read more | digg story

Warner Announces Two New 'Best of Blu-ray' Disc Bundles

Via High Def Digest

'Alexander,' 'Troy,' and 'Happy Feet' are among the top hits to be included in Warner Home Video's next wave of 'Best of Blu-ray' bundles, due November 6.

As with Warner's initial three "Best of Blu-ray" volumes (which are due in stores September 18), these latest sets will contain four top high-def hits apiece, this time organized around a specific genre. 'The Best of Blu-ray, Action' set will include: 'Alexander Revisited,' 'Troy: Director's Cut,' 'Blood Diamond' and 'Wyatt Earp.'

"The Best of Blu-ray, Family' set will include 'Happy Feet,' 'Scooby-Doo,' 'Tim Burton's Corpse Bride' and 'The Ant Bully.'

Note that specs and bonus features for the movies included in these bundles will be identical to their standalone counterparts, and box art for each individual title will also remains the same.

Each box will carry an MSRP of $84.99, representing a savings of roughly $40 compared to the combined list prices of each title, if bought separately.

The ideal DirecTV Plus HD-DVR companion

TenBox is a high quality High Definition and Multimedia eSATA storage box created with DirecTV Plus HD DVR in mind.

DirecTV subscribers love the versatility and ease of operation of the HR20 DVR, but most agree that with so many programs to record, its 300 GB capacity is not enough. Too often it is necessary to delete programs that have not been watched yet in order to make room for newer recordings.

Using TenBox as a companion to the HR20 increases its recording capability to up to 2 Terabytes (2000 GB) that is 660% more than the original capacity! This means up to 1300 hours of regular programming, or up to 330 hours of Hi Def (Mpeg 4) programming!

Here's a link to their site:

Sony unveils new Blu-ray recorders to fight HD DVD

Via Reuters:

TOKYO (Reuters) - Sony Corp said it will launch four models of new Blu-ray high-definition optical disc recorders in November in Japan, as its format battle with the HD DVD camp heats up.

Sony, along with Panasonic maker Matsushita Electric Industrial Co Ltd , promotes the Blu-ray technology, which competes with the HD DVD format, backed by Toshiba Corp and Microsoft Corp.

The new models, capable of storing up to 16 hours of high-definition programmes on a dual-layer, 50-gigabyte (GB) Blu-ray disc, will go on sale on November 8.

Transformers up for pre-order on Amazon.com

Several HDTV Nets Remain Down Following Fire

Two HDTV networks were back on the air, but two others remained down Tuesday in the wake of a fire at a Stamford, Conn., building that houses facilities for several programmers and a company that does uplinking for them.

A&E Network HD, The History Channel HD, YES Network HD and NFL Network HD were initially knocked out of service following an early morning fire Monday at 250 Harbor Drive in Stamford, Ct.

Link:

Philips Fulfils the Full Potential of HDTV

Via Hardware zone

Philips fulfils the full potential of HDTV with an extensive and affordable range of Full HD LCD FlatTVs with 1080p Display

Philips Electronics launched its wide range of Full HD FlatTVs with 1080p Display to allow consumers to take full advantage of digital broadcasting and afford them with the best experience when viewing content from any HD source.

Blu-Ray Part 2: Why Decisions Should Follow, Not Lead, Analysis

Posted by Rob Enderle
Last week I wrote a piece on why Sony should have never brought out Blu-Ray in the first place. Many people at Sony, some of them very powerful, have lost their jobs over this, and Sony appears to be getting ready to move to the technology that may take the place of all DVDs.

If I’m correct, there are really only two likely outcomes: HD-DVD wins or both lose. If this had been determined at the start, Sony could have likely saved a lot of red ink. Now the problem for them is, I don’t see how they get out of this.

Time is clearly not unlimited; yet another format came to market this week that actually looks rather good.

Let's Save TiVo

Losing believers isn't new at TiVo. The digital video recorder pioneer is signing up fewer company-owned subscribers than it lost in an expired deal with DirecTV. Profitability has been sparse. Even when it makes a bold bet on the future of HDTV, it comes up short. Its original $799 HDTV model proved too costly.read more | digg story

Imuse introduces new triple threat DVD player

so these guys have a new combo player coming:

via Press Release:

SIERRA HD and POLESTAR HD are the newest and most comprehensive high definition solutions from iMuse Electronics, Inc. SIERRA HD integrates with iMuse’s media server (ASCENT) to accommodate multi-zone media playback; whereas, POLESTAR HD offers an all-in-one media solution for single rooms. In addition to playing HD, Blu-ray, and standard DVD’s, these players also showcase a new savvy interface. “This new interface is critical in supporting multiple formats. Today’s customers don’t care about what format they are viewing, but they do want insurance that the access and play back for each format is seamless.” notes Bill Duncan, CEO of iMuse Electronics, Inc. A prototype of the SIERRA HD was demonstrated at the CEDIA EXPO ’07 in Denver, CO. iMuse Electronics, Inc. plans on shipping these new products in the fourth quarter of 2007.

The HDCP compliant SIERRA HD and POLESTAR HD support the display resolution of 1080p for HD-DVD and Blu-ray formats. Additionally, these players provide scalar technology for standard DVD’s.

“Seeing that the Blu-ray vs. HD-DVD battle doesn’t seem to have a clear winner yet, future-proofing a media player is a difficult task. I remember one of my friends who bought dozens of Betamax cassettes back in the 80s. We still give him a lot of grief about it. The good news is that iMuse provides a solution that won’t require customers to choose one format over the other yet,” says Dan Lannin, director of marketing for iMuse Electronics Inc.

A high-definition fight scene in slow motion

according to the LA Times, Warner is looking to go exclusive

The Future of DRM

via Cnet Blogs:

The Aviator Soars on HD DVD and Blu-ray November 6

Via press release:

Now on November 6, The Aviator, the blockbuster epic biopic directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Leonardo DiCaprio as Hughes and Cate Blanchett as Katharine Hepburn, will be flying higher than ever for its high definition debut from Warner Home Video ($28.99 SRP).

The Aviator won five Academy Awards® -- Best Supporting Actress for Miss Blanchett; Best Art Direction; Cinematography; Costume Design and Editing. Mr. Scorsese and Mr. DiCaprio were also nominated.

Special Features:

* Commentary from director Martin Scorsese
* Additional deleted scene
* History Channel documentary
* Still gallery
* Theatrical trailer (HD)

Paramount Bumps 'Saturday Night Fever' HD DVD

Via High-Def Digest:

NFL in HD this week

Via HDsportsguide.com

Picture of that Hitachi Blu Ray camcorder we reported on last week

VUDU Goes on Sale Today, Ushering in New Era of Instant Access to Movies Directly in the Living Room

VUDU Goes on Sale Today, Ushering in New Era of Instant Access to Movies Directly in the Living Room

Harry Potter 5 on DVD, Blu-ray & HD DVD Dec. 11

The Two-Disc Special Edition, Blu-ray Disc and HD DVD will include: 10 minutes of never before seen footage; an A&E documentary; a featurette called "Trailing Tonks," in which you spend a day with actress Nat Tena and receive a very personal and often wacky tour of the "Order of the Phoenix" stages; a "Harry Potter: The Magic of Editing" feature, in which director David Yates and editor Mark Day show us what a difference a good edit makes and then allow you to edit a scene; "The Hidden Secrets of Harry Potter" in which look for clues in the past Harry Potter films for what the future films may hold; an "In Movie Experience," in which you join the cast from Dumbledore's Army as they come together to share memorable moments; as well as more "making of" featurettes and "Fun and Games."

First Microsoft VC-1 Encoder Tools Now Available From Leading Solution Providers

Microsoft really wants people to start using VC-1 as the defacto standard for HD authoring...

Press release:

Maxell introduces 8cm Blu-ray camcorder media

Link:

China develops new high-def DVD format

So it's based on the HD DVD Spec but it's not exactly the same....just hope it doesn't kill you with some Chinese toy lead.

Link:

DirecTV HR21 Pro gets leaked

Yikes thats sweet!

Via EngadgetHD:

The DVR will reportedly handle 100 hours of high-def recording and output it at 1080p over optical HDMI, but lacks any over-the-air antenna inputs, probably due to DirecTV's 100-channel rollout plan.

Toshiba responds to Sony's claim that they lead the hardware race

"In light of recent comments made regarding high definition stand-alone video players sales, Toshiba would like to reiterate its continued industry leading sales figures. Based on July data from NPD, Toshiba had a 55% market share year to date in high definition stand alone player sales followed by all Blu-ray companies at a combined 42%; the final 3 percent is held by dual format players.

While the competition may claim leadership based on one month of data, Toshiba has had continued sales leadership in every month since the original HD DVD players launched 17 months ago.

Toshiba is and continues to be a top seller at retailers such as Amazon, most recently reaching #1 on the site last week. As third generation players begin to come to market at the end of this month, Toshiba has full confidence that it will continue its momentum and lead in player sales. Additional information HD DVD and Toshiba’s players can be found at http://www.toshibahddvd.com"

Hands-on with LG's BH200 HD DVD / Blu-ray combo player

Engadget hands-On

Gizmodo hands-on

HD-DVD, Blu-ray sow high-definition 'confusion'

Interesting article with some quotes from folks in the industry...

Link via EETimes

Jim Bottoms, co-founder of Understanding & Solutions, provided the bottom line on the critical issue of befuddling the consumer. "The longer the confusion exists for mass market consumers, they will want one format," he said. "If the market does not have a one-format solution within 18 months, the consumer will start to turn away."

When that happens, Bottoms warned, "There's a real danger that all this investment will be wasted."

Not all the panelists agreed with that estimate. Laurent Villaume, president of QOL, France, predicted that the two-format struggle will last into 2011, when--according to his company's research--40 percent of households in the U.S. will have some installed HD capacity, and the Blu-ray/HD-DVD market split will probably be about 60/40. "It's impossible to think," Villaume said, "that one format will be dead within this timeframe."

Acer, Inc. Joins North American HD DVD Promotional Group

"No No Baby, I still love you, that Blu-Ray babe you saw me with yesterday means nothing to me!"

Acer, Inc. Joins North American HD DVD Promotional Group

Sony Inadvertedly Reveals Declining BD Sales

Kind of funny:
Via Daily Tech

Blu-ray, HD DVD at CEDIA: We're Both Winning

In one of the better un-biased assesments of the format war, James K. Willcox of Consumerreports.org writes how both sides are claiming victory.

Link:

Blades of Glory Skates to the Top of the Charts

Via Movieweb:

Blades of Glory led the sales charge on the HD-DVD charts while Heroes: Season 1 took the No. 2 position. As for Blu-ray disc, 300 again held on to the No. 1 slot.

Free Star Trek "Phaser" with purchase of HD DVD player and Trek Box set

In another example of an unnecessary bundle:

via E-Gear: (about half way down)

It wouldn’t be a Toshiba event without some HD DVD news. Third generation HD DVD players are now shipping and a new firmware update (enabling 24 fps output) is coming soon for second gen players. And then there’s Star Trek. With Toshiba execs wearing Star Trek costumes and accompanied by corny Kirk sound clips, Toshiba announced a promotion for the upcoming HD DVD-exclusive Star Trek: Season One box set from Paramount. Buy a new player and the Trek HD box set and you’ll receive a free phaser remote control. To say that my phaser was set to stunned would be an understatement. With the industry buzz and retail momentum Blu-ray Disc has received lately (justified or not) I really thought we’d hear more from the folks behind HD DVD. Is the original Star Trek even in widescreen???

Sharp Announces AQUOS® Blu-ray Disc Player for the U.S. Market

DENVER--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sharp introduces the new slim-profile AQUOS® BD player, model BD-HP20U, the company’s first offering in the U.S. market and first U.S. product outside of the Sharp LCD suite to carry the AQUOS name. Combining full digital 1080p video output with an AQUOS HDTV Liquid Crystal Television, the BD-HP20U allows consumers to view the latest high-definition films as well as enhanced definition titles in stunning high-definition quality.

Via Business Wire:

Sorry, no picture!

Alienware Unveils Breakthrough High Definition Media Server at CEDIA EXPO 2007

MIAMI--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Triggering the latest evolution in digital entertainment, Alienware® – the leading manufacturer of high-performance desktop, notebook and professional systems – is introducing the new Alienware HD Media Server to system integrators at CEDIA EXPO 2007 in the Life|ware booth (#320). Alienware's award-winning Hangar18: HD Entertainment Center, now featuring Blu-ray Disc, will also be showcased at CEDIA EXPO. The event runs from September 5-9 in Denver, CO at the Colorado Convention Center.

Via Businesswire:

Sony Announces Blu-ray Media Jukebox Server

Naturally, the HES-V1000 uses Blu-ray technology. But not just as a drive: inside the server is a 200-disc Blu-ray/DVD changer, so all your copies of National Lampoon's Van Wilder and Troy will have a place to live. In addition, there's a 500-Gbyte hard drive to store personal video (137 hours, by Sony's estimate) or audio tracks (40,000) or images, which can be loaded via a flash card reader and manipulated through Sony's "X-Application" software, including the x-Pict Story HD and x-ScrapBook software. There's also a wired Ethernet connection, although no Wi-Fi. And it's not clear whether it's a Gigabit Ethernet connection, either.

New Bundle: "300" and "Bourne Identity" free with 3rd Gen Tosh players

So Toshiba is adding two free movies to the already 5 free bonus with their new 3rd Gen players, the HD-A3, HD-A30, and the HD-A35.

Via Press Release:

Sept. 5 /PRNewswire/ -- Toshiba America Consumer Products, L.L.C. ("Toshiba") revealed its third generation HD DVD players at the CEDIA show today rolling out its most advanced, affordable line of HD DVD players with outstanding functionalities and Web-enabled network capabilities of the HD DVD format. Gearing up for the new line to hit shelves this fall, Toshiba also announced new HD DVD marketing initiatives and consumer promotions, including a season-long promotional campaign with NBC Television Station Group for Sunday Night Football broadcasts, a free two movie bundle with third generation players and a new five free HD DVD movie promotion.

"We have raised the bar yet again with the unmatched interactive capabilities and state-of-the art video and audio performance of our third generation players," said Jodi Sally, Vice President of Marketing, Toshiba's Digital A/V Group. "Web-enabled network capabilities, available on HD DVD, illustrate how Toshiba is delivering on its commitment to provide consumers with the ultimate home entertainment experience in high definition. With this new line, a growing base of HDTV consumers can now look forward to an unrivaled home theater experience this fall."

Toshiba Third Generation HD DVD Players

Toshiba's third generation family starts with the entry level HD-A3 player featuring 1080i output capability. The other two new models, Toshiba's HD-A30 and HD-A35, will output 1080p resolution (1920 x 1080p), the highest HD signal currently available. Both models are capable of outputting signals at 1080p/24 frames per second so consumers can enjoy movies in their native frame rate. The HD-A30 and HD-A35 models also feature "CE-Link" (HDMI(TM)-CEC), allowing two-way control between the HD DVD player and a TV through an HDMI connection.

With a new slim design, Toshiba's third generation players have a cabinet that is approximately 1/4-inch slimmer than second generation models. All of Toshiba's HD DVD models are backward compatible allowing users to enjoy their libraries of current DVDs and CDs while improving the picture quality of regular DVDs by upconverting them through an HDMI connection to near high definition quality.

New HD DVD Promotions

To further drive HD DVD sales this fall, Toshiba also announced today a number of exciting new marketing initiatives and promotions. To communicate the benefits of HD DVD to millions of HDTV owners, Toshiba announced a season- long promotional campaign with the NBC Television Station Group and its broadcasts of Sunday Night Football with Bob Costas and Tiki Barber. This includes 30 second HD DVD ads, web sponsorships promoting the format, as well as special on-air vignettes that will build awareness and educate consumers about HD DVD throughout the holidays and into 2008.

In addition, in order to allow consumers to enjoy the HD DVD experience right out of the box, Toshiba is offering consumers free movies with the purchase of their third generation players. With Toshiba's new bundle promotion, consumers will take home the highly acclaimed HD DVDs "300" from Warner Home Video and "The Bourne Identity" from Universal Studios Home Entertainment.

"Warner is excited to offer consumers who purchase the new Toshiba HD DVD players the opportunity to own '300'," said Dorinda Marticorena, SVP Worldwide High Definition Media, Warner Home Video. "Not only is it the best selling HD DVD title to date, but it is also one of the most advanced titles with regard to new and innovative Hi Def features, both on the disc itself and through web connectivity. We believe that with the initial sales of "300", and this promotion, more than a half million consumers will own "300" on HD DVD by the end of this year."

"Now is an exciting time to buy an HD DVD player, with a blockbuster title like 'The Bourne Identity' in the box at retail," said Craig Kornblau, President, Universal Studios Home Entertainment. "Toshiba is leading the way in bringing high definition home, and at prices that will fit in any home theater. By offering The Bourne Identity, in addition to Toshiba's 'Five Free' offer, we are giving consumers an amazing deal."

In addition to its bundle promotion, Toshiba announced "The Perfect HD Offer," which will begin on October 1st 2007 and continue until February 28th 2008. As a result, with the purchase of any Toshiba HD DVD player, consumers will be able to select five HD DVD titles for free, from a selection of 15, via a mail-in offer. Full offer details will be available at http://www.toshibahddvd.com/.

HD DVD Continues to Deliver the Most Affordable Hardware Plus the Year's Biggest Box Office Hits

More fluff from the HD DVD Forum. It seems that both sides put out a press release daily saying the exact same thing everyday.

HD DVD Continues to Deliver the Most Affordable Hardware Plus the Year's Biggest Box Office Hits

Integra Hops on the HD DVD Train

Via Electronic House:

Better late than never! While a slew of other manufacturers were spewing out high-def DVD players left and right, Integra was plotting and scheming—or maybe they were just trying to figure out which format was right for them.

They’ve decided on HD DVD for their DHS-8.8. It will have onboard HQV Reon VX video processing for scaling to 720p, 1080i or 1080p output.

The company says to also expect the unit to enable transfer of high-bit-rate audio content via HDMI version 1.3a, which allows streaming of the new lossless surround sound formats, Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio, as well as two high-bit-rate “lossy” formats, Dolby Digital Plus and DTS-HD High Resolution Audio.

Panasonic Lanuches 3 sub $4,000 1080p projectors

Press Release:
IRVINE, Calif., September 5, 2007 - Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America's Presentation Products Division, known for award-winning, high-quality, high-definition presentation and display products, is showing a hefty line-up of affordable 1080p projectors at this year's CEDIA show in Denver, September 5-9, 2007. Mitsubishi has also reduced the price of its award-winning mid-level HC5000BL and is including a mail-in rebate of up to $300.
"Mitsubishi is committed to offering a wide range of affordable 1080p full HD projector choices for all who want an authentic home theater experience," said James Chan, director, product marketing, Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America's Presentation Products Division. "We categorize them as great, better, and best to give our customers a wide choice of options and pricing."

All three HD projectors, the HC4900, HC5000BL and HC6000, offer a great overall cost of ownership with 5000-hour rated lamp life in low mode and a convenient side-access lamp for quick and easy lamp changes. They are all also extremely quiet so dramatic scenes are easy to hear with its ultra-hushed, 19 decibel level in low mode. Power zoom, focus and lens shift add value to this projector and make installation simple.

Each projector blasts 1000 ANSI lumens in brightness, perfect for home theater environments, and uses three inorganic LCD panels that are more durable and provide a more color-consistent, even-toned image than previous generation LCD panels. They vary in contrast ratio, level of sophistication in video scaling and processing, connectivity options, among other specifications, and are priced accordingly.

Unlike other 1080p projectors, Mitsubishi incorporates the EmmyR award winning HQV (Hollywood Quality Video) high-performance video processor inside Mitsubishi's HC5000BL and HC6000 projectors, for higher quality movie images that match higher level home theater enthusiasts' expectations.