Here's a great article by Al Griffin over at SOUND & VISION magazine covering the setup, operation and features of Panasonic's new Blu-ray Disc player ($399). Click right HERE for a great "hands-on" review.
And Sony just posted the owner's manual for their "BDP-S550", and it looks like (from the chart on page 66) that it, in fact, does decode "DTSHD Master Audio" internally. Click the right HERE for the manual (page 66). It looks like a sure thing, but we want to get our hands on one (also $399).
We'd like to thank LOU BRUCKER for today's post. Thanks, Lou!
Sanyo has claimed to invent technology which, in the next couple of years, promises to increase the storage capacity of Blu-ray Disc from 50GB to 100GB. We've been hearing about this for awhile, but now it's official. Click HERE for more info on that.
Integra (Onkyo) has announced their first Blu-ray Disc player. The "DBS-6.9" for only $600, promises to output "DolbyTrueHD" and "DTSHD Master Audio" over and HDMI cable (but has only 2-channel analog audio output). But still pretty cool (sorry non-HDMI receiver guys).
We've also had the chance to demo (survive) "Ironman" and "Transformers" on Blu-ray Disc. While "Ironman is the lesser of the two, both of them offer quite a demo for all of you with your 1080p HDTVs and "uncompressed audio" Home Theaters out there. Thanks for the tip, Mr. Lane. We've added both titles to the Blu-ray Test Disc page. Go rent them today!
On a side note, we've pick up an Ion-Audio "TTUSB" turntable this week for around $100 (down at the Best Buy). After a few A/B comparisons of the same song on CD and vinyl, it's quite clear that dispite the quiet "hiss" and occasional "pop", the record player out-performs the mighty Compact Disc. There are obviously many more advantages to owning CDs over records, but you can't beat that "uncompressed" analog sound.
News that should have been posted several weeks ago...Sony's BDP-S550 doesn't look like it's going to decode "DTSHD Master Audio" internally. It might be a mistake on their website, but it looks like the 550 model will only output the "much-sought-after" audio format over an HDMI cable.
But now some good news (which also should have been posted several weeks ago), Panasonic has announced 2 new Blu-ray Disc players to replace the DMP-BD30K and DMP-BD50. You can check the specs on both of them right HERE. The "DMP-BD35" and "DMP-BD55" promise to offer bitsteam AND internal decoding of all 3 uncompressed HD audio formats ("Uncompressed PCM", "DolbyTrueHD" and "DTSHD Master Audio"). The "35" only has 2-channel outputs, while the "55" boasts 7.1ch outputs. Both are, of course, BD-Live right out of the box and retail for $299 and $399. Look for them around 10/20/08.
Here are the links down at Circuit City for both models:
And finally (something we just found out), the first Blu-ray Disc title announced to provide uncompressed DolbyTrueHD 5.1 encoded at 192kHz/24-bit sampling frequency. This is 4 times the audio quality found on current Blu-ray Discs. Supposedly you can't have that much audio informtaion on a Blu-ray Disc without removing the video information ("Blu-ray Disc Audio" or "BDA"). But we'll wait and see, won't we? It might be a typo. We hope it's not. Click right HERE for info on the U.S. release of "AKIRA" on Blu-ray Disc early next year.
Marantz is joining Onkyo and Denon in the ranks of "Flagship" preamp/amplifier design. A trend we could all get used to. Check them out below:
Here's a list of Marantz's new receivers (including their new preamp) which can decode "DolbyTrueHD" and "DTSHD Master Audio":
SR4003 ("Uncompressed PCM" only)
And last, but not least, here's Marantz's first Blu-ray Disc player. It can actually decode all 3 uncompressed HD audio formats ("Uncompressed PCM", "DolbyTrueHD" and "DTSHD Master Audio") internally, eliminating the need to purchase a new receiver with HDMI inputs and advanced audio decoders.
All of these will be added to the Uncompressed Audio page. Enjoy.
Updates galore...Thanks to the advent of Blu-ray Disc's TRUE seven-channel recordings and electronics manufacturers removing the PREOUTS from their low-end receivers to make room for iPod docks, we've had to update all 3 of our "Extra Value Meal" Home Theater packages (unfortunately at higher prices) to keep them current. Give 'em the "once-over".
The Biggest Bang For Your Buck ($1,500)
More than 10 years later and we've got a quite few receivers to add to the Uncompressed Audio page which can decode "DolbyTrueHD" and "DTSHD Master Audio" over an HDMI cable. It looks like the transition to the latest "Dolby/DTS" formats (Blu-ray Disc) is going a lot faster than 10 years ago (DVD). Check 'em out below:
Also, here's Yamaha's first Blu-ray Disc player (which happens to transmit "DolbyTrueHD" and "DTSHD Master Audio" over and HDMI cable to a capable receiver). It can be found on our Uncompressed Audio page, too.
It's been too long, folks. We're back with the first of several "updates" to our site. The first of which is to our poorly neglected Speaker Placement page. Take a look. We'll be back soon. Enjoy.
A bit of news from the world of UNCOMPRESSED audio. We're adding OMAR SILVA (of El Paso) and RICO (from Arizona) to the "WALL OF FAME" on our Uncompressed Audio page. Welcome aboard!
Finally available, the Pansonic DMP-BD50 debuts for $100 less than promised (only $599). Regular viewers will recognize this Blu-ray Disc player as one of the 3 models with the final Blu-ray Profile (2.0) and built-in "DolbyTrueHD" and "DTSHD Master Audio" decoders.
Today we're inducting STEVE & SHERI LANE into our "Wall of Fame" for people who are actually listening to uncompressed audio at home (a bit overdue as they've had it setup for a week or two). They're now part of the fortunate few who get to hear movies EXACTLY the way they were recorded in the studio. Check out our "Wall of Fame" on our Uncompressed Audio page. Welcome aboard, you two.
We've updated a couple of our pages this morning...
We'd like to thank MR. WAEL KDOUH for helping us replace some conflicting information on our Dolby vs. DTS page today. While patching things up in the "Blu-ray Disc" section of that page we decided to tweak some other somewhat confusing information as well. Thanks again, Mr. Kdouh! Enjoy.
The second update is to our horribly neglected Spiritual Side of Audio page. We finally got our heads out of our butts (centered ourselves) and remembered the path of enlightenment towards the "Audio/Video Truths"...Tony Hawk, beware!
Some sad news from Steve Lane. It looks as if the Sony BDP-S350 will only offer a "2.0" (stereo) analog output instead of "5.1" (surround) analog output, making it similar to the Panasonic DMP-BD30K, except the Sony is $100 less. Don't shoot the messenger.
On a brighter note, we've just added the Home Theater Basics page to our site. Long time Home Theater veterans might not find it useful (Dr. Oravetz), but we hope it will be helpful for folks just getting into the Home Theater world. Enjoy.
Some quick updates this morning we forgot last night...
Denon has a couple of reasonably priced receivers ('08 series) which can decode "Uncompressed PCM" signals over an HDMI cable (get your PS3's ready) and a brand new 2009 model for $649 retail which can decode "DolbyTrueHD" and "DTSHD Master Audio". Check 'em out!
Denon AVR-2308ci (Uncompressed PCM only)
Denon AVR-1908 (Uncompressed PCM only)
Samsung has replaced the BD-P1400 with their new "1500" model. Supposedly, it can transmit "DolbyTrueHD" and "DTSHD Master Audio" over an HDMI cable and internally decode "DolbyTrueHD" just like it's big brother, but we believe this also reqires a firmware upgrade. Someone let us know if we're wrong about that. Click right HERE for Samsung's new Blu-ray Disc player. Of course, all of these will be on the Uncompressed Audio page. Enjoy the rest of your weekend.
Givng kudos once again to MR. MATT WALLEMAN of D&M Sound for letting us know about Sony's latest firmware upgrade (version 2.41) for the PS3. It offers many new features and "bandaids" for the last firmware upgrade (version 2.40) including the ability to decode the rest of DTS family of surround formats (not just "DTSHD Master Audio") right down to plain old "DTS 5.1"...Good for them. Click right HERE for that firmware upgrade. Thanks, Matt!
Sony is days away (7/14) from releasing their next Blu-ray Disc player, the Sony BDP-S350 for only $399 retail. This new model is upgradable to "Profile 2.0" and can pass "DolbyTrueHD" and "DTSHD Master Audio" over an HDMI cable to a capable receiver. Unfortunately, it can only decode "DolbyTrueHD" internally and offers "5.1ch Analog Output" (not 7.1ch). The Sony "BDP-S550" (due out this fall) promises to support "Profile 2.0" right out of the box, decode "DTSHD Master Audio" internally and include "7.1ch Analog Output" for only $499 (suggest retail price).
News from the world of Onkyo receivers. The brand new TX-SR606 replaces the "605" model of last year adding "video upscaling to 1080i" (not 1080p) for all video sources and still weighing in at $599. We'll be adding the "TX-SR606" and "BDP-S350" to our Uncompressed Audio page.
Last but not least, be sure to check out the new "Animatrix-esk" Batman cartoon released by Warner Bros. last week. It ties "Batman Begins" in with "The Dark Knight". Click right HERE for that nonsense and enjoy the screenshot below. Great demo disc but not for kids (PG-13).
Morning, everyone! Hope you all had some grilled meat, adult beverages and lots of fireworks. We had all three and lived to tell about it. Now then...
We've found a great little website in France which offers beautiful 3300 x 2300 scans of mock-up Home Theater plaques. They look great printed, framed and placed in (or right outside) your Home Theater. Here's a small sampling of "SOUND PICTURES ENTERTAINMENT" free images:
Here's the links for each genre you might be looking for:
Home Theater Brands (79 images)
Warning/Danger signs (12 images)
More good knews from the world of Blu-ray Disc. Apparently, in the works, they've started making AUDIO-ONLY music disc's for Blu-ray. When you remove the video, there's room on current Blu-ray Discs for 8 channels of audio at 24-bit/96kHz or 6 channels of audio at 24-bit/192 kHz.
All these numbers seem a bit trivial but to give you an idea of how much better 96kHz and 192kHz will sound over standard Blu-ray movies, the best recordings clock in at only 24-bit/48kHz. So as great as "uncompressed digital audio" sounds, it has the potential to sound up to 4 times better than it does right now.
The only obstacle to overcome is BACKWARDS COMPATABILTY. There's the new Blu-ray Disc Profile "3.0" which pertains to "Blu-ray Disc Audio". Not all players can be upgraded to Profile 1.1, so 3.0 is out of reach. Most players can't decode "DolbyTrueHD" or "DTSHD Master Audio" so those discs recorded in those formats wouldn't work in most players.
A ray of hope...Every single Blu-ray Disc player ever built is capable of INTERNALLY decoding "Uncompressed PCM" signals. If the record companies get it right, then they'll make sure to record their releases in uncompressed PCM signals so they'll play on ANY player. We'll see.
Wow, gang. It's been a minute. All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy...
We'd like to apologize for the long interm and especially apologize for giving anyone hopes of owning the Panasonic DMP-BD50 anytime soon. Last we heard it was end of July and $700. Breaks our heart.
This will leave most people waiting for the Sony BDP-S550 for only $500 later this FALL. Long time to wait, we know. But it'll drive the DMP-BD50 down a couple hundred bucks when it finally arrives.
But please remember, for those of you out there who already own an "uncompressed HD audio" receiever with built-in "DolbyTrueHD" and "DTSHD Master Audio" decoders, there are plenty of reasonably priced Blu-ray Disc players available which, when paired with your receiver, will deliver all 3 of the HD audio formats (including "Uncompressed PCM") to your speakers over an HDMI cable. Click right HERE for a list of compatible players.
The Panasonic DMP-BD50 and Sony BDP-S550 are ONLY for folks who want uncompressed audio (and the final Blu-ray standard "2.0"), but don't own an HDMI-capable receiver yet.
With all the apologies and and bad news out of the way, let's get to why we're posting today. Here's an article which states that Blu-ray Disc is taking over 3 times faster than DVD did in the United States and 6 times faster than DVD did in the European Union. Click HERE for the specifics. Don't let people tell you Blu-ray won't catch on because it already has. See y'all!
Clark Kent (aka Ryan Smith) has sent us some amazing news. Click right HERE for an article about the latest technology from Israel. That's right, Israel. They've come up with motion-sensing video game technology that'll make the Wii look like Colecovision. Well, almost.
Dr. Oravetz sent us the new DARK KNIGHT trailer. Click right HERE for that. It seems bit less "dark" than the last trailer that the good doctor sent us. Maybe they're trying to reach a "family" audience. You decide.
Last but not least, Panasonic has finally announced the price of their "DMP-BD50" Blu-ray Disc player at a whopping $700 suggested retail price. Click right HERE for the press release. A bit pricey to replace the "DMP-BD30" ($500), but it would seem they intend to keep that model for folks who've already upgraded to an HD audio-capable receiver (and don't require on-board processing).
Thanks Clark and thank you, Dr. Oravetz. Keep that info coming in!
Check out THIS STORY on Universal Studios' Blu-ray Disc audio plans. They've decided to include "DTSHD Master Audio" on all of their new titles from here on out (just like 20th Century Fox). We love good news.
And if you're still not convinced Blu-ray Disc's real advantage over DVD is the audio, take a look at Nadir Khan's testimonial on having "DTSHD Master Audio" at home.
We had a chance to visit Definitive Audio and sample some extremely high-end gear. We were treated to "Wilson Audio's" Alexandria X-2 (Series II) speakers, priced at only $150,000 a pair. That pretty much dwarfs our Ultimate Setup with only two speakers. Both speakers were connected with "Transparent Cable's" Opus MM2 speaker cables, priced at only $32,000 a pair. Needless to say, it was quite a humbling experience. I was very grateful to meet Mr. Scott Wallace, a man who actually understands the value of great sound quality (even if it isn't always attainable). Thanks again for your time, Mr. Wallace.
Onkyo's latest endeavor is very similar to Denon's new flagship amp and preamp, the AVP-A1HDCI and POA-A1HDCI, which are located on our splash page. Onkyo (Integra) has their released their very own flagship amp and preamp, the DTC-9.8 (preamp) and DTA-9.4 (amp). Integra's (Onkyo's) new preamp obviously decodes all the latest HD audio formats and will be added to our Uncompressed Audio page at the top of Onkyo's list of equipment.
We're here to debut our new New Budget Setup home theater package. A trimmed-down version of our Biggest Bang for Your Buck system, the New Budget Setup delivers the same sound at half the price. That's right, only $500! And if the audio DACs (digital to analog converters) in your disc player are better than the ones in your processor/preamp (receiver), then it'll sound even BETTER for half the price. Enjoy.
One last thing to post. Sony released the latest firmware upgrade (version 2.30) yesterday. Click right HERE for that link to Sony's website. The PS3™ system does not support playback of "DTS-ES" and "DTS 96/24" for DVD-Video or "DTS-ES Matrix" for Blu-ray Discs. (just "DTSHD Master/High Resolution Audio" and "DTS-core"). How strange...
Another quick update tonight. This time brought to you by STEVE LANE. Click right HERE for a great article titled: "Wal-Mart, Best Buy and others are hit with nearly $4 million in fines for not properly labeling analog-only televisions."
After years of dealing with retail electronics stores, I'm not a bit suprised. From the information on display sent down from corporate, to the nonsense spouted by the sales staff, should warrant an investigation. This time the difference is that they were actually in violation of the U.S. Government's legislation. I'm glad it finally caught up with them.
I feel, in general, that it's not someone's fault if they truly don't know any better. But most of these companies getting fined claim (on national broadcast television) that they are "the source" for all your HDTV needs. Millions of people flock to these retail stores looking for answers and simply don't find any. Instead, they get taken for a "ride".
I read an article almost 5 years ago which showed statistics from a poll concerning HDTV-owners. It sadly showed that only about 10 to 20 percent of them actually had an HD signal hooked up. And half of those people didn't know they weren't watching Hi-Def. The sales people don't care. The cable companies don't care. And now it's going to cost them.
Thanks again, Steve! And thanks to everyone else. Keep that info coming in.
A quick udate brought to you by Matt Walleman, Chase Bunger and Steve Lane: Sony has issued a firmware upgrade for PS3 on April 15th (profile 2.30) which will allow the PS3 to decode "DTSHD Master Audio" signals. Good stuff.
My only concern with PS3's "decoding" of "DolbyTrueHD" and "DTSHD Master Audio" is that before the signals can be sent (over an HDMI cable) to a capable receiver, they get "converted" into "Uncompressed PCM" signals.
Call me paranoid, but even thought I haven't heard an "A/B" comparison with the PS3 itself, on any other Blu-ray Disc player, the "Uncompressed PCM" doesn't sound quite as good as the "DolbyTrueHD" or "DTSHD Master Audio".
I have no proof other than that, but I guess I just don't trust it unless I hear for myself. And while I prefer the "Uncompressed PCM" the least out of all three HD audio formats, it sounds remarkably better than "Dolby Digital" or "DTS".
Thanks for the tips, fellas! Click HERE for some info on Sony's firmware uprade. Keep that info comin' in!
Hey, faithful viewers! We're back!
We've been spending a lot of time revamping a handfull of the pages on our website. In case you haven't noticed, we posted an updated version of our Uncompressed Audio page. We feel that the majority of Blu-ray Disc player owners are missing out on the best part of the Blu-ray experience: THE SOUND!!!
In place of the Format War page, we've added the brand new, Blu-ray Disc page. It simply explains the benefits and backwards compatiblity of the Blu-ray Disc format. At the bottom of that new page you'll find links to all kinds of "Blu-ray Disc" resources.
This is the first of many renovations we intend to undertake here at A/V Truths. Our goal is to make this the most inovative and easy to understand Home Theater resource site in the world. Keep the info and questions coming. It helps out more than you think. Enjoy the new links.
We'd like to once again thank Matt Walleman of D&M Sound in Columbia, Missouri for filling us in on some great UNCOMPRESSED AUDIO news. Apparently the LG BH200 (Blu-ray/HD-DVD combo-player) has just been issued a firmware upgrade allowing the Dual-Format HD Disc player to send "DolbyTrueHD" and "DTSHD Master Audio" over an HDMI cable to a capable receiver. Matt's store happens to sell that particular player and they've got a "DTSHD Master Audio" demo up and running for their customers, so we're adding D&M Sound to the "Wall of Fame." You can see LG's Dual-Format player and the Wall of Fame on our Uncompressed Audio page. Enjoy.
And in case you've missed it, you can get the "Firmware 2.20" for PS3 from Sony's website by clicking right HERE. Have fun with that.
Matt Walleman warned us this morning that Sony's firmware upgrade for PS3 won't have anything to do with "DTSHD Master Audio". Chase Bunger dropped us line a couple of hours later, confirming this unfortunate news. Bunger also says that he's already picked up 3 of those $50 HD-DVD/Bestbuy giftcards (the guy really loved the HD-DVD format). Thanks for keepin' us informed, fellas! Keep it comin'.
And Mrs. Lanes' first name is spelled with an "e" and not an "a". Our deepest apologies.
Been out for a minute. We've got a lot to talk about. Let's get to it.
We'd like to thank Steve & Sheri Lane for finding a higher-quality, less-expensive "Male RCA to F Female adaptor". On our Budget Cables page we list Parts-Express for the adaptor when constructing your own cables, but Monoprice offers a MUCH better deal (model # 4130). We've updated that page to reflect these findings. Thanks again, Steve & Sheri!
We'd also like to thank David Doriguzzi for letting us know about BestBuy's generous offer of a $50 gift card to anyone who might have bought an HD-DVD player from their store before February 23rd of this year. Click HERE for the link Dave sent us to Best Buy's website. Thanks, Dave.
And thanks, once again, to Matt Walleman of D&M Sound for letting us know about Sony's firmware upgrade ("2.20") for the PS3, allowing it to handle all Blu-ray Disc "Profile 2.0" features. That should include support for transmitting "DolbyTrueHD" and "DTSHD Master Audio" over an HDMI cable. Look for PS3 firmware upgrade "2.20" on Sony's website in the next few days. Click right HERE for the information Matt sent us today. Thanks for all your help.
Pansonic unviels the world's largest TV ever. At 150 inches diagonal and less than an inch thick, it's one of the first of many new "Advanced" HDTVs which support a resolution of 2,160 x 4,096. This offers almost 9 million pixels as opposed to "Full" 1080p's 2 million pixels. (Click HERE for general "pixels" info). Sony and Samsung showcased their own "Advanced" (2,160 x 4,096) HDTVs at the CES in Las Vegas, but only in a "modest" 82-inch display. Here's Panasonic's official press release:
Pansonic 150-inch "Advanced" HDTV
Another trend we're seeing is 1080p HDTVs with "120Hz" scan-rate, giving them "smoother" motion. Well apparently that's not good enough so be on the look out for HDTVs with a "240Hz" scan-rate. Computer monitors already achieve this and now our HD dislplays must catch up. Amazing.
Mitsubishi is finally ready to start shipping their new LASER-driven DLP televisions. Instead of lightbulb shining through the Texas Instruments DLP chip, you get a laser. Mitsubishi is being very secretive about how it works. While the picture is supposed to be improved over lightbulb-DLPs, I don't know if it'll cost less to replace a burned out laser.
Marantz is not one of my favorite brands but they have a few new receivers which can decode "Uncompressed Audio". The two most expensive models support "DolbyTrueHD" and "DTSHD Master Audio" while the other two only support "Uncompressed PCM" signals (up to "7.1"). Here they are:
SR5002 ("Uncompressed PCM" only)
SR4002 ("Uncompressed PCM" only)
Pioneer Elite has a new "FLAGSHIP" receiver to show the world. It's on their Canadian website. Check out the "SC-09TXH" by clicking the text. While it's widely known that "Pioneer Elite" is just regular Pioneer with fancy gold connectors and a better face-plate, the 200-watt x 7, "DolbyTrueHD/DTSHD Master Audio" receiver costs $8,000 for some reason. We'll, of course, be adding the Pioneer and Marantz receivers to our Uncompressed Audio page. Enjoy.
Just found out about two new Yamaha receivers. Not my favorite brand, but both new models offer HD audio (DolbyTrueHD/DTSHD Master Audio) support. The RX-V863 for $999, offers built-in HD Radio reception and the RX-V633 at only $549, makes it the most INEXPENSIVE receiver to support HD audio to date. Of course we'll be adding these to the Uncompressed Audio page. Enjoy.
Reporting a few days late on THIS article from High-Def Digest, stating that Microsoft is working on a Blu-ray Disc drive for their XBOX 360 and has been creating software for Windows which will support BD drives in computers. I love good news.
Quick update. Circuit City is "unofficially" taking back HD-DVD players in exchange for Blu-ray Disc players. As long as you've got the box and all of the accessories, there's no problem. Don't forget that there might still be money changing hands as the HD-DVD players cost about half as much as the Blu-ray players. And the offer's good for HD-DVD players purchased up to 90 days ago, just in time to return your crappy Christmas present. However, Circuit City does NOT want your old HD-DVD movies. Can't win 'em all.
Great news today. Click HERE for an article sent to us by none other than RYAN SMITH (aka "Clark Kent"), showing why "Monster Cable" is a rip-off. Several sell-proclaimed "audiophiles" couldn't tell the difference in audio/video quality between Monster Cable and coat hangers with RCA ends soldered to each end (seriously). There are TWO reasons the "coat hangers" out-perform the Monster Cable. First, the hangers have a LARGER CONDUCTOR. Second, a solid-conductor will always offer better signal transfer than dozens of tiny strands, twisted together. Thanks again, Clark (Ryan)!
Next up is Sony's PRESS RELEASE showcasing their brand new Blu-ray Disc players which are on the way for this summer and fall. The Sony "BDP-S350" ($400) offers "Profile 2.0" support (after a firmware upgrade) and "DolbyTrueHD/DTSHD Master Audio" over an HDMI connection. The "BDP-S550" ($500) will support "Profile 2.0" right out of the box and have INTERNAL "DolbyTrueHD/DTSHD Master Audio" decoding, allowing for an ANALOG connection to an existing (standard "Dolby/DTS") receiver.
And last, but not least, all five "DIRTY HARRY" movies are coming to Blu-ray Disc on June 3rd (only the first two are truly magnificent - and the first 20 minutes of the fourth one). Click HERE for a little info on that.
It's great to actally report on something other than the Format War. Here's a couple of items that deserve attention:
"Government Approved" HD-converter boxes are beginning to show up in retail stores for about $60. With the FREE coupons from Uncle Sam that leaves you paying $20 per television to convert your analog set into a digital one, so to speak. We've put a new link on our HDTV Truths page for Insignia's new box, which is available at Best Buy. Circuit City has a Zenith converter box for the same price. Check 'em both out.
Also, we're adding a Blu-ray Disc player to the list of machines which are able to transmit both "DolbyTrueHD" and "DTSHD Master Audio" over an HDMI cable to a capable receiver. The Pioneer Elite BDP-95FD will be added to the Uncompressed Audio page. Enjoy.
Paramount was the last domino to fall. Here are some interesting arcticles which offer an "epilogue" to the (resolved) format war. The longest 18 months ever. (sigh)
"Lessons from the Death of HD-DVD"
How it all started - October 2005
This doesn't mean that Toshiba's going to start working on Blu-ray Disc players right away. Click HERE for that story.
That just leaves Paramount and Dreamworks holding the HD-DVD "bag". Click HERE for a little information on that story.
Wal-Mart drops HD-DVD and goes Blu-ray exclusive
Toshiba expected to drop HD-DVD in the next few weeks
I think we're about done here, folks.
Special thanks goes out to Chase Bunger for letting us know about Netflix (he wasn't the only one "phone in") and to Migel Lebron of Bakersfield Home Technology for letting us know about Best Buy (he knew this coming weeks ago). Thanks fellas. Keep that info coming in.
I hope this turn of events sends a message to Universal and Paramount to hang it up and let the HD-DVD format die with dignity.
It looks like HD-DVD bounced back this week. Instead of losing 4 to 1 against Blu-ray, they're only losing 3 to 1. And below, the story of HD-DVD's continued demise and the Home Theater industry's transition to HD disc unfolds. Pick your poison:
HD Disc soars over HD downloads
Microsoft cuts price of HD-DVD add-on for XBOX
More HD-DVD players returned than in stock
It's nice to report on something besides the format war for a change. And this news is right off the charts. DENON's brand new FLAGSHIP receiver, which isn't a receiver, but a $7,000 preamp and a $7,000 10-channel amplifier. Here they are below, stacked on top of one another (my gosh):
The XLR "Balanced" connections between the two is enough to make your heart stop. And with 150 watts for 10 channels @ 8 ohms and 300 watts @ 4 ohms, Denon has once again set the standard. We'll be putting the PREAMP on our Uncompressed Audio page. And we'll give you the links right now to check them both out at Denon's website. Enjoy.
The rear view of these two beasts will replace Denon's AVR-5805 receiver on our "splash page". If you missed them on the way in, click right HERE for another look.
First of all, Chase Bunger had this to say about Circuit City's low, low prices on the Toshiba HD-DVD players we posted lasted time:
"I think the reason the A3 and A30 were on clearance at Circuit City is because, since Warner is going BR exclusive, they have to clear out the players w/300 in them because it is a Warner movie.....they are going to reissue the players with two Bourne movies in them. That and because Circuit City isn't smart enough to add a new sku for the new player in their system without clearancing the old ones.....pretty sure the prices are back up to normal (which is still freakishly low at $149) now."
The gang over at The Digital Bits confirmed this later, but Bunger knew it all along. No one scoops The Bunger. Thanks again, old friend.
Above is a chart showing HD Disc player sales for the week after Warner Bros. "announcment" on the LEFT and the following week when Toshiba dropped it's prices dramatically to compentsate (which Bunger just mentioned) on the RIGHT.
And above here is an all too familar chart showing pretty much the same situation. For the THIRD week in row since Warner Bros. "announcment", Blu-ray Discs have been selling 4 to 1 over HD-DVD. The numbers don't lie. The people have spoken.
To keep up with all these numbers and figures we're going to have a new link which lists the HD-DVD/Blu-ray sales information as it becomes available. Putting the charts side-by-side will give everyone a better idea how HD-DVD is slowly dying out.
HD-DVD/Blu-ray Disc Sales (Post-Format War)
In response to HD-DVDs embarrassing sales numbers, WOOLWORTHS has dropped the HD-DVD format. Click right HERE for that story. And of course, click HERE for Toshiba's "response".
Above are the price tags for two of the only three HD-DVD players available. This trend is not just being seen at your local Circuit City. The word on the street is that the "Big Box" retailers are dumping their HD-DVD merchandise with no intentions of re-ordering.
The above chart documents a CONTINUING trend (see our 1/21/08 post) in HD-DVD software sales, two weeks after Warner Bros. "announcement". What will next week bring?
Chase Bunger, your friend and mine, has sent us a link from an interview with KEN GRAFFEO, "Executive Vice-President of High-Def Strategic Marketing" at Universal Studios. He says that for better or worse, HD-DVD is here to stay until you, the consumer, say otherwise. Click right HERE for his view on the (resolved) format war. Thanks, Bunger.
And thank you, Mr. Graffeo.
The above chart represents HD disc PLAYER sales for the month of DECEMBER and JANUARY (so far) side by side. Sorry HD-DVD.
This chart also represents HD disc player sales, but shows sales totals for the week BEFORE Warner Bros. Studios "announcement" on the LEFT, then shows the sales totals for the week AFTER the "announcement" on the RIGHT. Look at all that "blue" (Blu).
And last but not least, we'll be adding Bakersfield Home Technology's website to our "Sponser" section at the bottom of our Home page. Be sure to give the store a look and drop a line to MIGUEL LEBRON, who has proven so far to be nothing but very helpful and extremely well-informed in the ways of Home Theater. Thanks again, Mr. Lebron.
Above is a chart representing HD Disc SOFTWARE sales and below are reports which have been flooding in from all over the globe on the demise of the HD-DVD format. Feel free to take a look at some, or all of them, if you like. Here they are:
I hope this convinces all the non-believers out there. (Toshiba included)
Latest news from the dying of an unpopular HD format. Here's a quote from Home Media Magizine reporting on HD disc sales during the first week after the format war ended:
"The product announcements come in a week when the top 10 high-definition disc sellers are all Blu-ray Disc releases, according to an analysis of Nielsen VideoScan First Alert sales numbers by Home Media Magazine’s market research department. Net HD DVD sales, according to Nielsen, constituted only 15% of hi-def disc sales last week. And the top HD DVD seller, The Kingdom, sold just 10% as many copies as the top Blu-ray Disc release, 3:10 to Yuma."
HD-DVD won't go down without a fight. They have cut the price of their three only players just about in half. Click right HERE for that article. Maybe Toshiba's attempting to clear their shelves before the diehard HD-DVD supporters throw in the towel. You've gotta admire their spirit.
But here's a word from the editor of Home Media magazine. He calls for HD-DVD to hang it up for the good of all. He makes it pretty clear that HD-DVD is only prolonging the inevitable by a few months, while wasting everone else's time and money. Click HERE to see his take on all this.
And last, but not least. A very special kudos goes out to NADIR KHAN. He is the first and only person we know of to not only be listening to UNCOMPRESSED DIGITIAL AUDIO at home, but he's actually got full-blown "DTS-HD Master Audio" as well. We'll be adding him to the "Wall of Fame" on our "Uncompressed Audio" page. For all of you "non-believers", here's his testimonial on what you've been missing:
"I was watching 'Alien Vs. Predator' (on Blu-ray) and the sound was freakishly clean. There's a scene where a person climbs the side of an ice wall. You can clearly hear her digging her pick in the ice and the snow breaking apart with the tiny ice fragments. Then her phone rang and I was like, 'Wow!' In the movie theaters there are scenes where it's quiet and something loud is introduced and it startles you. A damn phone ringing was so small but it made me realize what I was listening to. The same thing continued throughout the rest of the movie. When people talk you can hear the distance of their voices. It's so open. Like if they are far away or close and maybe there's an echo or something to it. Little things you would never notice or pay attention to. It feels great to finally HEAR quality as well as see it in movies. I LOVE SOUND. Yeah, people don't know at all what they are missing out on. Everyone just focuses on the picture."
Thank you, Mr. Khan. We couldn't have said it better ourselves.
And here's some more format news. Universal Studios "HD-DVD exclusive" contract has expired with Toshiba, leaving them free to adopt Blu-ray Disc. Also, Paramount's contract with HD-DVD left them a legal "loop-hole" which stated if Warner Bros. went Blu-ray exclusive, then they could too. The studios are waiting to make it official to prevent all of those Christmas returns for folks who bought the wrong HD player. Yikes!
Finally, on Japan's Panasonic website they've already got the fancy new Blu-ray Disc player the Panasonic DMP-BD50. This, you'll remember, is the player we've been waiting for. Here's a little video clip of the Panasonic performing a "BD-Live" demo at CES. Click right HERE to watch it.
We'll be adding the new Panasonic Blu-ray Disc player to the Uncompressed Audio page under the heading "The First and Only Player To Do It ALL" (or something like that). Click the link to check it out.
All the latest and greatest from this year's CES (Consumer Electronics Show) in Las Vegas. Lots of new players comming out this year. Lets take a look, shall we? Click the model numbers for more info:
Samsung's second generation DUAL-FORMAT HD DISC player the BD-UP5500 will only cost $600 but only support DTS-HD "HIGH RESOLUTION" Audio. (not "Master" - Big difference).
But the best news of all is Panasonic's latest effort. The DMP-BD50, at only $500, will be the first Blu-ray Disc player to offer a BUILT-IN "DTS-HD Master Audio" 7.1 decoder. It's also the first player to offer "BD-Live". For those of you waiting for a Blu-ray player that won't require you buy a new Home Theater receiver, this is it.
For a little more info on "BD-Live", click the link right HERE.
We'd like to thank Matt at D & M Sound and Miguel Lebron at Bakersfield Home Technology and everyone else who let us know about this amazing change of events. Apparently Warner Bros. has decided to support ONLY the Blu-ray format with their explaination being that a continued format war would leave no winner (studios, electronic manufacturers OR consumers). Of course with 70% of Hollywood studios backing Blu-ray exclusively, this war is offically over. I, for one, am relieved. Like Betamax, MiniDisc, and Divx before it, we bid a "fond" farewell to the HD-DVD format. History dictated that it should have won, but here we are. We've been wrong before and I'm sure it won't be the last. Anyway, be sure to check out the latest press releases on this fortunate turn of events (and I'm sure there'll be more):
And to Chase Bunger...Our hearts and prayers go out to you tonight...Where ever you are.
Tony Hawk has sent us an article reporting that Fujitsu, the world's first manufacturer of plasma televisons (back in the day), has decided to cease all plasma production due to a lack of profit. It seems the old LCD is taking over and there's no room for plasmas and rear-projection TVs. Click right HERE for that article. Thanks again, Tony Hawk!
Another interesting development is the picture quality increase over BROADCAST HDTV. Obviously, the Blu-ray (and HD-DVD) produce a picture nearly twice as good as our HD channels can offer; with up to 60 frames per second over the standard 30. They now have HDTVs, which are 1080p, that offer a refresh rate (or scanning frequency) of 120 frames per second. The visual result is startling. The technology was invented to reduce pixelization during fast motion but the overall result is a true 3-D experience without the glasses. You can demo one of these "120Hz, 1080p HDTVs" down at your local Best Buy. Ask for it by name. Definitely worth a look.
Happy New Year, folks. Let's hope this year sees an end to the format war. But more importantly, today is the first day you can secure your FREE Hi-Def decoder boxes from Uncle Sam. It's first come, first serve, so be sure to visit THIS link as soon as possible to get yours. Once again, if you have SATELLITE or CABLE, you don't need this free box. But if you can ONLY receive your channels over an ANTENNA, you'll want to grab on of these boxes; because after February 17, 2009 there won't be any channels for you.
Another bit of interesting news. Sony has decided to quit producing REAR-PROJECTION TELEVISIONS in lew of flat-panel technologies such as the well-known LCD and the new OLED (organic light-emitting diode). I guess world-wide, TVs which leave a smaller footprint in your home are preferred. Click HERE for more on that.
Don't wait for your FREE Hi-Def box. Do it today!
Lastly, Denon debuts its first two Blu-ray players on its website. The first one at only $1200, the DVD-2500BTCI is the only Blu-ray Disc player we've ever seen with ONLY one output on the back. The "T" in "BTCI" means "transport". This player doesn't have RCA jacks, S-Video or even fiber optic. Just one HDMI output to run picture and sound to your compatible receiver. Pretty cool.
The next model, weighing in at $2,000 - makes it the most EXPENSIVE Blu-ray Disc player to date. The DVD-3800BDCI has every ouput jack you could want including analog output for full-blown 7.1. While both new players support "Dolby TrueHD" and "DTS-HD Master Audio" output over an HDMI cable, this new one MIGHT (and I stress "might") be the first Blu-ray player to decode them both internally, as well. One can only hope.
Of course we'll be adding these two new players to the bottom of our Uncompressed Audio page and updating the Blu-ray vs. HD-DVD page.
We've added all the latest "DolbyTrueHD" and "DTS-HD Master Audio" capable receivers to the bottom of the "Uncompressed Audio" page. As you plan your next purchase, don't forget that a new receiver won't be worth the upgrade without one of the only two "Dolby TrueHD" or "DTS-HD Master Audio" capable Blu-ray Disc players to go with it.
Ladies and Gentlemen, it's all coming together this week. Sony's "BDP-S300" is on sale for only $299. This format war is nearing its end. Click right HERE for that deal at Sony's website. It's also available at Circuit City and Best Buy.
And special thanks to Dr. Oravetz for sending us a HIGH-RESOLUTION link to the new "Dark Knight" trailer. Take a look at that right HERE and tell us what you think. It looks like it will be as good as the first one. We'll see. Thanks again, Doc. We love ya' out here!
After December 31, 2007 it will still be legal to SELL analog televisions (who would want one, anyway?), but it won't be legal to MAKE them anymore. That's right, kids. The federal government has decreed that all TVs (13 inches and up) and DVD recorders (didn't mention VCRs) must have DIGITAL tuners inside them starting in 2008. This doesn't require full HD capability, but free DVD quality channels at home with only "rabbit-ears" is nothing to be upset about. Click our "HDTV Truths" page to see what you need to do before all of this goes down. Don't be scared - the longer you wait, the more you save.
Blu-ray just keeps the hits comin'. Right now at Best Buy, if you purchase either Panasonic's 42 inch or 50 inch, 1080p Plasma Flat-Screen HDTV, you get Panasonic's newest Blu-ray Disc player, the DMP-BD30K, for FREE! That's one of the ONLY players which will pass "DTS-HD Master Audio" via an HDMI cable to a capable receiver. Be sure to click right HERE for that deal. I love the holidays.
Be sure to hop on over to the "Blu-ray vs. HD-DVD" page to see all the latest FORMAT WAR news.
Blu-ray just beat the $300 price-point. Starting this week, Samsung's "BD-P1400" is on sale at Best Buy, Circuit City and Amazon.com for $299. And with a firmware upgrade, it will send "DTS-HD Master Audio" to your capable receivers. Certainly not the best player out there, but just in time for the holidays.
And of course, we'll be putting this update on our "Blu-ray vs. HD-DVD" page which is dedicated to covering this stupid format war.
Two months is even longer...No words can make up for our lack of effort...So much has happened and things are starting to heat up as 2007 draws to a close.
"DTS-HD Master Audio" is finally here! How many people have waited to see their receivers light up like that? Here's a great article covering DTS's debut party for their new amazing format. Click right HERE for that.
vs. 
As we near Christmas Blu-ray has lept ahead in the United States with a 3 to 1 margin in software sales. In Japan, 9 out of 10 HD discs sold are Blu-ray. 7 out of 10 in Europe. Even with HD-DVD's low-priced hardware, 18 out of the 20 best-selling HD discs have been Blu-ray titles.
Meanwhile, there are rumors of WARNER BROS. picking a side in this format war early next year. If they side with Blu-ray, then 70% of movie studios will support the Blu-ray Disc format. If they side with HD-DVD, then it will be split right down the middle, prolonging this ridiculous format war. Makes me tired...
Best Buy has pulled all of its ANALOG televisions off the sales floor. The FCC requires ALL retailers which continue to sell the "old" sets to post a sign letting folks know that on February 17, 2009 they're going to need some additional equipment to receive their broadcast televsion.
Don't forget that as soon as January 1, 2008 you can start requesting your $80 worth of vouchers toward an HD converter box for your old TVs from the government. It's first come, first serve so don't wait too long. Click HERE for that link.
Finally, we've updated several of our pages due to the quickly changing technology. Be sure to check out these links out if you haven't already. Enjoy!
"Completely Uncompressed Digital Audio"
"Why HDMI Isn't Always the Best"
A month is FAR too long...My apologies to all the folks out there tuning in every week...Now then, let's get down to it.
I must first give tremendous kudos to an on-line audio/video electronics store which has become SO successfull they've opened their first retail outlet in the Seattle area...They go by the name of "HDTV Depot" and have some of the BEST prices on gear I've ever seen...Click on the link to visit their on-line store or if you're in Washington, stop on in for even better deals...HDTV Depot is a family-owned business run by a handfull of individuals that are bent on delivering award-winning customer service, armed with the lastest knowledge of current technologies...These guys stock the most-wanted A/V equipment on the market today...And if they don't have what you're looking for, they can get it - Just ask...Give 'em a look, won't ya'? That's "HDTV Depot". "Offering internet prices with hometown service."
We're adding the HDTV Depot link to the HDTV Truths page.
Back in the heat of the HD disc format war, Sony has announced it's just produced its 10 Millionth 50 GB Blu-ray disc...Click right HERE for that story...HD-DVD responded by announcing a TRIPLE-LAYER disc that would offer 51 GB...Unfortunately, all exsisting HD-DVD players cannot play a triple layer disc...Click right HERE for that story...To counter that, Blu-ray has proposed a QUAD-LAYER disc that'll hold 100 GB...Click HERE for that story...Geez, I hate this.
Panasonic is going to release a Blu-ray RECORDER this fall in Japan...It's said to be able to record 18 hours of full HD content on a dual-layered disc...This model also totes a 1,000 GB (that's one terabyte) hard drive that'll hold 381 hours of HD programming...Can ya' believe that? Click HERE for the story on that.
Where to begin? Let's start with the introduction of the THIRD Hi-Def disc format to rear its ugly head...Click right HERE for all of that nonsense...Geez.
Next up, if you haven't already heard, Toshiba paid Dreamworks and Paramount $150 million to go HD-DVD exclusive...They offered (and were turned down) Warner Bros. and Wal-Mart a similar deal...Click HERE for all of that nonsense.
Here's some good news...The REMASTERED version of "The Fifth Element" on Blu-ray is INCREDIBLE...The first time I've ever heard the new "DolbyTrueHD" audio format...It's even better than the "5.1 Uncompressed Audio"...A must have for Blu-ray fans...Sony has made up for their mistakes...It's the BEST Blu-ray disc we've sampled yet...Here's some pics of the new packaging so you don't pick up the wrong version:
See, the front packaging is IDENTICAL to the original release...
Make sure the top has the "THE RMSTD BD" on it...
And the best part: The "Full HD 1080" and "Dolby TrueHD" logos on the back...
And finally, we've started adding BLU-RAY titles to our "Great Home Theater Test Discs" page...These discs sound so amazing, it doesn't matter which scene you demo...It's all good...Enjoy.
Here's the web address for your 2 free $40 coupons from the Government for your HDTV converters...Click HERE to check that out with all the answers you need...You can start ordering as early as January 1st, 2008...Better hurry, it's first come, first serve...We've, of course, put this link on our "HDTV Truths" page for the rest of the Universe...Have fun.
Real quick...The first $200 HD-DVD player is on its way...Click right HERE to see that...And click HERE for Onkyo's first HD-DVD player...It's pretty expensive...Strange days.
Also, Tony Hawk has sent us a warning about those $1,000 plasma TVs that you might be considering for your home...Yes, the ones you find at cheap electronics chain stores...Sounds too good to be true? Well it is...After the warranty it up, if your $1,000 plasma breaks, you're on your own...Might as well chuck it...Spend a little more and get a name brand...Thanks, Tony Hawk.
The sad truth about the format war...Here's a link to a recent poll that suggests 82% of the public doesn't know or care about any HD disc format...Click HERE to check it out...It was the same way when DVD came out...Folks told me, "My VHS is clear enough. Why would I spend more money?" Now we're ALL watching DVD...Just a matter of time, kids.
Sorry we've been out during all the exciting format war news...We've been playing with our new Panasonic Blu-ray player...Switched our Netflix account to include Blu-ray...Flipping back and forth between "compressed" and "uncompressed" audio tracks...Playing our old DVDs to see how much better they look and sound on the new player...The very next day, the bomb drops...
It's like in Superman 2, when Clark removes his powers to be with Lois, and then they find out General Zod it tearing up the country...But we won't go back to DVD...We're going to ride out this war just like we did when DIVX reared its ugly head...Nothing against the HD-DVD, but we've got to end this war or no one will win.
If you haven't heard about it already, Microsoft paid Paramount and Dreamworks $150 million to switch EXCLUSIVELY to HD-DVD...Michael Bay refused to make Transformers 2 because he loves Blu-ray, and Microsoft paid him off, too...So now the famous director has switched sides...Oh, what tangled webs we weave.
The COMPACT DISC (a.k.a.- the "CD") turns 25 years old...Happy birthday, little guy! We wonder how much time you've got left...At least another 5 to 10 years, right? Here's an ARTICLE which recaps the CD's birth into this world...Enjoy!
Saw Rush Hour 3...Wasn't as good as the other two...But it was still fun to watch...Disney and Blu-ray are teaming up and taking the show on the road...Click HERE to see if they're coming to your local mall.
Also, Denon has released their THIRD receiver to decode the new HD audio formats...Of course, we'll update the "Uncompressed Audio" page...But click HERE to take a look at it on Denon's website...Here's a picture of it...I love the logos on the front.
At long last, Blu-ray players are out-selling HD-DVD players...Click HERE to read all about it...Also, LG has announced it's next generation SUPER MULTI BLUE player...It promises not to be crappy like the first model...Click HERE to read all about that...This war is almost over...Sometimes it's nice to be wrong.
Toshiba's releasing its 3rd generation HD-DVD players in October...3 models priced at $300, $400 and $500...Toshiba promises that their $300 model will drop to $200 by Christmas this year...Click HERE for the more information on this last ditch effort for HD-DVD to win this war...I'm guessing Blu-ray will follow suit...Maybe with $300 players by this holiday season...We'll see.
August already...Target has decided to go with the Blu-ray...Click HERE to read all about it...One more log on the fire for HD-DVD...And here's another: Blu-ray discs are out-selling HD-DVDs 3 to 1!!!
Also, Denon has anounced its SECOND receiver to decode the new HD audio formats as well as a lot of the same features its big brother has (AVR-4308ci)...We'll be updating the "Uncompressed Audio" page, of course...Click HERE to check out the new "AVR-3808ci" for only $1600.
Finally, we recommend another DVD that'll show off your Home Theater...Go and rent "300" this week...Just the opening "Warner Bros." logo sounded incredible...The rest of the movie will blow your mind...We'll add it to the"Home Theater Test Discs" page...Here's a pic for those of you who haven't seen the commercials on TV every 5 minutes.
Great news in the world of UNCOMPRESSED AUDIO...Denon has released its first of several receivers with all the bells and whistles we've been waiting for...The Denon AVR-4308ci has DolbyTrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio, HDRadio, Faruja DCDi and so much more...Here's some photos of the front and back for you guys to look at...And, of couse, we'll be updating the list of HD audio capable receivers on the Completely Uncompressed Audio page.
Sorry it's been so long folks...It's too nice to be indoors this time of year...Here are some long overdue updates you've probably already heard about...Here we go:
First off, Samsung's 3rd generation Blu-ray player is due out in September for $549...It's supposed to have all the extras we've been waiting for in a Blu-ray player (ethernet port, DolbyTrueHD, DTS-HD, etc.)...Click right HERE to read more about that.
There's talk of Universal Studios (the ONLY exclusive supporter of HD-DVD) to cave in and adopt BOTH new HD disc formats...If that were to happen, the format war would be over...Click right HERE to read more on that story...I hope it's true.
And finally, we must tell you about the video release of "ULTIMATE HELLSING"...It's an anime series that will blow your mind...On top of having great characters and a great story, the picture and sound on the latest DVD release are top notch...Anamorphic widescreen and incredible 5.1 audio...Worth a look to you Netflix-ers out there...There's currently only 2 volumes available with a 3rd on the way...We'll let you know when it's released...We'll be adding them to the "Great Home Theater Test Discs" page...In the mean time, here's some cover art and some screen shots...enjoy.
Tony Hawk has informed us that LG's "Super-Multi-Blue" player now comes with your choice of 10 FREE HD DISCS!!! You get to choose 5 Blu-ray titles and 5 HD-DVD titles...I guess it's to compete with all the free discs Toshiba (HD-DVD) and Sony (Blu-ray) have been throwing at us...Thanks, Tony Hawk!
Continuing the format war, click right HERE to see Sony's new Blu-ray player...At only $500, it's superior to the $1,000 model (now $800) in every way...I think we'll get one for Christmas when it's down to $300...We'll see.
One last thing that I wasn't aware of until today...I knew that not all HD-DVDs included the UNCOMPRESSED audio...But while browsing at the local Best Buy, I was shocked to discover that not all Blu-ray discs have UNCOMPRESSED, either...Almost makes me not want to buy one...It's like when you buy a DVD and it's only in "Dolby Digital 2.0"...I mean, what's the point? Even your VHS is in "Stereo"...Oh, well...We had these problems when DVD first came out...The first Disney DVDs were "Full-Frame" and listed "Chapter Stops" as the only special feature...Geez!
HD-DVD is trying it's darnedest to beat the Blu-ray...Click HERE for an article on HD-DVD's anti-trust suit against the Blu-ray exclusive movie studios.
And for the record, to quote "The Digital Bits", "So the market right now is roughly 1.6 million Blu-ray capable machines compared to 310,000 HD-DVD machines."
All of the news here at "avtruths" lately has been about the new HD formats...If the format war ends and one format is picked up by consumers to replace DVDs, I think it could change Home Theater DRAMATICALLY...The picture is a great upgrade from DVD and an average improvement from HD broadcast, but the SOUND alone it worth the price of admission.
No Home Audio retailer I've visited has got the HD disc player hooked up properly for sound...No one is getting to HEAR this amazing new technology...Only a handfull of people at home have connected their players up correctly, as well...Once again, the COMPLETELY UNCOMPRESSED AUDIO will blow your mind...Click THIS LINK to see how to get your HD disc audio working for you at home or in the store.
The idea behind all of this is mind-numbingly simple...You don't need a new stereo or new TV...Hooking an HD disc player (Blu-ray or HD-DVD) to your existing Home Theater is simple and inexpensive...Your current stereo system can take advantage of all that great audio (which is an identical copy of the studio master) right now...If you haven't heard it yet, you're really missing out.
2007 is half over...Maybe by Christmas this HD disc format war will be over...We'll have to wait and see...A couple updates in the battle for Blu-ray...First click HERE for an article explaining Blu-ray's revenge for HD-DVD's free movie give away...And click HERE for an article backing the claim that Microsoft wants both HD formats to fail so they can usher in VIDEO ON DEMAND...Sounds fishy...Check it out, see what you think...I wouldn't put it past them.
We should have put this up here a few days ago...This is BIG "format war" news...And this is, once again, straight from the mighty Chase Bunger (thanks)...Blockbuster has decided to go with Blu-ray over the HD-DVD...Their "trail stores" which rented both formats found that 70% of HD discs rented were Blu-ray (30% HD-DVD)...Click HERE to read the article ol' Bunger sent us.
Chase Bunger has really done it this time, folks...He's sent us some truly amazing info...ONKYO has released two new receivers that offer (get ready) Built in DolbyTrueHD and DTSHD Master Audio...This new technology is moving SO much faster than when Dolby Digital and DTS first appeared 10 years ago...Here's the links to each of the new models.
Also, Bunger informs us that the $200 HD-DVD player is back up to $300...Gotta move quick folks...
Here's some crazy-wild HD Content info...Not just HD discs, but HD "content"...Microsoft might have started this format war to kill off both formats...No proof, but read THIS article to see what I'm talking about.
And because I'm feeling obnoxious, click HERE for an article quoting the HD-DVD camp lying about how well their format is doing...Can you believe it?
Our good and trusted neighbor, The Legendary Chase Bunger, has sent us a link to HD-DVD's best offer yet: $200 HD-DVD player w/5 free movies!!! It makes us want to buy one (almost)...Click right HERE to see this exclusive deal at Crutchfield.com...Thanks, Bunger!
Blu-ray strikes again...Click right HERE to read an article on Sony's second generation BD player for only $500!!! We're so excited...
The The Digital Bits has officially sided with Blu-ray and condemmed HD-DVD to failure...Click HERE for their article expaining why...Hey, they were right about DVD and DIVX.
It seems like HD-DVD won't give up without a fight...They're pulling the same old tricks the DIVX camp did back in the day...You can read about it here at VideoBuisness's website...Due to HD-DVD player's priced as low as $249 (or less), sales have jumped for the failing HD format...History repeats itself.
This just in from "Matt, the new guy Adam mentioned"...(who's Adam?)...Anyway, click here for the latest PS3 software upgrade (version 1.80)...Matt swears on Tony Hawk's life that it allows you to upconvert DVDs to 1080p as well as upconvert PS1 and PS2 games to 1080p...Sounds great! Keep that Home Theater info coming in, folks...(why can't "Hawky Tone" be more like Matt?)
Jason Woolverton (Hawky Tone) - Class of '93
We heard through the "grape vine" that Sherwood Newcastle would be releasing the World's FIRST home theater receiver with built-in "DolbyTrueHD" and "DTS-HD" decoders this August...Let's keep our fingers crossed.
On a lighter note, we've modified our "Great Home Theater Test Discs", "Dolby vs. DTS" and "Budget Cables" links...Enjoy!
Yet ANOTHER lid in HD-DVD's coffin...Panasonic has released a New Blu-ray Player that's only $600...It's also the very FIRST model available to offer on-board DolbyTrueHD and DTSHD...I'm so exited! (sorry, Bunger)
Feliz Cinco de Mayo! You won't believe it...But Yahoo!Answers has booted us again! I tell you, some folks can't handle the truth...But we're already back and spreading the good news that you don't have to spend a lot of money to get great sound...Sorry Yahoo!, you lose again...Fight the power! (Pray for me, Bunger...)
I got our old address back...I had to call Australia to get it back...It was already tomorrow down there...Really nice and helpful folks those Aussies...Anyway, for the people who used to visit us at "Why Does My Home Theater Suck?.com', you still can...And you'll be forwarded to "A/V Truths" directly...It's nice to be back...Keep the questions coming in!
Blu-ray disc led in sales for the first quarter of 2007...It looks like 70% of all HD discs sold lately are Blu-ray...Here's an ARTICLE that explains it in detail...We've been wrong before folks...Enjoy it while you can.
Our good friends down at Yahoo! decided to TERMINATE all of our accounts for NO reason and WITHOUT warning...Not just the Geocities account, but our Yahoo!Answers and Yahoo!Mail accounts, as well.
Call me paranoid, but I'm getting the feeling that speaking the TRUTH is starting to upset some higher-ups...People don't want to know that they might have already purchased the WRONG equipment...Well the fact of the matter is, it's true whether this website EXISTS or not.
This is, after all, just a website...And as I've always said, "If YOUR ears can't hear the difference, DON'T waste your money." Our opinions and information should NOT dictate what the rest of the world is buying.
All we're trying to do is to keep folks from getting "taken for a ride" when they walk into a Consumer Electronics Retail Store...That and make sure everyone's getting the most SOUND for their MONEY.
But either way, we're back...And we apologize for being down this weekend...This will NOT happen again...Unfortunately, all of "The Latest Updates" from the very beginning (10/5/06) were WIPED OUT...We're starting over...But we'll never forget what has happened.
But don't be frightend by our new name and address...It's to help soften the blow for the general public...We're still not pulling any punches...You can still reach us at our old address...But we're back, and better than ever...Sorry, Yahoo, you lose...