High Definition Discussion Thread - Blu-Ray, HDTV, etc...

[PrimeBane]

Here's the link to the original deal. Please note that it is no longer available.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/help/customer/display.html/105-3375540-4438011?ie=UTF8&nodeId=160066011

[HollandX]

is the current 360 elite just as noisy as the current core/premiums?

[HollandX]

Spidey 3 up for preorder from Amazon.com

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B000UR9T7I/panandscathed-20

$34.95 even after discount? Wow, that's brutal Sony. :( Hopefully the boxed set will be up soon.

Spidey 3 could be $40-$45 alone in Best Buy / Circuit City.

That's madness, and why the common man thinks we're insane.

[PrimeBane]

Madness? :confused:

THIS IS SPIDERMAN! :mad:

Sorry, I couldn't resist. :p

[supertim]

Here's the link to the original deal. Please note that it is no longer available.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/help/customer/display.html/105-3375540-4438011?ie=UTF8&nodeId=160066011



I signed up on 11/26/06, so I'm spent on 11/26/07.

[PrimeBane]

I'm pretty sure everyone that took advantage has until Dec 31, 2007 tim :)

[JaylisJayP]

Man...TMNT is getting good reviews...am I ******ed for wanting to pick this up? I never saw it in theaters.

[JaylisJayP]

well, too late...i just bought it....on a side note, I now know my local Best Buy will price match Target online (aka amazon.com) prices.

[JaylisJayP]

http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/High-Def_Disc_Sales/Industry_Trends/Blu-ray,_HD_DVD_Overtake_VHS_in_Sales/845


huh??......stores still sell VHS?

[WingNut 25]

Struck out on the Fry's PS3 deal. As is typical of Fry's, they didn't have any $499 PS3s. They did have an over abundance of the 80 gig bundle pack for $599. So lame and yet another reason why I don't shop Fry's. Time to search around for another PS3 deal.

[johnnyknoxsvill]

I checked todays paper and they were still advertising the $499 PS3 + Casino Royal and 1 other and the 5 free BD's

[WingNut 25]

I checked todays paper and they were still advertising the $499 PS3 + Casino Royal and 1 other and the 5 free BD's

Well SOB. It's showing online as well. I'll try hitting the one off the 405 in OC on my lunch tomorrow.

[HollandX]

Blade Runner HD clarification:

while all five versions of the film included on the next-gen releases are being mastered in actual 1080p video, all of supplementary materials (including the new documentary "Dangerous Days," and the deleted scenes) will be presented in 480p standard definition only.

According to Hunt, Warner says the reason for this has nothing to do with disc space on either format, but rather the compressed time schedule in which the various extras are being produced.

Um. Not enough time? Haven't they been working on this for years?

[PrimeBane]

Can't say I'm surprised... they did the same with the Ultimate Matrix.

[HollandX]

300 BD outsales 300 HD DVD 2:1 (65:35 ratio).

I wonder if it was because of the lower price, PS3 effect, or both...

I'm format neutral and chose HD DVD because of the extras.

http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Disc_Sales/Industry_Trends/Warner/300_Blu-ray_Outsells_HD_DVD_by_2_to_1/848

[PrimeBane]

No doubt in my mind it's the PS3 effect.

[MofoEd]

No doubt in my mind it's the PS3 effect.
Agreed. (as I was part of that effect :)) I am also format neutral, I don't boast over one or the other but since I now only have BD, that is what I choose now. Time Warner is definately reaping the benefits over the format war over being neutral about it.

[GPWYANKEE]

Any of you guys get TMNT on HD??I hate to admit it but i really enjoyed this movie.Kids got me to watch it and the CGI animation was great.Rented three flicks over the weekend(Disturbia,Pathfinder Unrated and TMNT)-TMNT was the best of the bunch for sure.

[PrimeBane]

I believe Jaylis bought it... I figure I'll rent it one weekend.

[dayday6]

Struck out on the Fry's PS3 deal. As is typical of Fry's, they didn't have any $499 PS3s. They did have an over abundance of the 80 gig bundle pack for $599. So lame and yet another reason why I don't shop Fry's. Time to search around for another PS3 deal.


Yep, Fry's is good for that. They run ads for ever, long after they have moved all merchandise. They do it to get people in the store, if you don't act on the ad the first time you see it, you might be out of luck.

[PrimeBane]

Would Fry's issue a rain cheque?

[dayday6]

Would Fry's issue a rain cheque?

Sometimes, but the $499 PS3 is the being phased out, so all they are stocking is the $599 version at his Fry's. I have not checked the Fry's in my location to see what their inventory is like, I got my PS3 on launch.

[PrimeBane]

Well, I know the price drop is only a month old, but I'd be very suprised if all the 60GB stock is gone already.

[SBrooks1]

Well, I know the price drop is only a month old, but I'd be very suprised if all the 60GB stock is gone already.

They aren't gone yet. We still have 50 in the back of my local Best Buy. I work there part time.

[PrimeBane]

So amazon.com upped the price of the Spiderman boxed set preorder.

Instead of the usual 30% off the MSRP, it's now currently 10%.

Looks like even Amazon is looking to take advantage of the consumer with this release. :(

[ewto16]

Some people seem to hate on Fry's while others like it. I just wish there was one around here so I could check it out. Nothing in Ohio but BB and CC. We do have a Costco, now I think.

[johnnyknoxsvill]

Some people seem to hate on Fry's while others like it. I just wish there was one around here so I could check it out. Nothing in Ohio but BB and CC. We do have a Costco, now I think.

Check out some of your local record stores if you have them.

Does anyone know if the Avsforum has been down all day?

[HollandX]

So amazon.com upped the price of the Spiderman boxed set preorder.

Instead of the usual 30% off the MSRP, it's now currently 10%.

Looks like even Amazon is looking to take advantage of the consumer with this release. :(

Spidey 3.

$44.99

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000UR9T7I/ref=pd_cp_d_1/105-3406754-9026812?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-41&pf_rd_r=0NMENRS3089VYJPBKDZC&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_p=252362301&pf_rd_i=B000UR9T82

[PrimeBane]

Like SM3 wasn't expensive enough to begin with... anyone playing that much should have their head checked.

[HollandX]

I got my head checked.

By a jumbo jet.

It wasn't easy.

But nothing is.

No.

[PrimeBane]

Woo hoo! :D

[JaylisJayP]

Spidey 3.

$44.99

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000UR9T7I/ref=pd_cp_d_1/105-3406754-9026812?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-41&pf_rd_r=0NMENRS3089VYJPBKDZC&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_p=252362301&pf_rd_i=B000UR9T82

who in the hell would pay that much? that's absurd. A $50 MSRP? That's absolutely crazy....

No thanks, I'll rent it.

[HollandX]

I find some of these stats hard to believe.

http://www.extremetech.com/article2/0,1558,2168835,00.asp?kc=ETRSS02129TX1K0000532

[JaylisJayP]

I find some of these stats hard to believe.

http://www.extremetech.com/article2/0,1558,2168835,00.asp?kc=ETRSS02129TX1K0000532

I agree...and if you did spend $400-500 on an next-gen system and don't even know it's HD...how ******ed are you? I wouldn't be so quick to admit that.

[HollandX]

Wouldn't it suck to buy a PS3 and a BD player?

[HollandX]

Panasonic To Begin Making LCD TV Sets

Saying that it intends to take "a flexible stance in its TV business," Matsu****a Electrice Industrial Co., which sells consumer electronics items in the U.S. under the Panasonic brand, announced today (Thursday) that it will begin manufacturing LCD TV sets. Until now, the company has manufactured only plasma models. Matsu****a said that its first LCD high-definition edition, a 37-inch set retailing for about $2,500, will initially go on sale in Japan in September. It also plans to introduce a 42-inch and a 65-inch plasma model.

[GPWYANKEE]

Man-I still havent gotten my free HD Dvds from Toshiba.Man are they slow or what?

[grif32]

Man-I still havent gotten my free HD Dvds from Toshiba.Man are they slow or what?

Plan on waiting 3 moths or better.

Chris

[GPWYANKEE]

Plan on waiting 3 moths or better.

Chris


Great:( :( i think its been 2 already so whats one more.

[PrimeBane]

You have to be really patient with Tosh... I remember it took them forever to get me my free DVDs when I bought my first player in '99.

[JaylisJayP]

one of my co-workers JUST got his after 14 weeks.

[JaylisJayP]

http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Onkyo/Hardware/Onkyos_High-End_HD_DVD_Player_Due_This_Fall/850


pricey...sure, but another company offering hardware can't be a bad thing for HD DVD.

[PrimeBane]

Beautiful player for those with high end systems and a few extra bucks in their pocket.

[PrimeBane]

Ratatouille Nov 6th on BD :D

http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Disney/Pixar/Disc_Announcements/Disney_Serves_Up_Ratatouille_on_Blu-ray_this_November/852

[GPWYANKEE]

one of my co-workers JUST got his after 14 weeks.


Thats about where im at.I guess ill have to buy a Blu Ray machine with all the great kids flicks coming but ill have to wait till after October.Isnt that when the new machines come out that can play the extras.

[JaylisJayP]

Thats about where im at.I guess ill have to buy a Blu Ray machine with all the great kids flicks coming but ill have to wait till after October.Isnt that when the new machines come out that can play the extras.

PS3's are out now :)

[PrimeBane]

Yeah, but even the PS3 isn't full BD-J compliant without an update..

[MPCanes]

Watched Bourne Identity just now - PQ was above average, definately near perfect, but I noticed some dirt on the print which held it back for me. 4/5 PQ

5/5 Audio for me though

Supremacy showing later tonight (Never had seen either, don't know why the hell not, Identity was fantastic!)

Also bought The Searchers today. I think I've doubled my collection in the last week.

Whoooooops!

[Wofford29]

Anyone have any Bluray movies for sale or trade?

[WingNut 25]

So I will never set foot in another Fry's store after today. After finding out in this thread that the $499 PS3 w/ free Casino Royale and Hellboy was still on, I went after work to pick it up. I grab my PS3 and find out from one of the ever rude associates that Hellboy and Casino Royale are sold out! Of course they had plenty on Tuesday but no PS3s. Now they have a mountain of PS3s and no movies! So I search the rack and find a Casino Royale kinda hiding but no Hellboy. I also grab POTC2 and The Fifth Element and head to the counter.

The kid at the counter says I should ask if they'll sub out something else for Hellboy since they are out. I ask the lady at the counter in software and she says "no" but she'll give me a raincheck for Hellboy. I take the raincheck to the counter, the kid looks it over and calls the manager. Seems the lady at the counter gave me a raincheck for the whole bundle. I explain the situation to her and tell her I only needed the raincheck for Hellboy. I have 2 of the 3 items in front of me, I don't need a raincheck for all 3.

The kid goes back to the lady at the counter, I wait 10 minutes and he comes back. I see him stop and talk to the lady manager before they both make their way to me. She tells me they can't give me the PS3 and Casino Royale. They have to give me raincheck for the whole bundle. I looked at her and said, "So let me get this straight. Either because you can't master your computer systems or your just unwilling to write a raincheck for 1 FREE movie, you're basically telling me you are declining a $600 sale?" She said, "I'm sorry sir" and started to walk away. I said, "Sure you are." and left. UNBELIEVABLE! Here's hoping Best Buy will match the deal.

[johnnyknoxsvill]

Just take the ad to best buy, I dont see why they wont match it and im sure they will take your $600. If you dont have an ad im sure you can get one from Fry's

[WingNut 25]

^ I'm gonna give it a shot tomorrow.

[JaylisJayP]

Probably won't do a lot of good...but I'd call the corporate office and explain to them how they lost a $600 sale. At the very least they may give a little heat to the employees who made things hard on you.

[GPWYANKEE]

Is the King Kong HD Dvd the Ext Version or the Regular.

[MPCanes]

Is the King Kong HD Dvd the Ext Version or the Regular.

Regular

[johnnyknoxsvill]

This was posted on the Avs Forum

National Treasure - 12/18/07

Just got word from a Buena Vista contact that "National Treasure" is tentatively scheduled for Exclusive release on Blu-ray on 12/18/07.

[WitchKingOfAngmar]

who in the hell would pay that much? that's absurd. A $50 MSRP? That's absolutely crazy....

No thanks, I'll rent it.

Good ol' sony. And if you want either of the 2 GOOD movies in the trilogy, you have to buy all 3 of them for 99 bucks.

Oh, also, here's some interesting material on the truth about HDMI 1.3

http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Joshua_Zyber/High-Def_FAQ/High-Def_FAQ:_Is_HDMI_1.3_Really_Necessary/853

[GPWYANKEE]

Regular

Crap:mad:

[freezerfuel]

Heading to Wal-Mart and maybe Best Buy to see what I can find for HD-DVD. Maybe I'll get Hot Fuzz. The Wal-Mart nearest me has one rack of four shelves for HD movies.... the top 3 are Blu-Ray and the bottom one is HD-DVD. Bastards make me crouch to see what movies they have, maybe I'll raise a stink about that, if you're only going to carry one shelf of HD-DVD put them on the top. :D

[GPWYANKEE]

Well-Got home today from work and got my free HD Dvds from Toshiba:D

Nice Surprise

[JaylisJayP]

Just watched Hot Fuzz and I absolutely loved it. I thought it was engaging, clever, sprinkled with light humor and that last 20 minutes or so were a complete blast.

I'll tell you what, though, I don't agree with all the 5-star PQ ratings...I'd put it at a 4.25/5 at best....and the first two minutes I thought were awful, a 3/5, very soft to the point where I had to pull out the disc to make sure I had the right side in.

[GPWYANKEE]

Just watched Hot Fuzz and I absolutely loved it. I thought it was engaging, clever, sprinkled with light humor and that last 20 minutes or so were a complete blast.

I'll tell you what, though, I don't agree with all the 5-star PQ ratings...I'd put it at a 4.25/5 at best....and the first two minutes I thought were awful, a 3/5, very soft to the point where I had to pull out the disc to make sure I had the right side in.

The special features make the disc.I laughed till i leaked a little.Well well worth watching.

[freezerfuel]

Hooray, got me some more HD-DVD's.

TMNT Combo $34.83 @ Wal-Mart
Payback $27.83 @ Wal-Mart
Shooter $31.83 @ Wal-Mart
End Of Days $27.99 @ Best Buy
Canadian Prices

They didn't have Hot Fuzz at Wal-Mart, Best Buy did and they want $40. There's a few Combo's I want to get but I just can't justify paying that much for a movie. Hopefully these prices will come down. If they didn't release a standard version and only put out a Combo, then I'd pay the extra to get them. Also, the Wal-Mart near me has 6 HD shelves now, 4 for Blu, and 2 for HD-DVD.

[WingNut 25]

Well I got my PS3 this morning. I just got an HDMI cable for it, plugged the cable in, turn my TV to the proper source channel and I hear lovely sound but no picture. Any ideas?

[dayday6]

Check the PS3 thread.

[JaylisJayP]

Nice pickups freezerfuel..... although you paid up a little more...unless those are canadian dollars.

I got Shaun of the Dead HD DVD and District B13 Blu Ray today...

[JaylisJayP]

Well I got my PS3 this morning. I just got an HDMI cable for it, plugged the cable in, turn my TV to the proper source channel and I hear lovely sound but no picture. Any ideas?

It might be that you have to adjust the settings on the PS3 to tell it you want visual through the HDMI...of course, you'll probably have to go back to the composite to get a picture to accomplish this.

If that doesn't work, call the Sony help #, they're pretty accommodating I've found.

[WingNut 25]

^ That's all it took. I'm ready to go now.

So yeah, got my PS3 and free Casino Royale and Hellboy. I also picked up both POTC movies and got them for $24.99 each thanks to my $10 Reward Zone coupon at BB. I've got plenty to watch now and will still have my 5 free Blu Ray movies on the way.

On HD DVD I picked up The Bourne Supremacy today. Had another coupon to burn. :)

[JaylisJayP]

all the bourne movies rock

[dayday6]

Check the PS3 thread.

[freezerfuel]

Nice pickups freezerfuel..... although you paid up a little more...unless those are canadian dollars.


Yep, I'm in Canada. Thanks.


Installed my projector mount from Monoprice today, holy crap! What a pain in the ass, they might as well have not included instructions, I couldn't understand a damn word. It was a lot more work installing than I expected but I'm happy with it. Wish I ordered speaker wire with it because I'm short a few feet. Pretty much decided I'm going to stay with my HTIB for audio a while longer until I can afford to get better speakers.

[johnnyknoxsvill]

I got in starship troopers on BD yesterday havrnt watched it yet. Wingnut did bestbuy price match it for you

[HollandX]

Well I got my PS3 this morning. I just got an HDMI cable for it, plugged the cable in, turn my TV to the proper source channel and I hear lovely sound but no picture. Any ideas?

of course, you'll probably have to go back to the composite to get a picture to accomplish this.

Just as an FYI...

When you turn your PS3 on the next time when you switch video cables, just hold the power button on the machine down for about 3-4 seconds. It will beep. Let go. It will seek out the video cables you are using and optimize for them.

:)

[HollandX]

Also, I saw Layer Cake (in BD) for the first time last night.

What.

The.

Frick.

[JaylisJayP]

Don't give anything away on Layer Cake...I have it but haven't watched it yet.

[JaylisJayP]

I watched Final Fantasy blu-ray last night and have to say I was really impressed. I only saw this movie once in college and thought it was decent at the time, but I was really into it last night and didn't find there were many slow parts, either.

And it is without a doubt a 5-star PQ. Right up there with TMNT.

[WingNut 25]

I got in starship troopers on BD yesterday havrnt watched it yet. Wingnut did bestbuy price match it for you

No. They wouldn't do it. I called 3 different Best Buys and each said that because it was a promo offer they wouldn't match it. So I had to back track on my word, bite the bullet and hit Fry's. This time, I went to the one off the 91 in Anaheim and they had plenty of everything. No issues whatsoever. I'm happy to be format neutral now.

[HollandX]

Don't give anything away on Layer Cake...I have it but haven't watched it yet.

It was crazy, man. It was crazy.

[mtd20_2000]

Consumers Urged to Pick New DVD Format
Friday August 10 11:23 PM ET



People who own an HD DVD player can forget about watching "Spider-Man 3" in high definition when it goes on sale during the holiday season. The movie from Sony Pictures will only be available in the Blu-ray DVD format. Likewise, people with Blu-ray players won't be able to enjoy the action-thriller "The Bourne Ultimatum," which Universal Pictures will release only in HD DVD.
These exclusive arrangements, plus aggressive price cuts for high-def DVD players, are designed to persuade consumers to finally embrace one format or the other. But analysts wonder if the moves will anger consumers, just as the studios and consumer-electronics companies are hoping to boost high-def DVD sales as growth in standard DVDs stalls.

The frustration for consumers is not knowing what format is going to win," said Chris Roden, an analyst at Parks Associates.

Consumers, many of whom are still smarting from the VCR format battle between VHS and Betamax, need to know their expensive equipment won't become obsolete if the competing format wins, said Steven J. Caldero, chief operating officer of Ken Crane (http://movies.yahoo.com/movie/contributor/1800299759)'s, specialty electronics chain in Southern California.
"People are still frustrated there is a format war to begin with," he said. "The studios are making people choose. What consumers want is something that will play everything so they don't have to choose."
Until recently, many consumers were able to defer the choice because players have been so expensive. But prices have been slashed by about half Sony Corp.'s Blu-ray player now sells for $499 and Toshiba Corp.'s cheapest HD DVD player sells for $299, with both likely to include as many as five free movies as an incentive. (Players that read both formats remain expensive.)
Both sides are also releasing blockbuster titles such as the new "Pirates of the Caribbean (http://movies.yahoo.com/movie/1808405417/info)" movie aimed squarely at the demographic most likely to upgrade to high-def.
The stakes couldn't be higher for Hollywood, which has seen sales of traditional DVDs, once a reliable profit engine, slow to a trickle. Direct digital delivery online, while promising, is still years away from profitability because current Internet capacity simply can't handle the enormous high-definition files.
Yet 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. Many haven't even heard of either format.
HD DVD, developed by Toshiba and backed by powerful companies like Microsoft, has the lead in standalone players sold because they are cheaper and hit the market first.
In the United States, standalone HD DVD players have 61 percent market share, while Blu-ray players have 36 percent share and the few dual-format players have a 3 percent share, according to market research company The NPD Group Inc.
But Blu-ray, backed by Sony and a majority of Hollywood studios, got a big boost when Sony introduced its PlayStation 3 game console, which comes standard with a Blu-ray drive. Counting those machines, there are more Blu-ray players out there.
Although Microsoft's Xbox 360 can play HD DVD movies, the drive has to be bought separately. Only 160,000 drives have been sold so far, compared with 1.5 million PS3 consoles, according to NPD.
In terms of discs sold, Blu-ray has always had the lead. Time Warner Inc.'s Warner Bros. and Viacom Inc.'s Paramount Pictures (http://movies.yahoo.com/movie/contributor/1800023778) release movies in both formats, and in such cases Blu-ray has outsold HD DVD by nearly 2-to-1.
Blu-Ray is getting an even bigger boost as Blockbuster Inc. announced it would stock only Blu-ray titles when it expands its high-def DVD offerings this year. Target Inc., the nation's second-largest retailer, said it will only sell Blu-ray DVD players in its stores in the fourth quarter.
Sony Pictures, News Corp.'s Twentieth Century Fox, The Walt Disney (http://movies.yahoo.com/movie/contributor/1800012351) Co., and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer are releasing only in Blu-ray. Universal, owned by General Electric Co., is the only major studio to back HD DVD exclusively.
Nonetheless, Warner Bros. believes both formats can coexist and has been urging Blu-ray backers to begin supporting HD DVD as well. The studio has developed a dual-format disc and has said it would license the technology to other studios willing to back both.
"The fourth quarter is critical for the formats to show growth and momentum," said Steve Nickerson, Warner Home Video's senior vice president of marketing. "It's more than about winning or losing. If you can continue to show growth (in both formats), that's a positive in a situation where standard DVD sales aren't growing."
To counter Blu-ray's recent gains, the HD DVD camp is planning an advertising campaign touting the interactive elements of the format, which allow users to connect to the Internet to download special features.
"This is not about a high-def movie on a disc," said Craig Kornblau, president of Universal Studios Home Entertainment. "It's about a fully immersive experience, connected interactivity. That's what is going to separate these high-def formats."
Kornblau said he isn't worried about Blu-ray's momentum and doesn't believe there's a need for one to knockout the other.
"To call this market nascent is to a degree to pay it a complement," he said. "The people who have bought so far aren't early adopters, they are early, early adopters."
Analysts said even lower prices for players could be the key to determining a format winner. Some believe that until prices hit the $200 range, consumers simply won't upgrade from their current machines, many of which cost less than $100.
Chinese-made HD DVD players selling for $199 are expected to hit store shelves by December, while Sony is widely expected to cut the cost of its Blu-ray machine to as low as $299 by year's end. "When that occurs, the studios and Sony are going to pull out the big guns," said Phillip Swann, president of the technology-oriented Web site TVpredictions.com. "They are going to release more titles, big titles, and really go for the kill this holiday season."

[JaylisJayP]

all i have to say about this is "whatever."

What the consumers should realize is that by still keeping both formats alive, they're only doing themselves a favor by keeping competition in the game, which lowers prices more quickly and forces companies to put out the best quality product.

If HD DVD never existed...how long do you think we would've seen $40 movies on blu-ray that still look like House of Flying Daggers?

I certainly understand that the average consumer doesn't have the money to buy both and not care who wins...I guess since I do have both I know that even if HD DVD dies, I'll still have all the movies and the player, and they'll all still work...same with Blu-Ray.

And if you really want to get technical....consumers HAVE chosen their format, and it's still DVD.

The difference between the VHS/Betamax and VHS/DVD periods is that neither of those forced you to also step up to a new HDTV, which this one does, and that cost a hell of a lot more than a few movies.

Consumers Urged to Pick New DVD Format
Friday August 10 11:23 PM ET



People who own an HD DVD player can forget about watching "Spider-Man 3" in high definition when it goes on sale during the holiday season. The movie from Sony Pictures will only be available in the Blu-ray DVD format. Likewise, people with Blu-ray players won't be able to enjoy the action-thriller "The Bourne Ultimatum," which Universal Pictures will release only in HD DVD.
These exclusive arrangements, plus aggressive price cuts for high-def DVD players, are designed to persuade consumers to finally embrace one format or the other. But analysts wonder if the moves will anger consumers, just as the studios and consumer-electronics companies are hoping to boost high-def DVD sales as growth in standard DVDs stalls.

The frustration for consumers is not knowing what format is going to win," said Chris Roden, an analyst at Parks Associates.

Consumers, many of whom are still smarting from the VCR format battle between VHS and Betamax, need to know their expensive equipment won't become obsolete if the competing format wins, said Steven J. Caldero, chief operating officer of Ken Crane (http://movies.yahoo.com/movie/contributor/1800299759)'s, specialty electronics chain in Southern California.
"People are still frustrated there is a format war to begin with," he said. "The studios are making people choose. What consumers want is something that will play everything so they don't have to choose."
Until recently, many consumers were able to defer the choice because players have been so expensive. But prices have been slashed by about half Sony Corp.'s Blu-ray player now sells for $499 and Toshiba Corp.'s cheapest HD DVD player sells for $299, with both likely to include as many as five free movies as an incentive. (Players that read both formats remain expensive.)
Both sides are also releasing blockbuster titles such as the new "Pirates of the Caribbean (http://movies.yahoo.com/movie/1808405417/info)" movie aimed squarely at the demographic most likely to upgrade to high-def.
The stakes couldn't be higher for Hollywood, which has seen sales of traditional DVDs, once a reliable profit engine, slow to a trickle. Direct digital delivery online, while promising, is still years away from profitability because current Internet capacity simply can't handle the enormous high-definition files.
Yet 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. Many haven't even heard of either format.
HD DVD, developed by Toshiba and backed by powerful companies like Microsoft, has the lead in standalone players sold because they are cheaper and hit the market first.
In the United States, standalone HD DVD players have 61 percent market share, while Blu-ray players have 36 percent share and the few dual-format players have a 3 percent share, according to market research company The NPD Group Inc.
But Blu-ray, backed by Sony and a majority of Hollywood studios, got a big boost when Sony introduced its PlayStation 3 game console, which comes standard with a Blu-ray drive. Counting those machines, there are more Blu-ray players out there.
Although Microsoft's Xbox 360 can play HD DVD movies, the drive has to be bought separately. Only 160,000 drives have been sold so far, compared with 1.5 million PS3 consoles, according to NPD.
In terms of discs sold, Blu-ray has always had the lead. Time Warner Inc.'s Warner Bros. and Viacom Inc.'s Paramount Pictures (http://movies.yahoo.com/movie/contributor/1800023778) release movies in both formats, and in such cases Blu-ray has outsold HD DVD by nearly 2-to-1.
Blu-Ray is getting an even bigger boost as Blockbuster Inc. announced it would stock only Blu-ray titles when it expands its high-def DVD offerings this year. Target Inc., the nation's second-largest retailer, said it will only sell Blu-ray DVD players in its stores in the fourth quarter.
Sony Pictures, News Corp.'s Twentieth Century Fox, The Walt Disney (http://movies.yahoo.com/movie/contributor/1800012351) Co., and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer are releasing only in Blu-ray. Universal, owned by General Electric Co., is the only major studio to back HD DVD exclusively.
Nonetheless, Warner Bros. believes both formats can coexist and has been urging Blu-ray backers to begin supporting HD DVD as well. The studio has developed a dual-format disc and has said it would license the technology to other studios willing to back both.
"The fourth quarter is critical for the formats to show growth and momentum," said Steve Nickerson, Warner Home Video's senior vice president of marketing. "It's more than about winning or losing. If you can continue to show growth (in both formats), that's a positive in a situation where standard DVD sales aren't growing."
To counter Blu-ray's recent gains, the HD DVD camp is planning an advertising campaign touting the interactive elements of the format, which allow users to connect to the Internet to download special features.
"This is not about a high-def movie on a disc," said Craig Kornblau, president of Universal Studios Home Entertainment. "It's about a fully immersive experience, connected interactivity. That's what is going to separate these high-def formats."
Kornblau said he isn't worried about Blu-ray's momentum and doesn't believe there's a need for one to knockout the other.
"To call this market nascent is to a degree to pay it a complement," he said. "The people who have bought so far aren't early adopters, they are early, early adopters."
Analysts said even lower prices for players could be the key to determining a format winner. Some believe that until prices hit the $200 range, consumers simply won't upgrade from their current machines, many of which cost less than $100.
Chinese-made HD DVD players selling for $199 are expected to hit store shelves by December, while Sony is widely expected to cut the cost of its Blu-ray machine to as low as $299 by year's end. "When that occurs, the studios and Sony are going to pull out the big guns," said Phillip Swann, president of the technology-oriented Web site TVpredictions.com. "They are going to release more titles, big titles, and really go for the kill this holiday season."

[PrimeBane]

Yep, I'm in Canada. Thanks.


Save yourself some money... order online.

I buy the majority of my movies from www.amazon.com (http://www.amazon.com) or www.hdaddicts.com (http://www.hdaddicts.com)

If you order at least 3 movies from amazon.com, it's very rare that you get dinged duty.

HDAddicts.com is based out of Calgary and he attempts to match amazon.com when he can. Plus he carries a pile of HD DVD imports... and even a few BD imports now.

[freezerfuel]

It doesn't really matter who loses to me. If, I end up with the dead format and if my player should ever die I'll just end up getting a dual format player. Even the cases are the same size so they'd still look good lined up on a shelf together. Blue or red... big difference.

[freezerfuel]

Save yourself some money... order online.

I buy the majority of my movies from www.amazon.com (http://www.amazon.com) or www.hdaddicts.com (http://www.hdaddicts.com)

If you order at least 3 movies from amazon.com, it's very rare that you get dinged duty.

HDAddicts.com is based out of Calgary and he attempts to match amazon.com when he can. Plus he carries a pile of HD DVD imports... and even a few BD imports now.

I've been considering getting some imports, might have to take a look and see what they have. And yeah, I should be ordering online... I hate waiting for them to come in but if it saves money then I wight as well.

[JaylisJayP]

It doesn't really matter who loses to me. If, I end up with the dead format and if my player should ever die I'll just end up getting a dual format player. Even the cases are the same size so they'd still look good lined up on a shelf together. Blue or red... big difference.

My thoughts exactly.

[HollandX]

bundle time!!!!!!


Amazon Bundles Xbox 360 Elite with HD DVD add-on and Seven Discs for $599
Mon Aug 13, 2007 at 07:55 AM ET
Tags: Xbox 360, Amazon, Bundles (all tags)

Sweetening the pot for Xbox fans who may be considering stepping up to HD DVD, Amazon has begun offering a new bundle with sales of the 120GB Xbox 360 Elite.

Priced at $599, included in the bundle is the game console itself, the Xbox 360 HD DVD add-on player, and copies of both '300' and 'King Kong' on HD DVD. Add to that the HD DVD camp's ongoing "Five Discs Free" promo, and the deal represents an effective savings of more than $240.

This latest bundle from Amazon follows a similar promotion offered by the online retailer last month, shortly after Sony reduced the price of its 60GB PS3 to $499. That deal included a free PS3 remote, a copy of 'Memento' on Blu-ray, and was combined with the BDA's own "Five Free Discs" promo for over $200 in value.

At press time, there was no word on how long Amazon would be offering this Xbox 360 Elite/HD DVD bundle. (The retailer is no longer offering its earlier PS3/Blu-ray bundle.)

[grif32]

all i have to say about this is "whatever."

What the consumers should realize is that by still keeping both formats alive, they're only doing themselves a favor by keeping competition in the game, which lowers prices more quickly and forces companies to put out the best quality product.

If HD DVD never existed...how long do you think we would've seen $40 movies on blu-ray that still look like House of Flying Daggers?

I certainly understand that the average consumer doesn't have the money to buy both and not care who wins...I guess since I do have both I know that even if HD DVD dies, I'll still have all the movies and the player, and they'll all still work...same with Blu-Ray.

And if you really want to get technical....consumers HAVE chosen their format, and it's still DVD.

The difference between the VHS/Betamax and VHS/DVD periods is that neither of those forced you to also step up to a new HDTV, which this one does, and that cost a hell of a lot more than a few movies.

I agree and was blasted months ago for stating this here. But look were we are at now. $299 HD DVD players. BR players are dropping big time in price.

Just think if HD DVD was not around people would still be paying top $$ for BR.

Competition is good and if one fails it wont look good for HD disc.

You gotta love the lower prices because of the war..

[JaylisJayP]

Watched Layer Cake last night....good flick, in my opinion a disappointing ending right at the very end...and neither of the alternate endings were any better.

But it's a good addition to the library. Sharp, very colorful PQ on Blu-Ray. Definitely worth at least a rental.

[johnnyknoxsvill]

Picked up TMNT (HD) and The Patroit (BD) for $29 today. Ive seen The Patroit but not in HD any reviews on either as TMNT was a blind buy

[davetheking75]

is 32 inches the smallest size available for tvs that can do 1080p?

[PrimeBane]

Probably... although 1080p at anything that small is a complete waste of money IMO.

[oaktown2000]

Back from vacation...and looking for a good deal on the PS3....unfortunately..I missed out on Amazon's deal last week....so if another bundle deal pops up...lemme know guys :D

[davetheking75]

Probably... although 1080p at anything that small is a complete waste of money IMO.

i just don't really have room for much bigger

[HollandX]

i just don't really have room for much bigger

http://www.skymall.com/shopping/detail.htm?pid=102135578&c=

http://www.skymall.com/shopping/detail.htm?pid=102248790&c=

[PrimeBane]

i just don't really have room for much bigger

A 720p of 768p LCD will do you just fine at 32" :)

Only start worrying about 1080p at the 50" to 60" and bigger range.

[davetheking75]

A 720p of 768p LCD will do you just fine at 32" :)

Only start worrying about 1080p at the 50" to 60" and bigger range.

ok thanks

[PrimeBane]

np... I recommend looking at the Sharps and Samsungs. They make the best LCDs along with Sony. :)

[davetheking75]

np... I recommend looking at the Sharps and Samsungs. They make the best LCDs along with Sony. :)

yeah, i was looking at these two

http://www.futureshop.ca/catalog/proddetail.asp?logon=&langid=EN&sku_id=0665000FS10085435&catid=

http://www.futureshop.ca/catalog/proddetail.asp?logon=&langid=EN&sku_id=0665000FS10084416&catid=

i may just get a 360 now and then try and score a sweet deal on boxing day

[PrimeBane]

Truthfully, Boxing Day isn't that great for a good tv. Just ask any sales associate. The specials they have then are often on 2 year old models. The stores know consumers want to spend and thus you'll rarely get the best price on Boxing Day.

The best times to buy a new tv are Superbowl time and in the spring when the new models come out.

I'd suggest finding the tv you want and researching the price. A good place to help for Canadians is www.digitalhome.ca. If it goes on sale, take that advertised price to another dealer and they'll often beat it. Never pay retail price for any tv as there's always a deal to be had or negotiated.

[PrimeBane]

Interesting note from this article.

http://www.startribune.com/535/story/1331648.html


High-definition DVDs are expected to represent more than 40 percent of all DVD sales nationwide by 2012, up from 4.2 percent this year, according to Adams Media Research, an entertainment research and consulting firm in Carmel, Calif.


Looks like HD disks are making some headway... maybe it will be a war after all. :)

[WingNut 25]

I think I'm going to upgrade my Crank and Smokin' Aces discs very soon.

[PrimeBane]

I was very impressed with the Smokin' Aces HD DVD... great PQ. I'd recommend it to anyone that liked the movie. :)

[WingNut 25]

I thought it was a great movie. I'm going to give my roommate the regular DVD since he dug it too.

[SBrooks1]

I was putting out tomorrow's new releases while working at Best Buy tonight and saw the Marvel Dr. Strange Blu-ray version. It's got 7.1 DTS HD Master Audio. I'll bet that sounds sweet. :eek:

[JaylisJayP]

I thought it was a great movie. I'm going to give my roommate the regular DVD since he dug it too.

I thought it was awesome also....so many people were dogging the style and the ending. Whatever, it was a great flick.

[ewto16]

Back from vacation...and looking for a good deal on the PS3....unfortunately..I missed out on Amazon's deal last week....so if another bundle deal pops up...lemme know guys :D

I'm pretty sure you can get a PS3 from the Sony Style site for like $350 if you get a Sony credit card. Basically buy the PS3 and then you get a $150 rebate on your Sony card.

[grif32]

I'm pretty sure you can get a PS3 from the Sony Style site for like $350 if you get a Sony credit card. Basically buy the PS3 and then you get a $150 rebate on your Sony card.

I think it takes up to 8 - 12 weeks to get the credit of $150 on your card.

I think Tuesday - Thursday if you order they do not charge the $15 for shipping

[HollandX]

The best times to buy a new tv are Superbowl time and in the spring when the new models come out.

On the flip side, I bought my TVs in the Spring when the new models came out... But I bought last year's models because they slashed the prices to clear inventory.

:)

[PrimeBane]

Thanks for clarifying Mark... that's what I was trying to imply, but reading it now I see I did a poor job. :(

[PrimeBane]

Battlestar Galactica Season 1 Dec 4th on HD DVD :D

http://hddvdformat.blogspot.com/


Disappointed and anxious that there was still no news about Battlestar Galactica (2004): Season One HD DVD, which was heavily rumored to be released in September?

Universal Studios Home Entertainment has now confirmed that the Battlestar Galactica (2004): Season One will be available on 6-disc HD DVD set from December 4. The high-definition version of this TV series is available to own only on HD DVD. It is a non-combo HD DVD set and has a suggested price tag of $99.98 SRP.

Each episode of the series and the miniseries will be presented in 1080p High Definition Widescreen 1.78:1 video with Dolby TrueHD 5.1 (English) and Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 (English) audio options. Only English [SDH] and French subtitle options are included.

A breakdown of the bonus materials on each disc:

Disc One:

Encyclopedia Galactica - An interactive guide including ships, characters, colonies and flight training manual (HD DVD-Exclusive)
Picture in Picture - Behind the Scenes of the Mini Series (HD DVD-Exclusive)
Feature Commentary with Director Michael Rymer and Executive Producers David Eick and Ronald D. Moore
Deleted Scenes - Mini Series
Sketches and Art
From Miniseries to Series
Change Is Good, Now They're Babes
The Cylon Centurion
Future/Past Technology
The Doctor Is Out (Of His Mind)
Production
Visual Effects
Epilogue
Disc Two:

Encyclopedia Galactica - An interactive guide including ships, characters, colonies and flight training manual (HD DVD-Exclusive)
Picture in Picture - Behind the Scenes of the Mini Series (HD DVD-Exclusive)
Deleted Scenes
Feature Commentary with Director Michael Rymer and Executive Producers David Eick and Ronald D. Moore
Pilot Commentary with Director Michael Rymer and Executive Producers David Eick and Ronald D. Moore
Disc Three:

Deleted Scenes
Episode 103 "Bastille Day" Commentary with Ronald D. Moore and David Eick
Episode 104 "Act of Contrition" Commentary with Ronald D. Moore and David Eick
Disc Four:

Deleted Scenes
Episode 105 "You Can't Go Home Again" Commentary with Ronald D. Moore and David Eick
Disc Five:

Deleted Scenes
Episode 109 "Tigh Me Up, Tigh Me Down" Commentary with Executive Producer Ronald D. Moore
Episode 110 "The Hand of God" Commentary with Executive Producer Ronald D. Moore
Disc Six:

Deleted Scenes
Episode 111 "Colonial Day" Commentary with Executive Producer Ronald D. Moore
Episode 112 "Kobol's Last Gleaming" Pt 1 Commentary with Executive Producer Ronald D. Moore
Episode 113 "Kobol's Last Gleaming" Pt. 2 Commentary with Executive Producer Ronald D. Moore



Finally! :D

[oaktown2000]

I'm pretty sure you can get a PS3 from the Sony Style site for like $350 if you get a Sony credit card. Basically buy the PS3 and then you get a $150 rebate on your Sony card.

I think it takes up to 8 - 12 weeks to get the credit of $150 on your card.

I think Tuesday - Thursday if you order they do not charge the $15 for shipping


Maybe I'm ignorant....or I could just be reading into it too much......but is it actually a rebate...or is it like store credit?

If I buy the PS3 for $500 on their credit card...after 8-12 weeks...will my credit card bill (assuming I've made no payments) be $350.

Or is it that I will still owe $500 on the credit card.....and then have $150 credit on the card to buy whatever else I'd like from the Sony Store.

Reading the deal on the site...they never use the word "rebate"....and keep referring to it as a "card credit".

[PrimeBane]

I'm pretty sure that means they take $150 right off the first bill. With 12 months at 0% it shouldn't be a worry if it takes longer.

I've read that if you qualify they let you know immediately.

I'd call them up and ask for details before making the plunge.

[JaylisJayP]

watched Resident Evil: Apocalyse blu-ray last night....actually not a bad movie. Very underwhelming blu-ray PQ though.

[Xsao]

any new info on those sony t.vs that use some kind of lazer tech to display the picture?

I think it was sony. but I heard it was cheaper than lcd and looked way better.

[PrimeBane]

Nothing I've heard of... with the prices of LCDs and plasmas coming down so much it's hard to imagine how a new tech will gain a foothold right away.

[WingNut 25]

Picked up Crank and Big Fish on Blu Ray today. I love both those movies and felt compelled to upgrade.

[JaylisJayP]

Crank is one of the kings of PQ.

Big Fish was a good flick, I didn't have much desire to watch it again, though, so I sold my blu-ray. PQ on that one was OK.

[moviemaniac4]

I just saw the Panasonic 103 inches plasma TV......watching some HD samples and movies in 1080

It's......It's........beautiful :(






















I NEED TO WIN THE LOTTO

[HollandX]

Vito.

http://www.woot.com/

[PrimeBane]

I just saw the Panasonic 103 inches plasma TV......watching some HD samples and movies in 1080

It's......It's........beautiful :(

I NEED TO WIN THE LOTTO

Cause you'll need to build a new house too... I doubt that bad boy would fit in a standard door very easily.

The first models had to be shipped by ship... they wouldn't fit in a cargo plane.

[Hanky Panky]

Grabbed TMNT and FF: Spirits Within on BD...both look phenomenal and highly recommended.

[moviemaniac4]

Cause you'll need to build a new house too... I doubt that bad boy would fit in a standard door very easily.

The first models had to be shipped by ship... they wouldn't fit in a cargo plane.

That's why I need to win the lotto......:p

[freezerfuel]

Picked up on HD DVD:

Black Rain
The Bourne Identity
The Bourne Supremacy
Disturbia (Blind Buy)
The 40 Year Old Virgin
Out For Justice
Serenity
Sleepy Hollow
Dog Day Afternoon
A Scanner Darkly (Blind Buy)
The Ultimate Matrix Trilogy

I'm at 21 now. :D

So much for getting a couple just to see what they look like lol....

I thought I read somewhere the pq for Sleepy Hollow was crappy, not sure though so I got it. Anyone else own it?

[freezerfuel]

I just saw the Panasonic 103 inches plasma TV......watching some HD samples and movies in 1080

It's......It's........beautiful :(






















I NEED TO WIN THE LOTTO

Bah, just get a projector and save a couple thousand dollars. :p

[PrimeBane]

I have Sleepy Hollow... I was very disapointed in it as well.

But it's intentional grain, so not much you can do. :(

[PrimeBane]

Tentative List of BDs to be released by Beuna Vista in 2008 (found on AVS)

January:
The Rock
Con-Air
The Game Plan
Dan in Real Life
Nixon: The Election Year Edition

February:
Crimson Tide
Gone Baby Gone
Becoming Jane
No Country for Old Men

March:
The Rookie
Armageddon
Finding Nemo
Enchanted


April:
Chronicles Of Narnia
Hidalgo
Coyote Ugly
City of Men
Boy in Striped Pyjamas
Diving Bell and Butterfly

May:
National Treasure 2
Shall We Dance
Under the Tuscan Sun

June:
The Recruit
Unbreakable
Gangs of New York

July:
O Brother Where Art Thou
13th Warrior
The Alamo
Mimic

August:
Open Range
Dead Poet's Society
Cool Runnings
Count of Monte Cristo

[someguy6000]

to sound intentionally stupid what is PQ?

[freezerfuel]

I have Sleepy Hollow... I was very disapointed in it as well.

But it's intentional grain, so not much you can do. :(

I haven't watched it yet but that sucks to hear. I don't think they would put out a newer, better release of this movie anytime soon so I'll take my chances I guess.

[PrimeBane]

to sound intentionally stupid what is PQ?

PQ = Picture Quality

AQ = Audio Quality

[oaktown2000]

I'm pretty sure that means they take $150 right off the first bill. With 12 months at 0% it shouldn't be a worry if it takes longer.

I've read that if you qualify they let you know immediately.

I'd call them up and ask for details before making the plunge.

Just got off the phone (with a nice 35 minute hold time :rolleyes: ) and yes, it is $150 taken right off the bill.

I went ahead and apllied and got accepted in less then a minute for a hefty credit limit. Now the only problem is.....sticking with just buying a PS3. They have free shipping....and some really nice TVs :D

Just wanted to say thanks to everyone in here who are always posting deals and what not.....getting a 60g PS3 for $350 is about the best deal one could hope for and I appreciate it.

Now to get busy on that Blu-Ray collection :eek:

[freezerfuel]

to sound intentionally stupid what is PQ?

Picture quality.

[PrimeBane]

LOL... will you be sleeping on the couch if you buy a tv too? ;)

[freezerfuel]

Hey Primebane, is 20th Century Fox exclusive to Blu-ray?

[PrimeBane]

Yes, but they haven't released a new BD in about 4 months.

Some of their movies can be found on HD DVD if you import (or buy from a website that sells imports).

[PrimeBane]

And congrats on the PS3 Keith... that's a hell of a great deal on it. And I thought I did well...

[freezerfuel]

Yes, but they haven't released a new BD in about 4 months.

Some of their movies can be found on HD DVD if you import (or buy from a website that sells imports).

Okay, thanks bro.

[oaktown2000]

LOL... will you be sleeping on the couch if you buy a tv too? ;)


LOL...most likey...no......because there are no couches outside :p That would be the proverbial "S" hitting the fan.

We just got back from a great vacation...I've been buying Sideshow statues left and right...and I just got a PS3. I don't want to push my limits. Maybe in a month or two after I pay off the CC from the massive hit it took on vacation. But to do it any sooner then that...and I'd be lucky if I even got the couch :D

[JaylisJayP]

Tentative List of BDs to be released by Beuna Vista in 2008 (found on AVS)

January:
The Rock
Con-Air
The Game Plan
Dan in Real Life
Nixon: The Election Year Edition

February:
Crimson Tide
Gone Baby Gone
Becoming Jane
No Country for Old Men

March:
The Rookie
Armageddon
Finding Nemo
Enchanted


April:
Chronicles Of Narnia
Hidalgo
Coyote Ugly
City of Men
Boy in Striped Pyjamas
Diving Bell and Butterfly

May:
National Treasure 2
Shall We Dance
Under the Tuscan Sun

June:
The Recruit
Unbreakable
Gangs of New York

July:
O Brother Where Art Thou
13th Warrior
The Alamo
Mimic

August:
Open Range
Dead Poet's Society
Cool Runnings
Count of Monte Cristo


is theat buena vista or Disney?

[PrimeBane]

BV is the distributing wing of Disney. :)

[HollandX]

Hilarity: Circuit City mixes up HD DVDs and Blu-ray Discs!

http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/highdefdigestallnews/~3/144423830/861

[thaderules]

Why did the Rock and Con Air get pushed back to next year? I thought it was suppose to come out this summer.

[PrimeBane]

Cause "the Mouse" say so... ;)

Speculation ranges from waiting for BD-J and/or BD+ to be implemented.

Or maybe they just decided they couldn't move enough disks at that time to make it worth while.

[JaylisJayP]

I need some big-time help guys.

I'm going to be getting a high-definition camcorder soon, not sure which one. But how does the whole thing work with watching the movies on an HDTV?

Do I need a blu-ray or HD DVD burner?
If I burn the HD material to a regular DVD and then watch it in my PS3 or HD DVD player, will it be in high definition....or will it be upconverted?

Any help is greatly appreciated.

Also, do I need to transfer to disc? Can i transfer to a memory card or something specific that can be connected to the TV and picked up there?

[HollandX]

You cannot put HD material on a standard DVD.

[PrimeBane]

Why can't you? It's all just storage space. You just can't put as much on. :)

[JaylisJayP]

My thoughts on it were along the same line as PrimeBane...but I continue to hear different things and am pretty confused.

[IceRat]

ok here comes Standard Def guy with a question for the pros (PB)

here is my tv
http://www.amazon.com/Sony-KD-36XS955-Trinitron-Hi-Scan-Integrated/dp/B00067AXYU
LOL I just noticed the elephants in the pic.. I wonder if that is a subtle joke

here is my dvd player I use with it which to date with all my tvs has (for its age) always yielded a flawless picture as far as I can tell
http://www.amazon.com/Sony-DVPS530D-DVP-S530D-DVD-Player/dp/B00000JFE3

ok now the question.....
if I were to pick up the following upconverting dvd player which is available for $50 shipped and a HDMI cable from monoprice would I likely see a substantially better picture with SD dvds???
http://www.amazon.com/Philips-DVP5982-1080p-Upscaling-Player/dp/B000N254LU/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1/102-1832558-1470519?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1187237737&sr=8-1

or should I just keep my money ($60) in my pocket and apply it toward the price of a PS3 when I finally decide to make the plunge (not any time soon)

[MPCanes]

Why can't you? It's all just storage space. You just can't put as much on. :)

That's not true, Primebane.

Well, it's partially true.

You will be able to record and save HD material to standard DVD, provided it is saved as a WMVHD file or a similar codec. As such, it wouldn't need a blu-ray or HD player to play it, but rather something capable of decoding the HD codec it is in. So, for example, you'd be able to watch it on your 360 in HD if it were in one of the codecs it can decode.

That said, if it is transfered to a DVD in a similar way commercial DVDs are produced, DVDs simply don't have the bandwidth possible to output HD content.

Hope this makes some sense.

[HollandX]

Why can't you? It's all just storage space. You just can't put as much on. :)

Right now, there are only two ways to record high-def in its true, high-resolution glory. You can use either a HDTV DVR, such as DirecTV's HD TiVo, or a D-VHS deck. It's impossible to record high-def video on a standard DVD recorder or VCR, although you can record a lower-resolution version of an HDTV program that looks pretty good.

http://www.cnet.com/4520-7386_1-6244119-5.html

8. Can I record HDTV on a DVD recorder?

Current DVD recorders cannot record in HDTV standards, due to limitations of both the laser wavelength used and in the limited space of current DVDs for the storage capacity needs of HDTV signals. However, HD-DVD recording is not far off as the Blu-ray group (Hitachi, LG Electronics, Matsu****a Electric Industrial, Pioneer, Royal Philips Electronics, Samsung Electronics, Sharp, Sony and Thomson) have finally settled on standards and begun licensing procedures for the new Blu-ray HD-DVD format.
Products using this technology may appear in Japan in late 2003 and in the U.S. and Europe sometime in 2004. The remaining questions are: Affordability for the consumer, the availability of both blank and pre-recorded software, and whether you will "allowed" or able to record programs broadcast in HDTV due to proposed anti-copy encoding schemes. However, JVC has just introduced the first consumer-grade HD-capable camcorder that could be paired with such a unit for the independent filmaker. If a DVD recorder has the Blu-ray logo, it will have the ability to record in HD, depending on the source material.

http://www.dvd-photo-slideshow.com/dvd-faq.html

You can not record to a DVD in HD quality. You can not even record to a DVD directly from the box in standard definition quality digitally.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=668448

http://images.avsforum.com/images/misc/navbits_finallink.gif (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?page=4&t=599173) Attn Newbies: You Cannot Record in Hi-Def Resolution on Current DVD Recorders

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?page=4&t=599173




edit: I AM SO CONFUSED. apparently i (and the above?) am wrong?

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=11295684#post11295684

[MPCanes]

Well, Jaylis, are you getting an HD CAMCORDER (like your original post said), or RECORDER (which those speak of)?

Two completely different things, caps for emphasis, not yelling/demeaning.

[JaylisJayP]

HD camcorder....just wondering if I have the option to somehow get the HD material onto a disc and watch it in HD without having to buy a blu-ray burner.

[PrimeBane]

ok here comes Standard Def guy with a question for the pros (PB)

here is my tv
http://www.amazon.com/Sony-KD-36XS955-Trinitron-Hi-Scan-Integrated/dp/B00067AXYU
LOL I just noticed the elephants in the pic.. I wonder if that is a subtle joke

here is my dvd player I use with it which to date with all my tvs has (for its age) always yielded a flawless picture as far as I can tell
http://www.amazon.com/Sony-DVPS530D-DVP-S530D-DVD-Player/dp/B00000JFE3

ok now the question.....
if I were to pick up the following upconverting dvd player which is available for $50 shipped and a HDMI cable from monoprice would I likely see a substantially better picture with SD dvds???
http://www.amazon.com/Philips-DVP5982-1080p-Upscaling-Player/dp/B000N254LU/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1/102-1832558-1470519?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1187237737&sr=8-1

or should I just keep my money ($60) in my pocket and apply it toward the price of a PS3 when I finally decide to make the plunge (not any time soon)

hmmm... tough call.

The Philips apparently does a pretty good job of upconverting for the price.

According to a poster on AVS, you can get the Philips for as cheap as $45 US delivered on a couple of the "deal" sites online. Not sure which ones he means unfortunately.

This is what I'd do... buy it at a place with a good return policy and test drive it for a weekend. Return it either way and if you like it, order one online.

[IceRat]

According to a poster on AVS, you can get the Philips for as cheap as $45 US delivered on a couple of the "deal" sites online. Not sure which ones he means unfortunately.

yeah it's pretty much the deal I am refering to
it is from the Phillips employee store which all you need to do to access is sign up with your name and email addy.

as for the test drive suggestion I would need to also pick up a HDMI cable to do so and find a place without a restocking fee

[grif32]

ok here comes Standard Def guy with a question for the pros (PB)

here is my tv
http://www.amazon.com/Sony-KD-36XS955-Trinitron-Hi-Scan-Integrated/dp/B00067AXYU
LOL I just noticed the elephants in the pic.. I wonder if that is a subtle joke

here is my dvd player I use with it which to date with all my tvs has (for its age) always yielded a flawless picture as far as I can tell
http://www.amazon.com/Sony-DVPS530D-DVP-S530D-DVD-Player/dp/B00000JFE3

ok now the question.....
if I were to pick up the following upconverting dvd player which is available for $50 shipped and a HDMI cable from monoprice would I likely see a substantially better picture with SD dvds???
http://www.amazon.com/Philips-DVP5982-1080p-Upscaling-Player/dp/B000N254LU/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1/102-1832558-1470519?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1187237737&sr=8-1

or should I just keep my money ($60) in my pocket and apply it toward the price of a PS3 when I finally decide to make the plunge (not any time soon)

U will see a little difference not much to write home about. I would just save and snag the PS3 60g for $389.00 DLVD new with the new sony style program.

Chris

[HollandX]

Warner to decombo.

http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Disc_Announcements/Combo_Discs/Warner/Warner_Goes_Non-Combo_with_Wave_of_HD_DVD_Re-Issues/866

Warner Goes Non-Combo with Wave of HD DVD Re-Issues
Thu Aug 16, 2007 at 09:30 AM ET
Tags: Disc Announcements, Combo Discs, Warner (all tags)

Becoming the second studio to "demote" several of its previously-released HD DVD/DVD combo releases, Warner Home Video has announced plans to re-issue a wave of eleven titles in stand-alone HD DVD editions this fall.

On October 2, Warner will discontinue the previous combo versions of the following titles and re-issue them in HD DVD-only versions, at two different price tiers:

Reduced from $39.98 to $34.95 will be the recent theatrical releases 'The Ant Bully,' 'The Fountain,' 'Happy Feet,' 'Lady in the Water,' 'The Lake House,' 'Letters from Iwo Jima,' 'Rumor Has It...,' plus Martin Scorsese's Oscar-winning 'The Departed,' and one of 2006's top-selling high-def titles, 'Superman Returns.'

Slashed to an even cheaper $28.99 are the catalog titles 'Good Night, and Good Luck' and 'Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang.'

Warner's move to "de-combo" these titles follows the lead of Universal, which recently re-issued its catalog titles 'Unleashed' and 'Army of Darkness' as HD DVD-only releases.

Although Universal's re-issues resulted in some lost supplements that had been exclusive to the standard-def sides of those discs, Warner has long replicated its bonus materials to both sides of its HD DVD/DVD combos, so all of their October 2 re-releases will include all of the special features as their predecessors.

Tech specs will also be identical to the HD DVD sides of the earlier combo versions.

We've added brand-new listings for these stand-alone versions to our HD DVD Release Schedule, where they are all listed under October 2. We'll keep you posted if there are any spec changes or other further details on these re-issues.

[SBrooks1]

There should have never been combo's release anyway. Just like there should have never been full screen DVD's released, EVER.

[JaylisJayP]

Good...maybe they realized it was hurting their sales by being cost-prohibitive, keeping people from buying them and driving dual-format owners to the blu-ray...as well it being something that for the most part HD DVD owners didn't want, and SD owners surely didn't want or would pay for.

Combos are horrible and were putting a decent hurting on HD DVD.

If I had to guess...if 300 HD DVD weren't a combo, the split would've been closer to 55/45 blu-ray instead of the 70/30 or so they say it was.

[grif32]

Good...maybe they realized it was hurting their sales by being cost-prohibitive, keeping people from buying them and driving dual-format owners to the blu-ray...as well it being something that for the most part HD DVD owners didn't want, and SD owners surely didn't want or would pay for.

Combos are horrible and were putting a decent hurting on HD DVD.

If I had to guess...if 300 HD DVD weren't a combo, the split would've been closer to 55/45 blu-ray instead of the 70/30 or so they say it was.

I think the biggest reason is because of all the problems people are having with the Combo disc..

Chris

[PrimeBane]

yeah it's pretty much the deal I am refering to
it is from the Phillips employee store which all you need to do to access is sign up with your name and email addy.

as for the test drive suggestion I would need to also pick up a HDMI cable to do so and find a place without a restocking fee

Just pick up a one from monoprice.com... for under $10 you might as well keep it for you PS3 purchase down the road.

I didn't see HDMI on the specs for your tv. Can you confirm it has HDMI. Because if it doesn't, don't waste your money on the Philips.

[PrimeBane]

Combos for day and date release are part of the HD DVD spec... until the group removes the requirement, we won't see combos going away anytime soon.

Removing combos from those disks is just a cost cutting move for the next pressing.

[oaktown2000]

U will see a little difference not much to write home about. I would just save and snag the PS3 60g for $389.00 DLVD new with the new sony style program.

Chris


While I do agree it is a hell of deal (one that I even took advantage of).......it is not a sure-fire solution for everyone........as it is basically applying for a regular Visa card. Not everyone has good credit and will be accepted for it.

[freezerfuel]

Bought a new receiver for the home theatre... VSX-515. I decided to stay away from an HDMI audio/video pass thru blah blah. My Pioneer HTIB has been very good to me and I was always impressed with it so I wanted to stay with that name. It supports DTS, DD and has power, that's what I care about. Maybe when the prices come down on these new HDMI receivers and they've stood the tribulations of time I'll look into getting one. Gonna stick with a good 'ol optical cable for a while longer.

[freezerfuel]

Warner to decombo.


Excellent. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v392/freezerfuel/Smilies/smiliedancedood.gif

Now GET RID OF ALL OF THEM, or lower the prices.

[MPCanes]

Thank God. i'm going to sell my combo of "The Fountain", and wait until the Re-Issue of Superman Returns to grab that again.

I HATE combo discs.

[IceRat]

I didn't see HDMI on the specs for your tv. Can you confirm it has HDMI. Because if it doesn't, don't waste your money on the Philips.
yeah it definately has HDMI connectability

U will see a little difference not much to write home about. I would just save and snag the PS3 60g for $389.00 DLVD new with the new sony style program.

Chris

While I do agree it is a hell of deal (one that I even took advantage of).......it is not a sure-fire solution for everyone........as it is basically applying for a regular Visa card. Not everyone has good credit and will be accepted for it.
getting approved for the card would not be an issue.... $389 is nice but I am in no rush so I can wait for the price to fall even lower as well as the software (games/movies)
Just something I thought I'd consider trying for SD dvd but I really have no issues with the PQ my current player generates on the tv.

[grif32]

yeah it definately has HDMI connectability




getting approved for the card would not be an issue.... $389 is nice but I am in no rush so I can wait for the price to fall even lower as well as the software (games/movies)
Just something I thought I'd consider trying for SD dvd but I really have no issues with the PQ my current player generates on the tv.

You can also save another $15 - $20 on top of that if you link through another website to sony sytle. check avsforum for the two websites.

I had to pay $40 in tax you might not have to. So instead of $389 it might be more like $329.00. Free shipping tues - thursday

Plus you still get the 5 free BR disc via mail in..

I doubt you will find anything lower then that. But you never know.

Games/movie prices probably wont fall for a very long time.

hell of a deal. Good luck either way.

chris

[HollandX]

ta ta for now

Paramount Home Entertainment has announced street date bumps of almost a month for its upcoming dual-format releases of 'Face/Off' and 'The Jack Ryan Collection.'

[PrimeBane]

Naria, Nemo and Sleeping Beauty to BD

http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Disney/BD-Java/Disc_Announcements/Disney:_Narnia,_Nemo_and_Sleeping_Beauty_Coming_to_Blu-ray_in_2008/870

[UK_DaNnY]

h all, my hauls from tis week.

watched Van Wilder last night ad could see abig improvement from the standard dvd

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b218/danny19_/07-08-16_12-331.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b218/danny19_/07-08-17_17-43.jpg

[HollandX]

clerks 2 hd new and sealed. $15 dlvd.

you know u want it.

[freezerfuel]

I need this! :eek: :eek:

http://images.google.ca/imgres?imgurl=http://www.engadget.com/media/2006/06/tosh-hd-dvd-recorder-front-back.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.engadget.com/2006/06/22/toshibas-rd-a1-hd-dvd-recorder-with-1tb-disk/&h=333&w=425&sz=86&hl=en&start=25&tbnid=R_tMT8n2LY7szM:&tbnh=99&tbnw=126&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dhd-dvd%2B%26start%3D18%26gbv%3D2%26ndsp%3D18%26svnum%3D50%26hl%3Den%26safe%3Doff%26sa%3DN

(Article is over a year old)

[johnnyknoxsvill]

^ I want!!!

[JaylisJayP]

h all, my hauls from tis week.

watched Van Wilder last night ad could see abig improvement from the standard dvd

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b218/danny19_/07-08-16_12-331.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b218/danny19_/07-08-17_17-43.jpg

good stuff.....Van Wilder's hilarious.

[JaylisJayP]

Anyone have The Perfect Storm? The review sites vary wildly on PQ...from a 3 to a 5/5...but Avs tier thread has it near the bottom of the list.

[WingNut 25]

If Van Wilder gets good reviews, I'm upgrading. I LOVE that movie.

[johnnyknoxsvill]

I have a Used copy of Hot Fuzz on HD for $20 DLVD

[WingNut 25]

Anyone seen a lower price than Amazon for season 1 of Heroes on HD?

[JaylisJayP]

maybe try half.com

[grif32]

Anyone have The Perfect Storm? The review sites vary wildly on PQ...from a 3 to a 5/5...but Avs tier thread has it near the bottom of the list.

I do I would say most of the movie is a 3/5 but some parts (very few) are a 4.5/5...

Chris

[WingNut 25]

Amazon is looking like the best price at $69.99 w/ free shipping.

[PrimeBane]

I have a Used copy of Hot Fuzz on HD for $20 DLVD

I'll take it if it's not alreaday spoken for. :)

[JaylisJayP]

great deal on that movie...i really enjoyed it.

[JaylisJayP]

added a couple more HD DVDs to the library today (hey, it is my birthday)....Land of the Dead and Polar Express.

Running out of movies on either format that i still want to get.

[johnnyknoxsvill]

I'll take it if it's not alreaday spoken for. :)

PM sent and I also have the Lookout on BD for $18 DLVD

[JaylisJayP]

was The Lookout a good movie?

[mycrospazm]

PM sent and I also have the Lookout on BD for $18 DLVD
I'll take it if it's still available...

pm sent.

[mycrospazm]

was The Lookout a good movie?
It was predictable, but Gordon-Levitt's performance was amazing as usual...

[WingNut 25]

added a couple more HD DVDs to the library today (hey, it is my birthday)....Land of the Dead and Polar Express.

Running out of movies on either format that i still want to get.

Happy birthday dude!

[HollandX]

added a couple more HD DVDs to the library today (hey, it is my birthday)....Land of the Dead and Polar Express.

Running out of movies on either format that i still want to get.

for real?

happy birthday, dude!!

[JaylisJayP]

Thanks guys....saw Superbad tonight...damn funny at parts.

[HollandX]

So, um, I ordered my 5 free HD DVDs from Toshiba a while ago. Yesterday I got a letter in the mail telling me that due to backorders, it may be another 4-6 weeks before i receive my free HD DVDs.

The letter included a prepaid postcard I can send back if I choose not to wait for the HD DVDs and subsequently cancel my request for them.

um.

[WingNut 25]

Why would anyone cancel an order for free movies?

[HollandX]

http://i14.tinypic.com/4pw8isx.gif

[grif32]

Thats sad.

[IceRat]

maybe you should pop that letter into your Toshiba
I'm sure the clarity of their incompetance will look brilliant in HD

[JaylisJayP]

that sucks...but i guess it's not that bad since they're still sending them to you. Four Brothers is a good one when you get it, you'll enjoy it.

[WitchKingOfAngmar]

maybe you should pop that letter into your Toshiba
I'm sure the clarity of their incompetance will look brilliant in HD

How are they incompetant for being out of those movies??

[IceRat]

How are they incompetant for being out of those movies??
the point of the promotion which consisted of lowering the price of the hardware and giving the customer free software was to allow them to have something to view with their hardware and the new technology they are investing in

Not being prepared to fill the demand of the [software] orders at the time of shipment for the hardware reeks of incompetance to properly implement a promotion.

[johnnyknoxsvill]

Im selling my 20 Gig PS3. I don't want to post the link, but if anyone is intrested in it PM me and I will give you the item #

[johnnyknoxsvill]

Went a little crazy at Best Buy today. Here is what I picked up:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v730/johnnyknoxsvill/003-1.jpg

[WingNut 25]

Damn I guess!

[HollandX]

Went a little crazy at Best Buy today. Here is what I picked up:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v730/johnnyknoxsvill/003-1.jpg

:eek::eek::eek::eek::eek::eek::eek::eek::eek::eek::eek:

i hope you used your reward zone card!

[johnnyknoxsvill]

yup

[JaylisJayP]

johnny...you didn't have either player before?

[johnnyknoxsvill]

Yeah I had the HD-A2 and PS3 20gig and upgraded to the HD-A20 and a PS3 60gig. Gonna go back tomorrow and price match the A20 from CC since they had it on sale for $350 I just wanted the 1080p for my HD player. Now next on my list is the Onkyo 605.

The HD-A2 we are sending to my wifes parents as a surprise gift they should like it. We also bought them 3 movies from a LRS. Untouchables($9.99), Music and Lryics($14.99) and Happy Feet($16.99) they always have great prices on used movies, none over $16.99

[ewto16]

Why did you buy a 60GB PS3 when you already had a 20GB one? You could have just upgraded the HD in it.

[johnnyknoxsvill]

Im selling my 20gig and I wanted some of the other features the 60gig had

[PrimeBane]

Wow... I was wondering what HD DVD would do to get back in the game. I guess we now know.

Paramount/Dreamworks is now HD DVD exclusive.


Paramount and DreamWorks Animation Each Declare Exclusive Support for HD DVD

Movies Distributed by Paramount Home Entertainment Including Paramount
Pictures, DreamWorks Animation SKG, DreamWorks Pictures, Paramount Vantage,
Nickelodeon Movies and MTV Films to be Released Exclusively in HD DVD
Exclusive Program To Begin with Release of "Blades of Glory," Followed by
"Transformers" and "Shrek the Third," Films Representing More Than $1.5
Billion in Combined Worldwide Box Office

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 20 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Paramount Pictures, a
unit of Viacom Inc. (NYSE: VIA and VIA.B) and DreamWorks Animation SKG
(NYSE: DWA), each announced today that they will exclusively support the
next-generation HD DVD format on a worldwide basis. The exclusive HD DVD
commitment will include all movies distributed by Paramount Pictures,
DreamWorks Pictures, Paramount Vantage, Nickelodeon Movies and MTV Films,
as well as movies from DreamWorks Animation, which are distributed
exclusively by Paramount Home Entertainment.
The companies each said that the decision to distribute exclusively in
the HD DVD format resulted from an extensive evaluation of current market
offerings, which confirmed the clear benefits of HD DVD, particularly its
market-ready technology and lower manufacturing costs. Paramount Home
Entertainment will launch its exclusive HD DVD program with the release of
the blockbuster comedy hit "Blades of Glory" on August 28th and follow with
two of the biggest grossing movies of the year "Transformers" and "Shrek
the Third". These three titles alone represent more than $1.5 billion in
box office ticket sales worldwide.
"The combination of Paramount and DreamWorks Animation brings a
critical mass of current box office hits to consumers with a line-up of
live action and animated films that are perfect for HD DVD," stated Brad
Grey, Chairman and CEO of Paramount Pictures, which is currently the
leading studio in domestic box office. "Part of our vision is to
aggressively extend our movies beyond the theater, and deliver the quality
and features that appeal to our audience. I believe HD DVD is not only the
affordable high quality choice for consumers, but also the smart choice for
Paramount."
"We decided to release "Shrek the Third" and other DreamWorks Animation
titles exclusively on HD DVD because we believe it is the best format to
bring high quality home entertainment to a key segment of our audience --
families," stated DreamWorks Animation CEO, Jeffrey Katzenberg. "We believe
the combination of this year's low-priced HD DVD players and the commitment
to release a significant number of hit titles in the fall makes HD DVD the
best way to view movies at home."
With the rapid increase of HD TV screens in households, and audiences
wanting to enjoy the total entertainment experience, HD DVD has emerged as
the most affordable way for consumers to watch their movies in high
definition. In addition to pristine quality, HD DVD also offers consumers
the chance to personalize the movie-watching experience, to interact with
their movies and even to connect with a community of other fans.
Paramount Home Entertainment will issue new releases day and date as
well as catalog titles exclusively on HD DVD. Today's announcement does not
include films directed by Steven Spielberg as his films are not exclusive
to either format.
About Paramount Pictures Corporation
Paramount Pictures Corporation (PPC), a global producer and distributor
of filmed entertainment, is a unit of Viacom (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), a leading
content company with prominent and respected film, television and digital
entertainment brands. The company's labels include Paramount Pictures,
Paramount Vantage, Paramount Classics, MTV Films, Nickelodeon Movies and
DreamWorks Studios. PPC operations also include Paramount Digital
Entertainment, Paramount Home Entertainment, Paramount Pictures
International, Paramount Licensing Inc., Paramount Studios and Worldwide
Television Distribution.
About DreamWorks Animation SKG
DreamWorks Animation is principally devoted to developing and producing
computer generated, or CG, animated feature films. With world-class
creative talent, a strong and experienced management team and advanced CG
filmmaking technology and techniques, DreamWorks Animation makes high
quality CG animated films meant for a broad movie-going audience. The
Company has theatrically released a total of fourteen animated feature
films, including Antz, Shrek, Shrek 2, Shark Tale, Madagascar, Wallace &
Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit, Over the Hedge, Flushed Away, and
Shrek the Third. DreamWorks Animation's newest release, Bee Movie, opens in
theaters November 2, 2007.


SOURCE Paramount Pictures; DreamWorks Animation


http://www.viacom.com/NEWS/NewsText.aspx?RID=1042073

It's being speculated that the HD DVD group paid Paramount $50 million and Dreamworks $100 million for this.

[MPCanes]

Mother of God, that is HUGE news.

This war just became a war again.

[HollandX]

jesus marian hossa!

[HollandX]

So what happens to all the Blades of Glory on BD pre-orders?

http://www.amazon.com/Blades-Glory-Blu-ray-Will-Ferrell/dp/B000RGSO7I/ref=pd_bbs_sr_3/103-8054331-8960604?ie=UTF8&s=dvd&qid=1187629435&sr=8-3

[HollandX]

Holland...I'm mildly interested, you got anything else available for sale, as well?

whoah, i just saw this. sorry, dude. it's taken. :( it was all i had for sale.

[HollandX]

Combos for day and date release are part of the HD DVD spec... until the group removes the requirement, we won't see combos going away anytime soon.

Removing combos from those disks is just a cost cutting move for the next pressing.

Why do they call it "day and date" release?

And why isn't Blades of Glory a combo disc then?

http://www.amazon.com/Blades-Glory-DVD-Will-Ferrell/dp/B000RGSO7S/ref=pd_bbs_sr_6/103-8054331-8960604?ie=UTF8&s=dvd&qid=1187629435&sr=8-6
I'm confused.

:(

[HollandX]

Hoping to find a link

http://money.cnn.com/news/newsfeeds/articles/prnewswire/AQM12220082007-1.htm

http://www.forbes.com/feeds/ap/2007/08/20/ap4036000.html

[freezerfuel]

Hoo HAA!!!! Good news for HD-DVD!

[JaylisJayP]

whoah, i just saw this. sorry, dude. it's taken. :( it was all i had for sale.

no problem

[JaylisJayP]

wow, blu-ray may be done, son!

[SBrooks1]

wow, blu-ray may be done, son!

Not quite. But it will be nice to tell all my home theater department Blu-ray buddies at work tonight at Best Buy........Transformers, only on HD-DVD!! :D

[JaylisJayP]

Not quite. But it will be nice to tell all my home theater department Blu-ray buddies at work tonight at Best Buy........Transformers, only on HD-DVD!! :D

i know, i just wanted to sound like Dave Chapelle, if only for a short moment :)

[freezerfuel]

Not quite. But it will be nice to tell all my home theater department Blu-ray buddies at work tonight at Best Buy........Transformers, only on HD-DVD!! :D

HELL YES http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v392/freezerfuel/Smilies/drool.gif

It ain't nuthin like the real thing, the real thing, it ain't nuthin like the REEEEAAAAL.

Don't know why I typed that but I did. :D

[grif32]

wow, blu-ray may be done, son!

LOL, nah just means both will be a niche market for years to come.

Chris

[ewto16]

Man, that totally sucks.....I was all over Transfomers on Blue-Ray.....sigh.

[PrimeBane]

Why do they call it "day and date" release?

And why isn't Blades of Glory a combo disc then?

http://www.amazon.com/Blades-Glory-DVD-Will-Ferrell/dp/B000RGSO7S/ref=pd_bbs_sr_6/103-8054331-8960604?ie=UTF8&s=dvd&qid=1187629435&sr=8-6
I'm confused.

:(

Day and Date is in relation to DVD releases since DVD is still THE standard.

Blades has combo pricing... it's probably just the wrong art for the disk. I'd be VERY suprised if it wasn't a combo disk.

[PrimeBane]

Well, the one thing I really like out of all of this (and I'm not labelling anyone here with the tag), but it's nice to have two big name exclusive films in Transformers and Shrek the 3rd to toss back at the Blu-ray fanbois everytime they bring up Pirates and Spiderman. :)

I may be format neutral, but I still prefer HD DVD to BD.

[SBrooks1]

How do you think the idiots at BlockBuster feel right now????

No HD Transformers..... No HD Shrek 3.....

:D

[PrimeBane]

Me thinks Blockbuster will re-evaluate it's stance now. They may not bring in all HD DVDs, but you have to think they'll bring in the exclusives at least.

[oaktown2000]

woot.....just got my first ever Blu-Rays from the Sony Stle store......now I'm just waiting on the PS3 to show up so I can watch them :mad: :o :)

[freezerfuel]

Now HD DVD needs to release all of it's movies in a combo format with no standalone DVD release, lower the price and BLAMMMO. :D Maybe they'll wait until next year.

[Preditor74]

Man I was just starting to lose hope on HD DVD again but they come and sweep me up! I love it!

I keep trying to convince myself "maybe I should go BD" but then something like this happens!

The way I see it...Universal now will definetly stay HD exclusive (less pressure) and the BDA will attack WB for exclusivity.

I honestly think if WB were to go exclusive...it would be HD only because they seem to favor us more (more exclusive titles like Batman, more extra features, dropping the combo format)....

I am just hoping now that Fox will turn around by next years CES.

[johnnyknoxsvill]

I may be format neutral, but I still prefer HD DVD to BD.

What he said. I hate the fanboys running their mouths all day with nothing but poo comin out.

[WitchKingOfAngmar]

Man I was just starting to lose hope on HD DVD again but they come and sweep me up! I love it!

I keep trying to convince myself "maybe I should go BD" but then something like this happens!

The way I see it...Universal now will definetly stay HD exclusive (less pressure) and the BDA will attack WB for exclusivity.

I honestly think if WB were to go exclusive...it would be HD only because they seem to favor us more (more exclusive titles like Batman, more extra features, dropping the combo format)....

I am just hoping now that Fox will turn around by next years CES.

Ummm..Batman Begins was/is on both formats. But, not to say they haven't done plenty of other HD exclusives, even if only for a year at a time. Polar Express was, Matrix still is for the time being, V for Vendetta....both Chocolate Factory movies..

[PrimeBane]

Batman Begins is only on HD DVD for the moment. There has been no BD announcement of the title.

[Preditor74]

Phew...thanks for the backup PB. I was about to grab a spoon and eat crow if I somehow missed Batman on BluRay.

I could honestly see Disney go nuetral next. They will see HD-DVD having the Harry Potters (possibly before Blu Ray), and now Dreamworks Animation on HD DVD only as well. That is a HUGE chunk of the kid friendly/family market...so why not have them take advantage of it.

I hope this is the domino effect HD-DVD needed to get the gears moving....one studio moving to exclusive...to BD exclusive studios going nuetral...to maybe nuetral studios going exclusive....

Man if New Line suddenly says "HD-DVD Only" Blu Ray will be the new UMD. BDA should be going after New Line right now!

[PrimeBane]

Newline is under Warner, so if one goes, so does the other.

Disney is pretty entrenched in BD right now... they even have a cross country tour with Panasonic to preach its virtues.

I'd say that if another studio were to come over, it would probably be Lion's Gate.

[JaylisJayP]

Me thinks Blockbuster will re-evaluate it's stance now. They may not bring in all HD DVDs, but you have to think they'll bring in the exclusives at least.

agreed

[jskrap]

Going back to the HD-DVD combo disk discussion, are they still going to sell combos going forward or are they going to be phased out? I know most people hate them, but I like being able to watch my movies at a friends house who doesn't have HD-DVD or on my portable DVD player.

[PrimeBane]

Day and date releases (ie new movies that come out on the same day as the DVD) will continue to be combos for now.

Catalogue titles and represses of day and date will be HD DVD only.

[JaylisJayP]

Found out I'm getting the Sony SR5 HD camcorder with a 40GB HDD, should be here by the end of the week! Can't wait, I went out and picked up a 500GB external hard drive in anticipation.

[UK_DaNnY]

Hi Everyone,

I'll post pics up at dinner but before i went to work this morning post came and in it was dawn of the dead unrated. cant wait get home and watch this.

[freezerfuel]

Going back to the HD-DVD combo disk discussion, are they still going to sell combos going forward or are they going to be phased out? I know most people hate them, but I like being able to watch my movies at a friends house who doesn't have HD-DVD or on my portable DVD player.

I complain about them a lot but if they continued to make them I wouldn't have a problem with it. I just don't like paying extra for something I don't need. They should either a) lower the price or b) release an HD DVD version only along with the Combo to give consumers an option. I don't think Combo's are going to disappear for a long time.

[imaginegrafix]

Going back to the HD-DVD combo disk discussion, are they still going to sell combos going forward or are they going to be phased out? I know most people hate them, but I like being able to watch my movies at a friends house who doesn't have HD-DVD or on my portable DVD player.

Yeah, I know I'm in the minority but I like it too for the same reasons.



Huge move yesterday for the HD DVD camp, pretty surprising too...... this holiday season is going to be interesting. I have to say it's funny to watch the sony boys trying to spin this and downplay it.

[UK_DaNnY]

Pics of dawn of the dead:

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b218/danny19_/07-08-21_12-39.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b218/danny19_/07-08-21_12-41.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b218/danny19_/07-08-21_12-391.jpg

enjoy

[SBrooks1]

Looks like the Paramount/Dreamworks HD-DVD exclusivity is for only 18 months......

The two studios may have left themselves wiggle room, however. Paramount’s agreement to use only HD DVD is limited to only 18 months.

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/08/21/technology/21disney.html?_r=3&adxnnl=1&oref=slogin&ref=technology&adxnnlx=1187698372-ScVTEemW2JLDEd8S7v048Q&oref=slogin

[freezerfuel]

^ Very nice. ^

Man, just checked out AVS forum and they're going absolutely bat**** over there. Blu-ray supporters saying it will be the end of all HD and packing it up and going back to DVD. That doesn't make any sense, if they invested so much money to be an early adopter why wouldn't they just wait a bit longer and get a dual format player? It's not like if a format dies your movies are obsolete or you will even need 2 players for the 2 different formats. Hell, they should be called Triple Format Players since I'd expect they would play DVD as well. That's the beauty of it, in the end you will only need one player no matter which format wins. This isn't the 90's where you would need a VHS player, a Laserdisc player, and a DVD player if you wanted everything. People are so stupid.

[Thee Ultimate Collector]

^ Very nice. ^

Man, just checked out AVS forum and they're going absolutely bat**** over there. Blu-ray supporters saying it will be the end of all HD and packing it up and going back to DVD. That doesn't make any sense, if they invested so much money to be an early adopter why wouldn't they just wait a bit longer and get a dual format player? It's not like if a format dies your movies are obsolete or you will even need 2 players for the 2 different formats. Hell, they should be called Triple Format Players since I'd expect they would play DVD as well. That's the beauty of it, in the end you will only need one player no matter which format wins. This isn't the 90's where you would need a VHS player, a Laserdisc player, and a DVD player if you wanted everything. People are so stupid.

well said

[ewto16]

Looks like the Paramount/Dreamworks HD-DVD exclusivity is for only 18 months......

Woo-Hoo!!! Now I can get Transfomers on Blu-Ray with some special features or a directors cut when they release it in anticipation of the next movie. :rolleyes: :(

[johnnyknoxsvill]

Looks like the Paramount/Dreamworks HD-DVD exclusivity is for only 18 months......

Who knows that might be all the time they need. Hopefully they can get Paramount/Dreamworks longer depending on how disk sales do.

[HollandX]

Day and date releases (ie new movies that come out on the same day as the DVD) will continue to be combos for now.

Except Blades of Glory.

Which weirds you out.

[PrimeBane]

It does... especially for the price.

If it's not a combo, why the same MSRP?

As for the 18 months for HD DVD and Paramount/Dreamworks, odds are it will all be combo players by that time unless BD has some nasty tricks up it's sleeves yet.

[HollandX]

Before BoG was canceled on BD yesterday, it was ALSO $27.95 on Amazon. So they were both the same price. I don't know why they were both so high.

But this link doesn't help anymore as Amazon canceled all BoG on BD orders. I wonder what they did with all the discs. They HAD to have all been printed by now for sure. I bet a few leak onto eBay.

http://www.amazon.com/Blades-Glory-Blu-ray-Will-Ferrell/dp/B000RGSO7I/ref=pd_bbs_sr_3/103-8054331-8960604?ie=UTF8&s=dvd&qid=1187711135&sr=8-3

[HollandX]

There are a ton of BoG's on BD on eBay right now. But I think all are still misguided pre-orders.

ie http://cgi.ebay.com/Blades-of-Glory-2007-NEW-SEALED-Blu-ray-Disc-Pre-Ordr_W0QQitemZ170141093998QQihZ007QQcategoryZ617QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

one was listed in the past 24 hours for $46.49 with shipping. I wonder if he's trying to make a quick buck because he has the product, or if he's just uninformed.

http://cgi.ebay.com/Blades-of-Glory-2007-Blu-ray-Disc-Will-Ferrell-NEW_W0QQitemZ180151391156QQihZ008QQcategoryZ617QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem