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

[JaylisJayP]

Some have said Perfect Storm, while not superb PQ, definitely offers a good upgrade over DVD. I really need to rent this one and see for myself.

[grif32]

I thought Perfect Storm looked awesome. Not top tier but alot better then DVD by far.

[grif32]

Ok who has the following for sale:

Eastern promises
Bourne Ult
Stardust.

[grif32]

Watched Rush Hour 3 on SD DVD. My GF bought it. She even said that will be the last DVD we buy because the picture is so bad even on my HD DVD player.

Movie was pretty funny. Not the best of the 3 but still a good flick.

First SD DVD I have watched in a very long time. HD DVD and BR is soooooooooooooo much better. And now I am so spoiled. People who say upscale dvd's look HD are just flat out crazy..

Chris

[JaylisJayP]

The only SD DVD I've watched in the last year at my own choice was Brazil...and that was the Criterion Collection upscaled on the PS3, and I must say it looked great, but still nowhere near a blu-ray disc.

[JaylisJayP]

^^^ check that, the only SD DVD that I own that I've watched....I get DVDs through Netflix all the time still.

[kawai7]

Most of the time I will check out highdefdigest.com for their reviews first before I buy however there are some occassions where I forget to check and then I purchase the movie and then I end up with a poor quality video transfer. Its not totally poor, but sometimes just a little bit above par but for Hi-Def, you'd think it would be a bit of an upgrade.

Here are some examples:

Perfect Storm - video a little bit above DVD standard, sound is good

The Kingdom - amazing video transfer, very flat audio

Kiss of the Dragon - the video quality is the same as the DVD with some slightly WORSE moments during some scenes, noticeable color bleeding, definitely avoid this , there is some weird hue that makes you wonder if you got your color settings played around with. Sounds great though!!

Oceans Thirteen - video is good on well lit scenes but inside the Casino, there are alot of bright oranges, and they reflect on the actor's faces and create an orange fuzz that makes you ask yourself, could the video quality be a bit better on DVD during those scenes because it on DVD, at least those fuzzy scenes will appear more flat looking

Oldboy - The Region 1 DVD and Original Korean DVD have poor transfers. So the Blu-Ray release of it was really not that great either because it only had a poor master to work with. It does appear sharper than its standard release but definitely below par for current Hi-Def standards.

Just go ahead and read the reviews at High Def Digest and they mention alot of the things I have brought up. Not every Hi-Def movie is perfect.



Even Transformers, which looks amazing, but during night shots appears grainy during certain scenes. Take a look at the indoor Pentagon scenes and look in the areas which are supposed to be black, they're unusually grainy. And also right before BB and Barricade fight, he does a brake turn which throws Sam and Mikaela out of the car. From THAT particular frame onto the scene where Sam and Mikaela hold hands and look above into the night sky to watch the Autobots arrive from the Observatory....those scenes are could be ALOT more crisper. There are lots of noise specs in the areas which should be black night sky. Some argued that it was filmed that way but I just wonder why would the video be deteriorated only for those scenes? Other exterior night shots appear really good with very solid / deep blacks but the particular scenes I mention above were definitely something that is very noticeable.

[ToightLikeATiger]

Prices lowered slightly!

300 HD-DVD (sealed)- $14dlv
Bourne Identity HD-DVD (sealed) $14dlvd
Spiderman 3 Blu Ray (opened)- $17dlvd

All of those for sale. I accept Paypal. Looking to move those titles so I can purchase some other things. Need money in Paypal account so I can bid and win Spiderman trilogy on ebay . PM me if interested! Thanks.

[kawai7]

Dammit... I was looking forward to watching this one (it was one of my free movies in the box with my A2).

It's really a shame... the DVD version looked very good when it came out. :(



Here is what Kenneth M. Bracke said about the Perfect Storm HD-DVD, reviewed from High Def Digest

Well, I hate to say it, but 'The Perfect Storm' is the first time I've been genuinely disappointed in an HD DVD. While I haven't been blown away by every release on the format so far, most more or less have met my general expectations. So perhaps I was just hoping for more from the transfer on 'The Perfect Storm' -- it just doesn't offer the level of upgrade I wanted compared to the standard DVD release of the film. Not that this disc looks poor, it just doesn't look that spectacular.

First, the positives. The source material looks to be in good shape, with no print anomalies or defects present. Blacks are also nice and solid, and contrast pretty good. Colors are also naturally rendered (though not nearly as well saturated and eye-popping as I had hoped). The transfer is also indicative of the HD DVD format's ability to handle rapid action quite well; there are no instances of blockiness or pixelization, which is a problem that often hampers over-the-air and terrestrial broadcasts of HD-based material.

Unfortunately, none of those plusses can offset my biggest gripes with this transfer, which is that the image does not look all that detailed for most of its runtime, and also appears quite soft. I'm used to HD material looking three-dimensional, or at least boasting considerable visible depth. 'The Perfect Storm' looked pretty flat to me throughout, more akin to standard DVD quality than HD. I also was surprised that it didn't look sharper. Most shots appear too misty and soft-focus. Granted, this image looks far from terrible, but it just seems so... average. And I just don't expect that on HD DVD. Call me cranky, but I was disappointed with this one.

[JaylisJayP]

Here is what Kenneth M. Bracke said about the Perfect Storm HD-DVD, reviewed from High Def Digest

Well, I hate to say it, but 'The Perfect Storm' is the first time I've been genuinely disappointed in an HD DVD. While I haven't been blown away by every release on the format so far, most more or less have met my general expectations. So perhaps I was just hoping for more from the transfer on 'The Perfect Storm' -- it just doesn't offer the level of upgrade I wanted compared to the standard DVD release of the film. Not that this disc looks poor, it just doesn't look that spectacular.

First, the positives. The source material looks to be in good shape, with no print anomalies or defects present. Blacks are also nice and solid, and contrast pretty good. Colors are also naturally rendered (though not nearly as well saturated and eye-popping as I had hoped). The transfer is also indicative of the HD DVD format's ability to handle rapid action quite well; there are no instances of blockiness or pixelization, which is a problem that often hampers over-the-air and terrestrial broadcasts of HD-based material.

Unfortunately, none of those plusses can offset my biggest gripes with this transfer, which is that the image does not look all that detailed for most of its runtime, and also appears quite soft. I'm used to HD material looking three-dimensional, or at least boasting considerable visible depth. 'The Perfect Storm' looked pretty flat to me throughout, more akin to standard DVD quality than HD. I also was surprised that it didn't look sharper. Most shots appear too misty and soft-focus. Granted, this image looks far from terrible, but it just seems so... average. And I just don't expect that on HD DVD. Call me cranky, but I was disappointed with this one.

yeah, i've seen this. One of the other big review sites, it's either DVDtalk or DVDauthority, gave it 5/5 for PQ...so you probably need to judge for yourself...at least I do.

[grif32]

Another solution for your PS3:

Spend $14 at Amazon for the Nyko Blu-Wave Remote, plug in the USB Dongle into the PS3, and toss the Nyko remote in the drawer.

Then add the Nyko as a device in the Logitech software and you get IR Control.

Posted from BR.com

sounds easy enough.

[TheRedOx]

Got the PS3 last night - I'm officially purple now.
Didn't have much time to set everything up but it's up and running great. Absolutely no HDMI handshake issues, audio is sounding great, no Wi-Fi connection problems at all - very pleased about all that, it was a snap. I like the PS Store, downloads are pretty quick which surprised me. Downloaded Motorstorm demo and it was gorgeous and fun. I'll get a couple games and some BD movies this weekend when I have time to enjoy them.
It was too late to really check out Spiderman 3 but I did pop it in - the menu looked great and I checked out some previews that were on the disc, all looked spectacular.
I'm very happy with the system after one night, only problem is that I have no space on my component rack for it, gotta move stuff around a bit I guess.

[ewto16]

Uncharted is the best PS3 game to get.

[TheRedOx]

Uncharted is the best PS3 game to get.

Cool, I started dl'ing that demo too along with Ratchet & Clank. Don't know if the PS3 downloads in the background when you power off the system. I'll check it out tonight.
What else should I get? I like EA Sports games, racing games, FPS' (if they're easy enough for me) and adventure-type stuff as well. I probably won't play online. For the most part though, for multi-format titles I imagine I'll pick up the 360 versions if not just for the achievements.
More importantly, in keeping with the thread, what BD movies should be first on my pickup list? I'm really wanting Ratatouille, Pirate's (At World's End) and Sunshine as these are movies I haven't even seen yet. I'm also thinking of double-dipping on Hellboy, Cars and some of the Saw movies from their SD counterparts.

[SBrooks1]

http://www.imagehosting.com/out.php/i1544240_hdcrippled2pc8.jpg

bwahahahaahahahaaha :D

[freezerfuel]

^ :(



More importantly, in keeping with the thread, what BD movies should be first on my pickup list? I'm really wanting Ratatouille, Pirate's (At World's End) and Sunshine as these are movies I haven't even seen yet. I'm also thinking of double-dipping on Hellboy, Cars and some of the Saw movies from their SD counterparts.

The Simpsons was the first movie I saw on Blu-ray... amazing picture. It's an animation so it's bound to look good but damn, I was overly impressed.

[burngwngs]

Uncharted is the best PS3 game to get.

That's a little overboard , don't you think?:confused: I enjoyed Resistance much more. I even like Heavenly Sword more than uncharted. :D;)

[ToightLikeATiger]

I didnt see any PS3 games that looked any good to me.

[Hanky Panky]

Resistance was not bad for an initial release...the recent pics of Resistance 2 do look promising.

[burngwngs]

Cool, I started dl'ing that demo too along with Ratchet & Clank. Don't know if the PS3 downloads in the background when you power off the system. I'll check it out tonight.
What else should I get? I like EA Sports games, racing games, FPS' (if they're easy enough for me) and adventure-type stuff as well. I probably won't play online. For the most part though, for multi-format titles I imagine I'll pick up the 360 versions if not just for the achievements.
More importantly, in keeping with the thread, what BD movies should be first on my pickup list? I'm really wanting Ratatouille, Pirate's (At World's End) and Sunshine as these are movies I haven't even seen yet. I'm also thinking of double-dipping on Hellboy, Cars and some of the Saw movies from their SD counterparts.

Hellboy is a great double dip but you should really get Cars, 300, Fantastic 4: Rise of the Silver Surfer, Live Free or Die Hard, and Night at the Museum, which all look so sweet on BD. Those are my favorite BD title to date.:cool:

[oaktown2000]

It's not HD related...but rather then post all over the place...I'll just post it here......since many own both...the PS3 and the 360.

I want to buy a Guitar Hero wireless bundle. Which system should I get it on. I've heard the 360s (IR) have problems registering the wireless signal (co-worker just returned his yesterday). I imagine the PS3 is a bluetooth signal (right?). Has there been any mention of problems with those receiving the wireless signals from the guitars?

[stupidsuck]

It's not HD related...but rather then post all over the place...I'll just post it here......since many own both...the PS3 and the 360.

I want to buy a Guitar Hero wireless bundle. Which system should I get it on. I've heard the 360s (IR) have problems registering the wireless signal (co-worker just returned his yesterday). I imagine the PS3 is a bluetooth signal (right?). Has there been any mention of problems with those receiving the wireless signals from the guitars?

No I was sadly mistaken when I thought the ps3 guitar was blue tooth. There's an IR receiver that you plug into a USB port.

I believe the games are the same on both systems but if you want to get a 2nd guitar you may want to go with the 360 version since they have yet to release an extra guitar on ps3 (without buying the bundle with game)

[stupidsuck]

Guys, I'm looking at getting this Logitech speaker system to use with my ps3. I like this one because it is relatively small with a small receiver (which i really need because of no more space on my TV stand) and my living room isn't all that big. I also have to have at least the rear wireless capability (otherwise the wifey says no, because she says no wires, no matter how good i can hide them). So basically, this looks like about the only thing that fits my criteria, it's also relatively cheap.
I'm also not too much of an audio snob, I just really want some form of surround sound.
So I'm looking for opinions on this system
http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm/speakers_audio/home_pc_speakers/devices/229&cl=hk,en

[JaylisJayP]

It's not HD related...but rather then post all over the place...I'll just post it here......since many own both...the PS3 and the 360.

I want to buy a Guitar Hero wireless bundle. Which system should I get it on. I've heard the 360s (IR) have problems registering the wireless signal (co-worker just returned his yesterday). I imagine the PS3 is a bluetooth signal (right?). Has there been any mention of problems with those receiving the wireless signals from the guitars?

i've had zero problems with my wireless guitar hero guitar on 360. It was a no brainer for me since I already had the explorer for the 360, as well.

[JaylisJayP]

off HDDVD.org.....just think it's interesting. Of course blu-ray will remain in the lead, but HD DVD just isn't going away. Regardless of how much the bluboys want it to happen, there's too many HD DVD owners at this point.

http://www.dvdtown.com/news/hd-dvd-gain-in-market-share-after-huge-drop/5172



What's New
By Henning Molbaek
FIRST ONLINE Jan 29, 2008

The latest NPD numbers shows HD DVD gaining back some of the lost market share in the week ending January 19th.

As we reported yesterday Blu-ray owned week 2 with 92.53% market share according to numbers from NPD.

The numbers from week 3 (ending January 19th) had HD DVD gaining some the lost ground back. HD DVD had 34.37% against 65.63% on the Blu-ray side.

Lastly, Stephen Baker, vice president of the NPD, has said that to base sales trends on weekly sales is very uncertain. So, please interpret the data accordingly.

Please note: NPD figures do not include sale from online giant Amazon.com and the data is based on standalone player sales excluding the Playstation 3 and XBOX 360 HD DVD add-ons.

[PrimeBane]

It's good to see that Toshiba is at least moving stock. :)

I still hope to pick up an A35 for a good price at some point... of course then I'll have to figure out how the hell I'll dump my A2 or 360 addon. :(

[Kleptos18]

I GOT MY TV!! :)

I hooked up the 360, hdmi of course, and played a little madden.

All I can say is, what have i been doing all this time.. GOD it's beautiful.

Thanks for all the help guys, i'm so happy with my purchase.

[oaktown2000]

All I can say is, what have i been doing all this time.. GOD it's beautiful.

That was my exact reaction after hooking up my 360 to an HDTV as well.

[JaylisJayP]

I GOT MY TV!! :)

I hooked up the 360, hdmi of course, and played a little madden.

All I can say is, what have i been doing all this time.. GOD it's beautiful.

Thanks for all the help guys, i'm so happy with my purchase.

awesome, enjoy HD!

[TheRedOx]

I did it the other way around. Bought my HDTV 4 years ago and went almost a year before I was able to feed it some HD material.

[JaylisJayP]

Does anyone want/need Resident Evil Apocalypse on blu-ray? I might end up with an extra one because I screwed up what I said I needed on a trade.

I'd trade or sell for $13 dlvd.

[oaktown2000]

Can I watch it once before you sell it ;)

[avsfan21]

Can I watch it once before you sell it ;)

Not sure you would want to waste your time.

[WitchKingOfAngmar]

off HDDVD.org.....just think it's interesting. Of course blu-ray will remain in the lead, but HD DVD just isn't going away. Regardless of how much the bluboys want it to happen, there's too many HD DVD owners at this point.

http://www.dvdtown.com/news/hd-dvd-gain-in-market-share-after-huge-drop/5172



What's New
By Henning Molbaek
FIRST ONLINE Jan 29, 2008

The latest NPD numbers shows HD DVD gaining back some of the lost market share in the week ending January 19th.

As we reported yesterday Blu-ray owned week 2 with 92.53% market share according to numbers from NPD.

The numbers from week 3 (ending January 19th) had HD DVD gaining some the lost ground back. HD DVD had 34.37% against 65.63% on the Blu-ray side.

Lastly, Stephen Baker, vice president of the NPD, has said that to base sales trends on weekly sales is very uncertain. So, please interpret the data accordingly.

Please note: NPD figures do not include sale from online giant Amazon.com and the data is based on standalone player sales excluding the Playstation 3 and XBOX 360 HD DVD add-ons.

You also have to remember (and the article is on Hidefdigest for those that want to check) that those numbers earlier DID include all the blu-ray players given away with HD TVs. I think only one company nationwide wasn't giving away a BR player with a TV. The number of actual players SOLD was far, far lower than 93% market share. Granted, that's still a crap ton more players pushed out to consumers.

[HollandX]

UPDATE:

Bought a New Washer and Dryer :) Unreal deal on them. Plus I bought a 20% off coupon from Home Depot on the bay for $1.50 and Lowes allowed me to use them on my washer and Dryer? Saved about $400.00 on them both. Best $1.50 I have ever spent. I bought a total of 6 of ebay. Amazing the things you find out there.

Also my buddy found another electrical problem. Small one and we fixed it.

EVERYTHING IS WORKING NOW!!!

Problem was with the bottom oulet. He checked the top oulet and everything was working. So when I used the bottom outlet things were not working. I am some f-edup electrical but I am replacing it all this summer.

My heart is now better :).

So the Monster Surge really did its job. Damn house still smells like burnt Plastic... But not bad for the scare I had about losing components.

Glad everything got fixed. Do you have to get a new surge protector now? I thought I read they can only handle a giant surge once.

[HollandX]

Even Transformers, which looks amazing, but during night shots appears grainy during certain scenes. Take a look at the indoor Pentagon scenes and look in the areas which are supposed to be black, they're unusually grainy. And also right before BB and Barricade fight, he does a brake turn which throws Sam and Mikaela out of the car. From THAT particular frame onto the scene where Sam and Mikaela hold hands and look above into the night sky to watch the Autobots arrive from the Observatory....those scenes are could be ALOT more crisper. There are lots of noise specs in the areas which should be black night sky. Some argued that it was filmed that way but I just wonder why would the video be deteriorated only for those scenes? Other exterior night shots appear really good with very solid / deep blacks but the particular scenes I mention above were definitely something that is very noticeable.


No worries, that'll all be fixed in the Blu-ray release of the film. It will look PERFECT and of a MUCH better quality than the HD DVD release.

[HollandX]

Another solution for your PS3:

Spend $14 at Amazon for the Nyko Blu-Wave Remote, plug in the USB Dongle into the PS3, and toss the Nyko remote in the drawer.

Then add the Nyko as a device in the Logitech software and you get IR Control.

Posted from BR.com

sounds easy enough.

lol we've been doing that for many months.

:D

[HollandX]

Don't know if the PS3 downloads in the background when you power off the system.

I don't think so. Isn't it off when it's off?

[HollandX]

i've had zero problems with my wireless guitar hero guitar on 360.

confirm

[PrimeBane]

No worries, that'll all be fixed in the Blu-ray release of the film. It will look PERFECT and of a MUCH better quality than the HD DVD release.

SCREW YOU MICHAEL BAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

:p ;) :D

[HollandX]

SCREW YOU MICHAEL BAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

:p ;) :D

The future is blu. Red keeps the man down.

[imaginegrafix]

off HDDVD.org.....just think it's interesting. Of course blu-ray will remain in the lead, but HD DVD just isn't going away. Regardless of how much the bluboys want it to happen, there's too many HD DVD owners at this point.

It's probably closer to 50/50 w/ amazon sales since HD DVD does so well on there.

HD DVD isn't going anywhere - blu got complacent after Warner, they should have paid whatever it took to get uni and paramount to go neutral and have them announce it right away.

[imaginegrafix]

Lost Season 3 on blu for $39.99 from amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Lost-Complete-Third-Season-Blu-ray/dp/B000TFINY6/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=dvd&qid=1201643667&sr=8-1

[PrimeBane]

The future is blu. Red keeps the man down.

I reject your future and subsitute my own. :D

[ewto16]

I don't think so. Isn't it off when it's off?

Correct, off is off. No background DL while the system is off.

[PrimeBane]

Does anyone have a copy of Sunshine on BD they are looking to part with? :)

[TastySweetNutz]

Lost Season 3 on blu for $39.99 from amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Lost-Complete-Third-Season-Blu-ray/dp/B000TFINY6/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=dvd&qid=1201643667&sr=8-1

Pretty good deal. Thanks for the heads up.

[JaylisJayP]

J&R.com has all the Starz/Anchor Bay movies for $10.99. I picked up Masters of Horror Vol. 2, 3, 4.

[GPWYANKEE]

Anybody have

Devil Wears Prada or Chicago on Blu Ray FS?????

[Thee Ultimate Collector]

Anybody have

Devil Wears Prada or Chicago on Blu Ray FS?????


I know this sounds weird...but...I really liked Devil wears Prada

[grif32]

Glad everything got fixed. Do you have to get a new surge protector now? I thought I read they can only handle a giant surge once.

Yeap bought a new one. The other one melted.

[Daig12]

Anyone have:

Top Gun
Mr. and Mrs. Smith
Superbad

On Blu-Ray for sale at a decent price??

[grif32]

At CC today I noticed the price of SD DVD's are now up to $21.99 not the $19.99 they use to be. WOW!! I couldnt believe it.

Any reason to why they shot up?

The only 2 reason's I can think of are :

1) Have people notice SD DVD prices are up and they will start to see what a bargin BR Disc are and start buying them to help phase out SD DVD's

2) Higher SD DVD prices and continue with High BR Disc prices. That way they do not have to discount BR disc so much at BB and CC places like that.

[JaylisJayP]

At CC today I noticed the price of SD DVD's are now up to $21.99 not the $19.99 they use to be. WOW!! I couldnt believe it.

Any reason to why they shot up?

The only 2 reason's I can think of are :

1) Have people notice SD DVD prices are up and they will start to see what a bargin BR Disc are and start buying them to help phase out SD DVD's

2) Higher SD DVD prices and continue with High BR Disc prices. That way they do not have to discount BR disc so much at BB and CC places like that.

Wow, $21.99 for a DVD! That's crazy.

[TastySweetNutz]

I know this sounds weird...but...I really liked Devil wears Prada

Don't be ashamed my friend, I actually liked the movie as well.

[HollandX]

Anyone have:

Top Gun
Mr. and Mrs. Smith
Superbad

On Blu-Ray for sale at a decent price??

I'll sell you Top Gun on Blu-ray for one MILLION dollars... OR if you reply in the next five minutes, $0.01.

Hurry... Make it fast, time is tissue.

[HollandX]

Yeap bought a new one. The other one melted.

Crazyness. He sacrificed himself for your electronics. He deserves a proper burial.

http://forums.smirkinchicken.com/images/smilies/patriot.gif

[Daig12]

I'll sell you Top Gun on Blu-ray for one MILLION dollars... OR if you reply in the next five minutes, $0.01.

Hurry... Make it fast, time is tissue.

I have no idea what that means......but I'll take it!! :)

[HollandX]

I have no idea what that means......but I'll take it!! :)

Heh... I'm just messing with you. Top Gun isn't out on Blu-ray. It's HD DVD only.

[Daig12]

Heh... I'm just messing with you. Top Gun isn't out on Blu-ray. It's HD DVD only.


Oh, ok. Thanks though. I thought I read it was coming out/came out on BR last October?

[JaylisJayP]

Oh, ok. Thanks though. I thought I read it was coming out/came out on BR last October?

Paramount went HD DVD exclusive last summer. Top Gun is Paramount so it never appeared on blu-ray.

[grif32]

Crazyness. He sacrificed himself for your electronics. He deserves a proper burial.

http://forums.smirkinchicken.com/images/smilies/patriot.gif

LOL boy I am so thank-ful.. I was almost in tears.

Ok I was in tears when nothing would work until we found out the problem.

[Hartigan'sCannon]

What model monster surge protector did you go with this time grif?

[GPWYANKEE]

Got Layer Cake in a Blu Ray Trade-Great movie for those of you that havent seen it.

[ToightLikeATiger]

Prices lowered slightly!

300 HD-DVD (sealed)- $14dlv
Bourne Identity HD-DVD (sealed) $14dlvd
Spiderman 3 Blu Ray (opened)- $17dlvd

All of those for sale. I accept Paypal. Looking to move those titles so I can purchase some other things. Need money in Paypal account so I can bid and win Spiderman trilogy on ebay . PM me if interested! Thanks.

:( It hurts when noone wants you.

[HollandX]

i already have those 3. probably everyone here does. :(

[HollandX]

LOL boy I am so thank-ful.. I was almost in tears.

Ok I was in tears when nothing would work until we found out the problem.

http://forums.smirkinchicken.com/images/smilies/nf.gif

[ToightLikeATiger]

i already have those 3. probably everyone here does. :(

well damn you and damn everyone else :( :( :( :p

[JaylisJayP]

Looking to buy Van Helsing, Perfect Storm HD DVD and Resident Evil: Extinction blu-ray.

[kawai7]

Hi all, does anyone have Apollo 13 on HD-DVD?

I have a purchasing dillemma right now. I originally wanted to get the Apollo 13 HD-DVD but then I read that the Dolby 5.1 track is not as good as the Anniversary Edition's DTS track on DVD.

Also regarding the video, of course the HD-DVD picture quality will be better than standard DVD however I read some articles about a framing issue:

The HD-DVD is presented at 2:35:1 which is what the Anniversary one has. However the Anniversary comes in 2 versions (widescreen and full frame). A reviewer said that that standard widescreen DVD is ACTUALLY the full frame one but with black bars covering the top and bottom portion of the screen.

Is that true? I noticed on eBay that everyone sells the Full Frame version of the Anniversary DVD, is it because Universal is aware of this problem and made the widescreen version out of print?

If that is the case, then I'm wondering if I should go with the Full Frame DVD with the DTS track or the HD-DVD with the subpar Dolby 5.1 Track.

Thanks!


Here is a review i copy and pasted from amazon. But this is the only review I have read about the framing issue. Nowhere else mentions it.


REVIEW STARTS HERE:
The problem with this movie is the claimed "Widescreen" format, which is fraudulent. What they have done is taken the full-screen version... and sliced the top and bottom off of the picture and fraudulently packaged it as "Widescreen."

I am currently watching "Apollo 13" on the Sci-Fi channel in fullscreen... and running the DVD at the same time, flipping between them. What is immediately viewed is that the width of the field of view is identical between the cable TV fullscreen version and the claimed DVD widescreen version. The DVD "Widescreen" version has deliberately cut off the top and bottom of the fullscreen view and then dared to call this "Widescreen." As all who have compared fullscreen with widescreen know, the widescreen version should reveal up to a third more width than fullscreen without decreasing at all the vertical field of view. This DVD does exactly the reverse, keeping the width the same as the fullscreen cable TV airing while cutting off the top and bottom of the fullscreen picture.

Thus... this DVD has ripped customers off in claiming it is Widescreen.

[SBrooks1]

kawai7, all your questions about the Apollo 11 HD DVD should be answered here with the video and audio review of it from High Def Digest....

The Video: Sizing Up the Picture

Out of all the HD-DVD titles released thus far, 'Apollo 13' is the oldest, a whopping eleven years ancient this year. So I was intrigued to see how the format's high-resolution capabilities would lend themselves to a film produced before the age of ultra-crisp digital technology was in full bloom. Also unique about 'Apollo 13' is that the film was re-released to IMAX theaters last year, reframed from its original 2.35:1 theatrical aspect ratio to a more IMAX-friendly 1.66:1. It was also given a top-flight digital restoration to accommodate the format's huge screen, albeit with a trade-off -- version was also trimmed by 24 minutes, necessitated by the limitations of reel size for IMAX large-format films.

The version of 'Apollo 13' presented on this HD DVD is the film's original 140-minute theatrical cut in 2.35:1 widescreen. Though last year's Anniversary Edition standard DVD release also included the IMAX version presented in 1.66:1 anamorphic widescreen, that version is not included here. Personally, I'd much rather have the theatrical version (as I feel many of the cuts made for the IMAX version rob supporting characters of their depth and blunt the film's overall emotional impact), though it would have been nice to have both versions, if only for comparison's sake. Needless to add, completists will be far from pleased.

But most problematic about the missing IMAX version is that some reviewers of the Anniversary Edition DVD found it boasted improved image quality over the 2.35:1 theatrical transfer. I have a completely unsupported theory on that, which is that a 1.66:1 crop culled from a 2.35:1 master image is basically turning a long-shot into a close-up -- of course you are going to see more detail. Not to mention that a 1.66:1 image fills up more of a TV screen than a 2.35:1 image, so I'm not surprised many found the IMAX version on the previous DVD more visually impressive, despite the compromises made to the film's content.

All that said, the 2.35:1 image presented here on this HD DVD was taken from the same new HD master minted for the Anniversary Edition standard DVD, and it does look great. I had not seen this film for many years, and doing a direct A/B comparison to both the Anniversary Edition and original (now out-of-print) original DVD from 1998 really showed how far transfer technology has come. Of course the HD-DVD blows away the original 1998 release, but it also improves upon last year's DVD reissue. Thanks to the HD format's expanded color space, colors are a bit richer -- reds especially appeared more saturated but no more noisy, and I loved the deep blues and purples of the film's vast outer space vistas. (Call me a geek, but I frequently paused the picture, just to stare at the many impressive recreations of our Earth's atmosphere.) And as expected, detail is also improved over last year's standard DVD release. Encoded as all of Universal's HD-DVD releases are at 1080p, the image is often stunning in its clarity and depth. I gained even more appreciation for the film's production design -- you can now see just how intricate are the details of the cramped ****pit of the Apollo 13, and the tiniest touches in the recreation of the NASA command center.

But perhaps what struck me the most about the HD DVD transfer was that it reminded me how incredibly well most of the film's CGI sequences have held up. Only two years after 'Jurassic Park,' the effects artists behind 'Apollo 13' combined the then-latest computer-generated trickery combined with actual Apollo 13 launch footage to create some staggering recreations. I was shocked that really nothing looked fake, even eleven years later (versus some of the dinos in 'Jurassic,' which quite frankly have dated badly in the intervening years). These sequences alone make 'Apollo 13' on HD DVD well worthy of being near the top of your pile of demo discs.

The Audio: Rating the Sound

Alas, the Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 surround track included on the HD-DVD is a disappointment, if only in comparison to the DTS track included on the Anniversary Edition DVD. Unfortunately, there is no DTS option here, and even with the increased bitrate afforded by the Dolby Digital-Plus track, it can't quite compare to the DTS.

'Apollo 13' is certainly a barn-blowing soundtrack. The Apollo 13 liftoff sequence is what home theater is made for -- and it doesn't sound terrific here. But doing some direct A/B comparisons of few scenes between the HD DVD and standard DVD DTS track, and I still felt the previous DTS was a bit fuller in its surround presence, and with stronger subwoofer LFE. I thought both soundtracks handled dialogue equally, as well as separation across all channels. Though the DTS also excelled just a tad in terms of better midrange -- especially James Horner's score, which is somewhat more robust and surging on the DTS.

Still, the Dolby Digital-Plus track is no slouch, and hardly disappointing on its own terms. Hopefully in the future, HD-DVD content suppliers will begin offering a DTS option on their disc releases and, of course, full-blown Dolby TrueHD soundtracks.

http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/59/apollo13.html

[PrimeBane]

HD-A30 $153:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/AS...nandscathed-20

HD-A35 $236
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/AS...nandscathed-20

HD-A3 $126
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/AS...nandscathed-20

[kawai7]

those are insane prices!! I bought my HD-A30 on mid Dec 07 when it was $350 plus taxes. In fact that was $100 off its original $450 CAD retail price. Freaking insane.

I feel like buying another one just to put in the other living room now.

[GPWYANKEE]

HD-A30 $153:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/AS...nandscathed-20

HD-A35 $236
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/AS...nandscathed-20

HD-A3 $126
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/AS...nandscathed-20


Ive got the HD A2-Any of these a large upgrade from what ive got??

[TheRedOx]

Ive got the HD A2-Any of these a large upgrade from what ive got??

All 3 can do 1080p while the A2 only does 1080i. I know the A35 can internally decode the TrueHD and Dolby Digital Plus stuff too rather than just send out the multichannel PCM for your receiver to process - either way you're getting the same thing but I just want to see those light up on my receiver display. A3 sucks though, your A2 is still better than that one.

[GPWYANKEE]

So right now my HD Dvd player isnt sending out the1080p its sending out 1080i??Never even knew that.

[grif32]

Ive got the HD A2-Any of these a large upgrade from what ive got??

Only the A35 which I dont think works properly unless you have a tv that does 1080p/24

Other wise I would stick with the A2

[GPWYANKEE]

Only the A35 which I dont think works properly unless you have a tv that does 1080p/24

Other wise I would stick with the A2


My TV has 1080p/24 right?

[GPWYANKEE]

Only the A35 which I dont think works properly unless you have a tv that does 1080p/24

Other wise I would stick with the A2


My TV has 1080p/24 right?

[grif32]

All 3 can do 1080p while the A2 only does 1080i. I know the A35 can internally decode the TrueHD and Dolby Digital Plus stuff too rather than just send out the multichannel PCM for your receiver to process - either way you're getting the same thing but I just want to see those light up on my receiver display. A3 sucks though, your A2 is still better than that one.

A3 is only 1080I not 1080P

[grif32]

My TV has 1080p/24 right?

I do not know. Which model do you have?

Also you probably will not see a difference between 1080i/p anyway. From the aA2 and A35

[GPWYANKEE]

I do not know. Which model do you have?

Also you probably will not see a difference between 1080i/p anyway. From the aA2 and A35

It was the most exspensive Panasonic Plasma you could buy:mad::mad:Remember when you were helping me spend all my money:(

[GPWYANKEE]

My TV Model Number is Panasonic TH50PZ700U

[grif32]

It was the most exspensive Panasonic Plasma you could buy:mad::mad:Remember when you were helping me spend all my money:(

Always my fault. Hell since I am spending your money I need a few more things :D

Yes your Tv will accept a 1080P/24 signal. Edit: some sites say yes and others says it has problems.

Isnt your BR player able to send 1080p/24?

Set your BR to that output and check it out.

[GPWYANKEE]

Always my fault. Hell since I am spending your money I need a few more things :D

Yes your Tv will accept a 1080P/24 signal


Should i get the A35??I can move the A2 upstairs.

Also Kyles Grad Party is June 29th a Sunday.Youll get a invite in the mail but wanted to give you some heads up.

[TheRedOx]

A3 is only 1080I not 1080P

Oops. Didn't know that, sorry. I just know it handles audio worse than the A2 and downconverts the new audio formats to DTS at half of the bitrate of the A2 if you don't have a receiver that can decode the TrueHD or D+.

Should i get the A35??I can move the A2 upstairs.



I would, I want one too. I honestly don't know what a good price on it is though.

[GPWYANKEE]

I would, I want one too. I honestly don't know what a good price on it is though.

The price on Amazon that Prime listed seems really cheap to me.

[freezerfuel]

All 3 can do 1080p while the A2 only does 1080i. I know the A35 can internally decode the TrueHD and Dolby Digital Plus stuff too rather than just send out the multichannel PCM for your receiver to process - either way you're getting the same thing but I just want to see those light up on my receiver display. A3 sucks though, your A2 is still better than that one.

I thought the A30 could internally decode as well?

[GPWYANKEE]

People seem to rave about the A35-Not so much the A30.I wonder if the price on Amazon comes with the two in the box and 5 more free movies by mail or just the 5 by mail.

[freezerfuel]

Quick Google search shows it does internally decode but no bitstream.


As mentioned the player does decode 5.1-channel Dolby Digital Plus and TrueHD, and outputs these signals as multichannel PCM over HDMI. It does not decode DTS-HD Master Audio, which has almost no presence on HD DVD anyway, nor does it transmit either format as native bitstreams over its HDMI 1.3 output. It also lacks multichannal analog outputs, so for high-res audio it's HDMI or bust.
I know a number of you are probably scratching your heads, and wondering if I really meant to write that this player's HDMI 1.3 output can't transmit TrueHD and DTS-HD MA as native bitstreams. It's true. TrueHD and DTS-HD MA are optional in the HDMI 1.3 spec, and my understanding is that source component manufacturers can choose HDMI transmitter chips with or without hardware level support for bitstream transmission of these codecs, and that even with a transmitter that is hardware capable the player's firmware must also support bitstream transmission. I don't know what the case is here, but as of now bitstream support isn't enabled here, and as with other next-gen player manufacturers, Toshiba only makes this feature available in a more expensive model.

http://www.ultimateavmag.com/hddiscplayers/1207tosha30/

[TheRedOx]

I thought the A30 could internally decode as well?

Nope, not unless the latest firmware did something in that regard but I don't think so.
*edit* Ok, freezer's info makes sense and now I'm even more confused ;)

[grif32]

Should i get the A35??I can move the A2 upstairs.

Also Kyles Grad Party is June 29th a Sunday.Youll get a invite in the mail but wanted to give you some heads up.

If you have disposable income then sure grab it. If not the A2 is a good machine and probably handles scratched disc better the the 1st and 3rd generation Players.

We are on vacation that week but we should be back in time for kyle.

[freezerfuel]

Question: If I have my receiver set to output 5.1 but it's a 7.1 receiver and I choose TrueHD 7.1 or DD+ 7.1 in the sound menu on the disc what happens to the sound from those 2 speakers I'm not using, does it just get absorbed into the 2 surrounds or does it not get used at all?

[freezerfuel]

Nope, not unless the latest firmware did something in that regard but I don't think so.
*edit* Ok, freezer's info makes sense and now I'm even more confused ;)

Heh, yeah me confuzzled too. I'm pretty sure it does though but since it decodes in the player you wouldn't see your TrueHD logo on your receiver. :p

[TheRedOx]

Heh, yeah me confuzzled too. I'm pretty sure it does though but since it decodes in the player you wouldn't see your TrueHD logo on your receiver. :p

yeah, that's what I think too. I'm all about the bells and whistles, man - I want to see all those light up on my receiver, that's just cool. I don't like when it just says "Multich PCM/ HDMI", how boring and they're all in the same color too ;):D

[Kleptos18]

so. I got my tv hooked up.

Got my hd/dvr box.

Hooked up my crappy little dvd/home system through components.

I gotta say. WOW. Cox doesn't have much for hd channels, but the ones I've been able to catch hd programming on, are Awesome.

Can't wait to get home tonite and watch lost.

The components definetly helped the picture from the dvd player. We had it hooked up through regular av's last nite and it kinda sucked. But it cleaned up a bit when I hooked up components.

One more round of thank you's to all the guys that helped me out.

I'll get some pictures up this weekend when I get it all cleaned up for the superbowl :)

Got some wires hanging around right now till i get the speakers set up better :)

[SBrooks1]

National Geographic now Blu-ray exclusive. Another nail in HD DVD's coffin....

National Geographic Makes Move to Blu-ray Exclusivity

http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/5/5029/original.jpeg

Warner's move to Blu-ray exclusivity has swayed yet another distribution partner to follow suit, with National Geographic confirming that it too will drop HD DVD support in favor of Blu-ray.

Distributed under the Warner umbrella along with New Line Home Entertainment, HBO Home Video and BBC Home Video, National Geographic had been format-neutral, releasing only one title thus far, 'Relentless Enemies,' on both Blu-ray and HD DVD.

Although the company says it has no plans to issue an official statement or press release, a spokesperson confirmed for us that moving forward, National Geographic will no longer release titles in the HD DVD format.

The move will go into effect with the company's upcoming release, 'Sharkwater,' which will hit Blu-ray only in April (an official announcement for the title with full details is expected shortly.)

National Geographic's decision comes in the wake of moves by Warner subsidiaries New Line and HBO to shift to Blu-ray exclusivity. BBC is now the only Warner-distributed company to remain format-neutral.

http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/National_Geographic/Industry_Trends/National_Geographic_Makes_Move_to_Blu-ray_Exclusivity/1417

[BostonFan]

National Geographic now Blu-ray exclusive. Another nail in HD DVD's coffin....

that's good news. I bet their stuff looks good in high def

[ewto16]

Sweet!! Now I can watch naked villagers in High Def!!

[PrimeBane]

If I actually owned any NG HDM, I might give a rat's ass. :p

[PrimeBane]

Frick... now I have to figure out if the A35 will work with my projector? :(

update: yay! it does :D

[CoachB]

LMAO :DSweet!! Now I can watch naked villagers in High Def!!

[Thee Ultimate Collector]

National Geographic now Blu-ray exclusive. Another nail in HD DVD's coffin....

Ohh no....I might as well throw my HD-DVD player in the trash can...i wonder how good American Gangster and Beowulf will be on Blu-ray....:D:D:D

[PrimeBane]

LOL :D

[SBrooks1]

Ohh no....I might as well throw my HD-DVD player in the trash can...i wonder how good American Gangster and Beowulf will be on Blu-ray....:D:D:D

I'll let you know about Beowulf after I import it from the UK on March 17th ;)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e130/rjbreslin/beowulfbluray.jpg

As for American Gangster, enjoy the combo with the Directors Cut only on the DVD side. What a c ock tease. :p

[PrimeBane]

You mean like "Live Free or Die Hard"? ;)

[SBrooks1]

You mean like "Live Free or Die Hard"? ;)

I knew what I was getting when I bought the box set. That's a little different than a combo with the Directors Cut on the other side of the HD disc. ;)

[PrimeBane]

That my dear Mr. Brooks, is all a matter of perspective :)

At least with the combo you have the option of watching either version (assuming you can still stomach watching upcoverted DVD).

[Tuckertank]

Anybody have a copy of Mr. Wood**** on BD they want to sell?? PM me if you do, thanks!

[ToightLikeATiger]

Another day in HD land and another day of SBrooks1 saying HD-DVD is dead. What a suprise. Can you post that chart that has no relevance again please? :)

[CoachB]

Anyone find that Disney $5.00 coupon link yet??

[SBrooks1]

Another day in HD land and another day of SBrooks1 saying HD-DVD is dead. What a suprise. Can you post that chart that has no relevance again please? :)

I wouldn't want to disappoint you Toight. ;) I could post that chart again but it would be the same as all the other weekly sales charts from the past year. And you know how relevant they are. Any guesses on how many HD DVD titles in the Top 10 this week? 1? 2? ;)

[imaginegrafix]

That my dear Mr. Brooks, is all a matter of perspective :)

At least with the combo you have the option of watching either version (assuming you can still stomach watching upcoverted DVD).

Game - Set - Match

I wouldn't want to disappoint you Toight. ;) I could post that chart again but it would be the same as all the other weekly sales charts from the past year. And you know how relevant they are. Any guesses on how many HD DVD titles in the Top 10 this week? 1? 2? ;)

All that "dominance" but they seemingly can't close the door on HD DVD.:o

[PrimeBane]

Well, if any purple people had any doubts about which version of "I Am Legend" to get, this should help.


You can tell how much Warner Bros. loves a title by how they treat it when heading to home video. The single disc version of the film will contain feature film, as well as the animated comics. For PC users there's an Enhanced Content (EC) portion that links to an additional EC content. Namely a feature called Cautionary Tale and Creating I Am Legend (details below).

On the 2-disc edition there will be an alternate version of the film with an addition 8-minutes. There will also be a digital copy of the theatrical version of film on the second disc in US, Canada and UK only. However, our good friends at Warner Bros gave us a tidbit that they didn't tell anyone else at the event (we'll have video on that shortly) about it... there's a controversial ending. The ending preferred by Will Smith himself.

Moving on to the Blu-ray version of the film it will contain the Alternate Version (alt ending as well), the Animated Comic and Cautionary Tale: The Science of I Am Legend: Will Smith, director Francis Lawrence, producer-screenwriter Akiva Goldsman and novelist Richard Matheson examine the real-life science behind the film along with the world's foremost virus hunters, scientists and epidemiologists who live and work on the cutting edge, sometimes risking their lives to prevent the next worldwide pandemic.

There will also be a Creating I Am Legend Documentary on the Blu-ray disc.

This time it looks as though the HD DVD version will be the one to get shafted as it will just contain the alternate version of the film and the Animated Comic as far as the notes I received state. Also, it should be noted this will be released 3 weeks after the SD and BD versions street on April 8th.

We don't know the technical details as of yet, but once we have them and the cover art we'll pass it along to you.


For the record, this article was taken down at the request of WB from eyecravedvd.com

[imaginegrafix]

I'll still opt for the HD DVD version - just my way of telling warner the consumer "didn't clearly choose" - I'm not really into extras anyhow, only thing I'd be interested in would be the alt. ending which the hd dvd will have.

[HollandX]

My TV Model Number is Panasonic TH50PZ700U

Hey! We have the same TV! We're like brothers in arms.

http://forums.smirkinchicken.com/images/smilies/islam.gif

[HollandX]

Anyone find that Disney $5.00 coupon link yet??

i googled "disney $5 off blu-ray coupon"

http://dvd.disneyemailcenter.com/functions/message_view.html?mid=1521370&mlid=72002&siteid=13493&uid=ccf4e8ecba

[GPWYANKEE]

Well, if any purple people had any doubts about which version of "I Am Legend" to get, this should help.



For the record, this article was taken down at the request of WB from eyecravedvd.com


Looks like Blu Ray for me

[GPWYANKEE]

Hey! We have the same TV! We're like brothers in arms.

http://forums.smirkinchicken.com/images/smilies/islam.gif


Sweet set-Isnt it:D:D

The Panny Blu Ray player i bought goes awesome with it.

[SBrooks1]

I'll still opt for the HD DVD version - just my way of telling warner the consumer "didn't clearly choose"

http://members.cox.net/fantasychamp/power.jpg

[SBrooks1]

Looks like Blu Ray for me

Wasn't that hard of a decision was it? :D

[freezerfuel]

Warner, you bastards!

I'll still get it on HD DVD, maybe by then when it comes out I can get it on clearance. ('cuz, you know... they're not doing so well :D)

If HD DVD is going to make some big comeback hopefully they do it soon before I open up all these Blu-rays I bought.

[BostonFan]

I'm about to buy a 32" LCD TV and the reviews I've read say it's a great TV but the basic cable channels are not so good. Is that something that's universal with HD TVs? Someone at work said it is because HD TVs don't handle the analog signal as well. Is that true? and will that change when they do the digital switch next January?

[PrimeBane]

I think it's more due to the resolution than the fact the signal is analogue.

The resolution of SD broadcast television tends to differ from station to station. Some, with better resolution will look pretty good on an HDtv... others will look horrible at best.

And yes, it is universal to all HDtvs, although some will do a better job of upconverting than others.

[TheRedOx]

I'm about to buy a 32" LCD TV and the reviews I've read say it's a great TV but the basic cable channels are not so good. Is that something that's universal with HD TVs? Someone at work said it is because HD TVs don't handle the analog signal as well. Is that true? and will that change when they do the digital switch next January?

It's definitely common among HD sets but usually at larger sizes. At 32" it shouldn't look nearly as bad as it does on my 57" but, yeah, it won't look great.
The digital switch has absolutely nothing to do with that unless you're on a cable system that still has some analog channel subset, I know Comcrap did when I was with them.
Basically, taking a crap source and magnifying it onto a larger screen is going to make it look worse and worse the bigger the screen is.

[BostonFan]

Thanks for the answers that makes sense.

[GPWYANKEE]

Wasn't that hard of a decision was it? :D


lMAO

[freezerfuel]

This might help those who are looking for a standalone BD player.

http://www.idoblu.co.uk/page2%20Blu-ray%20Players.html

[PrimeBane]

A sign of things to come?

Germans are being offered 150 Euros toward a BD player if they trade in their HD DVD player.

I really hope this comes to North America... not only would I trade in my 360 addon, but I'd use the rebate toward a white PS3 and purchase a nice Toshiba a35. :)

[Hanky Panky]

White PS3? You got something against the black ones? ;)

[PrimeBane]

lol... no sir. A white one will just match my decore better in the living room. :)

[PrimeBane]

I've never paid $50 for a movie before... but I might just do it for the T2 Ultimate Edition HD DVD import from Germany. :D

It's going to a steelbook edition as well :D

Main feature will be presented in:

* 1080/24p Full High-Definition 2.35:1
* dts-HD 7.1 (English & German)
Dolby Headphone-surround (English & German)
* German & Turkish subtitle options

Special Features include:

* Interactive Features: Picture in Picture (storyboards and script - both in English - running concurrently with the main feature)
* Personal Bookmarking feature
* Photo galleries
* Various viewing modes:
- Quiz Mode
- Spy Mode
- Inside T2 Mode
* Integrated online functionality with access to more features (via dynamic HD)
* Making-of documentary/featurettes
* Two audio commentaries
* Deleted Scenes
* Trailer
* Detailed Biography/Filmographies
* Hidden Features/Easter Eggs


http://www.areadvd.de/images/2008/T2_HD_DVD_CES_HD_DVD_Promotion_Group3.jpg

http://www.areadvd.de/images/2008/T2_HD_DVD_01_T2_HDDVD_Special_Modes.jpg

http://www.areadvd.de/images/2008/T2_HD_DVD_08_T2_HDDVD_Inside_T2-Mode.jpg

http://www.areadvd.de/images/2008/T2_HD_DVD_02_T2_HDDVD_Marketing_Department.jpg

http://www.areadvd.de/images/2008/T2_HD_DVD_03_T2_HDDVD_Deleted_Scenes.jpg

http://www.areadvd.de/images/2008/T2_HD_DVD_05_T2_HDDVD_Interactive_Script-Storyboard_Mode.jpg

http://www.areadvd.de/images/2008/T2_HD_DVD_06_T2_HDDVD_Quiz-Mode.jpg

http://www.areadvd.de/images/2008/T2_HD_DVD_09_T2_HDDVD_dynamicHD_Online_Start.jpg

and a nice little YouTube video of the demo
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7A4UKRwSZZo

[PrimeBane]

A few nice imports not available in North America on either format.

1408
http://xploitedcinema.com/catalog/1408-directors-dutch-release-p-13382.html

Death Proof
http://www.hdaddicts.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=89_90&products_id=1038

[JaylisJayP]

I saw those photos of T2, Prime. It does look sweet. I doubt I'll pay up for it since I already have the French Import and extras aren't that important to me. The French Import PQ in the Director's Cut is very good IMO.

Even if the German one is a remaster, I doubt the PQ will be worth double HD Dipping for $50.

[JaylisJayP]

A few nice imports not available in North America on either format.

1408
http://xploitedcinema.com/catalog/1408-directors-dutch-release-p-13382.html

Death Proof
http://www.hdaddicts.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=89_90&products_id=1038


Man, forget Death Proof....if Planet Terror came out I'd buy that up in an instant.

[PrimeBane]

It's coming.... I'm just not sure when :)

[PrimeBane]

Did anyone here order the Blu McQueen Car that came with the Cars BD?

Did they send you more that 1? With just 1 code?

I'm not sure why I receive a 2nd one today....

[imaginegrafix]

Did anyone here order the Blu McQueen Car that came with the Cars BD?

Did they send you more that 1? With just 1 code?

I'm not sure why I receive a 2nd one today....

Whoops, I thought I put the wrong address on there - you can go ahead and send it over:)

[stupidsuck]

Did anyone here order the Blu McQueen Car that came with the Cars BD?

Did they send you more that 1? With just 1 code?

I'm not sure why I receive a 2nd one today....

i received 2 on the same day...I can only guess that the promotion is just about over and they have too much stock left?

[ncblue79]

A few nice imports not available in North America on either format.

1408
http://xploitedcinema.com/catalog/1408-directors-dutch-release-p-13382.html

Death Proof
http://www.hdaddicts.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=89_90&products_id=1038


Have you bought off these sites before?

[jskrap]

Hey guys, I bought the A3 back in November and sent in for my free movies towards the end of November. I still haven't received them. Anybody else in the same boat?

[PrimeBane]

Have you bought off these sites before?

I've personally made purchases from HDAddicts.com... they are very reliable.

And I've heard nothing but good things about Xploitedcinema.com

Hey guys, I bought the A3 back in November and sent in for my free movies towards the end of November. I still haven't received them. Anybody else in the same boat?

It's pretty typical... they're very slow with sending them out. I'm sure you'll get them soon. :)

[ncblue79]

Hey guys, I bought the A3 back in November and sent in for my free movies towards the end of November. I still haven't received them. Anybody else in the same boat?


I sent mine out around first week of November and just got my movies alittle over a week ago.

[PrimeBane]

Whoops, I thought I put the wrong address on there - you can go ahead and send it over:)

I'll get right on that :p

i received 2 on the same day...I can only guess that the promotion is just about over and they have too much stock left?

Maybe... supposedly only 15000 were made. Yet they still go for a pretty penny on ebay...

[JaylisJayP]

Have you bought off these sites before?

I've bought from both, they're both good.

FYI, addicts is in Canada, so if everything else is equal and you're in the U.S., I'd go with Xploited.

[SackExchange]

I'll let you know about Beowulf after I import it from the UK on March 17th ;)

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e130/rjbreslin/beowulfbluray.jpg

As for American Gangster, enjoy the combo with the Directors Cut only on the DVD side. What a c ock tease. :p

Ahhh you beat me to it, just preordered it today.:D:D:D

[PrimeBane]

Bestbuy Sony BD sale
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?id=pcat17080&type=page&initialize=false&sp=-bestsellingsort+skuid&nrp=15&iht=n&list=y&sc=movieSP&qp=crootcategoryid%23%23-1%23%23-1~~q70726f63657373696e6774696d653a3e313930302d30312d3031~~ccat02015%23%230%23%231du5~~f535%7C%7C426c752d7261792044697363~~nf383%7C%7C4f6e2053616c65&usc=cat02015&ks=960&st=processingtime%3A%3E1900-01-01&cp=1&_requestid=90585

Buy 2 Sony BDs, get 1 free by mail
http://www.sonypictures.com/homevideo/bluraymailoffer_v3/

[Wofford29]

Anyone have a copy of "The Fountain" on Blu they're looking to get rid of?

[GPWYANKEE]

Watched Rocky Balboa last night on Blu Ray-What a blast.The special features were some of the best ive seen on Blu Ray or HD.Not so much that they were anything except extremely entertaining without going way way overboard in the technical aspects of the film.Stallone was funnier then hell also.

[GPWYANKEE]

Gotta love the deal

ConAir Bluray $24.99
-5.00 Blu Ray Coupon
-10.00 Movie Upgrade Rebate
Brand New BluRay $9.95:D:D

By the way-Anybody have a extra CrimsonTide proof of purchase theyre not going to use???

[ToightLikeATiger]

Gotta love the deal

ConAir Bluray $24.99
-5.00 Blu Ray Coupon
-10.00 Movie Upgrade Rebate
Brand New BluRay $9.95:D:D

By the way-Anybody have a extra CrimsonTide proof of purchase theyre not going to use???

what is a movie upgrade rebate and how do you get one?

[Thee Ultimate Collector]

Watched Rocky Balboa last night on Blu Ray-What a blast.The special features were some of the best ive seen on Blu Ray or HD.Not so much that they were anything except extremely entertaining without going way way overboard in the technical aspects of the film.Stallone was funnier then hell also.


Thanks for reminding me...I have that movie somewhere...time to clear the dust off the PS3

[GPWYANKEE]

what is a movie upgrade rebate and how do you get one?


In the case for The Rock,Con Air and Crimson tide there is a rebate form for $10.00 if you mail in the Proof of Purchase from the BD and from a Original Dvd copy of the same movie.

[Daig12]

I am a little leery of the hookups in my home setup. I think I'm over thinking myself on this, but wanted to double check with you guys, just to make sure....

Sony 42" HDTV- one HDMI
5.1 cubes and sub surround
HD Time Warner cable box
60 GB PS3

Buying a Sony STR-DG810 receiver very, very soon

HD cable box to TV= HDMI cable (already set up)
TV to receiver audio= optical cable (already set up)
PS3 to TV= right now via Psyclone component cables, but adding HDMI (after receiver comes) I did pick up an HDMI splitter w/ remote via monoprice
PS3 to receiver= optical cable?

Also, my Bose 5.1 from 10 years back is working perfectly fine....however, the hookup into my receiver now is using red/black- can I banana clip those for the new receiver, or will I have to buy all new speakers?

[GPWYANKEE]

I am a little leery of the hookups in my home setup. I think I'm over thinking myself on this, but wanted to double check with you guys, just to make sure....

Sony 42" HDTV- one HDMI
5.1 cubes and sub surround
HD Time Warner cable box
60 GB PS3

Buying a Sony STR-DG810 receiver very, very soon

HD cable box to TV= HDMI cable (already set up)
TV to receiver audio= optical cable (already set up)
PS3 to TV= right now via Psyclone component cables, but adding HDMI (after receiver comes) I did pick up an HDMI splitter w/ remote via monoprice
PS3 to receiver= optical cable?

Also, my Bose 5.1 from 10 years back is working perfectly fine....however, the hookup into my receiver now is using red/black- can I banana clip those for the new receiver, or will I have to buy all new speakers?

You can bannana clip them without a problem

[JaylisJayP]

Gotta love the deal

ConAir Bluray $24.99
-5.00 Blu Ray Coupon
-10.00 Movie Upgrade Rebate
Brand New BluRay $9.95:D:D

By the way-Anybody have a extra CrimsonTide proof of purchase theyre not going to use???

I had this DVD and traded it in to Gamestop a couple years ago for like $3. If only I knew. :)

[GPWYANKEE]

I had this DVD and traded it in to Gamestop a couple years ago for like $3. If only I knew. :)

I wasnt even sure i still had mine.Fortunately i had Con Air still and my mom had my copy of The Rock.Worked out well.

[Thee Ultimate Collector]

I am a little leery of the hookups in my home setup. I think I'm over thinking myself on this, but wanted to double check with you guys, just to make sure....

Sony 42" HDTV- one HDMI
5.1 cubes and sub surround
HD Time Warner cable box
60 GB PS3

Buying a Sony STR-DG810 receiver very, very soon

HD cable box to TV= HDMI cable (already set up)
TV to receiver audio= optical cable (already set up)PS3 to TV= right now via Psyclone component cables, but adding HDMI (after receiver comes) I did pick up an HDMI splitter w/ remote via monoprice
PS3 to receiver= optical cable?

Also, my Bose 5.1 from 10 years back is working perfectly fine....however, the hookup into my receiver now is using red/black- can I banana clip those for the new receiver, or will I have to buy all new speakers?


you shouldn't need that..you already have HDMI going to your TV from your cable box and as for the speaker wire you shouldn't have to use banana clips..just cut back the sleeve on the wire and connect it directly to the speaker terminals on the back of your receiver...they should un thread enough to slide the wire for direct contact

[PrimeBane]

This is how I'd do it:

Cable box and PS3 to Sony receiver with HDMI. This will take care of your picture and sound thus no optical cables required. Then run 1 HDMI out from the receiver to the tv. Let the receiver do all the work of switching for you.

Simple and less messy. :)

You might want to also invest in a universal remote to make life even easier.

I am a little leery of the hookups in my home setup. I think I'm over thinking myself on this, but wanted to double check with you guys, just to make sure....

Sony 42" HDTV- one HDMI
5.1 cubes and sub surround
HD Time Warner cable box
60 GB PS3

Buying a Sony STR-DG810 receiver very, very soon

HD cable box to TV= HDMI cable (already set up)
TV to receiver audio= optical cable (already set up)
PS3 to TV= right now via Psyclone component cables, but adding HDMI (after receiver comes) I did pick up an HDMI splitter w/ remote via monoprice
PS3 to receiver= optical cable?

[GPWYANKEE]

This is how I'd do it:

Cable box and PS3 to Sony receiver with HDMI. This will take care of your picture and sound thus no optical cables required. Then run 1 HDMI out from the receiver to the tv. Let the receiver do all the work of switching for you.

Simple and less messy. :)

You might want to also invest in a universal remote to make life even easier.


Amen to the Universal remote:D:D

[oaktown2000]

I've never paid $50 for a movie before...

Neither have I....and I don't plan on it anytime soon....even for an import

Hey guys, I bought the A3 back in November and sent in for my free movies towards the end of November. I still haven't received them. Anybody else in the same boat?

Put it this way...I bought my PS3 in August 07....I received my Blu Rays right before Christmas.

I am a little leery of the hookups in my home setup. I think I'm over thinking myself on this, but wanted to double check with you guys, just to make sure....

Sony 42" HDTV- one HDMI
5.1 cubes and sub surround
HD Time Warner cable box
60 GB PS3

Buying a Sony STR-DG810 receiver very, very soon

HD cable box to TV= HDMI cable (already set up)
TV to receiver audio= optical cable (already set up)
PS3 to TV= right now via Psyclone component cables, but adding HDMI (after receiver comes) I did pick up an HDMI splitter w/ remote via monoprice
PS3 to receiver= optical cable?

Also, my Bose 5.1 from 10 years back is working perfectly fine....however, the hookup into my receiver now is using red/black- can I banana clip those for the new receiver, or will I have to buy all new speakers?


Doesn't the 810 have two HDMI "IN"s? Why not just run your cable box and your PS3 into the receiver....the have one "OUT" going to your TV????

Edit: I see Prime has already mentioned this. This is the easiest way. 3 HDMI cables and that's it.

[oaktown2000]

I haven't bought a Blu Ray in forever it seems. Don't make me resort to ebay. One of you has to have some stuff for sale :D

I'm still loooking for a copy of some older, cheaper titles....such as Ghost Rider, Big Fish, FF: 1 and 2

[GPWYANKEE]

????If your Blu Ray player and receiver are all hooked up thru HDMI cables you dont have to screwaround with the video or audio settings-Correct???

[PrimeBane]

That's right... the receiver takes care of the audio (you can basically mute the tv) and leave the tv on the same input all the time. The switching is all done at the receiver.

[GPWYANKEE]

That's right... the receiver takes care of the audio (you can basically mute the tv) and leave the tv on the same input all the time. The switching is all done at the receiver.

Thats true of the vido also-Correct??I dont need to set my Blu Ray player to something special to make sure its coming thru in 1080P??

[PrimeBane]

The video should just pass through... some receivers will attempt to do some upconversion depending on the signal, but on a good receiver you can shut that off if it messes things up.

[PrimeBane]

For those looking for the king of all HD players at a damn good price.

https://www.refurbdepot.com/productdetails2.cfm?Product_ID=5992

I believe HollandX has one if you have specific questions.

[SackExchange]

I didn't know if people know about the ps3 video calibration. Here it is. Put in a movie, when the main movie screen comes up press triangle and then punch in 7669 and read below.

From an employee of Sony Pictures:

There are a few adjustment where the included test patterns can be particulary useful for getting the best possible picture. Most of our discs have at least 4 test patterns included, SMPTE bars, monoscope, ramp and cross hatch. The first adjustment I usually concern myself with is the black level or "brightness". Bring up the colorbar signal and pause your player. Turn up your monitor "brightness" and confirm that all 3 pluge chips are visible in the lower right hand corner of the screen. If all three can be seen, then you have confirmed that your player and monitor are passing signals "below black". Next, adjust the brightness control down until the right chip is just visible. You now have an optimum black level setting. Put the player back into play mode and chapter skip to the next pattern, the monoscope and pause once again. Ideally, you should see a complete image with 16:9 shown at the corners and no truncating of the triangles. If you don't see the full image, check if you monitor supports "full pixel", "dot by dot" or some other description of a mode that allows a 1:1 relationship between the incoming signal and the pixels on your display. Some displays do not allow the disabling of "overscan" so you will not be able to make this adjustment. The monoscope is also useful for checking over sharpening, or filtering of the image. Ideally the round patterns comprised of wedges should be clear, sharp with no asymetrical gray bars or ovals. Distortions in the pattern usually indicate that a scaler is being used in the display. Also check that the squares comprised of 2x2 pixel black squares are distinct. If sharpening is used, the black or white portions of these squares is often exaggerated. And finally can you read the text on the bottom of the pattern for the company that created it? If you can, you are likely getting a full 1920 x 1080 image.

Of course there are many other important settings for Contrast and color, but these settings need to be adjusted according to your average room light. I recommend turning off all of the processing that is available in todays displays such as Noise reduction, DRC (Sony) or whatever a given CE company happens to be calling their image enhancement feature. If you have a good blu-ray disc, "Black Hawk Down" for example, you should be able to see the film grain from the original master faithfully reproduced. If it looks mottled or irregular, there is a good chance your display is using noise reduction or other processing and hurting, rather than helping the picture quality.

[SBrooks1]

Great post SackExchange! I'll try that when I get home! :D

[GPWYANKEE]

For those looking for the king of all HD players at a damn good price.

https://www.refurbdepot.com/productdetails2.cfm?Product_ID=5992

I believe HollandX has one if you have specific questions.


Whats the big difference between this one and the other Toshiba players?

[PrimeBane]

It's their flagship player (ie high end components)

Read this review on it.
http://www.soundandvisionmag.com/hd-dvd-bluray/2207/toshiba-hd-xa2-hd-dvd-player.html

[CoachB]

I never saw the disney $5.00 coupon???Gotta love the deal

ConAir Bluray $24.99
-5.00 Blu Ray Coupon
-10.00 Movie Upgrade Rebate
Brand New BluRay $9.95:D:D

By the way-Anybody have a extra CrimsonTide proof of purchase theyre not going to use???

[HollandX]

I never saw the disney $5.00 coupon???

Do you have me on ignore?

[HollandX]

Best Buy pwns mankind: http://www.nytimes.com/2008/01/31/technology/personaltech/31pogue-email.html?_r=2&8cir&emc=cir&oref=slogin&oref=slogin

[HollandX]

I didn't know if people know about the ps3 video calibration. Here it is. Put in a movie, when the main movie screen comes up press triangle and then punch in 7669 and read below.

From an employee of Sony Pictures:

There are a few adjustment where the included test patterns can be particulary useful for getting the best possible picture. Most of our discs have at least 4 test patterns included, SMPTE bars, monoscope, ramp and cross hatch. The first adjustment I usually concern myself with is the black level or "brightness". Bring up the colorbar signal and pause your player. Turn up your monitor "brightness" and confirm that all 3 pluge chips are visible in the lower right hand corner of the screen. If all three can be seen, then you have confirmed that your player and monitor are passing signals "below black". Next, adjust the brightness control down until the right chip is just visible. You now have an optimum black level setting. Put the player back into play mode and chapter skip to the next pattern, the monoscope and pause once again. Ideally, you should see a complete image with 16:9 shown at the corners and no truncating of the triangles. If you don't see the full image, check if you monitor supports "full pixel", "dot by dot" or some other description of a mode that allows a 1:1 relationship between the incoming signal and the pixels on your display. Some displays do not allow the disabling of "overscan" so you will not be able to make this adjustment. The monoscope is also useful for checking over sharpening, or filtering of the image. Ideally the round patterns comprised of wedges should be clear, sharp with no asymetrical gray bars or ovals. Distortions in the pattern usually indicate that a scaler is being used in the display. Also check that the squares comprised of 2x2 pixel black squares are distinct. If sharpening is used, the black or white portions of these squares is often exaggerated. And finally can you read the text on the bottom of the pattern for the company that created it? If you can, you are likely getting a full 1920 x 1080 image.

Of course there are many other important settings for Contrast and color, but these settings need to be adjusted according to your average room light. I recommend turning off all of the processing that is available in todays displays such as Noise reduction, DRC (Sony) or whatever a given CE company happens to be calling their image enhancement feature. If you have a good blu-ray disc, "Black Hawk Down" for example, you should be able to see the film grain from the original master faithfully reproduced. If it looks mottled or irregular, there is a good chance your display is using noise reduction or other processing and hurting, rather than helping the picture quality.

thanks! that was really great to know.

[HollandX]

For those looking for the king of all HD players at a damn good price.

https://www.refurbdepot.com/productdetails2.cfm?Product_ID=5992

I believe HollandX has one if you have specific questions.

I do. Never had a problem with it.

[GPWYANKEE]

I do. Never had a problem with it.

Is that player worth it bro??

[HollandX]

Worth is up to you. It's THE top of the line HD DVD player and arguably the best consumer-priced DVD upscaler around.

If an A-30 or A-35 is good enough for your needs, go for it. There's nothing wrong with them.

The XA-2 is just Toshiba's HD DVD baby.

[JaylisJayP]

Best Buy pwns mankind: http://www.nytimes.com/2008/01/31/technology/personaltech/31pogue-email.html?_r=2&8cir&emc=cir&oref=slogin&oref=slogin


pound for pound the best and clearest explanation to help people people understand why they should not waste their money on 1080p just because some marketer says it's "true."


Q: OK, how about this one: 720p or 1080p?
A: These are measurements of how many fine lines make up the picture.
You’d think that 1080p is obviously better than 720p. Trouble is, you won’t get a 1080p image unless you feed it a 1080p signal — and that’s hard to come by. There’s no such thing as a 1080p TV broadcast (cable, satellite, anything), and won’t be for years. Even most games, like Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3, generally send out 720p (or less).
So the *only* way to get a 1080p picture on a 1080p set is to buy a high-def DVD player (Blu-ray or HD DVD). That’s the only way.
[D.P. adds: Even then, you won’t see any difference between 720p and 1080p unless you sit closer than 10 feet from the TV and it’s bigger than 55 inches or so.
And even then, you’re not getting any additional sharpness or detail. Instead, as CNET notes, you’re just gaining the ability to move closer without seeing individual pixels: “In other words, you can sit closer to a 1080p television and not notice any pixel structure, such as stair-stepping along diagonal lines, or the screen door effect (where you can actually see the space between the pixels).”]
Q: But a 1080p set costs a lot more than an identical 720p set, doesn’t it?
A: Yeah.
[D.P. adds: At this point, he showed me two plasmas, same brand, same size, same model line, mounted one above the other: one 720p, the other 1080p. The fancier set cost $2,000 more — and the image quality was pixel-for-pixel identical.]

[PrimeBane]

Pretty much what we've been saying here all along eh Jay? :)

[SackExchange]

pound for pound the best and clearest explanation to help people people understand why they should not waste their money on 1080p just because some marketer says it's "true."


Q: OK, how about this one: 720p or 1080p?
A: These are measurements of how many fine lines make up the picture.
You’d think that 1080p is obviously better than 720p. Trouble is, you won’t get a 1080p image unless you feed it a 1080p signal — and that’s hard to come by. There’s no such thing as a 1080p TV broadcast (cable, satellite, anything), and won’t be for years. Even most games, like Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3, generally send out 720p (or less).
So the *only* way to get a 1080p picture on a 1080p set is to buy a high-def DVD player (Blu-ray or HD DVD). That’s the only way.
[D.P. adds: Even then, you won’t see any difference between 720p and 1080p unless you sit closer than 10 feet from the TV and it’s bigger than 55 inches or so.
And even then, you’re not getting any additional sharpness or detail. Instead, as CNET notes, you’re just gaining the ability to move closer without seeing individual pixels: “In other words, you can sit closer to a 1080p television and not notice any pixel structure, such as stair-stepping along diagonal lines, or the screen door effect (where you can actually see the space between the pixels).”]
Q: But a 1080p set costs a lot more than an identical 720p set, doesn’t it?
A: Yeah.
[D.P. adds: At this point, he showed me two plasmas, same brand, same size, same model line, mounted one above the other: one 720p, the other 1080p. The fancier set cost $2,000 more — and the image quality was pixel-for-pixel identical.]

That's some good info. I have a 70" Sony Wega that i run 720p instead of 1080i and I sit about 14' from the screen. I have thought about selling this one and buying the 70" 1080p Sony for $6000. Now I might hold off till the bottom drops out of it.

[JaylisJayP]

That's some good info. I have a 70" Sony Wega that i run 720p instead of 1080i and I sit about 14' from the screen. I have thought about selling this one and buying the 70" 1080p Sony for $6000. Now I might hold off till the bottom drops out of it.

I have a 62" Toshiba DLP that's about 3 years old now. I also have a 50" Panasonic Plasma that's 6 months old.

I did so many side-by-side comparisons as this guy describes above, and both times I opted for 6-8 inches of larger screen in lieu of 1080p and I have never regretted it.

[SackExchange]

thanks! that was really great to know.

The changes aren't life changing but I did notice a bit of a difference with the black and sharpness.

[civictyperboy]

ha I could have told 7669...its numbers on the phone for Sony, Black Hawk down has it

[ewto16]

I just did this with Donnie Brasco. There were 4 patterns.

Apparently my picture tilts slightly upwards going from left to right, not even an 1/8th an inch. It also appears to overscan, as I don't get the full 16:9 picture.

Anyone know how I can fix that? Sony KDS-50A2000.

[grif32]

Whats the big difference between this one and the other Toshiba players?

Garth this player will make any crappy DVD look amazing pretty much.

Flagship HD DVD player.

As far as HD PQ its the same for all players. You probably wont see any difference in PQ in HD.

This one just really does one hell of a job upscaling your DVD collection.

Well worth that price.

Chris

[freezerfuel]

Pickups over the last little while...

Saw 4 BD
Tremors HD DVD
Identity BD
Fantastic 4 BD
Shaun of the Dead BD
Resident Evl BD
Saw BD
Casino HD DVD
Eastern Promises HD DVD
Scary Movie 4 HD DVD
Daylight HD DVD
Day of the Dead BD
Vacancy BD
Apocalypto BD

[PrimeBane]

Not sure if anyone cares, but Sweeny Todd is coming to HD DVD in early April. No official announcement just yet.

[rsoaker23]

Anyone know a good site to get replacement Blu ray and HD dvd cases? I went to sleevecity but there on back order..couple i seen on ebay looked awful...no BR or HD logo

[freezerfuel]

Amazon sells cases through a 3rd party, I'm about to buy a pack of 5 to replace my Harry Potter box.

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_ss_gw/103-6270008-3430247?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=hd+dvd+case

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_ss_gw/103-6270008-3430247?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=blu-ray+case

[grif32]

Anyone know a good site to get replacement Blu ray and HD dvd cases? I went to sleevecity but there on back order..couple i seen on ebay looked awful...no BR or HD logo

I have been picking up some over on Avsforum. People sell them once in awhile over there. ONLY the good one's not the crappy ones

Chris

[GPWYANKEE]

Man its hit or miss buying Movies on some of these chat boards.Some guys want more then they cost new.

[JaylisJayP]

Man its hit or miss buying Movies on some of these chat boards.Some guys want more then they cost new.

nothing wrong with hitting up ebay. You can still walk away from the experience a proud man.

[GPWYANKEE]

nothing wrong with hitting up ebay. You can still walk away from the experience a proud man.


My luck on the bay has been poor to say the least:(

[JaylisJayP]

Well, if you want to sell me The Perfect Storm and Van Helsing for $25 I can put some more ebay funds in your paypal :)

[rsoaker23]

I gotta say..im finding im buying more movies off of ebay...i got the entire die hard set for $32 bucks shipped...spiderman trilogy for $38 bucks shipped..not to mention single movies in HD or Blu ray on the average $14 bucks shipped

[IceRat]

Anyone have a copy of "The Fountain" on Blu they're looking to get rid of?
nope but I just bought it for $8.15 shipped at buy.com using google checkout ($10 off)

[freezerfuel]

Well, I pulled the trigger on this little PS3 IR on/off adapter.

http://schmartz.com/main.sc

Too much of a pain in the ass to press "Watch a Blu-ray" on the remote and the projector and receiver turn on but not the damn PS3. I'll just send the bill to Sony. :D

[ewto16]

Well, I pulled the trigger on this little PS3 IR on/off adapter.

http://schmartz.com/main.sc

Too much of a pain in the ass to press "Watch a Blu-ray" on the remote and the projector and receiver turn on but not the damn PS3. I'll just send the bill to Sony. :D

Maybe you should have asked if anyone else wanted one. We could have all chipped in for a 10 pack. :D

[JaylisJayP]

I'm trying to decide if 1408 on either blu or HD DVD is worth it through Xploited. It'd be $37 shipped.

[GPWYANKEE]

I'm trying to decide if 1408 on either blu or HD DVD is worth it through Xploited. It'd be $37 shipped.

That movie did nothing for me-Ok as a rental but not much more in my humble opinion.

[PrimeBane]

Maybe you should have asked if anyone else wanted one. We could have all chipped in for a 10 pack. :D

That's actually a pretty good idea... I'd be game for one. :)

[HollandX]

That's actually a pretty good idea... I'd be game for one. :)

You are all crazy!

For less than $50, I can give my neighbor my bluetooth PS3 remote and yell to him when I want my PS3 on and off!!!

[PrimeBane]

You are all crazy!


Well duh :p

Is you neighbor a hot chick? Cause that would be even better. :D

[HollandX]

Well duh :p

Is you neighbor a hot chick? Cause that would be even better. :D

no, but i have gone in his house and controlled my ps3 with the bt remote. it really works through walls, it's crazy!

[GPWYANKEE]

Bought to huge lots-Thought id offer the extras here first.Prices are dlvd.

HD DVD

Superman Combo $15.00
Letters From Iwo Jima $16.00
Jarhead $15.00-Pending
Harry Potter Box Set $70.00
V for Vendetta $16.00-Pending
The Heartbreak Kid $16.00
Shrek The Third $16.00
Departed Combo Disc $16.00-Pending
Dead Silence $15.00
Face Off $16.00
Dream Girls $16.00-Sold
Smokin Aces $16.00 Combo-Sold
Knocked Up Combo $16.00
The Shining $15.00-pending
Anchorman(Sealed) $18.00
Old School(Sealed)$18.00
Blades of Glory $15.00
Mallrats $15.00
Big Labowski $14.00-Pending
Next $15.00-Sold
Hot Fuzz $14.00
Troy Directors Cut $16.00
Italian Job $15.00

Blu Ray

Donnie Brosco $15.00-Pending
Robocop $15.00-Sold
Resident Evil Trilogy $40.00-Sold Primebane
Hairspray $18.00-Sold
Spiderman Trilogy $40.00-Sold
Pirates of The Carribean 1 $13.00-Sold

Hope these are fair-Just charging what i pretty much paid.

[SBrooks1]

I didn't know if people know about the ps3 video calibration. Here it is. Put in a movie, when the main movie screen comes up press triangle and then punch in 7669 and read below.

From an employee of Sony Pictures:

There are a few adjustment where the included test patterns can be particulary useful for getting the best possible picture. Most of our discs have at least 4 test patterns included, SMPTE bars, monoscope, ramp and cross hatch. The first adjustment I usually concern myself with is the black level or "brightness". Bring up the colorbar signal and pause your player. Turn up your monitor "brightness" and confirm that all 3 pluge chips are visible in the lower right hand corner of the screen. If all three can be seen, then you have confirmed that your player and monitor are passing signals "below black". Next, adjust the brightness control down until the right chip is just visible. You now have an optimum black level setting. Put the player back into play mode and chapter skip to the next pattern, the monoscope and pause once again. Ideally, you should see a complete image with 16:9 shown at the corners and no truncating of the triangles. If you don't see the full image, check if you monitor supports "full pixel", "dot by dot" or some other description of a mode that allows a 1:1 relationship between the incoming signal and the pixels on your display. Some displays do not allow the disabling of "overscan" so you will not be able to make this adjustment. The monoscope is also useful for checking over sharpening, or filtering of the image. Ideally the round patterns comprised of wedges should be clear, sharp with no asymetrical gray bars or ovals. Distortions in the pattern usually indicate that a scaler is being used in the display. Also check that the squares comprised of 2x2 pixel black squares are distinct. If sharpening is used, the black or white portions of these squares is often exaggerated. And finally can you read the text on the bottom of the pattern for the company that created it? If you can, you are likely getting a full 1920 x 1080 image.

Of course there are many other important settings for Contrast and color, but these settings need to be adjusted according to your average room light. I recommend turning off all of the processing that is available in todays displays such as Noise reduction, DRC (Sony) or whatever a given CE company happens to be calling their image enhancement feature. If you have a good blu-ray disc, "Black Hawk Down" for example, you should be able to see the film grain from the original master faithfully reproduced. If it looks mottled or irregular, there is a good chance your display is using noise reduction or other processing and hurting, rather than helping the picture quality.

FYI: This will only work with a Blu-ray disc made by Sony Picture Studios. I got it to work last night with Memento.

[JaylisJayP]

That movie did nothing for me-Ok as a rental but not much more in my humble opinion.

I think I'm leaning that way myself. I rented it and though it was cool, but not spectacular...I think a $37 movie needs to be something I'd watch at least a dozen times.

[GPWYANKEE]

Bought to huge lots-Thought id offer the extras here first.Prices are dlvd.

HD DVD

Jarhead $15.00
Harry Potter Box Set $70.00
V for Vendetta $16.00
The Heartbreak Kid $16.00
Shrek The Third $16.00
Departed Combo Disc $16.00
Dead Silence $15.00
Face Off $16.00
Dream Girls $16.00
Smokin Aces $16.00 Combo
Knocked Up Combo $16.00
The Shining $15.00
Anchorman(Sealed) $18.00
Old School(Sealed)$18.00
Blades of Glory $15.00
Mallrats $15.00
Big Labowski $14.00
Next $15.00
Hot Fuzz $17.00
Troy Directors Cut $16.00

Blu Ray

Donnie Brosco $15.00
Robocop $15.00
Resident Evil Trilogy $40.00-Sold Primebane
Hairspray $18.00
Spiderman Trilogy $40.00
Pirates of The Carribean 1 $13.00
300 $14.00
Naturo Rise of the Ninja $15.00

Hope these are fair-Just charging what i pretty much paid.

Updated

[grif32]

Updated

Man if I wasnt replacing all my speakers and Receiver I would grab a few.

So far I have bought new Fronts, Surrounds and Center all POLK. World of difference.

Just need a sub and the Onkyo 605 or 805..

Chris

[GPWYANKEE]

Man if I wasnt replacing all my speakers and Receiver I would grab a few.

So far I have bought new Fronts, Surrounds and Center all POLK. World of difference.

Just need a sub and the Onkyo 605 or 805..

Chris

805!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[TheRedOx]

What's the price difference between the 605 and the 805? Just curious.

[GPWYANKEE]

What's the price difference between the 605 and the 805? Just curious.

The 805 is loaded with HDMI ports and plenty of ports for every kind of cable.Its got plenty of power and decodes all kinds of video and audio signals.

[HollandX]

I have the 805 too. I think GPWYANKEE and I have the same setup!!!

[GPWYANKEE]

I have the 805 too. I think GPWYANKEE and I have the same setup!!!


Kind of crazy isnt it-Same TV,Same Receiver-Holy Shart batman.

[HollandX]

What's the price difference between the 605 and the 805? Just curious.

you kids are lazy.

i did an amazon search for you:

605- $397.01 (black) or $407.19 (silver)

805- $707.29 (silver) or $749.98 (black)

[grif32]

I have the 805 too. I think GPWYANKEE and I have the same setup!!!

I hope you dont look like Garth :D

I believe the 605 and 805 can decode all the same stuff. The 805 has another HDMI port and some more watts and a few other bells and whistles but I am not sure if its worth the extra couple hundred bucks.

To do right would be go right to the Onkyo 875 or higher.

Chris

[TheRedOx]

you kids are lazy.

i did an amazon search for you:

605- $397.01 (black) or $407.19 (silver)

805- $707.29 (silver) or $749.98 (black)

Sorry, I thought someone might have the answer really quick. Go with the 605 then, that's a huge difference. The 805 can't possibly be worth $300 more, for what? 2 more HDMI inputs and the ability to make custom input labels? What else could it possibly have to make it that much more?
*edit* searched a little more and found out the 805 has better DAC's, whatever the hell those are ;) .
I'd be really curious if it sounded THAT much better or is it something that only a real audiophile is going to notice in a small little home theater application.

[HollandX]

I hope you dont look like Garth :D

I believe the 605 and 805 can decode all the same stuff. The 805 has another HDMI port and some more watts and a few other bells and whistles but I am not sure if its worth the extra couple hundred bucks.

To do right would be go right to the Onkyo 875 or higher.

Chris

From an audio expert friend of mine when these 05's were first announced.

Both of those promise to be excellent receivers. The 805 has Burr Brown DAC’s (digital to analog converters) These chips play a huge role in how good your audio sounds. Burr Brown is known for making the best and a lot of people think that this is going to move Onkyo into another league entirely. While I’m sure you would be quite happy with the 605, the 805 has the goods that justify it’s higher price. Considering this is a long term investment, I’d shoot for the 805 if it is doable in your budget.

[HollandX]

The 605 weighs 31 lbs, the 805 weighs 61 lbs. It's a HOSS.


For PrimeBane's eyes only:

The 605 weighs 14.06 kilos, the 805 weighs 27.67 kilos. It's a HOSS.

[ewto16]

I would love to have the 805 but I really can't justify getting it. My current setup works just fine for me and what I have. Can't bring myself to upgrade when I really don't need to. I'm pretty sure the weight of that receiver would crash my glass shelves.

Isn't there a HTIB with the 605 or 805 in it?

[SBrooks1]

3 weeks in a row and not a single HD DVD title in the High Def Top 10....

http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c279/SBrooks2006/27jan2008c.png

http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c279/SBrooks2006/27jan2008d.png

[SackExchange]

^^^ Gotta love the charts^^^

[ewto16]

I know people say the charts don't tell the whole story, and I'll admit that is true. However, data if taken in the proper context doesn't really lie. Assuming that the numbers aren't manipulated, it is pretty clear that BR is beating HD-DVD solidly week in and week out.

I won't say that this clearly shows the death of HD-DVD, but certainly doesn't paint a rosy "red" picture of the future of HD media.

[TheRedOx]

3 weeks in a row and not a single HD DVD title in the High Def Top 10....



There hasn't been a single new release on HD-DVD the past few weeks has there? Still, without Amazon, Walmart and other retailers reporting these charts/reports still mean precisely dlck

[freezerfuel]

Maybe you should have asked if anyone else wanted one. We could have all chipped in for a 10 pack. :D

Fend for yeerselves ya rapscallions! ;):D

The order could be changed to 10 but I don't think that many people even post in this thread. If there is enough we could always do that... but I don't really wanna. :p

Hey Prime, I pulled the trigger on a new screen... hopefully it's here by the end of next week.

[SackExchange]

This is what the back of my Yamaha RX-V1800 looks like.

http://www.audiophile.no/Vedlegg/Nyheter/Bilder/PV_rxv1800bl_rear.jpg

[SBrooks1]

Still, without Amazon, Walmart and other retailers reporting these charts/reports still mean precisely dlck

Keep telling yourself that... :p

[PrimeBane]

There hasn't been a single new release on HD-DVD the past few weeks has there? Still, without Amazon, Walmart and other retailers reporting these charts/reports still mean precisely dlck

Exactly... there's been nothing to purchase on HD DVD for a while now. Not that it will make any big difference, but when day and date sell the big numbers you can't expect catalogue titles to make a huge impact.

And like ewto said, it doesn't paint a pretty picture... but these are also just percentages. Having the top 10 titles when only 50,000 disks moved isn't as impressive as having the top 10 when 500,000 disks moved.

[PrimeBane]

This is what the back of my Yamaha RX-V1800 looks like.

http://www.audiophile.no/Vedlegg/Nyheter/Bilder/PV_rxv1800bl_rear.jpg

So beautiful... this will be my new baby :D

[PrimeBane]

Fend for yeerselves ya rapscallions! ;):D

The order could be changed to 10 but I don't think that many people even post in this thread. If there is enough we could always do that... but I don't really wanna. :p

Hey Prime, I pulled the trigger on a new screen... hopefully it's here by the end of next week.

Good stuff... I'll drop you a PM later today. :)

[SackExchange]

Exactly, no NEW HD-DVD releases in the last few weeks. Sounds like a problem to me.

[SBrooks1]

Janurary's HD DVD releases so far....

January 29, 2008

* Dispatch: Zimbabwe - Live at Madison Square Garden (Warner Music Group)
* King of California (First Look)
* Strauss: Die Fledermaus (Opus Arte)

January 22, 2008

* Channels (Vanguard Cinema)
* Method Man: Live from the Sunset Strip (Music Distribution)

January 15, 2008

* The Ten (City Lights)

January 08, 2008

* Mobsters (Universal)
* The Pianist (Universal)
* The Road to Bali/The Road to Rio (BCI)
* White Noise (Universal)
* White Noise 2 (Universal)
* Zodiac: Director's Cut (Paramount)

[SackExchange]

So beautiful... this will be my new baby :D

I actually got a deal on it. The salesman thought I wanted the 1700 floor model for $999. When i told him no, no no I want the 1800 new after he wrote everything up (bought an entire new system) he gave it me but must have been too lazy to change the paperwork cuz I still haven't been charged the extra $300. Its been 4 months.:D:D:D:D

[grif32]

Janurary's HD DVD releases so far....

January 29, 2008

* Dispatch: Zimbabwe - Live at Madison Square Garden (Warner Music Group)
* King of California (First Look)
* Strauss: Die Fledermaus (Opus Arte)

January 22, 2008

* Channels (Vanguard Cinema)
* Method Man: Live from the Sunset Strip (Music Distribution)

January 15, 2008

* The Ten (City Lights)

January 08, 2008

* Mobsters (Universal)
* The Pianist (Universal)
* The Road to Bali/The Road to Rio (BCI)
* White Noise (Universal)
* White Noise 2 (Universal)
* Zodiac: Director's Cut (Paramount)

Just like others said nothing new and exciting. Now compare that to the release's of BR

Also people who bought 1080P TV's at CC recieved 3 free BR movies that counted as well. They were rang up so they count

[grif32]

Sorry, I thought someone might have the answer really quick. Go with the 605 then, that's a huge difference. The 805 can't possibly be worth $300 more, for what? 2 more HDMI inputs and the ability to make custom input labels? What else could it possibly have to make it that much more?
*edit* searched a little more and found out the 805 has better DAC's, whatever the hell those are ;) .
I'd be really curious if it sounded THAT much better or is it something that only a real audiophile is going to notice in a small little home theater application.

If it upscaled all components to 1080P like the Onkyo 875 or higher then I might jump on it. But I still dont see the $300 difference unless I was running some amazing speakers.

I didnt notice a difference at all when I was listening to both at CC with a BR popped in. They were only hooked up to Polks but still

Chris

[HollandX]

Janurary's HD DVD releases so far....

LOL!

Are there more to come?

[grif32]

LOL!

Are there more to come?

LMAO - I missed that... LOL

[GPWYANKEE]

Bought to huge lots-Thought id offer the extras here first.Prices are dlvd.

HD DVD

Jarhead $15.00
Harry Potter Box Set $70.00
V for Vendetta $16.00
The Heartbreak Kid $16.00
Shrek The Third $16.00
Departed Combo Disc $16.00
Dead Silence $15.00
Face Off $16.00
Dream Girls $16.00
Smokin Aces $16.00 Combo
Knocked Up Combo $16.00
The Shining $15.00
Anchorman(Sealed) $18.00
Old School(Sealed)$18.00
Blades of Glory $15.00
Mallrats $15.00
Big Labowski $14.00
Next $15.00
Hot Fuzz $17.00
Troy Directors Cut $16.00

Blu Ray

Donnie Brosco $15.00-Pending
Robocop $15.00
Resident Evil Trilogy $40.00-Sold Primebane
Hairspray $18.00
Spiderman Trilogy $40.00
Pirates of The Carribean 1 $13.00

Hope these are fair-Just charging what i pretty much paid.


Updated

[IceRat]

Still, without Amazon, Walmart and other retailers reporting these charts/reports still mean precisely dlck
exactly, the margin would be much wider for Blu if those other retailers reported as well

[imaginegrafix]

HD DVD isn't going anywhere unless the BDA gets off their asses and shells out some more money - which they should have done already.

[ewto16]

If it upscaled all components to 1080P like the Onkyo 875 or higher then I might jump on it. But I still dont see the $300 difference unless I was running some amazing speakers.

I didnt notice a difference at all when I was listening to both at CC with a BR popped in. They were only hooked up to Polks but still

Chris

I see this comes with the 605 It looks like it scales everything to 1080p. What am I missing or not understanding?

http://www.us.onkyo.com/model.cfm?m=HT-SP908&class=Systems&p=f

What about this receiver?

http://reviews.cnet.com/av-receivers/sony-str-da5300es/4505-6466_7-32552105.html?tag=txt

[JaylisJayP]

I can't believe Saw IV was #1 for the week...although I did really like the movie.

[ewto16]

HD DVD isn't going anywhere unless the BDA gets off their asses and shells out some more money - which they should have done already.

I disagree. If the magins in sales continue week in and week out to look like this, there is no incentive for Universal and Para/DW to make HD-DVDs. Why would they just want to put movies on the shelf if no one is going to buy them? Everyone you talk to in stores now says that Blu-ray is the right choice. Not that those store people are always correct, but that is where the typical shopper gets their info and who they trust.

I think those compaines might be holding out for the BDA to give them some money, so they can get something out of the switch to Blu-ray, or perhaps they really are tightly contractually bound to HD-DVD for awhile.

Personally, I think the BDA will just wait them out and eventually they will come over to the Blu-ray side. If the market for Blu-ray keeps growing, which it will, then they would be foolish and not worried about making money, if they continued to only make HD-DVD movies.

I'll be really interested to see what the charts look like when HD-DVD has a day and date release that is something good. What is the next one? Bee movie? Beowolf?

[ewto16]

I can't believe Saw IV was #1 for the week...although I did really like the movie.

I can't beleive this either. I still haven't seen it but I wouldn't have expected it to be #1.

[grif32]

I see this comes with the 605 It looks like it scales everything to 1080p. What am I missing or not understanding?

http://www.us.onkyo.com/model.cfm?m=HT-SP908&class=Systems&p=f

What about this receiver?

http://reviews.cnet.com/av-receivers/sony-str-da5300es/4505-6466_7-32552105.html?tag=txt

Straight HDMI - HDMI it will. It doesnt touch it.

but for component it downscales it to 720P same goes for 705 and 805. If you get the 875 or 905 everything including component gets upscaled to 1080P

[imaginegrafix]

I disagree. If the magins in sales continue week in and week out to look like this, there is no incentive for Universal and Para/DW to make HD-DVDs. Why would they just want to put movies on the shelf if no one is going to buy them? Everyone you talk to in stores now says that Blu-ray is the right choice. Not that those store people are always correct, but that is where the typical shopper gets their info and who they trust.

I think those compaines might be holding out for the BDA to give them some money, so they can get something out of the switch to Blu-ray, or perhaps they really are tightly contractually bound to HD-DVD for awhile.

Personally, I think the BDA will just wait them out and eventually they will come over to the Blu-ray side. If the market for Blu-ray keeps growing, which it will, then they would be foolish and not worried about making money, if they continued to only make HD-DVD movies.

I'll be really interested to see what the charts look like when HD-DVD has a day and date release that is something good. What is the next one? Bee movie? Beowolf?

The sales graphs have been in favor of blu for what - over a year now? It didn't stop paramount/dreamworks from going hd-dvd exclusive.

American Gangster comes out on the 19th - I agree that'll be interesting that week, yeah bda is off to a great 08, but their release schedule has been much better.

BDA shouldn't wait anyone out if they really want HD movies to take off - they can't get complacent and continue to allow growth on the hd-dvd side.

[SBrooks1]

I'll be really interested to see what the charts look like when HD-DVD has a day and date release that is something good. What is the next one? Bee movie? Beowolf?

What will it prove though? The only week HD DVD got even close to a 50:50 was when Transformers was released. Every other week in 2007 was Blu winning 2:1. So yes it may close the gap some when movies like Beowulf, Bee Movie and even I Am Legend come out but even then it won't mean anything. Even if the market for Blu/HD DVD sales are small, with HD DVD not having a single title in the Top 10 for 3 weeks straight it still shows that YES consumers of HDM have spoken. Universal, Paramount and Dreamworks have to know that.

[ewto16]

The sales graphs have been in favor of blu for what - over a year now? It didn't stop paramount/dreamworks from going hd-dvd exclusive.

American Gangster comes out on the 19th - I agree that'll be interesting that week, yeah bda is off to a great 08, but their release schedule has been much better.

BDA shouldn't wait anyone out if they really want HD movies to take off - they can't get complacent and continue to allow growth on the hd-dvd side.

I see your point about the charts in relation to last year.

The point you and another person brought up about the release schedule makes no sense though. You can't just say HD-DVD isn't doing well because they haven't had good movies to release. That is going to be a problem into the future and only going to get worse.

Of course Blu-ray had a better release scheule. They have more studios and therefore more movies. If you put out more content, more people are going to see it and buy it. Is the plan for HD-DVD to stay alive on their current release schedule? What does that amount to? 12 movies a year from two studios?

If they can't (or won't) release catalog titles to get their output to the same general area as Blu-ray, they have no shot. Either Uni or Para could have released any of NUMEROUS catalog titles that people have been waiting for and tried to get sales this last month. Neither of them did, in fact, I don't think they released anything since the first week of the year and apparently aren't until American Gangster.

What else comes out the same week as AG? Anything from Blu-ray?

[SBrooks1]

What else comes out the same week as AG? Anything from Blu-ray?

Blu-ray February 19, 2008

Deep Purple: Live at Montreux 2006 (http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/1332/deeppurple_liveatmontreux2006.html) (Eagle Rock)
In the Valley of Elah (http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/1308/inthevalleyofelah.html) (Warner)
Michael Clayton (http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/1313/michaelclayton.html) (Warner)
Run Lola Run (http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/1282/runlolarun.html) (Sony)
Santana: Hymns for Peace - Live at Montreux 2004 (http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/1333/santana_hymnsforpeace.html) (Eagle Rock)
Yes: Live at Montreux 2003 (http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/1334/yes_liveatmontreux.html) (Eagle Rock)HD DVD February 19, 2008

American Gangster (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/1292/americangangster.html) (Universal)
Galaxina (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/237/galaxina.html) (BCI)
The Invasion (http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/1235/invasion.html) (Warner)