LG Electronics Launches Industry's First Dual-Format High-De

[Shane]

Blending the latest technologies and offering unprecedented flexibility to consumers seeking the convenience of playing both Blu-ray Disc and HD DVD high-definition content, LG Electronics (LG), a leader in consumer electronics and mobile communications, today launched the groundbreaking "Super Multi Blue" Player at the 2007 International CES®.

Launching in the United States during the first quarter of 2007, this advanced dual-format high-definition disc player, LG model BH100, will be the first player on the market with...

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[chester]

Hallelujah, it

[Shane]

Let's not count our chickens just yet. Don't forget, LG has announced such a player twice in the past 18 months, only to recant their announcement days later. Although this time they have at least put a price on it.

I'm not going to base any of my buying decisions on it until it's a bit closer to retail delivery.

- Shane

[chester]

I understand the frustration with LG's false starts, but will wait for them, or anyone else who'll stand up against the combatants & FOR consumers, to produce a reasonable, dual-format player or recorder.

I will NOT support either side in this war & will NOT buy either format, by itself.

...and I believe most of the buying public agrees. If you've noticed, they're staying away in droves!

[Shane]

I can see your position, and it is not uncommon.

But don't assume that the reason people are "staying away in drives" is due to the format war. I would argue that it is largely a price issue at the moment. Even if there was only one format, the $500 or $1000 price tag would have just about as many consumers staying away.

Case in point: Myself. I have not purchased any stand-alone player in either format because I do not see a personal return on the investment should one format fail. But I do see a return on investing in the "game platform" solutions.

I purchased the HD DVD add-on from Microsoft because I could easily see getting my $200 worth even if HD DVD goes away in 1 years time.

I also purchased the PS3 for the same reason. If Blu-ray goes away a year from now I still have a kick-a$$ gaming system.

- Shane

[dennito]

Great start in the right direction and I hope LG does well as a result of it. For now, my benchmark is $300 for a dual disc player so we have a way to go before the player is affordable for me. But I applaud LG for being the first.

[Richard]

Definitely wait on a review. LG does not have a rep for proper video setup and scaling...

[dennito]

Richard, that is great advice, thank-you. I love new technology, but I have found that waiting for things to wash out a little is wise; a lesson learned after the purchase of a Betamax may years ago. I expect by the time I'm ready to buy, there will be many options available for a dual format player.

[chester]

"...waiting for things to wash out a little is wise"

ALWAYS!!!... with any new technology... & especially with a format war going on!

Expensive lessons learned!