The NPD Group reported today some reasons for the slower than expected start of high-definition video players and high-definition content sales (i.e., HD DVD and Blu-ray Disc). NPD's new High Definition Video Report Series examines consumer awareness, ownership, usage patterns, and intent to purchase high-definition players and content, since these new technologies were introduced last year.
Among those who currently own HDTVs, half (52 percent) are familiar with the availability of high-definition DVD players, but only 11 percent expressed strong intentions to buy one in the next six months. Seventy-three percent of HDTV owners reported that their current traditional-format DVD player still works well for them, so they do not need to replace it; while 62 percent said...
To me, it's all about price. My up-converting Oppo play produces a very good image on my Netflix movies with my HDTV. Current Blu-Ray and HD player prices are simply too high, especially considering how little content there is. At present, I live with the HD content from over the air stations and what's on is of very low quality, content-wise.
I am also in the state of mind that the price for these players will need to come down, and I mean way down, if I am expected to have two players to view all DVDs. A reliable combo player that is as cheap as a single format player will inspire me to spend the money, but for now, my upscale DVD will satisfy my viewing pleasure.
With HD DVD players now at Oppo prices I don't understand the commentary on price...and soon enough (for some) the combo prices will be down there. Eye candy wise, HD of both sorts is worth extra - IMHO.
But if you really want content - you might want to read a book. Movie production for the mainstream is no so much about content - not that there are not some very good movies out there, but usually people think the books are better!
The problem, as I see it, with the movie/music industry is that they want you, in many cases, to repurchase media in a new, improved format from the one you already own. We bought records, then 8 tracks, then cassettes, then CD's, and now downloaded MP3's. For movies, we had film, Beta Max/VHS, 480 DVD, now HD DVD.
Why should I repurchase a movie, at a much higher price, that I already own on 480 DVD so that I can "enjoy it more?" on an HD DVD? If the industry wants to spur sales of HD movies, they should let me trade in the movie that I already purchased the rights to "own" and only charge me for the upgrade. But they won't do that. You can't even trade in a damaged CD/DVD of equal quality for a new one. The industry expects you to bite the bullet and repurchase it at full price, paying for rights your already own. And of course you can't back anything up, DRM rules.
I agree, it is disappointing that you have to pay full price for a title you already own. It would be cool if there was some way to "upgrade" to future formats.
As with most things, the answer is to vote with your wallets. The reason they charge that for the movies is because that's what the market will bear.
BTW, I think you'll find that most HD movies are around $20 on sites like Amazon.com ... not $35. With exception of "Combo" discs, which can approach $30.
