News: The Reader [Blu-ray]
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The Reader [Blu-ray]
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As of: 2009-03-13 | 'The Reader' to Receive April Blu-ray Release (High-Def Digest, 3/02/2009 11:00pm) |
| The Weinstein Co. is bringing the Oscar-winning film 'The Reader' to Blu-ray in late-April. Earning a Best Actress statuette for Kate Winslet, the acclaimed Holocaust-themed drama will see a Blu-ray release... ... (Read Full Article) | |
| (Unranked) | Today's selection of articles from Kotaku's reader-run community: Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster: T (Kotaku, 3/26/2014 2:30pm) |
| Today's selection of articles from Kotaku's reader-run community: Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster: The TAY Review! (Kind of) • (Read Full Article) | |
 | Reader Comments (Ars Technica, 11/16/2005 3:32pm) |
| In preparation for high-definition gaming, Ben and I have both gone from our college-era CRT sets to the new HDTV hotness—he with a DLP and I with a plasma. The prices on large-screen HD displays have been dropping over the past year or so; enough to get both of us to make the jump like many others. ... (Read Full Article) | |
| (Unranked) | Contest: Win 'Django Unchained' on Blu-ray! (High-Def Digest, 4/16/2013 5:00pm) |
| It's time for another great Blu-ray giveaway. This week, we have a Blu-ray copy of Quentin Tarantino's blockbuster hit 'Django Unchained' just waiting to make its way into one of our reader's hands. [...] (Read Full Article) | |
 | Opposable Thumbs: Hands-on first impressions of the Xbox 360 (Ars Technica, 10/21/2005 1:00pm) |
| Reader Mike Pavone answered our call for someone to get all touchy-feely with the Xbox 360, and boy, did he come through. Thanks, Mike! The Hunt For once in my life, I was glad there were a fair number of Wal-Mart stores in my area. ... (Read Full Article) | |
| (Unranked) | Buying an HDTV: Frequently Asked Questions (eCoustics, 11/15/2012 6:26pm) |
| We get a lot of reader queries about HDTV specs. After all, there’s a lot to decide when you’re shopping for a new HDTV—What screen size should you get? Plasma, LCD, or LED? Active or Passive 3D? And there are even more [...] (Read Full Article) | |
| Do I Need to Spend More on a 1080p HDTV if My Sources are All Standard Definition? (Big Picture Big Sound, 1/04/2008 12:25pm) |
| A reader writes in asking whether it's worth spending a premium on a 1080p plasma HDTV if most of his sources are 720p or below. ... (Read Full Article) | |
| Is Blu-ray Worth Buying for HDTV without HDMI? (Big Picture Big Sound, 9/27/2008 7:08am) |
| A reader asks whether it's worth buying a Blu-ray Disc player for an older widescreen rear projection analog HDTV that lacks HDMI or DVI inputs. ]]> ... (Read Full Article) | |
| Sony announces new Blu-ray module, should drive down costs (Engadget, 1/25/2008 5:05pm) |
| Filed under: HDTV, Laptops, Peripherals, Portable VideoSony has announced the development of a new Blu-ray reader / writer module that is not only smaller than previous components, but promises to be cheaper as well due to a simplified manufacturing process. The new laser housing is less than three millimeters thick, according to the Japanese manufacturer and co-developer Nichia Corporation, enabl ... (Read Full Article) | |
| HD-DVD's death prompts more console hot air (the INQUIRER, 2/21/2008 10:00am) |
| Dean Pullen the Inquirer, Thursday 21 February 2008. 09:30:00 Console round-up Top Wii titles dated NOW THAT HD-DVD has officially died, Microsoft, Sony and analysts have all chipped in on what it means for the Playstation 3 and Xbox 360. PS3/PSP Thanks to a reader who has pointed out, after Monday's round-up, that Sony's PS3 PlayTV is already listed, with price, hereon HMV.com.... ... (Read Full Article) | |
| Should I Buy a Blu-ray Disc Player Now or Wait? (Big Picture Big Sound, 3/21/2008 12:47am) |
| A reader asks whether he should buy a Blu-ray Disc player now or wait for the next generation. ... (Read Full Article) | |
| What is the Best HDTV to Buy Today? (Big Picture Big Sound, 8/04/2009 1:18am) |
| A reader writes in asking what flat panel HDTV he should buy today: LED? LCD? Plasma? The answer might surprise you. (Read Full Article) | |
| NHK Working To Make HDTV Obsolete (Slashdot, 11/05/2005 1:11am) |
| An anonymous reader writes "According to an article at EEtimes.com Japanese company NHK has successfully demonstrated a live relay of 'Super Hi-Vision' television, which is 16x 1080i resolution -- 7680 x 4320!" From the article: "NHK developed a Super Hi-Vision camera equipped with 8 megapixel CCD image sensors that can take 4k x 8k images. In the field test, it sent the two cameras to a sea ... (Read Full Article) | |
| Shuttle Readies Stunning Media Centre (BIOS, 10/17/2005 10:39am) |
| Kiss your tape, CD, DVD, and even your receiver components goodbye. Shuttle's new media centre has a built-in TV-tuner, FM tuner, DVD drive, and 8-in-1 card reader to make enjoying media easier. Shuttle has today expanded its XPC product range with a new system ... ... (Read Full Article) | |
| (Unranked) | Where Can I See The Hobbit in HFR 48FPS IMAX 3D with Dolby Atmos Surround? (Big Picture Big Sound, 12/11/2012 5:52pm) |
| A reader writes in asking where he can view Peter Jackson's latest opus in all its high frame rate 3D multi-channel Dolby [...] (Read Full Article) | |
| (Unranked) | Take our poll: The Best Blu-ray Disc so far this year (HD-Report, 7/19/2013 5:34am) |
| We’ve launched our reader’s poll for the best Blu-ray Disc release so far this year. The options only include titles released between January 1st and July 9th of this year. Titles were chosen from a [...] (Read Full Article) | |
| Connecting Blu-ray and DISH DVR to Receiver with HDMI, Do I Need Optical Digital Too? (Big Picture Big Sound, 7/06/2008 9:13am) |
| A reader with an HDMI-switching home theater receiver, Blu-ray Disc player and DISH Network HD receiver wonders whether he'll still need to use an optical digital cable for audio if he connects these devices to his system using HDMI. ]]> ... (Read Full Article) | |
| Best Way to Hook up PS3 and DirecTV HD to Home Theater System? (Big Picture Big Sound, 4/13/2008 9:28am) |
| A reader writes in asking the best way to hook up a PS3 and DirecTV HD receiver to his HTIB (home theater in a box) system and his HDTV. ... (Read Full Article) | |
| (Unranked) | Kobo Aura HD Review: A Beautiful Reader Screen Trapped in an Ugly Body (Gizmodo, 4/29/2013 2:04pm) |
| Everyone loves a pretty screen. The Kobo Aura HD is aiming to lead that charge in the ereader space. Armed with a best-in-class screen and an unusually powerful processor under the hood, the [...] (Read Full Article) | |
| Rumor: Sony working on new Syphon Filter for PS3 (Joystiq, 2/15/2009 4:50pm) |
| Filed under: Action A particularly watchful, Columbo-esque reader at Kotaku recently put a few widespread pieces of information together to draw an intriguing conclusion -- Sony Bend, the studio behind every Syphon Filter title to date, recently put up a help wanted ad calling for a full-time game tools programmer with PS3 or Xbox 360 experience. It's doubtful that they'll need to use the latte ... (Read Full Article) | |
| Next DVD Format War Still Wide Open (Slashdot, 3/10/2006 2:32pm) |
| An anonymous reader writes "Despite the wishes of partisan players like Sony and Toshiba, many consumer electronics manufacturers are opting to support both HD-DVD and Blu-Ray discs in upcoming media players." From the article: "Consumer electronics maker LG Electronics and PC maker Fujitsu-Siemens both said on Thursday they would keep their options open after computer giant Hewlett-Packard sai ... (Read Full Article) | |
| LG.Philips LCD to debut HDTV LCD panels and e-book display at FPD International (Digi Times, 10/18/2005 10:40am) |
| LG.Philips LCD will showcase several widescreen HDTV LCD panels and a 10.1-inch electronic book reader (e-book) display at FPD International 2005 (October 19-21) in Yokohama, Japan. ... (Read Full Article) | |
| Can my 1080i HDTV Display 1080p Blu-ray Disc Movies at Full Resolution? (Big Picture Big Sound, 2/27/2008 1:40am) |
| Having recently purchased a 1080p LCD panel which only supports inputs up to 1080i resolution, a reader wonders whether a new television will be required in order to enjoy 1080p Blu-ray Disc movies at their full resolution. ... (Read Full Article) | |
| Toshiba's first three 1080p DLP rear projection TVs (Engadget, 5/20/2005 2:25am) |
| Toshiba also announed their first three 1080p DLP rear projection TVs today, the 56-inch 56HM195, the 62-inch 62HM195, and the 72-inch (you guessed it) 72HM195. All three are CableCARD ready, and have a built-in memory card reader for looking at digital photos, dual HDMI ports, and a FireWire port if you want to attach one of Toshiba’s optional 160GB Symbio HD Recorders. Both the 56HM195 and the ... (Read Full Article) | |
| NEWS: Toshiba Qosmio X500 Blu-ray laptop announced (Pocket-lint, 9/23/2009 3:12pm) |
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18.4-inch multimedia monster Toshiba has announced the launch of the Qosmio X500 boasting a "sleek, glossy black chassis, backlit keyboard and LED-feathertouch controls". Powered by Intel's latest Quad Core processors and the latest nVIDIA GeForce graphics, the Qosmio X500 claims to deliver "a realistic gameplay experience with intense visuals, vibrant environments and dynamic character effects". With an 18.4-inch TruBrite Full HD LCD screen with 16:9 aspect ratio at a resolution of 1920x1080 pixels, Harman Kardon stereo speakers, a rewritable Blu-ray drive, the X500 appears, on paper at least, to be an entertainment powerhouse. It also gets Toshiba's Resolution+ upscaling technology, that sees standard definition DVDs and video files upconverted to "near high definition" quality. Other features include an "HD" webcam, a multi-touch touch pad, fingerprint reader, face recognition, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 2.1, eight touch-sensitive multimedia buttons, up to 4GB RAM, 1TB HDD, three USB ports all of which offer "Sleep-and-Charge" tech, REGZA-Link HDMI-CEC and a 5-in-1 card reader. The Qosmio X500 will be available in the UK from late October - no pricing revealed, but it's gonna be steep. Tags: Hardware Toshiba Blu-ray Toshiba Qosmio X500 Gaming Intel Nvidia Harman Kardon Toshiba Qosmio X500 Blu-ray laptop announced originally appeared on Pocket-lint on Wed, 23 Sep 2009 16:12:57 +0100 (Read Full Article) | |
| Toshiba makes timid Blu-ray showing at IFA, still believes in other forms of HD distribution (Engadget, 9/04/2009 7:07pm) |
Aside from the new JournE touch, the other main thrust at IFA's booth is Blu-ray -- at least, one would think. In reality, when we finally found the lone BDX2000, the LCD it was plugged into was off, while numerous DVD players and upscaling tech demos littered the surrounding booth area. Once we got a rep to turn it on for us, the Blu-ray player seemed to work just fine, as should be expected. The new Blu-ray equipped P500, however, wasn't so successful: our colleagues at Engadget Spanish watched an attempted Blu-ray showing on the laptop go awry, and by the time we'd dropped by the booth, any Blu-ray models of the P500 had been pulled from the show floor due to crashiness. In talking with a Toshiba rep, it's clear that the company hasn't abandoned its ideas of internet distribution and other alternatives to the once rival format of Blu-ray. The company is looking into a solution that uses a Blu-ray disc and BD Live to stream internet media to the player, and has packed in decent codec support for playing back media off of the BDX2000's SD card reader. We're sure Toshiba will figure out its P500 woes before the laptop ships to consumers, but there's no lack of interestingness in these first displays of Toshiba's "commitment" to the Blu-ray format. Gallery: Toshiba's BDX2000 'in action' at IFAFiled under: HDTV, Home EntertainmentToshiba makes timid Blu-ray showing at IFA, still believes in other forms of HD distribution originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 04 Sep 2009 14:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments (Read Full Article) | |
| Sony network Blu-ray player spied at CES (Engadget, 9/13/2009 1:11am) |
Why wait 'til October to get a peek at Sony's BRAVIA Internet features come to Blu-ray on the BDP-N460? Check them out right now in the following gallery, we got a good look at the future on the CEDIA show floor, though whether Sony delivering all new hardware or everyone else's strategy of upgrading existing players for Netflix, Amazon and other forms of streaming is the path to follow remains to be seen. The BDP-N460 should hit for about $250 starting next month. Filed under: HDTV, Home EntertainmentSony network Blu-ray player spied at CES originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 12 Sep 2009 20:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments (Read Full Article) | |
| ATI adds first HD card to the All-in-Wonder lineup (TV Squad, 6/26/2008 5:31pm) |
| Filed under: HDTV, PVR Wire, HardwareOnce upon a time, ATI's All-in-Wonder cards were the cream of the crop. The lineup combines a TV tuner with a graphics card. That means you don't need to buy two separate pieces of hardware to capture TV signals and to display those signals on a monitor. But while other hardware makers have been busy putting out HD tuner cards, ATI has been stuck in the dark ages of standard definition. Now it looks like ATI is back in the game with the ATI All-in-Wonder HD. This PCI Express card has enough oomph to capture HD video and to play back HD video on your PC. It features DirectX 10.1 support, an MPEG2/VC-1/H2.64 decoder, and Vista and AMD Live! certification. It also packs a DVI port and HDMI jack. On the TV tuner side of things, the AiW HD can handle SD, HD, and ClearQAM signals.The card should be available in July for $199. [via Engadget] Permalink | Email this | | Comments (Read Full Article) | |
| Engadget HD takes an in-depth look at Media Center in Windows 7 RTM (Engadget, 7/27/2009 5:42pm) |
If you've ever thought about forcing your Xbox 360 to do double duty and in addition to all the games you require it to host for you, set it up to replace your TiVo or cable company DVR, then now might just be the time. The reason is simple, in Windows 7, Microsoft has really made some nice improvements to Windows Media Center. What improvements you might ask? Glad you did, because over at Engadget HD the team went over the changes with a fine-tooth comb. This includes a comprehensive list of improvements and shortfalls in regards to using Windows 7 Media Center as a full time HD DVR as well as a few videos to really help you appreciate what's new and what the experience is like on an Xbox 360. Filed under: HDTV, Home Entertainment, Media PCsEngadget HD takes an in-depth look at Media Center in Windows 7 RTM originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 27 Jul 2009 12:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments (Read Full Article) | |
| Microsoft: 'We have no plans for Blu-Ray on Xbox 360' (Engadget, 10/23/2009 6:49am) |
| A recent Gizmodo sit down with Steve Ballmer led with a headline exclaiming a Blu-ray add-on for Xbox was coming. See, when Ballmer was asked about making the Xbox a home theater companion of choice and where Blu-ray might fit in, the Windows 7 wild man said, "Well I don't know if we need to put Blu-ray in there -- you'll be able to get Blu-ray drives as accessories." He then added that on-demand is the future of movies, not physical media. Now our bud Major Nelson, Director of Programming for Xbox Live, has stepped up to lay the conflation to rest. The Major says that Ballmer was referring to Blu-ray accessories for the PC and reiterated Microsoft's focus of bringing instant-on 1080p streaming movies to the Xbox 360. So... that should end speculation of Blu-ray on Xbox right? Not if history serves, nope.Filed under: Gaming, HDTV, Home EntertainmentMicrosoft: 'We have no plans for Blu-Ray on Xbox 360' originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 23 Oct 2009 01:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments (Read Full Article) | |
| Free HD episodes on iTunes (TV Squad, 9/11/2008 5:04pm) |
| Filed under: Battlestar Galactica, HDTV, The Office, Psych, Eureka, Heroes, Reality-Free, In Plain SightIf you were wondering just what that extra dollar buys you when you upgrade to HD in the iTunes store, you can get a free look. Our pals over at TUAW made note of a number of shows that have free episodes available, in HD. The files are large, with the HD versions clocking in at right around 1.5GB, so it will take a bit to download. Something that isn't helped by the fact that iTunes downloads the SD version as well. I've been taking a look at them and I grabbed screenshots from Heroes, Life, and Battlestar Galactica to give you an idea of the difference in the picture. It's fairly dramatic. Those captures, and the full list of free episodes, with the iTunes links, are after the jump. Continue reading Free HD episodes on iTunes Permalink | Email this | | Comments (Read Full Article) | |
| Engadget HD reviews what's new in Windows Media Center after CEDIA (Engadget, 9/25/2009 6:01pm) |
| Yet another CEDIA has come and gone, and while some of our greatest hopes for Media Center came true (CableCard is no longer OEM only, Switched Digital Video support for the tuning adapter is coming) several more did not (Zune HD integration and any new CableCard announcements from ATI.) Peep the recap post on Engadget HD for the full rundown on what did and didn't happen in Media Center news from Atlanta, and what Microsoft's next plans for Windows Media Center could (& should) be. Filed under: HDTV, Home EntertainmentEngadget HD reviews what's new in Windows Media Center after CEDIA originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 25 Sep 2009 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments (Read Full Article) | |
| Kodak's Zi8 HD pocket camcorder hits the 1080p mark, adds Facebook uploading (Engadget, 7/29/2009 6:10am) |
| The Zi6 is still fairly fresh in our memory banks, but Kodak's already looking ahead with its newly unveiled Zi8 pocket camcorder. The Flip Ultra HD competitor boasts 1080p recording this time around, in addition to usual features like face tracking, image stabilization, a 2.5-inch LCD display, and SD card slot. YouTube uploading is back, and joining it Facebook support, too. It'll be out in September in blue, red, and black colors for just a hair under $180.Filed under: Digital Cameras, HDTV, Portable VideoKodak's Zi8 HD pocket camcorder hits the 1080p mark, adds Facebook uploading originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Jul 2009 01:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments (Read Full Article) | |
| LG LH-series wireless HDTVs now available Stateside (Engadget, 9/10/2009 6:12pm) |
Seems like slim wireless HDTVs are the CEDIA special, and LG's joining in the fun by announcing official US availability of the wireless LH-series, first launched at CES. No surprises here apart from price, they're exactly as they were when they popped into the FCC: the high-end $4,799 55-inch 55LHX has a local-dimming LED backlight, an 80,000:1 contrast ratio with 240Hz motion ruining enhancement and is less than an inch thick, while the LH85 line offers both $2,399 47-inch and $3,199 55-inch models. Check out our demo from CES for some hands-on with the ASW1000 Media Box, which is where the wireless HD action goes down.Filed under: HDTV, Home EntertainmentLG LH-series wireless HDTVs now available Stateside originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 10 Sep 2009 13:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments (Read Full Article) | |
| LG's THX-certified LH90 LCD HDTVs now shipping in US (Engadget, 7/22/2009 9:19pm) |
We've been following LG's 240Hz LH90 series of LED-backlit HDTVs since they were launched alongside oodles of internet-connected rivals at CES, and now -- at long last -- the 1080p trio is shipping to US soil. The sets, which are the first-ever to boast THX certification, also feature an ambient light sensor, 2,000,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio, 240Hz dejudder technology and a super glossy bezel. If you're jonesing to get one in your abode, you can cruise over to your nearest electronics dealer and part ways with $3,199.95 (55-inch), $2,399.95 (47-inch), or $1,899.95 (42-inch).Filed under: Displays, HDTV, Home EntertainmentLG's THX-certified LH90 LCD HDTVs now shipping in US originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 22 Jul 2009 16:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments (Read Full Article) | |
| VUDU's 1080p movie streaming goes live on LG Netcast HDTVs (Engadget, 9/02/2009 10:22am) |
You knew good and well it was coming, and come it has. Starting today, those fortunate enough to own an LG Broadband HDTV in the LH50 LCD series and PS80 plasma range can tap into VUDU's growing library of on-demand 1080p films. If you're still skeptical, we'll invite you to surf over to your set's Netcast interface; from there, you can either update your software to gain VUDU access or begin viewing right away (depending on when you purchased your tele). Oh, and if you're thinking of just lallygagging around while the rest of the world takes advantage, you should know that your first HD or HDX movie rental is gratis for a limited time, so there's some pretty obvious motivation to hop on it. Anyone given it a go? Impressed / unimpressed?Filed under: HDTV, Home EntertainmentVUDU's 1080p movie streaming goes live on LG Netcast HDTVs originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 05:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments (Read Full Article) | |
| Sony's new BDP-N460 Blu-ray player adds access to internet content (Engadget, 9/09/2009 10:00pm) |
What you're looking at here is the latest addition to the Sony Blu-ray family. The BDP-N460 seemingly fits right in between the BDP-S360 and the BDP-S560 with an MSRP of $249. What sets it apart from its little brother is the fact that it can use its included network jack for more than just BD-Live and it features a USB port on the front, in addition to the one on the back for optional BD-Live storage. There's no built in WiFi or MKV support like other brands though, but it is shipping with access to YouTube and to Bravia Internet Video, and in addition Sony promises Netflix Watch Instantly later this fall. No word on whether this means the end for the BDP-S360, but considering the price and improved features of the 460, that's where we'd put our money.Continue reading Sony's new BDP-N460 Blu-ray player adds access to internet contentFiled under: HDTV, Home Entertainment, Blu-ray, SonySony's new BDP-N460 Blu-ray player adds access to internet content originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments (Read Full Article) | |
| Blu-ray reportedly trailing CBHD in China, the second theater of the format war begins (Engadget, 7/25/2009 11:03pm) |
Just because Toshiba has given up on HD DVD and moved on, doesn't mean the format war is totally over for red. According to a report by a Japanese TV station, its successor, China Blue HD is actually leading Blu-ray in marketshare in that country. Of course, based on the article found by our friends at FormatWarCentral, all we have to go on is a machine translated description of a video in a language we don't speak describing the apparent initial success of the government backed format in a socialist republic. If you need more evidence than that to declare the format war officially restarted, you're probably a communist, but before we drag you in front of the Un-American activities committee check out the video for a peek at the slick new CBHD cases that The Onion will surely be shipping its videos in very soon. [Via FormatWarCentral]Filed under: HDTV, Home EntertainmentBlu-ray reportedly trailing CBHD in China, the second theater of the format war begins originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 25 Jul 2009 18:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments (Read Full Article) | |
| Best Buy bringing value priced all-in-one 32-inch LCD & Blu-ray HDTV to stores "soon" (Engadget, 9/23/2009 11:09pm) |
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It's not that surprising to learn Best Buy will be among those delivering a 1080p LCD with Blu-ray disc player packed in under its Insignia store brand, as we've been expecting rebadged units from overseas to hit the value market for some time. Marked "coming soon" at $599, it's easily a few hundred less than a comparable model from Sharp, but buyers will have to live without some of the newer line items like 120Hz motion processing and a contrast ratio higher than 20,000:1. Though we don't expect a lot in terms of load times, audio support or other features (no specs on the Blu-ray player noted) we're sure a bedroom or dorm room somewhere will find a spot for the NS-LBD32X. Your move, Wal-mart. [Thanks, Zach]Filed under: Displays, HDTV, Home EntertainmentBest Buy bringing value priced all-in-one 32-inch LCD & Blu-ray HDTV to stores "soon" originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 23 Sep 2009 18:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments (Read Full Article) | |
| Sony's Blu-ray MegaChanger hits the streets next month with new ES standalone (Engadget, 7/23/2009 8:00pm) |
When we first got our hands-on the 400 disc MegaChanger pictured above we'd hoped it would be out a little earlier; but never the less the wait is almost over as Sony officially announced plans to release the BDP-CX7000ES in August, for the hard to swallow price of $1,900 -- about $400 less than rumored. The good news is that it does just about everything we can think of, like handle any Blu-ray Disc, DVD or CD with ease, and of course works with the latest codecs delivered via bitstream or LPCM. Now if you just have to have a Blu-ray changer, but wish it was half the price, you can wait a few more months for the BDP-CX960 for $800. You will however have to be willing to forgo things like RS-232 and IR-in, as well as the ES badge. Also shipping in August with the ES MegaChanger is the BDP-S1000ES. This standalone Blu-ray player is at the top of line and for $700 you get just about every feature and spec Blu-ray has to offer, as well as built-in WiFi and a DLNA client. The full details of all three are in the release after the jump. Continue reading Sony's Blu-ray MegaChanger hits the streets next month with new ES standaloneFiled under: HDTV, Home EntertainmentSony's Blu-ray MegaChanger hits the streets next month with new ES standalone originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 23 Jul 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments (Read Full Article) | |
| Don't let retailer's lights distract you from buying the right HDTV (Engadget, 8/10/2009 10:01pm) |
In case you hadn't already learned your lesson and started checking behind the displays while HDTV shopping, the HD Guru points out another element of the in-store experience that throws off buyers (and likely contributes to the LCD vs. plasma choices we find so infuriating): lighting. In case you don't recall from your last trek to a big box superstore, the lighting is quite often stuck on blinding making it nearly impossible to discern any difference in picture quality between televisions, specifically in terms of contrast and black levels (the pictures above are of the same value priced display, at left, under normal home lighting, at right, how it looks under some store lighting setups.) Tested with an illuminance meter, all the stores (except Best Buy's Magnolia showrooms) averaged well above home ambient lighting levels, with Wal-Mart and Costco measuring the highest at 411.66 and 742.77 lux. Still, there's tips on how to get a good idea of a TV's black levels even under those circumstances, plus some choice words left over for the incredible (and useless) dynamic contrast ratio numbers every manufacturer trots out these days, so go ahead and get educated.Filed under: HDTV, Home EntertainmentDon't let retailer's lights distract you from buying the right HDTV originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 10 Aug 2009 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments (Read Full Article) | |
| Netflix, Best Buy deal brings Watch Instantly streaming to even cheaper Blu-ray players (Engadget, 10/21/2009 2:26am) |
Though they've been floating around retail channels for a few weeks, Best Buy and Netflix have finally made official a partnership bringing streaming to the latest Insignia Blu-ray players. The NS-BRDVD3 runs $179, while the NS-WBRDVD edition tosses in WiFi for $20 more, while they won't stream out of the box, a firmware update just made available should add all the . These two keep the (we'll be nice and call it plain) styling of earlier models, and likely live up to the family reputation of "basic Blu-ray playback at a bargain" reported on the second generation of players. Of course, the BD-P1600 offers more features and a nicer reputation at about the same price, but Reward Zone members may want to think twice, with AVS Forum posters mentioning the NS-BRDVD3 can be had for just $99.99 through the 24th. Decisions, decisions. Read - Best Buy and Netflix Announce Partnership to Instantly Stream Movies Over the Internet Via Latest Models of Insignia Blu-ray Disc Players Read - Save $50 On Select INSIGNIA(R) Connected Blu-ray Disc[TM] Players with Netflix [Via AVS Forum]Filed under: HDTV, Home EntertainmentNetflix, Best Buy deal brings Watch Instantly streaming to even cheaper Blu-ray players originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 20 Oct 2009 21:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments (Read Full Article) | |
| JVC brings 46-inch GD-463D10 3D LCD HDTV to America: shipping now for $9,200 (Engadget, 9/10/2009 5:40pm) |
Jumpin' Jehosaphat! We know exchange rates have been sort of crazy of late, but we can say with a good deal of certainty that the in-home 3D revolution isn't going anywhere with MSRPs like this. After introducing the 46-inch GD-463D10 3D LCD HDTV in various overseas markets, JVC is announcing here at CEDIA that its flagship 3D panel is now available on US soil for a solid chunk of change. The 1080p display touts a 2,000:1 contrast ratio, three HDMI sockets, 178-degree viewing angles, a depth of 1.5-inches and two incredibly awesome sets of 3D goggles. If you're not concerned that actual 3D content is all but nonexistent for home users, you can snag this now for $9,153 (and not a penny more). Gallery: JVC's 1080p GD-463D10 3D LCD HDTV to AmericaFiled under: Displays, HDTV, Home EntertainmentJVC brings 46-inch GD-463D10 3D LCD HDTV to America: shipping now for $9,200 originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 10 Sep 2009 12:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments (Read Full Article) | |
| Sony's big plans for OLED HDTVs may slip to next year (Engadget, 8/17/2009 11:04pm) |
Hope you weren't too attached to the idea of "medium to large" sized OLED HDTVs coming from Sony this year, according to the Wall Street Journal's sources, the company's slipping share of TV sales mean profitability takes precedence over sweet, super slim new displays. Surprised by its inability to sell truckloads of $2,500 11-inch versions CEO Howard Stringer decided to put the project on the back burner, apparently more focused on things like competing in Wal-Mart and implementing cheaper LED technology for its LCDs. With LG also on a timetable that puts us a year or more away from seeing one of these on store shelves in decent sizes, things are up to Samsung to bring it home -- we're waiting.Filed under: HDTVSony's big plans for OLED HDTVs may slip to next year originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 17 Aug 2009 18:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments (Read Full Article) | |
| Samsung rolls out Amazon, Blockbuster video store access across HDTVs, HTIBs and Blu-ray players everywhere (Engadget, 10/14/2009 9:42pm) |
Just as promised, the (still SD only) Blockbuster OnDemand service is now available on a slew of Samsung hardware via firmware update, while the Internet@TV lineup (LCD and Plasma HDTVs Series 650 and above and LED HDTVs Series 7000) has a brand new toy with the Amazon VOD Yahoo! widget (which does support HD.) Both services offer a slew of rental and/or purchase options for the digital delivery fanatic, though we still hunger for the audio and quality of VUDU plus the all you can eat goodness of Netflix Watch Instantly, of the millions of TVs out there, there's surely someone willing to sift through those menus for the ease of viewing Ghosts of Girlfriends Past without resorting to cable VOD -- or getting up from the couch. The "convenience" goes both ways, since they'll also be able to pick up compatible Samsung blu-ray players at Blockbuster stores, right next to the TiVo section -- check for exact model #s supported in the PR after the break.Continue reading Samsung rolls out Amazon, Blockbuster video store access across HDTVs, HTIBs and Blu-ray players everywhereFiled under: Displays, HDTV, Home EntertainmentSamsung rolls out Amazon, Blockbuster video store access across HDTVs, HTIBs and Blu-ray players everywhere originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 16:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments (Read Full Article) | |
| JVC's ultraslim 32-inch LT-32WX50 HDTV landing in November for $3,000 (Engadget, 9/10/2009 5:23pm) |
Hey, remember that ultra skinny, LED-backlit HDTV that JVC showed off at CEDIA UK earlier this year? The seven millimeter-thin LT-32WX50? Yeah, that very panel is making a second debut here in Atlanta, but it has somehow managed to slim down to 6.4 millimeters (at its thinnest point) and get a November ship date in the US. Weighing just 12.5 pounds, the 32-inch set packs a 4,000:1 contrast ratio, edged-light LED backlight system, a super wide color gamut (100 percent of sRGB and 90 percent of Adobe RGB), a 1080p native resolution, two HDMI sockets, VGA input and an RS-232c control port. The pain? Just under $3,000, or in other words, a small fortune. Gallery: JVC's ultraslim 32-inch LT-32WX50 HDTVFiled under: Displays, HDTVJVC's ultraslim 32-inch LT-32WX50 HDTV landing in November for $3,000 originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 10 Sep 2009 12:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments (Read Full Article) | |
| Xbox 360 Sky Player down, relaunching 'in phases' today (Joystiq, 10/28/2009 5:00pm) |
| While the Xbox 360 Sky Player apparently launched in the UK yesterday as planned, things veered away from the plan almost immediately thereafter. The service was "suspended" shortly after launch, for what must be the best possible problem in Microsoft's eyes: too many subscribers. "Unfortunately due to the unprecedented levels of simultaneous demand," a statement on Xbox.com reads, "we did not have the capacity to satisfy all service requests and therefore temporarily suspended all access to the service." The service is being reinstated in phases today, presumably with some upgrades in place to deal with the demand. An earlier statement (reproduced on Engadget) specified tomorrow as the target date for the relaunch -- it seems likely that all users will be returned to their regularly scheduled programming then.Xbox 360 Sky Player down, relaunching 'in phases' today originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Oct 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments (Read Full Article) | |
| Zune HD specs fill in the blanks on video format support, battery life and more (Engadget, 8/13/2009 8:28pm) |
Now that everything Zune HD is official and available for pre-order, Microsoft has seen fit to loose official specs, putting to rest -- at least until we can do a full hands on -- questions about what to expect from the OLED touchscreen packing device. From dimensions (52.7 mm x 102.1 mm x 8.9 mm, 2.6 oz) to battery life (24 hours for music with wireless off, up to 4 hours of video) and charge time (3 hours, 2 hours to 90%.) While the offical site (incorrectly) currently lists max video res at barely-better-than-DVD 720 x 480, we contacted Microsoft and received the official specs on video support, and if for some reason you needed to hear it again: the Tegra chip is a beast. Ready for HDTV playback when it's plugged into the AV dock, the Zune software supports up to 1280 x 720, 30 frames per second at a max 14 Mbps bitrate for WMV HD and h.264 sources. Confirmed still a bummer? No wireless video streaming from the Zune Video Marketplace, though the specs do indicate that purchases and rentals will work across all three screens, PC, Zune and Xbox 360. Check the corrected specs after the break, now all that's left is getting some alone time with one.Continue reading Zune HD specs fill in the blanks on video format support, battery life and moreFiled under: Handhelds, HDTV, Home EntertainmentZune HD specs fill in the blanks on video format support, battery life and more originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 13 Aug 2009 15:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments (Read Full Article) | |
| Eyes-on Panasonic's Full HD 3D plasma and Blu-ray combo (Engadget, 9/03/2009 11:17am) |
We just got a real eyeful of 3D, courtesy of Panasonic's upcoming 1080p plasma and Blu-ray 3D setup. The system uses synced shutters, and was easily some of the best "consumer" 3D we've seen -- almost on par with a theater experience, other than the fact that the screen was a whole lot smaller, at 103-inches. Unfortunately, while Panasonic is heavily touting 3D at IFA this year, just as Sony did at its own presser, there isn't much hard news to show for it. The plasma and Blu-ray combo was actually announced a full year ago, and the only word we have on release at the moment is "next year." Obviously, readily available 3D content plays a big part in this, and we get the impression that Avatar is syncing up nicely to be available on some sort of 3D home video format by the time it's ready for a disc release -- we've certainly seen enough teaser clips and trailers of it by now, anyway. To be honest, the 3D setup was seamless enough in our demo room that sometimes it hardly felt 3D. Avatar was especially "shallow" on the 3D scale (no pictures were allowed of the presentation, not that they would help), and we've yet to see anything mindblowing on that end. If anything, Panasonic's presentation was more an opportunity to be "blown away" by the company's awesome PowerPoint skills, if anything, so feel free to follow along in the gallery below. Gallery: Eyes-on Panasonic's Full HD 3D plasma and Blu-ray comboFiled under: HDTV, Home EntertainmentEyes-on Panasonic's Full HD 3D plasma and Blu-ray combo originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 03 Sep 2009 06:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments (Read Full Article) | |
| HDI concocts 100-inch laser-based 3D HDTV, calls rivaling technology child's play (Engadget, 9/17/2009 1:48pm) |
Look, we've seen an awful lot of HDTVs in our day -- one lap around the average CEDIA show floor makes your local Best Buy look awfully small -- and to this day we've yet to put our peepers on a more stunning set than Mitsubishi's LaserVue HDTV. Sure, it's fat, ugly and expensive, but the image is otherworldly. Before Mitsu can even take the logical next step, a California startup has arisen to introduce what it calls the world's first laser-based 3D HDTV. We're talking 1080p 3D like you've never seen before, with CTO Edmund Sandberg noting that this production is smoother than RealD, Dolby, film and pretty much every other 3D solution. The secret here is in the speed; this set is so fast that the image "no longer needs to flash from one eye to the other," and no flashing should equate to no headaches. Too bad there's no planned release date, but we're still cautiously optimistic for a sneak peek (in addition to the video past the break) at CES 2010. [Via OLED-Display]Continue reading HDI concocts 100-inch laser-based 3D HDTV, calls rivaling technology child's playFiled under: Displays, HDTV, Home EntertainmentHDI concocts 100-inch laser-based 3D HDTV, calls rivaling technology child's play originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 17 Sep 2009 08:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments (Read Full Article) | |
| LG unveils new slim design LCD HDTVs due this fall (Engadget, 7/31/2009 1:14am) |
Sure it's summertime in New York and not January in Las Vegas, but that didn't stop LG from rolling out a couple new lines of LCD HDTVs today. The new SL80 and SL90 models don't bring new high water marks on the spec sheets, but feature LG's take on the "borderless" design trend that's the rage these days, built from a single edge to edge piece of glass with a slim bezel and Invisible Speaker design. The top of the line SL90 is due later this year for an unspecified price range in 42- and 47-inch sizes with LED backlighting contributing to its 3,000,000:1 claimed contrast ratio and 1.15 inch depth, plus 120Hz TruMotion processing. The SL80 line has 240Hz processing, but older CCFL backlighting means a 300,000:1 measured contrast ratio and 1.8-inch thick design, but the 42-, 47-, and 55-inch models will be available this August for $1,599, $1,899 and $2,799, respectively. Want a closer look at LG's new global flat panel design platform? The gallery is right here. Gallery: LG's SL80 and SL90 hands-on Filed under: HDTV, Home EntertainmentLG unveils new slim design LCD HDTVs due this fall originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 30 Jul 2009 20:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments (Read Full Article) | |
| Panasonic in-dash HD nav system & Blu-ray player ready to ship, are you ready for the price? (Engadget, 8/20/2009 2:01pm) |
Don't think you can sell the kids short anymore, keeping the Blu-ray copy at home and taking DVD rips on the road, now that Panasonic is ready to deliver its in-dash Blu-ray player and 7-inch HD screen packing nav unit in September. We got a good peek at these back in April and the specs haven't changed, with the Profile 1.1 Bonus View compatible CY-BB1000D taking care of Blu-ray duties and featuring the same UniPhier guts as the company's line of living room Blu-ray players. The CN-HX3000D is a WXGA 1280x720p 7-inch LED backlit widescreen display ready to play back media via standard HDMI, iPod connector, SD card or its digital TV tuner, powered by Windows Automotive with navigation duties assisted by Google Maps and Yahoo! Japan. The CY-BB1000D is ¥99,750 ($1,057) and the CN-HX3000D is ¥365,400 ($3,872), and both arrive September 10 in Japan. We'll let you decide if around 5 grand is a good price for the in car HD experience (might want to look at custom mounting a DMP-B15, $800 and you can take it with you.) Read - CYBB1000D Read - CN-HX3000DFiled under: GPS, HDTV, TransportationPanasonic in-dash HD nav system & Blu-ray player ready to ship, are you ready for the price? originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 20 Aug 2009 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Permalink | Email this | Comments (Read Full Article) | |
| Sony TRIMASTER quad-HD LCD multiplies the resolution, and the price, of any home HDTV (Engadget, 10/06/2009 6:03pm) |
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Can't wait until December for Toshiba's CELL REGZA LCD? Sony is bringing its own 56-inch 3,840x2160 quad-HD display to market November 1 in Japan. Priced at 6,825,000 ($76,583) including taxes this is clearly for pros only, hence the TRIMASTER name referring to the three elements combined within -- exact color, accurate picture and reliability -- thanks to a RGB LED backlit panel built with incredible picture reproduction and exact calibration (with included software via a connected PC) in mind. While it's cheaper than JVC's $175k 4K projector, unless you're mastering the next Pixar flick, viewing high res satellite imagery or can't live without four HD feeds on one screen even the most well heeled amongst may be better served scouring bargain bins for a used Westinghouse D56QX1 for now. [Via AV Watch]Filed under: Displays, HDTVSony TRIMASTER quad-HD LCD multiplies the resolution, and the price, of any home HDTV originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 06 Oct 2009 13:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments (Read Full Article) | |
| PSA: Microsoft not planning Blu-ray drive for 360 (Joystiq, 10/22/2009 11:55pm) |
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Today has seen several reports that Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer has confirmed a Blu-ray drive accessory for the Xbox 360. The purported revelation came from a Gizmodo interview, during which Ballmer said that 360 owners wanting a Blu-ray player could purchase "Blu-ray drives as accessories." Clearing the air, Microsoft's Larry Hryb (a.k.a. Major Nelson) has gone on the record saying that the company has "no plans" for a 360 Blu-ray drive, adding that Ballmer was actually referring to Blu-ray drives for PCs. Hryb reiterates -- as did Ballmer -- that the main push for the Xbox 360 will be streaming media, noting specifically that the upcoming Dashboard update will bring instant 1080p streaming, a feature of the Zune Video Marketplace. Now, say it with us (one more time): Blu-ray isn't coming to the Xbox 360.PSA: Microsoft not planning Blu-ray drive for 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 Oct 2009 18:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments (Read Full Article) | |
| Sharp combines its latest LCD improvements in LX series HDTVs (Engadget, 9/30/2009 9:12pm) |
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Coming straight out of a brand new 10G production facility in Sakai, Sharp's line of LX HDTVs (in 60-, 52-, 46- and 40-inch sizes) are all sporting the latest in LCD technology with UV²A panels and LED backlighting. Unfortunately, like Sony, these new screens abandon the higher quality RGB LED technology of the pricey XS1 series for cheaper white LEDs. Still, with a price of around $5,000 for a 52-inch compared to the $12,000 sticker shock of the XS1, it's easy to see why the switch was made. Other improvements include a light sensor for auto-calibration, a six speaker (5 speakers on the 40-inch) integrated 2.1 channel sound system with "Duo Bass" subwoofer and the usual assortment of VOD and AQUOS network support in store for Japanese buyers this November. While already available on a few U.S. models expect the new tech to spread across Sharp's U.S. lineup shortly, not to mention Sony and anyone other parties interested in a piece of the company's suddenly expanded manufacturing muscle. [Via AV Watch & Akihabara News]Filed under: HDTVSharp combines its latest LCD improvements in LX series HDTVs originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 30 Sep 2009 16:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments (Read Full Article) | |
| Mitsubishi unveils REAL line of Blu-ray burning, super upconverting LCDs (Engadget, 8/20/2009 3:52pm) |
Providing some competition for Sharp's DX series, Mitsubishi has taken the wraps off of its REAL Series LCD HDTVs, including a set with built-in hard drives and Blu-ray recorders, plus a few more that lack the recording, but throw in super resolution upconversion that claims to make even the worst SD look better than ever. Even if that's just hype, we hope it fares better than the company's ill-fated 120Hz processing. The 37- (1080p) and 32-inch (720p) BHR300 models feature their disc drives in the stand, rather than back-mounted approach of the AQUOS, plus 320GB HDDs, SDHC slot, plus i.LINK and USB connectors that let owners edit video from a camcorder on the TV before saving to disc or hard drive. The MZW300 models are all 1080p, in 40-, 42- and 52-inch sizes, with Diamond Engine Pro IV HD super resolution tech, the latest and most power efficient Diamond panel with 20,000:1 contrast ratio, built in 5.1 Dolby Digital decoder, virtual surround speakers and a talking program guide feature. These hit shelves in Japan in late October ranging in price from ¥350,000 ($3,705) for the LCD-52MZW300 to ¥200,000 ($2,117) for the LCD-32BHR300.Filed under: Displays, HDTV, Home EntertainmentMitsubishi unveils REAL line of Blu-ray burning, super upconverting LCDs originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 20 Aug 2009 10:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments (Read Full Article) | |
| Sony: No plan to launch 3-D support for all PS3 games (Joystiq, 9/05/2009 1:00am) |
| Hold on before you run out to buy a new TV! You may have seen the report on Engadget stating that, according to a Sony rep, all PS3 games will run in 3-D with a software update next year. We contacted Sony ourselves to learn more about what sounded like a major megaton to let slip at a trade show. Sony told us that the company is "conducting a technological investigation" of whether it's even possible to do that. As for specifics: "there is no plan for the market launch of this at this time." If you're dying to look at a 3-D game right now, Engadget also captured a video of Wipeout HD being played in 3-D, which you can see above. For some reason, the 3-D effect doesn't come through when viewed in an embedded video recording -- even with the glasses in front of the lens. Sony really needs to work on that.Sony: No plan to launch 3-D support for all PS3 games originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Sep 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments (Read Full Article) | |
| NPD predicts PS3 sales to increase by 40-60% post price drop (Joystiq, 8/21/2009 9:30pm) |
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The NPD Group, famed tabulator of video game hardware and software sales, says it sees the new $299 price point of PlayStation 3 contributing to a significant sales boost for the system. "We would expect to see in the range of a 40% to 60% unit sales increase when September sales are reported," NPD analyst Anita Frazier told InformationWeek. We'll see how accurate of an estimate that was when the September NPD data hits mid-October. Frazier added, "The $299 price point is important to getting to a point where the next segment of price-conscious consumers can jump into the market and it most certainly will re-energize sales of the platform." So, basically, a cheaper PS3 will sell better because people are more likely to take the plunge at a cheaper price. We know that analysts get paid to offer their opinions, but this just ... gave us an idea! "It's our opinion that a $99 price point for PS3 would increase sales by 90 to 100 percent." -- Joystiq Small, unmarked bills only, please. [Via IndustryGamers]NPD predicts PS3 sales to increase by 40-60% post price drop originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Aug 2009 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments (Read Full Article) | |
| Sony announces new PS3 Slim, coming first week of Sept. (Update: now with pics!) (Joystiq, 8/18/2009 7:20pm) |
click for high-res PS3 Slim gallery digg_url = 'http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/18/sony-announces-new-slimmer-ps3-coming-first-week-of-sept/'; We know, we're as shocked as you are! Sony has used the GamesCom stage in Cologne to announce the oh-so-tiny PS3 Slim. The good news is that the system sports both a slimmer form factor (33 percent smaller, 36 percent lighter and 34 percent less power use) a 120GB hard drive and the tidy price tag of $299. It boasts all the same features as the current PS3, which means still no backwards compatibility with your PS2 games. If you've been holding off on buying a chunkier PS3 until the inevitable release of its slimmer little brother, your wait will finally end in September. Gallery: PlayStation 3 SlimSony announces new PS3 Slim, coming first week of Sept. (Update: now with pics!) originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 Aug 2009 14:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments (Read Full Article) | |
| Microsoft lifts Xbox 360 minimum 720p, anti-aliasing mandate for devs (Joystiq, 9/02/2009 11:45pm) |
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In a column published today on Develop, Black Rock Studio (Pure, Split/Second) technical director David Jeffrries revealed that Microsoft has removed an item from its TCRs (Technical Certification Requirements) that stated all Xbox 360 games must run at a minimum of 1280x720 (720p) resolution if the system is in HD mode. According to Jeffries, this was done earlier this year so that developers could be "free to make the trade-off between resolution and image quality as we see fit." TCRs are technical "rules" that all games developed for a given platform must adhere to in order to be certified for release. Of course, some games that have skirted this specific TCR have still been allowed on the system; the most notable being Microsoft's own Halo 3, which runs at 1152x640 (progressive). Joystiq has confirmed with a trusted source familiar with Microsoft's TCRs that Jeffries' claim is legit. Not only that, but, as of March 2009, Xbox 360 developers are no longer required to utilize full-screen anti-aliasing in their games. The elimination of both requirements is especially noteworthy since the console maker had touted that all 360 games would run at a minimum of 720p with at least 2x FSAA since before the hardware launched. As Jeffries points out in his column, 1280x720 isn't necessarily the "starting point" for HD on many displays and that it's not nearly as crucial as anti-aliasing. It's not clear if the back-tracking on Microsoft's part was due to pressure from the development community or not, but we can probably all agree that, as long as a game looks great, it doesn't really matter how its creators got there. Does it?Microsoft lifts Xbox 360 minimum 720p, anti-aliasing mandate for devs originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments (Read Full Article) | |
