USA Today article: The economy may hurt HDTV and Blu-Ray adoption

The sense of fear that’s suffocating much of the nation’s economy is creeping into what was supposed to be one of this shopping season’s cheeriest places: stores that sell digital televisions and accessories. Once considered immune to the economic doldrums, even these places are feeling the pressure.

Consumer electronics manufacturers, retailers, Hollywood studios and satellite and cable companies bet big that this would be a HD Christmas. They thought that consumers would load up on large-screen HDTVs, Blu-ray players and discs, and HD channels in the last shopping season before Feb. 17, the date when the federal government will require local broadcasters to stop transmitting analog signals and just offer digital signals.

Yet their HD dreams could be dashed by an economy that has millions of consumers simultaneously fearful for their livelihoods and unable to get credit. In some cases, some have suggested delaying the switch to digital signals, until the economy stabilizes a bit more. It’s a radical suggestion, but one that may have to happen, some analysts suggest. Our own thought is that this won’t happen, but there’s no doubt: This sector is taking a hit.

More thoughtful analysis here.