HDTV 3D Review and Roundup: Engadget’s Guide to the 3D Units

Engadget HD recently published a complete roundup of the major glasses and HDTV units that can do 3D, and it makes for a very nice read, even if its about as cynical of its future as we have often been. Four brands face off in this competition: Panasonic, Sony, Mitsubishi and LG.

This round up includes this great segment: “Right now, there’s barely enough 3D content to support more than a couple of hours viewing per week, much less support a full viewing conversion to all-glasses, all the time..” – which is the truth. If its a growing medium to be compared to a lifeform, it’s barely out of the womb and taking its first breaths really.

See the article right here: Link

Discounted: Vizio 3D HDTVs showing up with slashed prices

We always like price surprises, and this time is no exception as Vizio’s 3D HDTV line is appearing on US shelves, with a several hundred dollar price reduction over the MSRP, a welcome sight indeed. Read on via Engadget:

Right on cue, VIZIO’s latest XVT 3D LCDs have been spotted on retail shelves. One reader noticed this 55-incher at Costco with a $1,999 price tag, a few hundred bucks off the initial MSRP. We’d still like to see some of those 3D specs thrown in, but with a pretty significant price advantage over similar TVs from other manufacturers like Sony we’re thinking there’s some room in there to snatch them up separately if one is so inclined.

Now all we need is a more complete detailing of the specs of the unit, and we’ll be all set. Anyone want to volunteer to check them out for us?

Vizio Update: New 3D HDTVs and 3D Blu-Ray player announced

With the race for holiday dominance already begun, Vizio isn’t standing pat, it seems. They announced a gaggle of new products today, including a new 3D Blu-Ray player and 3D HDTV models (mega-slick box for one seen here in the picture). Check it out:

Say hello to the new VIZIO XVT 3D series, while the XVT Pro line announced earlier this year (and that 72-inch model we were drooling over) were not to be, these 42-, 47- and 55-inch HDTVs are real and on sale today through Amazon, Sam’s Club and Target’s online shops and should be on shelves later this month. Features like the number of LED backlighting zones (for the 47- and 55-, the 42-inch features edge LED lighting), claimed contrast ratio, WiFi N and VIZIO Internet Apps are consistent with existing models, so the big addition this time around is 480Hz refresh rate and obviously, 3D readiness (active shutter glasses not included). VIZIO’s also announced two new 3D compatible Blu-ray players to match for $189, plus a new router and some high priced HDMI cables to fill out the lineup.

All prices were not announced at the time, but expect value price points if we know Vizio pretty well.

Adapter-Less 3 Dimensions: Mitsubishi to prepare HDTV line for freeform 3D

Previous Mitsubishi HDTV models required an adapter to support 3D HDTV, but Mitsu is (as we speak) preparing to launch a new update for the feature. We applaud their efforts, even if we aren’t too sure how 3D will do in the future. Read on:

While its older 3DTVs will still absolutely require an adapter, Mitsubishi is rolling out a software update for its 2010 line of 3D-ready HDTVs that will allow them to process additional forms of 3D video supported by HDMI 1.4 devices. The TVs shipped with only support for checkerboard or side-by-side format 3D, while the new update adds top-bottom (ESPN 3D) and frame packing (Blu-ray 3D) support without requiring an adapter passthrough. Owners of 738 and 838 TVs that are hooked to the internet should start seeing the update soon automatically, or it will be avialable for download from the website. You’ll probably still want to grab a starter kit with IR sync and glasses if you want the Samsung-compatible specs, but DLP-link active shutter 3D glasses should work without any additional hardware at all.

Mitsubishi also updated various sources to state that the software update will launch officially on 11/16.

Big Panel News: AUO to make large LCD 3D units

It seems even the ‘smaller market’ players are joining the 3D HDTV fray: AUO Optronics will be releasing several huge (huge meaning 71″ mind you) LCD 3D panels in the next little while. Read on for more details:

In case you haven’t noticed, FPD International 2010 is just about ready to hit full-swing, and AUO is on hand with a stockpile of new kit. AUO Optronics just so happens to be a fairly substantial panel maker in the grand scheme of things, so people tend to pay attention when they roll out the planet’s largest Cinema Scope (read: 21:9 aspect ratio) 3D LCD TV. A 71-inch version of the aforesaid device is on hand for the public to gawk at, as is a 65-inch QFHD 4K x 2K lenticular lens 3D TV. The former boasts a 240Hz double frame rate, LED scanning backlight and optimized parameters for better motion flow, and unlike most three-dee televisions these days, this one works with polarized glasses — you know, the ones that are dirt cheap, don’t require batteries and haven’t been known to give people headaches. The latter is a glasses-free solution, but unlike the company’s next generation 3D notebook panels, you’ll need to be located in one of eight viewing spots to dig the effect.

We like the specs, but no prices released as of yet. We’re anticipating the ‘not cheap’ range, but glasses-free and/or huge will always have a hefty price tag.

ESPN 3D: Days numbered?

In a bit of possibly bad news for the booming 3D HDTV trend, ESPN 3D sort of announced that their ROI hasn’t been too good through their first year so far.

According to ESPN Senior Director of Technology, Jonathan Pannaman, “We’re still not sure what makes sense for 3DTV and we don’t yet see a proven ROI.” Uh oh, that’s corporate talk for “We’re considering the axe because we aren’t making any money”.

It seems Hollywood isn’t super interested in the whole 3D thing, so its up to TV to rescue the format possibly, and so far, many companies aren’t seeing a big deal earnings wise about the format, which could spell doom for 3D as we know it.

Don’t say we didn’t warn you, but this trend could be evolving into a ‘fad’, a very different sort of direction.

The Specs Specs: Prescription 3D HD Glasses?

In all the hubbub over 3D and such, people forget that many need prescription eyeglasses to see anything, 3D or otherwise. Now Samsung is apparently doing something about this, as they’re preparing prescription level 3D active-shutter glasses for certain parts of that population. More here:

If the only thing holding you back from that new 3DTV purchase was the inconvenience of slipping the 3D glasses over the regular old 2D glasses you already wear, Samsung is the first major manufacturer with a solution now that it’s unveiled a prescription version in Korea. The SSG-R2200 models appear to be very similar to the company’s other active shutter 3D glasses in various shapes and sizes, but they’re made to order from an optometrist.

We’ll see these in the US as well at some point, but we’ll also have to see what kind of prices these go for.

Speaking of 3D… LG goes BIG

Yes, it seems LG is going big time into the 3D HDTV world, if announcements are to be believed. News of an 72″ 3D HDTV behemoth are emerging from their headquarters, and the TV was put on display as well. We bring you more details:

If you’re going to make the jump to 3D then don’t pussyfoot around. Not when you can go all in with the world’s largest commercial 3D LED backlit television from LG. The 72LEX9 stretches that 400Hz TruMotion panel to a full 72 inches while bunging NetCast online media streaming, Spot Control pixel dimming, DLNA, and Wireless AV Link into the mix. Look for it to be released in Q2 of 2011.

That makes it the biggest 3D equipped LCD TV in existence, and that’s pretty cool indeed. And you all know we’ve supported and endorsed LG as one of the best LCD brands around.

Three Dimensional Hoops: ESPN to air first 3D HDTV NBA game

ESPN’s 3D channel will air the December 17 contest between the Miami Heat and New York Knicks in HDTV 3D, making it the first NBA broadcast in the format, according to The New York Times. We’ve been skeptical of the format in general, but it seems to be gaining enough steam to warrant taking it more seriously for now.

ESPN will air 8 regular season games and 6 playoff games in 3D HD this season. ESPN 3D is currently available on DIRECTV and the NBA 3D games are also expected to be shown on Comcast, AT&T and Time Warner Cable systems, making it pretty widely available and a good test of whether the format will be popular enough to endure for longer than a typical trend does.

We remain unsure of the 3D format’s longevity in the long term, but hey, we’ve been wrong before.

A Bust: Toshiba glasses-free debut not promising?

Here’s some early hands-on reviews regarding Toshiba’s glass-free HDTV 3D unit, and they aren’t exactly good. Many have negative things to say about the current state of the technology sans glasses:

Toshiba this week introduced several glasses-free 3D HDTVs at the Ceatec conference and the media reviews are not exactly eye-popping.

For instance, CNET writes that you have to sit very close to the center of the screen to experience the 3D effect. And, “you have to stand pretty close to the (set), closer than any normal person would want to for feat of singeing their retinas.”

3D TV makers have struggled to generate sales this year and consumer surveys have suggested that the 3D goggles is a major obstacle; viewers simply don’t want to wear ( or pay extra for) special glasses while watching TV.

To combat that concern, Toshiba this week has unveiled three models, a 12-inch set, a 20-inch set and a 56-inch model. The 12-inch and 20-inch sets are expected to be available in Japan by year’s end for $1,400 and $2,800 respectively (translated into dollars.)

CNET writes that the glasses-free 3D set uses a 2D image and then makes nine images from it to create the 3D effect.

But The New York Post writes today that the viewer would have to sit between 15 and 25 inches from the screen to get the 3D effect.

Well, that isn’t a good thing. We’re one of the ones that think this tech could take off, if a reliable and solid glasses-free unit could really work.

The Word is No: HDTV buyers say 3D isn’t a big deal

We aren’t exactly shocked: a recent large survey indicates 3D isn’t enough to lure people into buying a new HDTV if they already own a recently purchased one. Yep, not a lot of shock here really. The numbers: 83% of consumers say 3D isn’t enough to make them want to buy a new TV, according to an article published by CNET.com very recently.

But TV makers from Panasonic to Sony to Samsung have invested big time in new 3D HDTVs designed to grab consumers and encourage them to sink their wallets into new technology. However, sales have been slow overall; reports are that only a little over a million 3D sets will be in homes by the end of 2010.

Deloitte’s study also found that 60 percent of consumers won’t pay more for a TV with 3D included. That’s bad news for many companies sinking a lot into promoting this new end of the HDTV spectrum. Here’s to hoping they just improve the 2D experience of sets and not worry too much about the third dimension for now.

Still Here: Runco releases new Plasma HDTV offerings

Runco is a company that’s been around for a bit and usually offers large high-end offerings for professional use, but does offer consumer level products as well through various sources, and is poised to release some very cool new screens to the general (if ones with deep pockets) public. Read on:

Runco’s continuing to develop its plasma HDTV offerings with the new Vistage series. Available in 63-, 58- or 50-inch sizes, the 1.7-inch think panels also include the company’s latest scaler, the DHD-LS. Unlike that projector we just mentioned, these do 3D with the addition of active shutter glasses and an IR emitter, courtesy of an add-on pack shipping early next year. We got a quick glance at the screens which promise contrast and black levels “previously unachieved in the industry” and while they did look amazing, you may not be able to decide if cashing out for between $6,000 and $10,000 for one of these screens is worthwhile — until you find out you can outfit the back of the panel with decorations including your college logo of choice.

Official release is scheduled for the end of the year, according to various sources.

3D Goes 4D: Sharp releases Quattron HDTVs to the US

It appears Sharp is still busily engineering in their labs, and marketing directly to the states for the first time in awhile: they’re announcing the soon-to-be-released line of Quattron 3D HDTV models to the US. See more about their engineering feats here:

Sharp made US 3D fans very happy today by announcing the immediate availability of its new 52 and 60-inch AQUOS Quattron 3D TVs at CEDIA. The LED backlight side-mount scanning LE925 series starts at $4199 with the bigger brother going for $5299, feature two pairs of 3D glasses bundled in, a dynamic contrast ratio of 8,000,000:1 and IP control plus RS-232 for home automation fans. The Ethernet port or optional WiFi adapter can also be used to stream Netflix, VUDU or a variety of other over the top video services. What’s interesting is that Sharp is claiming its 4th color (yellow) Quattron technology offers a brighter image which can overcome the dimming, that 3D glasses are known for. Also, a first is that the 3D glasses can convert the 3D signal to 2D for that one 3D hatter in your party (not to be confused with the TV’s ability to convert 2D material to 3D).

We love the fancy new tech, hopefully it does well enough to be emulated in some form by other companies.

Firmware Update: Welcome and Hello, 3D HD Blu-Ray and PS3

It appears Sony is on the ball with the very latest in HD 3D Blu-Ray, and after much discussion, rumor and turmoil, Sony is about ready to unleash 3D Blu-Ray support for the PS3. The following describes in more detail the news itself:

We’ve been waiting for 3D Blu-ray support to hit the PS3 for a good long while now, and Sony’s been promising it would happen for, well, exactly that same amount of time. Yesterday the company confirmed that the 3D-enabling 3.50 firmware update is less than a week away, dropping on September 21.

We like the news, as the further this drops into the mainstream, the better chance it has of not being a bust. We applaud (finally!) Sony’s efforts to catch up with this technology.

THX Jazz: LG announces fancy new Plasma HDTV units

Remember when we said Plasma was almost dead? Well, perhaps its death may have been exaggerated a tad bit, it seems…as LG announced the launch of fancy new Plasma units coming soon – with THX certification. More details below:

LG is touting its plasma PX950 as the first THX-certified 3D HDTV, and while we didn’t run into it at IFA, the company held a press gathering this week in New York to make up for it. So if this set meets THX’s rigorous demands — 400 bench tests and 1,000 data points spread out over 30 test categories — how does it look to the average consumer? Well, LG certainly has done a lot to prevent ghosting — that is, image doubling from sync issues with the glasses — and we were able to enjoy some pretty extreme horizontal viewing angles.

We heard some rumors about blurring with high-speed images at the showing though, so buyer may need to beware, perhaps. No firm prices announced yet, but we’re expecting a several hundred dollar premium over the normal Plasma HDTV unit.

Mixed Survey News: 3D interest high – Paying for it? Not so much

This year’s hot new feature in HDTV is 3D as we’ve reported here quite a bit, but of course we have expressed our doubts about people being interested enough to pay a big premium to view it and buy 2K+ sets for it. The chart displayed here should provide an easy way to see people’s point of view right now.

Nielsen and associated groups have completed the first big-time study including exposure to 3DTV content with focus groups and a quantitative study including lots of people from all walks of life. The phrase “marketing challenge” becomes apparent with the numbers of consumers stating they are likely to buy a 3DTV in the next year going down after they watch it and factoring in the additional cost and limited content, with 57% getting up in arms about the required glasses. Many said if the technology became glasses free, they would consider it more. No surprise there really.

It’ll be interesting to see what happens as the tech develops further and eventually no longer needs glasses.

More Exclusivity: Bolt and Alice 3D Blu-Ray made Sony only

Another day, another exclusive 3D Blu-Ray deal made. We aren’t really sure this is the best thing for the medium long-term, but companies seem to think this is the best path for market acceptance, for some reason. This time Disney made the deal with Sony, and here’s the whole rundown:

This time it’s Disney, opting to align its Alice in Wonderland and Bolt movies with Sony products over the holiday season as the two team up on “consumer and retail education, promotion and marketing support for in-home 3D devices and content.” That means buyers of Sony 3D TVs and Blu-ray players may have one of the above as a pack-in, while everyone else waits ’til the unspecified time when they’re released at retail. Hear that? That’s the sound of 3D early adopters queueing up Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs for the umpteenth time, camping out in line for Monster House next week or wildly overpaying for pack in / overseas 3D discs only they can’t otherwise get on eBay.

We agree that this will create an artificially high market for awhile, and may prevent wide penetration in the industry for awhile. We’ll see how all of this shakes out, as we don’t have a great feeling about all these exclusive 3D BR deals going on right now.

Exclusivity: Panasonic gets Avatar 3D Blu-Ray all to itself

In an interesting bit of BR HD news, it seems the age of exclusivity deals have arrived, as Panasonic secures an exclusive deal to distribute the hit movie in the 3D Blu-Ray format. It’s a big deal for the company, even if demand early on is not expected to be overwhelming.

The exclusive will run for an unspecified period of time, probably not forever, as we expected. But during that period, Panasonic will be able to include the disc with the purchase of a Panasonic 3D HDTV, or even sell it separately at retail.

It wasn’t clear exactly how it was expected to be sold (and the company didn’t make it obvious in their recent press releases), so we’ll wait and see what happens once it hits in early December. We suspect it’ll be a bundle of some kind to push those models out the door.

Mid-Range Joy: Sony announces new middle of the road 3D HDTV choices

We all love a good deal, but some like their prices squarely in the middle. Not too expensive, but not the bottom of the line either. Sony is happy to oblige apparently, as they have announced new 3D HDTV choices that should be more wallet pleasing. Read onward:

Sony’s finally taken the wraps off its latest televisions for the US market, carrying the NX810 model number. Available in 60-, 55- and 46-inch sizes next month, these give a 3D spec bump (and around a $200 premium on the MSRP) to the existing NX800 series of Edge LED lit HDTVs that came out earlier this year. Like the NX800, these feature a slick monolith design, built-in WiFi, widgets and an ambient light sensor to automatically adjust the picture in changing room conditions, but other than the 3D-readiness (and coupons for free Blu-ray 3D movies and PSN games, though it looks like you’ll have to pay for the glasses on your own) it’s hard to find any differences on paper.

Good stuff, lower prices are something we can always agree on.

Loaded and Ready: Mitsu launches new 3D HDTV line in Japan

Mitsubishi Japan has stepped up as a serious player in the 3D HDTV arena it seems. Mitsu announced 3 brand new, full HDTVs for your home theater pleasure, and they look pretty loaded for bear, even if they certainly aren’t cheap at all.

Much like the Panasonics that got unleashed recently (and a strong new trend in HDTVs), all three have the ability to record to their hard drives or Blu-ray. We like the new feature, even if we aren’t huge fans of the increased price tag that comes with it usually.

Spec-wise, they’ve got full 1080p HD, backlit LCDs, 1TB HDD built-in, a ten speaker Diatone system for pretty good sound, USB and SD slots, and HDMI slots. The sets, which come in 40, 46, and 55-inches, also come with a pair of 3D glasses included for 3D joy.

They’ll be available in Japan in early October (to follow on other shores we’re sure at some point) for around $3,500, $4,700 and $5,900 (!!), respectively. Those price points might keep some away, but the HDTV fan with deep pockets may have found something to follow closely.

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