That’s Some Strong VUDU: Mitsubishi ships new HDTV/VUDU equipped line

The Coolest Gadgets blog has the skinny on VUDU equipped HDTVs by Mitsubishi that are now shipping out to retailers, and it looks pretty darn good to us.

Mitsubishi is back with a new range of flat panel TVs for its Diamond Unisen line, where these models will ship with built-in VUDU support in full High Definition glory. The integration of VUDU ensures consumers will be able to experience the seamless delivery of thousands of high-definition movies and TV shows on-demand, although we’re pretty sure this still won’t stop people from flipping channels whenever they’re bored. At least you don’t have to time your TV schedule to a station’s programming, since you will definitely be free whenever you pick up the show that you think would tickle your fancy.

Consumers ought to sit back and relax with VUDU HD movie content that is streamed directly, offering an unparalleled sensory experience courtesy of Unisen’s superior 1080p picture performance alongside integrated Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound. It is interesting to note that the Diamond Unisen models (LT-46249 and LT-52249) will be equipped with an Ethernet port as well, enabling a direct connection to the Internet. For those who truly exhort the wireless lifestyle and want to walk their talk, there is always an optional VUDU wireless accessory bridge that you can purchase for use, enabling consumers to link their Diamond Unisen model to their wireless home network without worrying about pulling another wire or tripping over one.

Consumers will be pleased to know that there are more than 2,200 HD titles available from VUDU, with a total title count of 16,000 on the whole, making it one of the most extensive HD movie libraries available in the market as at press time. Apart from that, the VUDU service on Diamond Unisen Immersive Sound TVs will also bring Internet services that most people cannot do without these days, including (and not limited to) YouTube, Flickr, Picasa and Pandora, accompanied by an “On Demand TV” area that boasts over 80 channels for you to go nuts over. with more than 80 channels to choose from. The 46″ LT-46249 Diamond Unisen will retail for $2,599, while the 52″ LT-52249 model is going for a slightly more expensive $3,099.

We like the features, though the price may be a tad bit on the high side right now, but it comes with a ton of content built right in that many TVs don’t, so it might be worth it long term.

HD News: VUDU first to sell HD movies via their set-top box

VUDU made news with their Blu-ray-competition HDX format, and now its the first set-top company to begin selling movies in HD format to users, for them to keep forever (on their boxes anyway).

Announced today, all VUDU users can browse a decent sized library of HD/HDX movies, with prices ranging between $13.99 and $23.99, depending on the movie, of course. It will include 50 (mostly indie) movies initially, including Man on Wire, which won an Oscar this year. FirstLook studios will feature a few movies as well.

Hopefully, it will continue to grow, and more large studios will jump on the bandwagon and offer their wares as well. With the recent price cuts of the VUDU box, there should be a larger market for this service. The only thing i’d be wary of is the fact that your purchases will only exist as long as VUDU remains around, which is always a gambit these days.