Blu-Ray Vs. HD-DVD. Which Format do you Prefer?

[Jdm7399]

I hope I've created this thread correctly *Knocks On Wood* OK, here I go...

Blu-Ray Vs. HD-DVD
This is similar to the battle between Betamax and VHS tapes. We all know which format won that battle. The current battle in this era is for the next-gen movie formats in your own home. Which Format do you prefer and which Format will win?

As you all know, the HD era is here and here to stay. With these 2 formats going head to head with each other, which one will you choose? The Sony PS3 is not just a gaming console, but acts like a Blu-Ray player as well. We know that Microsoft's Xbox 360 has an External HD-DVD drive that allows you to have the option to play HD-DVD movies. What seems to be 2 major companies backing up a different format, does that give one or the other the upper hand?

Aside from the companies backing up their chosen formats, how about the movies? Certain movies are on certain formats. You might have 2 favorite movies, but one is for Blu-Ray and the other is for HD-DVD. Are they forcing us to choose or better yet, making us buy both formats so we are forced into buying 2 different players? Regardless, you will have to choose unless you stay with the standard DVDs.

The standard now is still regular DVDs. Some might not care for the HD movies and would rather pay $15-$20 for regular DVD than oppose to paying $25-$30 for a Blu-Ray or HD-DVD movie. We as consumers, determine their fate. Which format suits you?

P.S. Regarding the Blu-Ray and HD-DVD polls. There isn't a "BOTH" poll option because one or the other will lose the battle.

[ThrillKillBill]

one thing i learned from owning a giant DvD collection is that i seldom ever watch them more then twice, and trading in more then 600 of them will get you a 360 elite plus extra controller, plus almost 30 games......

Seriously, i don't think i'll every waste my funds on movies again, get way more entertainment from video games.

[Ash3n]

JD,

Great topic JD! It is a topic I see every day at work. They both are good, and with Multi Players coming out soon (besides the LG one) they both might be here to stay.

I know BR got Disney, but HDDVD just landed Wal-Mart and a $299 player. So both are making strides. The entertainment industry predicted HDDVD would be getting its ass handed to them by now....which is not accurate. In fact HDDVD is still leading in the battle. That also does not include PS3 and XBOX HD sales.

If you look at both closely, Blu-Ray wipes the floor with HDDVD on paper. But hey, so does the PS3 vs. the 360. What I do know is what I see at home and work. My pick is HDDVD for my personal preference, even though I have both. For a few reasons, one is that BR is not using their full potential. Blu-Ray is using MPEG-2 compression. Even though they have the ability to use MPEG-4. They also have not even touched the max storage of their DVD's. I think the largest one I have is using 17 gigs.

So, most of the key features BR brags about are not in use. Now don't get me wrong, BR rocks, but so does HDDVD. My prediction? The console war will determine a large portion of sales as well. Remember this, HDDVD has the name. Just how everyone calls an MP3 player an IPOD lol. Branding is huge. Most of the masses are not educated in this lingo, I have customers everyday ask me what a Blu-Ray is? After I explain it..they say, "Nope, I want a HDDVD player." So the name is important, not to us but to the masses, yes.

In summary, I think HDDVD and Blu-Ray will both succeed. LG has the pulse of the community and they are on the right track. Sony has even stated they are considering a Multi-Player.

This is just IMHO of course, I could be wrong. It wouldn't be the first time. I look forwardto everyones opinions.

P.S. - JD would you consider adding a both poll, because the Multi-Players coming out make that 100% feasible bro? Thanks brother. I will wait to vote till you decide.

P.S.S. - Your sig is almost done btw.


:)

-Ash

[Clipse 2]

JD you're right this strongly resymbols the Betamax vs. VHS battle decades ago and once again we have Sony betting on its own horse. The strong helper in the battle for VHS was actually the adult film industry because Sony didn't really want to associate themselves with that genre and it was just cheaper for VHS equipment. Now there are only so many Blu-Ray producing centers and things are still somewhat at a premium for copying and packaging the discs. Disney has backed Blu-Ray and from what I've read in the past has a contract with the disc formatters saying they cannot produce adult film movies with the Blu-Ray format. So once again that industry is using the standard not associated with Sony. However the adult industry won't come into play with this battle, sales are down because internet usage is up for that material and thus becomes a non-factor.

I would have to say I prefer HD-DVD over Blu-Ray. Over time I think we may see HD-DVD prices drop but Blu-Ray prices may stay the same because of the formatting facilities. We have to remember that Sony are sticklers for their own format; mini-disc, memory stick, & UMD. Sony doesn't like to share when it comes to technologies and that in the end will hurt them. When will they learn?

[Jdm7399]

Oops, I forgot to vote myself:p

I voted for Blu-Ray because for some reason my PS3 sounds really good compared to the 360's HD drive. Picture wise, I can't tell the difference. Both are setup the same. Monster Component cables and Monster Fiber Optic cables. No HDMI for me:( I do have the best of both worlds, but honestly it doesn't matter to me which format wins. As long as there will always be great movies being released, then I'm happy. If HD-DVD flops, I can sell my HD drive for my 360. I'm sure someone will want it. I'm not selling my PS3, that's for sure.

Here's my HD movie status:

Blu-Ray: 6

HD-DVD: 3

In regards to a "Both" poll option. I thought it was best to leave that out just because I thought people would prefer one over the other. For those of you that wanted to choose BOTH, I'm sorry for not having an option open.

[graf1k]

Personally I go for HD-DVD for 3 reasons.

1. The tech is cheaper.
2. The image quality is equal to or superior to blu-ray. I have never heard of an HD-DVD being inferior to the same film on blu-ray.
3. The red boxes are totally sweet and the Blu-Ray boxes are totally ugly with that blue plastic.

[R Rated Love]

I voted for HDDVD, largely because of price. From what I see in the stores, they look near identical, but Blu-Ray is a lot more expensive.

(I haven't compared too recently, so for all I know they now sell Blu-Ray players for $150)

[GoodtimeS]

Ive seen both hd dvd and blue rays play and both look great (blue ray seems to be a little darker ). I own a 360 so im concern on how long it will take microsoft to offer a external Blue ray player if the Blue ray does win. Ive read in a few places that the top layer of the hd dvd disc is to be thicker and more resistant to scratch damage , but then again Ive had to return Superman 3 times because of frame freezing and have seen on 10% of the new condition HD DVD disc's ive rented. Hoping that hd dvd does win since these babys arent cheap and i have alot of money invested in my HD DVD Discs.

[fugitivetoby31]

Blu ray as it's the only next gen version I have thanks to my PS3.

I don't think I would of bought a stand alone blu ray player but I wanted a PS3 which will tide me over till the battle is decided

[Dooode]

I think BR will do the trick. It just has so many companys supporting the format PLUS most of the movie companys releasing their stuff EXCLUSIVELY
on BR, so I think maybe HD-DVD will hold up for a while, but BR might be the winner in this one.

I like HD-DVD a lot, lower production cost, lower priced hardware, region code free... the 20GB less space don't bother me. All I want is the movie in outstanding quality, not some SD-quality bonus feature I never watch. For HD-movies, HD-DVD offers more than enough space.

[Alpharoy]

Seems to me that Blu-Ray is gonna be another mini disc type of thing and will possibly die along side the ps3 but of course I could be wrong, I guess only time will tell.

[squirreltakos]

standard dvd for now until price drops... no need for better one right now...

[BlaZiN cdn]

I don't really know that much about Blu-ray, but I think HD-DVD will win just because only sony makes a blu-ray player which is $1500 and a lot of companies make HD-DVD players, and I'm not sure people would like to pay $5 - $15 more for blu-ray over HD-DVD's.

[PerpetualHeaven]

This was from a while ago but just to let you know the number of blu-ray players greatly out number the number of HD-DVD players out there. That being said, the number of movies released for a blu-ray HUGELY out numbers HD-DVD. When I say hugely, I mean so large.. so so very large. On top of that, from what I understand, blu-ray movies have been selling fairly well. Believe or not, the release of the PS3 has greatly helped.

http://www.eproductwars.com/dvd/

Check that out. Blu-ray has been winning constantly and has produced a large margin of winning.

As for format I want to win, I could careless. But everyone thinks that blu-ray is the next mini-disc when it has a significant hardware and software lead.

[Jdm7399]

Does any members here own a PS3?

The last update on my PS3, gave me the functionality to upgrade standard DVD media to HD. Now with that being said, it's still NOT HD of course, but it looks pretty damn close. I actually test it out and the results were, that it delivers a cleaner, more sharper image. The background picture is OK, but you can still recognize little flaws here and there throughout movies.

[Ash3n]

Does any members here own a PS3?

The last update on my PS3, gave me the functionality to upgrade standard DVD media to HD. Now with that being said, it's still NOT HD of course, but it looks pretty damn close. I actually test it out and the results were, that it delivers a cleaner, more sharper image. The background picture is OK, but you can still recognize little flaws here and there throughout movies.

360 up-converts also. Pop in a DVD into the Elite and take a peek. ;)

[Ash3n]

This was from a while ago but just to let you know the number of blu-ray players greatly out number the number of HD-DVD players out there. That being said, the number of movies released for a blu-ray HUGELY out numbers HD-DVD. When I say hugely, I mean so large.. so so very large. On top of that, from what I understand, blu-ray movies have been selling fairly well. Believe or not, the release of the PS3 has greatly helped.

http://www.eproductwars.com/dvd/

Check that out. Blu-ray has been winning constantly and has produced a large margin of winning.

As for format I want to win, I could careless. But everyone thinks that blu-ray is the next mini-disc when it has a significant hardware and software lead.

In this months Sound & Vision, it has HDDVD outselling Blu-Ray by 100k units. The numbers are skewed either way. Most polls are so distorted that nobody knows the truth. For every poll claiming BR as the winner I can find another poll stating the opposite. That goes both ways though. Remember, most polls include the PS3 because it has the Blu-Ray inside.....the 360 unit is overlooked in most cases. Honestly, I still think the Wal-Mart purchase will be a huge blow to BR. I just wish they would join formats and shut up lol. LG has announced a $500 price drop towards the Super Blu Player, so they can slap the competition in the face lol.

[299]

My vote is for reg dvds with players being so cheap everyone has it. From Blu-ray and HD. HD gets my vote remember sony is the same company who came out with laserdisc and beta.

[PerpetualHeaven]

In this months Sound & Vision, it has HDDVD outselling Blu-Ray by 100k units. The numbers are skewed either way. Most polls are so distorted that nobody knows the truth. For every poll claiming BR as the winner I can find another poll stating the opposite. That goes both ways though. Remember, most polls include the PS3 because it has the Blu-Ray inside.....the 360 unit is overlooked in most cases. Honestly, I still think the Wal-Mart purchase will be a huge blow to BR. I just wish they would join formats and shut up lol. LG has announced a $500 price drop towards the Super Blu Player, so they can slap the competition in the face lol.

Including PS3s, Blu-ray has the advantage in hardware sales. Removing the PS3 then there probably is only a few hundred blu-rays. Even then, my post was about software sales and their rankings. Blu-ray has more software ranked high in sales then HD-DVD several times.

[Jdm7399]

360 up-converts also. Pop in a DVD into the Elite and take a peek. ;)

Really Ash? So pop in a standard DVD into the Elite and not the HD drive, right? Can the HD drive even play standard DVDs? Thanks for the info, Ash! I'll give it a try.

[EL_A550_WIPEO]

I pick blu-ray because I have a ps3 and feel no need to spend extra money. Honestly I dont own any blu-ray or HD DVD movies but since the ps3 basically makes movies HD and has a blu-ray player in it Ill have to stick with blu-ray.

and BTW Sony and philips created the CD and Helped make the DVD so they have done way more than fail.

[housemdfan]

I say HD-DVD simply because...well..I like the way it sounds better than Blu-Ray. LOL Not to mention the fact that it seems like it's being implemented more than Blu-Ray. But thats just me. Maybe HD-Dvd will be the next VCR, who knows? Or maybe it'll be blu-ray. Frankly my tv doesn't support HD right now so it would be pointless to get either.

[Jdm7399]

I say HD-DVD simply because...well..I like the way it sounds better than Blu-Ray. LOL

Well that defeats the purpose of my poll. Please VOTE accordingly. I'm not trying to be an @$$hole, but I will be damned if this gets Locked. No more SPAM ok, House?

[MadDog2010]

Well, if you are talking about picture quality, I would have to say Blu-Ray. But if you are talking about expenses, then I would go HD-DVD. Or you can just get both since they don't have the same movies.

[Cordes]

I prefer Blu-Ray because I think the quality of the movies is better than HD-DVD. Maybe that is just because the 360 HD drive is connected via USB and then the 360 via HDMI and my PS3 is connected via HDMI directly. What I also like about BR is the pop-up menu (although I don't even know if HD-DVDs have it too). Last reason, blue is my favorite color and I just hate the red HD cases.

[Maxima04]

Everyday I need to bring this debate up to my customers at work. Whether to go with blu-ray, hd-dvd, or at best and most popular upconverting dvd players. Quality wise and price wise, both technologies are very similar now. But a lot of people just don't want to commit to one with the fear that the other they don't choose will win out. Now even tho the LG has the dual player, it still costs about the same as buying both players anyways.

Now i know the adult industry was mentioned above, and was once thought of as being a major contributor to the likely hood that HD DVD would win out, since a partnership with them would mean they would control a very large portion of the market share. However, with internet and its adult content availablity, who really needs to buy dvd's.

Surprised it wasn't talked about yet, but Blockbuster decided to pick Blu ray as their next gen for rent. Most people, including myself, rent, I only buy ones i really enjoy, so this could help them.

So what did i vote for. Standard DVD. Why? Upconverting to 720p and 1080p is now available, and most people can't tell the difference. Sure the audio and special features of the next gen discs are awsome, but how many people really want to buy all new more expensive discs of the movies that they may already own? Not too many of our customers, about 4 of 5 hdtv's go out with an upconvert player. On the other hand 1 of 15 go out with next gen. Now that number will rise abit with our current promotions, and the recent price drops, but most people won't committ yet.

I work at a Magnolia/Best buy store by the way.

[Hulking Bubba65]

i went with HD-DVD because, it's a lot cheaper than Blu-Ray and and there more of a variety of movies on HD than on Blu-Ray.

[Wandering Proof]

I voted for standard only because I don't think either of these will stick around all that long before something better comes along. If I had to choose though I would have to say Blu-Ray only because they are winning the battle right now. Most companies are backing it much stronger then the HD-DVD, and like Maxima mentioned Blockbuster selecting it as its next gen format is a pretty big deal... but it also shows that there are more titles being released on it then the HD-DVD system.

I didn't know about these Upconverting players that are out, I have a huge dvd collection and am now quite excited to get my hands on one of these. I will be going to Best Buy tonight, and more then likely be walking out with one. Thanks for the heads up Maxima.

[Rocket]

I say standard DVD. It looks amazing, and I already own over 500 DVD's and almost 100 TV Shows on DVD. That is too much money to try and rebuy again. On an HD TV standard DVD looks amazing. I have seen one HD DVD and it looked good, but not worth it to me as I already stated, own so many DVD's. But if I was forced to choose between BLU RAY and HD...HD as it is the only one I have seen, and wouldn't want to base my choice of someone else's opinion of which is better, and just go with what I know to be good.

[Zef]

Standard DVDs, I don't have much use for HD DVDs and Blu Ray is just plain stupid. If games begin to suffer from regular DVDs then I'd go with HD DVDs, but I wouldn't mind just using multiple discs like the good old days.

Until consoles come standard with HD DVD drives I don't see them taking off much, they aren't the best substitute for standard DVDs in the present day.

[Me55iah]

blu-ray, more storage, higher transfer rate, more exclusive studios - you could be waiting a while if you're expecting 007, Aliens, Star Wars, Pirate Of The Caribbean & Spiderman on HD DVD...

[sandollor]

HD-DVD? Really guys? hd-dvd?

I was for HD-DVD too, being that I have a 360 and all. But once I saw the juggernauts backing blu-ray I just couldn't back down. Although I still plan to wait and see who's actually wins before I buy a unit to play any discs or until STAR WARS is released on one of the formats. Then I will back it until my death.

[Tekumel]

Where's the "I don't give a rat's ass, I just wish it'd be decided already" option?

I could really care less. Whichever wins, that's what I'm gonna be stuck using, so I just want one to win.

The only input I really have on it, is I kind of vote for HD-DVD, just to poke & laugh at Sony for building a Blu-Ray into the PS3. Yeah, Microsoft has the HD-DVD drive for the 360. But it's EXTERNAL. And therefore, if HD flops, boom, the next month Microsoft comes out with an external Blu-Ray.

[Jdm7399]

I was curious to know if any one has purchased a Dual Platform Player yet? The one where it supports both HD-DVD and Blu-Ray.

[Ash3n]

I was curious to know if any one has purchased a Dual Platform Player yet? The one where it supports both HD-DVD and Blu-Ray.

/raise hand, Me :)

[Jdm7399]

/raise hand, Me :)

Welcome back!

Which one did you buy, Matt? My friend told me his uncle just bought a Sony one for $1500.00. I just wanted to get some feedback becuase I plan on buying my dad one.

[KaBo0kiE]

HD-DVD really is good, I can't really tell that much of a difference except in price than the blue-ray...

[biosc1]

I use both Blu-Ray and HD-DVD formats. I have a PS3 and an HD-Addon for the 360.

What it comes done to, in the end, for me, is that the PS3 is connected via HDMI which gives me the 1080p on my tv, versus the HD-DVD player which is connected via component (VGA connection on the tv doesn't support a very high resolution).

In the end. I tend to buy HD-DVD because I like their menu structure better and it works with my universal remote, where as I am using the PS3 controller to control playback on the PS3.

Resolution wise, I feel I have to buy Blu-Ray to get the most out of my tv, but I do not really notice much difference between the two resolutions (only 50" tv).

As others have said, in the end, both formats will survive through dual-format players. Like in the "old days" of DVD+R and DVD-R burners/players for pcs.

[Sil3nt360]

The Blu-Ray / HD-DVD war is pointless if you ask me. Direct Downloads is the FUTURE!

[TimmayTheTurtle]

they are kool but retarded at the same time.

different companies sign with hd/blue, so really you have to look to see which moves you like better its really dumb

[Digilearner]

I voted for Blu-Ray. I have been a Sony fan for a long time and had to get the PS3 when it came out. I enjoy blu-ray very much since like everyone before me said, it has more capacity therefore more capabilities. It also has a lot more third party supporters making it able to be pretty much the number one format.

If HD was going to start making a come back, they should have put the HD player inside the elite since the elite was really a waste of money unless you wanted a matte..paint job with a bigger HD. Charge 500$ for it with the HD player built in and HD might take off. Won't happen though.

[Ash3n]

I voted for Blu-Ray. I have been a Sony fan for a long time and had to get the PS3 when it came out. I enjoy blu-ray very much since like everyone before me said, it has more capacity therefore more capabilities. It also has a lot more third party supporters making it able to be pretty much the number one format.

If HD was going to start making a come back, they should have put the HD player inside the elite since the elite was really a waste of money unless you wanted a matte..paint job with a bigger HD. Charge 500$ for it with the HD player built in and HD might take off. Won't happen though.

There are rumors of course.......it has the upscale diode inside, which means it could be a simple firmware upgrade. Of course, it is all rumor based. But I wouldn't put it past M$, they have impressed the shit out of me so far. We shall see. Could you imagine a Q4 announcement, with a small patch fee for HD-DVD capability.....or maybe free? That would own.

[jackanape]

If you took away the fact PS3 runs Blu-ray then that format would bomb, it was smart of Sony to force it down peoples throats by putting it in with the PS3. The only problem is that because of the price the PS3 seems to be selling more as a cheap blu ray player than a games machine.

Could be that Sony wins the DVD format war by having a cheap player but loses the games one cos its an overpriced console. Guess you can't win them all.

[Glyndinn]

I rarely buy movies anymore anyways, but I can't see standard DVD's losing to either of these formats.

[Digilearner]

If you took away the fact PS3 runs Blu-ray then that format would bomb, it was smart of Sony to force it down peoples throats by putting it in with the PS3. The only problem is that because of the price the PS3 seems to be selling more as a cheap blu ray player than a games machine.

Could be that Sony wins the DVD format war by having a cheap player but loses the games one cos its an overpriced console. Guess you can't win them all.

Exactly. I mean, if you buy a PS3, you have the option of having a cheap blu-ray player and if you want, you can play games. If they didn't have blu-ray, the PS3 would bomb almost as bad as it is now. I pretty much knew in the beginning blu-ray would be the format of choice. Any other blu-ray player costs 800$+, so buy a PS3 and some games and you're set.

That is the 9 years of Sony fanboyism talking though. I opened my eyes to see how bad sony is doing when I got my 360. Still though, I support blu-ray.

[Adebisi 187]

Format Blu Ray HD-DVD

Week 58.33% 41.67%
Month 64.67% 35.33%
Year 62.38% 37.62%
Titles 284 274
Studios 25 28


Not like it matters all that much but those have been the numbers betwene the two.

[TimmayTheTurtle]

i was at best buy and it pissed me off at all the movies on the different formats. its dumb there was no problem with the standard dvd before, but now the companies signed with either blueray or hd-dvd. its retarded

[Webb]

i was at best buy and it pissed me off at all the movies on the different formats. its dumb there was no problem with the standard dvd before, but now the companies signed with either blueray or hd-dvd. its retarded

Count yourself lucky. Some generations have had to suffer this twice (VHS v BETAMAX and now). I myself look pretty certain to back Sony with my latest laptop harvesting a Bluray drive, so they have my backing from there on out.

[Ash3n]

Welcome back!

Which one did you buy, Matt? My friend told me his uncle just bought a Sony one for $1500.00. I just wanted to get some feedback becuase I plan on buying my dad one.

LGE BH100 bought it a few months ago. It plays 98% of both formats. Even the shitty Universal burns lol. It has a downgraded HDDVD menu, but it still plays in 1080p and looks wicked. Pricey, but worth it. I can get it at cost for you if you are planning on getting one, let me know.

http://www.uncrate.com/men/images/2007/01/lg-super-multi-blue.jpg

I don't think Sony has a multi-player bro. LG and Samsung are the only mainstream companies I know of so far.

[DarkGeneral88]

I voted blue-ray.

[Jdm7399]

LGE BH100 bought it a few months ago. It plays 98% of both formats. Even the shitty Universal burns lol. It has a downgraded HDDVD menu, but it still plays in 1080p and looks wicked. Pricey, but worth it. I can get it at cost for you if you are planning on getting one, let me know.

http://www.uncrate.com/men/images/2007/01/lg-super-multi-blue.jpg

I don't think Sony has a multi-player bro. LG and Samsung are the only mainstream companies I know of so far.

If Sony does put out a multi-player, wouldn't that be kicking themselves? Sony does support the Blu-Ray format, unlike M$ which doesn't have much to say about HD-DVD. M$ has even said that, if Blu-Ray is the winner of this format war, then you can use the external drive as a coaster.:p

[kvant]

*Wears a flame-protecting suit*

Im buying me a PS3 just for the BD. (and heavenly sword, but that doesn't count)

[Jdm7399]

*Wears a flame-protecting suit*

Im buying me a PS3 just for the BD. (and heavenly sword, but that doesn't count)

Haha, it's all good, kvant!:p

I use my PS3 as a "Entertainment" console more so than a "Gaming" console. My 6 Blu-Ray Movies > Resistance: Fall of Man(my ONLY game for the PS3).

EDIT: I just read in this month's OXM, that Blockbuster will now ONLY carry Blu-Rays and not HD-DVD.

[Exane22]

Although i think blu-ray is great, i hope HD DVD wins just because that is what i have. In all honesty when ever i hear that the picture quality is better on blu-ray i just laugh. The differenses are so small that most people cant even tell. If i was playing a HD DVD disc and told you that it was Blu-ray you would believe me. It comes down to marketing, if hd dvd make some moves to help themselves i think they will win just bc of the name. people hear all this talk about HD, so most are going to trust the HD name. I remember when blu-ray first started coming out, i was like what the fuck is blu-ray. Most people still dont know until they go to best buy and see for themselves. And then they will see the price compared to the picture and realize that HD DVD is a better deal. They just need to get more fucking movies

[Webb]

Soooooo.... On the topic of blu-rays...

Are they region free? I keep finding contradicting reports. Hmmmmm. Any help appreciated :)

[Frakus]

No Blue ray disk are not region free here are the region codes which are different then dvd region codes:

Region code Area
A/1 North America (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_America), Central America (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Central_America), South America (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/South_America), Japan (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japan), North Korea (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_Korea), South Korea (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/South_Korea), Taiwan (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taiwan), Hong Kong (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hong_Kong) and Southeast Asia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Southeast_Asia).
B/2 Europe (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Europe), Greenland (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greenland), French territories (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/French_overseas_departments_and_territories), Middle East (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Middle_East), Africa (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Africa), Australia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australia) and New Zealand (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Zealand).
C/3 India (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India), Nepal (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nepal), Mainland China (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mainland_China), Pakistan (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pakistan), Russia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Russia), Central (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Central_Asia) and South Asia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/South_Asia).

[munkyxtc]

Just an FYI; HD DVD is again gaining ground on Blu Ray; they are selling more players and than blu ray and have gained more studio support. Also, the addition of combo discs has helped to push sales. They have now closed the gap from 3+:1 movies sold to 1.5:1; and HD DVD has an attach rate of 4 per so things are getting more and more interesting out there...especially now that you can get the 360 HD DVD drive for $179.99 or less with 5 free movies ;)

[Webb]

Well, last I heard official figures were heavily in favour of blu ray in overall sales. 67% to 33% I do believe.

[Pstar4542]

I prefer Blu-Ray. I have both systems and both formats. HD-DVD looks great and I am not really about one more than the other, but for me, the movie selection is better on Blu-Ray. I also have the PS3 connected over HDMI, whereas the 360 is VGA. As far as pricing goes, Blu-Ray has been cheaper than the HD-DVD equivilant about 95% of the time up here in Ak.

[Jdm7399]

How about this guys...the movie 300 out for BOTH formats, HD-DVD and Blu-Ray. Correct me if I'm wrong, but isn't this the first movie to be available on Both formats?

I went for a pre-order of 300 on Amazon.com and I chose Blu-Ray.

Edit: I just got word that 300 will be available for download over XBL on August 14.

[Webb]

Well I purchased the blu ray copy the other day so you've done me proud Jdm :p

[Jdm7399]

Well I purchased the blu ray copy the other day so you've done me proud Jdm :p

We're suppose to be supporting M$ and the HD-DVD format! I feel ashamed now...and so should you, Webbie!:p

[Webb]

We're suppose to be supporting M$ and the HD-DVD format! I feel ashamed now...and so should you, Webbie!:p

I support whatever I feel will be the winner :p But if it looks like tables are turning, I'll buy the other :biglaugh

Loyalty, ha lol

[EL_A550_WIPEO]

M$ has even said that, if Blu-Ray is the winner of this format war, then you can use the external drive as a coaster.:p

:eek: I use my 360 as a coaster already!!!!!:p lol. I would use my ps3 as one too but those sony boys wont let me.:mad: I still choose Blu-ray since it came in the ps3..
ooo I just had a random thought... What if you got achievements for watching HD DVD's? except there would be no 1000 point limit.

[Pstar4542]

How about this guys...the movie 300 out for BOTH formats, HD-DVD and Blu-Ray. Correct me if I'm wrong, but isn't this the first movie to be available on Both formats?

I went for a pre-order of 300 on Amazon.com and I chose Blu-Ray.

Edit: I just got word that 300 will be available for download over XBL on August 14.Plenty of movies are available on both formats. I know the departed is on both.

[CAMOUFLAGEiPOD]

I voted Blu-Ray. I have hd-dvd and blu ray, both set ups are identical, I ran 300 side by side, and they looked exactly the same. I am not into extra features that much, some of the hd movies can cost about 5 dollars more. With that said if you buy say 100 movies in a year the price difference would buy a elite. Everyone is comparing this to the VHS Beta war that lasted 20 minutes. I think that HD will have a strong front, and so will Blu Ray.

[KMB 316]

The Format War is the dumbest thing in history..... I mean come on!!! shake hands make up and make a universal format :(

But BLu-ray here

[Daggermn]

Lets all face it. Pricing is going to drop as the technology get more excepted. BR will not always be super expensive, they will have to drop the price to stay in competition. I remember when DVD came out and the DVDs were $20-$25 and the players were really expensive too, but DVD came down a lot. Both BR and HDDVD are both laying out their cards and it is for us to choose between brown cases or blue cases. In my opinion it's got to be BR all the way. The evidence is right in front of our faces. Just look at all the movie studios backing BR compared to HDDVD. HD only has the movie studios that dont know what to invest in so they do both formats. I admit that at this time, the movies are pick and choose. Some for HD only, some for BR only, but that will change in the near future. Thats all I got to say about that.

[Mirksta]

Blu-ray is the best, you can fit massive data on there. Only problem is players cost over £500, the cheapest being a ps3.

[Jdm7399]

I support whatever I feel will be the winner :p But if it looks like tables are turning, I'll buy the other :biglaugh

Loyalty, ha lol

^^^Haha, you make too much money, Webbie! Is that where my donation goes to each month?:p


:eek: I use my 360 as a coaster already!!!!!:p lol. I would use my ps3 as one too but those sony boys wont let me.:mad:

^^^If you use your PS3 as a coaster, you would have stains all over your carpet! That thing is so oblong shaped.:p

[Webb]

^^^Haha, you make too much money, Webbie! Is that where my donation goes to each month?:p

lol I wish! :p That pays for the little pixies that run the servers :biglaugh

[Toki Wauna Noki]

i personally like hd dvd

[dh4645]

blu-ray baby!

[RedstaR]

HD for now, a couple years from now Blu-Ray.

[M7.Ninja]

I would go with HD-DVD. As a student of business, I should say that Sony's pulling many obvious errors. I'm no expert in running a multinational corporation (obviously, or I wouldn't be spending as much time online), but I know some things.

It's like Sony doesn't know what it's doing with the PS3 and its Blu-Ray drive. They're better off focusing on TV's that support HD-DVD movies, and HD digital cameras.

Anyhoo, HD-DVD is the future. No question here.

[Fenrir767]

Frankly i think Blu-Ray may win out as Sony with columbia tristar has some great films that are gonna be Blue Ray exclusive. Like Spider-Man, Pirates of the Carribean and others. I have an HD-DVD player won it with cash from Work and I love the thing. But HD needs to get some stronger exclusive content like Lord of the Rings or Star Wars to stay ahead of Blu-Ray. that being said if Porn starts coming out on HD-DVD only who knows there are lots of perverts out there.

[viciousmental56]

dvd and hd-dvd i believe is going to do the best for a while
i don't know about you but i definalty don't want to re buy old movies on blue-ray like most people did with vhs
i don't see the point in buying blue-ray or hd-dvd for that matter, i havent see a great enough difference to consider upgrading from normal dvd, i know alot of people that don't even have a dvd player plus sony have been making a lot of poor decisions

[Fenrir767]

Well there is a big different when you start talking about 1080i and 1080p. You see it clearly when you watch something in hd then go back to standard def. If I hadn't won gift certificates there's now way I would have got the HD DVD add on but I did and so far I love it.

[aswipe21]

I have a HD DVD Player for the 360 and it looks great. I have seen both of them play and they look just about the same so might vote will go to HD DVD's because I have one, and I had heard that Bill Gate's was spending lots of money to buy exclusive rights to movie companies for HD DVD's. Both are freakin' awesome though.

[Maxima04]

I know it was discussed how Blockbuster would only rent Blu ray, but the other day I noticed they had both. Not that it really matters to me since I still have neither, but I was quite surprised none the less

[Jdm7399]

I'm sure you guys no better than to tilt or move your HD-DVD Drive while it's playing a movie. Since you know NOT to tilt or move your 360 while it has a game in it, then don't do it to your HD Drive as well. It has known to eat up your HD movies, just like how the 360 eat up games.

So just to be on the safe side...DO NOT TILT or MOVE the HD Drive! Have a Nice Day guys.:)

[jab1981]

I too have Blu-Ray and HD-DVD. I prefer Blu-Ray... mostly because the format seems to be winning. I'm already replacing all my DVDs for high def discs, I'd hate to have to turn around and replace those discs for another high def format. I originally was behind HD-DVD because at first that format was winning, so you can see how fickle I am. I stopped buying movies around 2-3 years ago simply because I knew I'd be purchasing most of them again on HD in the near future... now I want to make sure when I do purchase a movie it's on a format that has a long future ahead of it. It seems that would be Blu-Ray so that's the format I choose.

The two things HD-DVD has going for it, the name is clear and easy to understand. I still find myself referring to Blu-Ray as "HD-DVD" just to get my point across quickly to people who don't follow the issue. Secondly HD-DVD still seems to have the upperhand in terms of features. I bought 300 on Blu-Ray begrudgingly knowing that HD-DVD version had better special features... and special features I'd actually like to boot!

It is interesting that the OP left "BOTH" out of the equation. In this day and age there is some speculation that two formats could co-exist. One would almost certainly be more popular than the other, but it's always possible the less popular format could hang around. This is an idea I detest with a passion. It's yet another reason I jumped into the Blu-Ray camp, I want this battle to be over as fast as possible so that we can settle into the High Def future without worrying about our format being obsolete in a years time.

[CeeJay321]

In my opinion, HD-DVD will win, as blu-ray simply costs too much. Anyone agree?

[Webb]

Not in the slightest. I paid $50 including shipping for two brand new releases the other day. So technically, like £12.50 each. Very reasonable for a new format if you ask me.

[jab1981]

When I picked up the Blu-Ray version of 300 it was $5 cheaper than the HD-DVD version at Best Buy. Likely because most HD-DVDs seem to be combos which seems to raise the price. More evidence to the contrary...

Perhaps he meant the Blu-Ray players are more expensive. Either way with Blu-Ray supposedly having 80% or more of the current market I'd say that it's obvious consumers aren't shying away from Blu-Ray by any means.

[MagnetixSQL]

I am going to stick with HD DVD since Microsoft is backing. I have a feeling in the long run HD DVD will win b/c of them.

[jab1981]

I'm not sure how commited MS is to the format. I mean, they've even said if Blu-Ray were to win they'd look at making a Blu-Ray add-on for the 360.

Plus if you're simply deciding based upon company support. Sure Microsoft is (possibly was) behind HD-DVD, but there are more companies lined up behind Blu-Ray. I mean Sony alone should be enough to counteract Microsoft. Plus you have to figure Sony has a little more invested in their format winning, they own a movie studio after all. It has far less value to MS. And speaking of movie studios... the vast majority have chosen Blu-Ray. The only company I know of that's exclusively backing HD-DVD is Universal. All the others are either dual format or Blu-Ray only.

Having Microsofts limited support and mild interest does not a format war win.

[Webb]

You have to look who are going against HD though, Apple and Dell being two huge players in this war and both are backing Blu-ray. I have a feeling that the one sidedness (word? It is now :p) will just get more and more in favour of Blu ray.

[MagnetixSQL]

Well I read online once that the porn industry was going to back HD DVD and they were the whole reason VHS won back in the day......But then again I really don't know much on this war so all I can do is sit back and watch what happens.

[Webb]

Porn is all online these days so it won't be as much of a major player as it was back in the VHS-Betamax war.

[jab1981]

I read the same thing about porn deciding the Betamax/VHS battle and how it might impact HD-DVD... but at least so far it hasn't done anything. Maybe there hasn't been much in the way of HD porn, I don't know. It's not something I'm interested in. But I agree with DaWebbmeister, with porn being so easy to access on the internet it's hard to see it being much of a draw these days.

Either way, the divide between HD-DVD and Blu-Ray only grows wider each week. Heck, even look at 300... even though it had better special features on HD-DVD the Blu-Ray version of the movie outsold it 2 to 1.

[MagnetixSQL]

Also to be honest I really don't want to see porn in HD.....

[jab1981]

Also to be honest I really don't want to see porn in HD.....

But for those who want to see the porn... I'd say HD must be like a godsend to them. I can only imagine... Christmas must've come early.

[W. Samuel Jones III]

But for those who want to see the porn... I'd say HD must be like a godsend to them. I can only imagine... Christmas must've come early.

I thought that porn was being release both on Blueray and HDDVD.

[jab1981]

I thought that porn was being release both on Blueray and HDDVD.

Just did a google search and it showed that there is Blu-Ray porn. At least that there's Japanese Blu-Ray porn.

Originally there were some news articles claiming Sony wouldn't allow porn on Blu-Ray and that this would decide the high def format war as it did for VHS... but it would seem those claims were slightly exaggerated.

I just found this article...
Sony dismissed the claims saying it has no control over the licensing of Blu-ray, and has no problem with the adult industry using the format. "There's no prohibition against adult content," Lisa Gephardt, a spokeswoman for Sony Corp. of America, said. "We don't tell people how they can use the licenses they get from the Blu-ray Disc Association."

http://www.eetimes.com/news/latest/showArticle.jhtml?articleID=197000093

[Jdm7399]

Also to be honest I really don't want to see porn in HD.....

I am only interested in seeing what "HD" porn really looks like.:p

I'm sure there's a TON of stuff that I don't want to see.:eek:

[dh4645]

I thought that porn was being release both on Blu-ray and HDDVD.

i heard that too.

http://gizmodo.com/gadgets/home-entertainment/debbie-does-dallas--again-first-blu+ray-porn-231584.php

[solid_bam]

Honestly I own both and there is no real difference between the two in picture quality for me, but I guess ill choose Blu Ray because it has a bigger variety when it comes to studio support, but HD DVD isn't doing to bad in that field either.

[Spot2009]

I think that Blu-Ray will win when comparing the two, but I never really had a chance to experience either.

It's just that Blu-Ray seems to have more support. I haven't seen much about HD-DVD movies/advertisements as much as Blu-Ray.

[jab1981]

Honestly I own both and there is no real difference between the two in picture quality for me, but I guess ill choose Blu Ray because it has a bigger variety when it comes to studio support, but HD DVD isn't doing to bad in that field either.

There shouldn't be a difference in picture quality. Last I heard Blu-Ray started using the same encoding process that HD-DVD was using. Should be identical in most cases.

I haven't seen much about HD-DVD movies/advertisements as much as Blu-Ray.
That's probably due more to the fact that Blu-Ray is a Sony product and since Sony is advertising their own movies anyway they just add on a mention of Blu-Ray. It's not unlike how a few years back you'd see commercials advertising UMD, but for the most part they were all Sony's own movies. Now I'm not 100% sure, but I'd be willing to wager all those Blu-Ray ads are from Sony.

[Jdm7399]

I have to share this with you guys!

Even though I already own a HD Drive for the 360, I just received another one for FREE!!! It was such a sweet deal! The deal was offered at FYE. $319.00 for a Premium 360 and it comes with a FREE HD Drive! The offer is now over, but I picked up the last console they had.

I will soon post this up in the Garage Sale part of the forums. If you guys are interested, I will be selling it because I have no need for another one. PM me if there are any questions you might have. Thanks!:)

[pts100]

everyone losers until they get there heads banged together and makes 1 system for us all to enjoy...

idiots should of learned from the vhs betamax war of the 80s...

[duckydan]

I have both formats with standalone players and while I think Blu-Ray will win I prefer HD. The discs seem more stable and there have been less bugs and problems with my HD Player than my S300 (which is the newest BDP on the market)

[CeeJay321]

I'm not sure how commited MS is to the format. I mean, they've even said if Blu-Ray were to win they'd look at making a Blu-Ray add-on for the 360.

Plus if you're simply deciding based upon company support. Sure Microsoft is (possibly was) behind HD-DVD, but there are more companies lined up behind Blu-Ray. I mean Sony alone should be enough to counteract Microsoft. Plus you have to figure Sony has a little more invested in their format winning, they own a movie studio after all. It has far less value to MS. And speaking of movie studios... the vast majority have chosen Blu-Ray. The only company I know of that's exclusively backing HD-DVD is Universal. All the others are either dual format or Blu-Ray only.

Having Microsofts limited support and mild interest does not a format war win.

Im not sure whether Xbox could get a blu-ray add-on for the 360, as Sony made blu-ray. If 360 gets blu-ray, itll end up having all the stuff PS3 has, and Sony would want that.

[Webb]

The war rages on...

http://www.xbox360fanboy.com/2007/08/20/paramount-dreamworks-animation-drop-blu-ray/

Interesting development :eek:

[Webb]

So I hate to double post, but this is a worthy reason... Was doing some more research on this Paramount thing...

Firstly....

Paramount received $150 million for 18 months exclusivity (http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=416)

Secondly

Michael Bay gets pissed at Paramount!!! :p (http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=415)

Both are links BTW :D

Also...

All Paramount - Spielberg films are on both formats lol (http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=417)

So it's obvious what the industry feel, he he

[Jdm7399]

So I hate to double post, but this is a worthy reason... Was doing some more research on this Paramount thing...

Firstly....

Paramount received $150 million for 18 months exclusivity (http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=416)

Secondly

Michael Bay gets pissed at Paramount!!! :p (http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=415)

Both are links BTW :D

Also...

All Paramount - Spielberg films are on both formats lol (http://www.blu-ray.com/news/?id=417)

So it's obvious what the industry feel, he he

From the wise words of M. Night Shyamalan, "What a TWIST!":p

The movie industry is really getting a shake-up.

[Ash3n]

Multi-players....nuff said =)~

[JoeCool7835]

My TV is still SD, so I'm not pulling for either format. But I work around both formats everyday, so I will give my honest and unbiased opinion.

I think Blu-Ray will end up winning. The fact is that more studios are supporting that format exclusively. Not just Sony Pictures, but also Lionsgate, Fox, and Disney, among others. Warner Brothers and Paramount are supporting both formats. The only company supporting HD-DVD exclusively is Universal, and that's not enough to stay competitive.

As any game company that brought out a dead console (like 3DO, Virtual Boy, or Jaguar) will tell you, without third-party support, tech just won't survive.

[TimmayTheTurtle]

my uncle told me that paramount or someone and another comapny switched over to hd-dvd... so they will have the bigger amount of movies..

blu-rays are gonna be expensive / i hate sony. :p

[W. Samuel Jones III]

It seems that Paramount is only going to release the Transformers on HDDVD and standard DVD.

I noticed that Blockbuster is now renting both HDDVD and Blue Ray.

Don't know if this means anything for the future of the format wars.:uzi:

My TV is still SD, so I'm not pulling for either format. But I work around both formats everyday, so I will give my honest and unbiased opinion.

I think Blu-Ray will end up winning. The fact is that more studios are supporting that format exclusively. Not just Sony Pictures, but also Lionsgate, Fox, and Disney, among others. Warner Brothers and Paramount are supporting both formats. The only company supporting HD-DVD exclusively is Universal, and that's not enough to stay competitive.

As any game company that brought out a dead console (like 3DO, Virtual Boy, or Jaguar) will tell you, without third-party support, tech just won't survive.

[TimmayTheTurtle]

It seems that Paramount is only going to release the Transformers on HDDVD and standard DVD.

I noticed that Blockbuster is now renting both HDDVD and Blue Ray.

Don't know if this means anything for the future of the format wars.:uzi:

thats wat a kinda meant in a way :p

[Jdm7399]

http://www.xbox360achievements.org/forum/showthread.php?t=37997

^^^Here's all the details.

So I guess this is one up on Blu-Ray since Transformers is available on HD-DVD.

[Legends xExilex]

I think HD dvd will win the battle b/c its cheaper. anyone now if xbox is making a bluray player?

[rickyfeeney]

look the blu-ray and hd-dvd disks cost around 25 pound and the old films cost about 15 i aint being funny but why would i buy a old film for fifteen quid when i can buy a standard dvd for a fiver

[Legends xExilex]

look the blu-ray and hd-dvd disks cost around 25 pound and the old films cost about 15 i aint being funny but why would i buy a old film for fifteen quid when i can buy a standard dvd for a fiver

what is pounds to dollors?

[W. Samuel Jones III]

what is pounds to dollors?


1.00 USD

=

0.730612 EUR

United States Dollars Euro 1 USD = 0.730612 EUR 1 EUR = 1.36872 USD


1.00 USD

=

0.494321 GBP

United States Dollars United Kingdom Pounds 1 USD = 0.494321 GBP 1 GBP = 2.02298 USD

[MrHarribalsonya]

1/10th the selection of HD-DVD. No DVD-HD combo packs. And now all the movie company's are going exclusively HD-DVD beginning next year. Just another reason to kick yourself for buying a PS3 so early. 200$ for HD-DVD player, 500$ for Blu-Ray. Plus, No Transformers for Blu-Ray. Michael Bay said he wouldn't do another Transformers unless they sold rights to Sony. Not to worry there's rights to the next movie secured. But, Michael Bay might have to sit it out. Whuta Moron.

[Jdm7399]

I think HD dvd will win the battle b/c its cheaper. anyone now if xbox is making a bluray player?

M$ has no plans to build a Blu-Ray player.


look the blu-ray and hd-dvd disks cost around 25 pound and the old films cost about 15 i aint being funny but why would i buy a old film for fifteen quid when i can buy a standard dvd for a fiver

The answer is simple. Some people want to see the digitally remastered old classics of their favorite movies in HD.

For myself, I purchased Terminator 2 and I can say that the visuals were very sharp and clear and I'm only running a 720p/1080i setup.

[dh4645]

1/10th the selection of HD-DVD. No DVD-HD combo packs. And now all the movie company's are going exclusively HD-DVD beginning next year. Just another reason to kick yourself for buying a PS3 so early. 200$ for HD-DVD player, 500$ for Blu-Ray. Plus, No Transformers for Blu-Ray. Michael Bay said he wouldn't do another Transformers unless they sold rights to Sony. Not to worry there's rights to the next movie secured. But, Michael Bay might have to sit it out. Whuta Moron.

untrue statements:
-1/10th the selection of HD-DVD.
-And now all the movie company's are going exclusively HD-DVD beginning next year.

not sure where you're getting your info buddy.

[zdarko43]

looks like HD is blowing the competition outta the water.

sonys been trying to push off blu-ray now for years, and incorporating it into their video game system, basically forces it onto the end user.

blu-ray is nice, but its not worth the buck.

watch for hd to outsell bluray over the next few years.

[dh4645]

looks like HD is blowing the competition outta the water.

sonys been trying to push off blu-ray now for years, and incorporating it into their video game system, basically forces it onto the end user.

blu-ray is nice, but its not worth the buck.

watch for hd to outsell bluray over the next few years.

what is this based on?
blu-ray is so far in the lead it's like the wii vs. the ps3 in console sales.

http://www.eproductwars.com/dvd/

[antnie]

It costs too much to get blueray and it still costs alot for hd so I will wait to see which will be next after dvd.

[Jdm7399]

http://www.xbox360achievements.org/forum/showthread.php?t=38561

^^^Thanks to Weapon 117, here you go guys. A new format to join the High Def War.

It's called HD VMD.

Feel free to discuss in either thread.

[Galaxy Spear]

I hope HD DVD wins, but to be honest Blu Ray are getting all the good movies lately like Spider-Man, Pirates of the Caribbean and soon Star Wars. Which i love all those movies, damn format wars i hate them, just put movies on both and let us decide damn it!

[W. Samuel Jones III]

Not all the best movies are going to Blue Ray. Transformers will only be released on standard and HD DVD 10/16/2007.

I was hoping to add this to my Blue Ray collection but Paramount chose another direction.

[Derrick DS]

I voted HD DVD because I have the 360 add-on, but I will soon have a PS3 for blu-ray movies. I love the HD-DVD combo discs because I'm the only person that has HD-DVDs in my group of friends. The picture is essentially the same, I just prefer HD-DVD because its right to the point. HD-DVD = Hi-Definition DVD, no further explanation.

Also, from what I've seen, HD DVDs seems to have more extra content packed into them. I know it doesn't matter to some, but I think its great.

I have always seen Sony as greedy for making their own formats, will they ever learn? Their failure rate for releasing new media types is just ridiculous. Betamax... there was a winner. UMD... format of the year. I'll leave it at that sarcasm.

[Odus4]

I think the way the adult film industry goes might make a big difference, I dont know how many people were aware but porn is the main reason that beta lost to VHS but today with the interent and the ease of obtaining it might keep it from making as big of an impact, I personally like HD to win but that's mainly because I hate Sony and all the DRM crap they are responsible for, and as far as people thinking that Blu-ray looks better than HD thats more in your head cause 1080p is 1080p regardless of what dvd format your watching

[Chilidog Chaos]

Does any members here own a PS3?

The last update on my PS3, gave me the functionality to upgrade standard DVD media to HD. Now with that being said, it's still NOT HD of course, but it looks pretty damn close. I actually test it out and the results were, that it delivers a cleaner, more sharper image. The background picture is OK, but you can still recognize little flaws here and there throughout movies.
I own a PS3, kinda a waste it seems, no games.

[Spades12321]

HD-DVDS blow blue-ray out of the water IMO, I still buy standard dvds however.

[Whistler]

Possible none of them win also, there are better formats coming (or already out) and if BD and HD-DVD keep fighting it may open up for a new and better format. None of HD-DVD and BD have the new deep color format xvYCC for example.

[W. Samuel Jones III]

Here is an analysis that I borrowed from CNET:

Its one of the main reasons that I still purchase standard DVD's

CNET recommends

If you're on any kind of a budget and still want to enjoy the beauty of high-definition movies on disc, you'll have to decide between HD DVD and Blu-ray. The question now becomes: which is the horse to bet on? At this point in September 2007, from the perspective of the editors at CNET, the answer is still: neither. As much as we enjoy watching HD movies, we think the industry's failure to offer a single DVD successor makes it impossible to recommend either of the two rival contenders. As such, CNET is recommending that you refrain from buying any Blu-ray or HD DVD player--or movies--in the immediate future. We'll revisit this opinion as soon as events warrant.

Why we're waiting
Why hold off? The list of caveats is lengthy indeed:

The Betamax factor
It sounds like an old Robert Ludlum book, but we're referring to the fear of getting stuck with an obsolete technology. Beta and VHS were the rival standards in the early days of the home-video market. Back then, Sony backed Beta and everyone else (JVC, Panasonic, and so on) went VHS. Despite being the "inferior" format--Beta had smaller tapes and better picture quality--VHS ended up becoming the standard--but not before Sony left a lot of early adopters with VCRs that couldn't play back movies rented at their local video store. Flash forward to 2007, and history looks to repeat itself: When and if one standard wins over the other, anyone who chose the losing disc format is stuck with little more than a fancy DVD player.

Slim selection of movies
Even after more than a year on the market, both Blu-ray and HD DVD suffer from a dearth of titles. Several studios have pledged to support each format, but that actual list of titles still pales in comparison to what's available on standard DVD. And as with DVD, just because a studio owns the rights to your favorite movie doesn't guarantee that it will be released any time soon--if ever. Not only that, the current allegiances could continue to shift. For example, Paramount and DreamWorks Animation decided in August 2007 to stop producing movies in the Blu-ray format. Anybody who already bought a Blu-ray player and wants to use it to watch Blades of Glory or Top Gun is out of luck.

Price deflation
It's bad for manufacturers but great for consumers. Everyone knows that, if you wait long enough, prices for home electronics eventually head south. HD DVD players are already comparatively inexpensive (as little as $250 in stores) and will likely drop further within the next year. Blu-ray players are starting higher (at least $500), putting even more pressure on them to drop. And while the PS3 represents a Blu-ray bargain of sorts (if you're into video games and movies), its heavily subsidized price will slide--someday.

The possibility of Draconian copy-protection
Anyone with an older HDTV--one without an HDMI or HDCP-compliant DVI input--is at the mercy of the studios' whims when it comes to watching HD DVD or Blu-ray movies at full high-definition. The content providers (studios) have the option to down-res or image constrain the output over the component-video jacks to 960x540--better than DVD but only 25 percent of the full HD capability of 1,920x1,080. Thankfully, most of the studios--Sony (Columbia/Tri-Star/MGM), Fox, Disney, Paramount, and Universal--have publicly stated that they will not initially make use of the image-constraint token. If true, movies from those studios will display at full resolution via the component outputs. Still, the studios could reverse course at any point, so those with older HDTVs could theoretically be living on borrowed time. After more than a year, however, this issue hasn't surfaced yet.

Recorder allure
Why not wait until Blu-ray or HD DVD recorders are available? With DVD recorders widely available for less than $150, it's a compelling question. But while HD recorders are certainly coming eventually, this may be the least compelling reason to wait. HD DVD and Blu-ray recorders will likely be so loaded with constrictive digital rights management technology that it will be nearly impossible to actually record any high-def programming.

HD alternatives
With Apple TV, Xbox Live, Vudu, video-on-demand, and pay-per-view outlets already offering high-def movies, why worry about physical media at all? Let's just skip the next optical disc format and jump straight to the next phase of home video: downloadable HD movies.

DVDs are still pretty great
They're cheap and plentiful, not to mention a single universal standard. And even though they're limited to a mere 480p native resolution, they're still the best-looking video source on HDTVs outside of actual HD sources and maybe some of the latest video games. From a picture-quality and convenience standpoint, the move from DVD to HD DVD/Blu-ray isn't as compelling as the jump from VHS to DVD was.

Reasons for optimism
That said, there are two big question marks that could have a big impact on this format war:

The falling price of HD DVD players
In the last year, HD DVD has proven much more willing to slash prices on its players than has the competition. As we mentioned before, you can get an HD DVD player for around $250 now, and probably less than $200 by the holidays of 2007. Since most HD DVD players we've tested make excellent DVD players too, people who spring for a unit now might not feel totally disappointed if HD DVD "loses" the war.

The PS3 factor
The PlayStation 3 is a major player in this war. At $500, the gaming super-console is one of the most affordable Blu-ray players on the market and by far the best-selling. Even with a weak lineup of games, the PS3 makes a compelling Blu-ray option for early adopters who happen to like gaming.



LG's universal BH100 is simply too expensive.The possibility of an (affordable) universal player
Early in 2007, LG began selling the BH100, the first unit that can play back both Blu-ray and HD DVD discs. While we thought it was significant enough of an introduction to award the BH100 our Best Product of CES, the sad fact remains that this player costs more than the total price of both a standalone HD DVD and a standalone Blu-ray player. Samsung also announced a universal combo player that's similarly overpriced, while LG has announced a second-generation combo player, the BH200, at $1,000. Universal players will undoubtedly fall in price in the coming years, but right now they don't seem capable of bringing peace to the war.

Advice for the early adopter
Of course, we know that there's a small army of early adopters out there intent on buying one or the other--or both. If we were forced to choose--given all the caveats listed above--which HD format would we opt for? Since they offer basically identical audio and video quality, the choice comes down to price and movie selection.

Price
HD DVD and Blu-ray movies both seem to be priced in an identical $20-to-28 range. HD DVD has an advantage on hardware prices, although the PlayStation 3 helps narrow the gap for gaming fans. But for either format to hit mass-market levels, movie prices need to drop to less than $15 and player prices below $200.

[supermario6582]

i prefer hd-dvd, but thats mainly cuz i got the hd-dvd player add-on for my 360. now just got to get transformers on hd-dvd.

[Jdm7399]

i prefer hd-dvd, but thats mainly cuz i got the hd-dvd player add-on for my 360. now just got to get transformers on hd-dvd.

I got mines on pre-order from Amazon.com. Saved myself a couple dollars too.;)

I believe Transformers will have excellent Sounds and Visual. I can't wait to test it on my system. I'll be back with a short Review...

[dh4645]

I got mines on pre-order from Amazon.com. Saved myself a couple dollars too.;)

I believe Transformers will have excellent Sounds and Visual. I can't wait to test it on my system. I'll be back with a short Review...

the sound on transformers hd-dvd is horrible.


Quote:
The Audio: Rating the Sound


When audio specs for 'Transformers' were announced, there was a collective sigh of disappointment from early adopters when we learned that there would be no high-res audio tracks included on this disc. Given that this is such a flagship title for the studio, the decision was quite the head-scratcher.

Indeed, I had the opportunity to attend a special 'Transformers' media event with Paramount late last week, and the question was asked almost immediately -- why no Dolby TrueHD or uncompressed PCM? The studio's answer was that due to space limitations on the disc, the decision was made to limit the audio to Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 Surround only (here at 1.5mbps). Unfortunately, this confirms the long-held theory that the 30Gb capacity of an HD-30 dual-layer HD DVD disc has forced studios to choose between offering a robust supplements package (as they've done here) and the very best in audio quality.

That said, it is hard to imagine any film taking a Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 Surround track to its zenith better than 'Transformers.' This is one highly-aggressive experience. Discrete effects are constant and pounding, but the lack of subtlety here is exactly what fans want. Directionality, imaging, accuracy of localized effects, and the sheer depth of the soundfield are all fantastic stuff. Even the front soundstage is a stunner -- stereo effects are quite pronounced, and when the sounds ping-pong (as they do just about any time a robot transforms), it's just as cool as the first time you heard that lightsaber effect in 'Star Wars.' If I had had this disc when I was a twelve year-old kid, I don't I would have stopped playing it for months.

Also top-notch are all technical aspects of the mix. As you would expect, this is the kind of disc your subwoofer will devour. Even at moderate volume levels I was blown away by the sheer low frequencies churned out by my poor sub. Whether you're talking about the opening attack, the sequence with that weird sand Decepticon in the desert, or any sequence during the film's last 30 minutes, there's such a sustained low bass presence that it's almost like it's another character in the movie. The realism and texture to every sound -- from the effects to the score to the dialogue -- is pitch perfect. Volume issues are also, thankfully, not a problem -- I was truly shocked that I didn't have to reach for my remote once, as dialogue is leveled nicely throughout.

Note that although I'm giving this audio mix five stars, that doesn't mean I agree with Paramount's decision to forgo high-res audio on this title. Without a TrueHD or PCM mix to compare this one to, there's no way of telling how much better such a track might have been, but based on the upgrade I've seen with other titles, I'm guessing a high-res mix could well have trounced this one. That's not to take anything away from this truly exceptional mix, but this is one case where I think you truly can improve upon perfection.
http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/1110/transformers.html

Funny that people say you get the same experience on both formats. HD DVD has been suffering from loss in audio quality for a while now. But this big title gets the news out a bit more.

Way to go Paramount!

[Jdm7399]

^^^I'll still have to try it out myself.

Everyone's setup sounds different and I'll be back with a review as soon as it arrives.

It's expected to arrive toward the end of Oct. or the beginning of Nov. No movie or review until then.:(

P.S. DD-Plus 5.1? *Shakes Head* I'll try it out on 6.1 DTS anyways and see how it sounds.

[Derrick DS]

With my surround sound (its only a home theater in a box), Transformers was the best sounding HD-DVD I have. It beats out Planet Earth, 300, and my others on the simple fact that I didn't have to constantly adjust the volume to listen to dialogue.

And on a side note, I was so happy to hear Peter Culler as the voice of Optimus Prime... it was like I was a little kid again. Hugo Weaving (Agent Smith from Matrix) as the voice of Megatron was ok, but the movie would have been complete for me if it was the original person.

[dh4645]

i didn't say it wouldnt sound good, i was just saying that due to the size limitation on hd-dvds, they had to limit the sound options/quality.

if there was a blu-ray transformers, they would have had the extra space to have higher quality sound.

With my surround sound (its only a home theater in a box), Transformers was the best sounding HD-DVD I have. It beats out Planet Earth, 300, and my others on the simple fact that I didn't have to constantly adjust the volume to listen to dialogue.

And on a side note, I was so happy to hear Peter Culler as the voice of Optimus Prime... it was like I was a little kid again. Hugo Weaving (Agent Smith from Matrix) as the voice of Megatron was ok, but the movie would have been complete for me if it was the original person.

[jonnyhallsworth]

i work in virgin megastores (soon to be zavvi) and blu-ray discs outsell hd-dvd by about 5 to 1 although i wouldnt like to say which will 'win' in the end.

it would be clearer if everybody already had hd-tvt but most people dont and probably wont for quite a while yet. i for sure wont be getting one until their prices drop quite a bit anyway

[dh4645]

i work in virgin megastores (soon to be zavvi) and blu-ray discs outsell hd-dvd by about 5 to 1 although i wouldnt like to say which will 'win' in the end.

it would be clearer if everybody already had hd-tvt but most people dont and probably wont for quite a while yet. i for sure wont be getting one until their prices drop quite a bit anyway

they've dropped a lot in the last 6 months, but they are still a high ticket item.

i have a 40" sony xbr3 that i bought in Jan. '07 for $3,000 (no interest if i pay it all off by Jan '09...which i will), but i can probably buy it now for $2,000 since there is an xbr5 model. i think i only have about 1400 or so left to pay...it's worth it.

if you don't go with the top-of-the-line, you can get some pretty nice hdtvs at good prices

[McDaygo]

The poll above should be a small indicator as to the way it may end up. 1080P is 1080P, so no matter what HD player you attain that's as good as it gets. It will be quite a while for the general public to settle on either format, which from the few articles I've read are quite content with the current format. Make no mistake HD players look great but it is far from the jump VHS to DVD was. Laserdiscs were around for quite some time and you were crazy not to buy those if you loved movies too, look where that ended up. Another thing is the DVD players that boost your regular DVDs to 1080i/P via HDMI, far and away a cheaper alternative to either formats and while not on par with the best of both HD players it can hold it's own in a dark alley with most consumers. So ya it's kinda like VHS vs Beta but there's way more competition than just HDDVD vs BR alone.

[Jdm7399]

i didn't say it wouldnt sound good, i was just saying that due to the size limitation on hd-dvds, they had to limit the sound options/quality.

if there was a blu-ray transformers, they would have had the extra space to have higher quality sound.

I hear you. I never said the sound wasn't good either.;)

I actually wanted Transformers to be on BR. Man, was Michael Bay mad when the rights went to HD-DVD. The rumor is, he does not want to do another Transformers.:(

P.S. I am going to try out Transformers tomorrow. Can't wait to blast it!:woop:

[dh4645]

I hear you. I never said the sound wasn't good either.;)

I actually wanted Transformers to be on BR. Man, was Michael Bay mad when the rights went to HD-DVD. The rumor is, he does not want to do another Transformers.:(

P.S. I am going to try out Transformers tomorrow. Can't wait to blast it!:woop:

i just rented transformers on regular dvd and my ps3 will upscale the DVD+R DL, so it'll look good, but not as good as it could on blu-ray.

i have a 360, but dont feel like getting the hd-dvd add on

[Jdm7399]

Alright, I just watched Transformers in HD-DVD. Here's my mini review.

- Audio

Even though I couldn't run my usual 6.1 DTS setup and I did however run a 3/3 Dolby Digital combo setup on my receiver. With that being said, it met my expectations and it sounded really good. You can literally hear every "Clings and Clangs" when the Transformers were transforming Michael Bay and his style, really made this movie enjoyable. The more explosions the better.;) You can really put your system to the test by watching the Final Fight towards the end of the movie. With Megatron and Starscream flying, all the rockets and bullets being fired, and the Transformers battling it out, it made not only great entertainment, but great audio.

- Visuals

Unfortunately, I am not capable of running a 1080p setup on my HDTV. So instead of running a 720p setup, I chose 1080i. The visuals were very sharp and detailed. I can see the scratches on Optimus Prime's face!:p One of the most stunning things is looking at the Transformers transform in HD. It's truly mind boggling that you can see so much detail from vehicle to robot. Again, I will go back to that Final Fight in the streets. When the Autobots and Decepticons were fighting each other, you can see every Spark, destruction of the surrounding environment, and every bit of debris.

- Overall

This is a MUST SEE movie in HD, whether you're a fan of Transformers or not. This movie will blow you away! Stunning visuals and with the right setup, you have yourself a great sound in your living room. I hope Michael Bay does make a sequel and maybe next time it could be on Blu-Ray. Until the next movie, I'll see you guys around. Thanks for reading!:)

Edit: I forgot to mention that a lot of you, may have missed this one.

YouTube - Transformers Product Tie-ins

^^^This is the part where Sam is running to keep the All-Spark away from Megatron. The All-Spark turns the SUV, a Mountain Dew machine and a Xbox 360 console into Transformers. Yes, an XBOX 360! Turn up the volume because you can even hear the Xbox 360 start up sound! This video has poor quality, but it's the scene I wanted to show you.

FYI, the man on the sidewalk is holding the 360 in the box.;)

[messym]

The toshiba hd a2 player dropped to $197.99 w/ free shipping on Amazon.com today. It also comes w/ the 5 free HD dvd by mail in rebate offer. They are really pushing this thing hard. It debuted at $499.99 last December.

[DFILL450]

I think blu ray is doing a really great job of getting their product out there. The only reason i say that is because the playstation 3 already has blu ray included in it. Theres no games out for ps3..so therefore people go out and buy movies.

If microsoft included hd dvd with their consoles then hd dvd would definitely be doing better.

[Crazed Geek]

If you look at the physical stats of Blu Ray versus HD DVD, Blu Ray has the better format. It easily bests HD DVD as far as storage space is concerned.

However, some Blu Ray Discs have really crappy video compression, and all BRDs use BD-Java, which is miles worse than HDi.

I think HD DVD will win.

[W. Samuel Jones III]

Its quite possible that both formats will stay. I am sure that there are players that can play both formats and these will come down in price eventually.

[VI JimJam]

I believe Blu-Ray readers to be too expensive at the moment, while it is that expensive I believe that HD-DVD is the best as far as value for money goes.

[McBride96]

I voted HD-DVD because its cheap the only thing thats disappointing about it is that microsoft are not using the HD-DVD Drive for larger games in the future:(

[o BL4D3 o]

never tried blu ray so i put hd

[Deyankees1]

I have the HD-DVD drive for the 360 got it on special for $120. the movies look great so HD-DVD for me

[Jdm7399]

I purchased a Sony S300 Blu-ray Player over the weekend for Dad. It's going to be his X-mas gift. I'm sure it'll fit his setup perfectly. My Dad really needs a new HDTV though. But I'll leave that up to him.:p

@ Best Buy

Sony S300 BR Player
$399.99 w/ $100.00 Gift Card back and 5 FREE BR Movies.

[ClutchPapi34]

It isn't a huge gap from standard dvd to hd or blue ray. I will wait a long time before buying one.

[AlphaXGamerXDad]

Too many companies have gone exclusively Blu-Ray for HD to ever be more than a distant 2nd place, if it doesn't wipe out the format completely. Just Vivid Video, Target, and Blockbuster alone should kill HD's hopes of survival with their semi recent announcements of exclusivity.(is this even a word?)

[Ash3n]

Too many companies have gone exclusively Blu-Ray for HD to ever be more than a distant 2nd place, if it doesn't wipe out the format completely. Just Vivid Video, Target, and Blockbuster alone should kill HD's hopes of survival with their semi recent announcements of exclusivity.(is this even a word?)

Ummm. Can you say Wal-Mart (HDDVD)? Also, the Block is going Bankrupt along with Hollywood Video...they won't be a deciding factor. Their online market has both formats anyway. So that duck doesn't hunt. Also, VIVID is doing both formats. So get back to me with another strategy.

Hollywood may pull out of Bankruptcy as well. They have been showing a nice profit as always. Game
Crazy is keeping them alive.

Sidenote: The selling trends for BR vs. HDDVD is close to a 65% > 35% split. As long as HDDVD holds a market of at least 15% sales. That is still a billion dollar industry. Also, HDDVD has actually been climbing lately since SONY has backed off the advertising. So expect HDDVD to be around for awhile.

;)

Oh and here is proof before you flame me.

http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/news/show/329
http://news.digitaltrends.com/talkback184.html
http://www.bloggingstocks.com/2007/10/16/hollywood-video-parent-movie-gallery-files-for-chapter-11-bankru/
http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=940DEED81430F931A35754C0A9619582 60

[dh4645]

It isn't a huge gap from standard dvd to hd or blue ray. I will wait a long time before buying one.

thats very untrue

dvds are only 480p...unless if they are upscaled on say, a ps3 (which looks great)...in which case, you are correct in that there isn't a huge gap. but it's still noticeable.

blu-ray / hd-dvds are 1080p

720 x 480
or
1920 x 1080

i think i'd prefer 2,073,600 pixels over 345,600 pixels any day.

[Shinobi273]

thats very untrue

dvds are only 480p...unless if they are upscaled on say, a ps3 (which looks great)...in which case, you are correct in that there isn't a huge gap. but it's still noticeable.

blu-ray / hd-dvds are 1080p

720 x 480
or
1920 x 1080

i think i'd prefer 2,073,600 pixels over 345,600 pixels any day.


Size of tv also matters, 1080p on a 6ft screen isn't that great. You can see the pixels. Of course if you are watching on a 32in, it's probably ridiculously difficult to tell the difference between 480p and 1080p. Ridiculous in the sense of paying up to $100 more for HDDVD for a difference that you could make out only at 5in from the screen when paused.

[xLCDx]

B-Ray definatly. Iv compared and B-Ray has a slightly better picture and sound quality depending ony our picture.

[Siege Is Like]

either side is really one large movie studio away from winning. if x-box produced hd-dvd games, the race could swing another way but one of the major things keeping the situation stable is of course built in blu ray on ps3

[keene oh]

Personally, i think the downloadable HD movies on xbox live marketplace could make both formats redundant.

If only you could keep downloaded movies permanently.

I much prefer the idea of downloading a movie and playing it in HD straight from the hard drive.

But, with the current setup being basically a rental service, it will slowly fail.

I will be sticking with standard dvd's, upscaled either through my 360 or PVR. My TV is only 1080i anyway so i will not get 'full' HD until the next upgrade.

By the time i choose the next TV with full HD, this war should be over.

I will watch developments as an interested bystander.

My hope is that HDDVD wins out.

[dh4645]

Size of tv also matters, 1080p on a 6ft screen isn't that great. You can see the pixels. Of course if you are watching on a 32in, it's probably ridiculously difficult to tell the difference between 480p and 1080p. Ridiculous in the sense of paying up to $100 more for HDDVD for a difference that you could make out only at 5in from the screen when paused.

very true.
i think the consensus is anything under 40" you cant really tell the diff between 720p and 1080p unless if you are sitting like 2 ft away. so dont waste your money getting a 32" tv that is 1080p unless if you are right up on it when you are watching.

and the smaller the tv, the less you'll be able to tell the difference.

i have a 40" sony xbr3 that i bought in january...it's so great.

at some point that will become the secondary tv when i get something larger.

back on subject....

http://kotaku.com/gaming/hd-era/michael-bay-slams-microsoft-over-hd+dvd-calls-blu+ray-superior-329967.php

[Oli]

I'd like to point out i have Sony AR series laptop with a blu ray drive, the screen is 17 inches and 1920x1200 so can display in full HD. Even on this size screen the difference between normal dvd's and full hd blu ray is soooooooo noticeable, the gap is huge! (i can even see a definite difference between 720p and 1080p)

Also having seen both formats on many different TV's with many films i have to say i think blu ray definately has the better quality.
As for companies that support them, everyone knows here knows whats what or if not read up, and in my opinion i think either dual format players will result in both formats continuing to be manufactured with exclusive major studios behind each format or Univeral joins blu ray and the 'war' would come to and end pretty abruptly but i dont see the latter happening anytime soon.

[Whistler]

dvds are only 480p...unless if they are upscaled on say, a ps3 (which looks great)


On my 42" gen 8 Pioneer plasma, PS3 upscaling looks crap! Ok maybe not crap but it adds lots or errors and shit in the picture. When I don't upscale the dvd with my PS3 and only let the plasma handle the picture it looks much better!

But on my regular dvd player that's hooked up to a 720P projector with a 100" screen the upscaling look much much better. Haven't tried the PS3 on my projector or the dvd on my plasma yet thou.

[PerpetualHeaven]

Size of tv also matters, 1080p on a 6ft screen isn't that great. You can see the pixels. Of course if you are watching on a 32in, it's probably ridiculously difficult to tell the difference between 480p and 1080p. Ridiculous in the sense of paying up to $100 more for HDDVD for a difference that you could make out only at 5in from the screen when paused.

edit: Nevermind I think you meant 720p.

[dh4645]

On my 42" gen 8 Pioneer plasma, PS3 upscaling looks crap! Ok maybe not crap but it adds lots or errors and shit in the picture. When I don't upscale the dvd with my PS3 and only let the plasma handle the picture it looks much better!

But on my regular dvd player that's hooked up to a 720P projector with a 100" screen the upscaling look much much better. Haven't tried the PS3 on my projector or the dvd on my plasma yet thou.

hmmm. that's weird. it looks great on my ps3/sony xbr3 40".
i watched transformers and die hard 4 and they looked sweet upscaled.

[El Capitaine]

standard DVD. at least for a while. Reason why DVD totally supplanted VHS was because of the cool new menu abilities, an the MUCH better picture quality. Every single tv stood to gain pic quality be using DVDs instead. Not so with BluRayDisc or HD-DVD. Picture quality isn't that different, discs are more expensive, and if I buy it then I can only watch it on the HDTV in the house. Not the other TVs, or my computer. Or my laptop during airplane flights. I'll stick with DVD, thanks.

However, I do think online downloads will get a fat increase in popularity. The Writer's Guild of America thinks so, at least...

[Jdm7399]

standard DVD. at least for a while. Reason why DVD totally supplanted VHS was because of the cool new menu abilities, an the MUCH better picture quality. Every single tv stood to gain pic quality be using DVDs instead. Not so with BluRayDisc or HD-DVD. Picture quality isn't that different, discs are more expensive, and if I buy it then I can only watch it on the HDTV in the house. Not the other TVs, or my computer. Or my laptop during airplane flights. I'll stick with DVD, thanks.

However, I do think online downloads will get a fat increase in popularity. The Writer's Guild of America thinks so, at least...

^^^Are you comparing Blu-ray and HD-DVD or Standard DVD to the HD Formats?:confused:

There's a HUGE difference in Visuals if you are comparing Standard DVD's to Blu-ray and HD-DVD. Even if you upscale your Standard DVD's, it still won't compare to Blu-ray or HD-DVD. Trust me...I've tried it.;)

Sound-wise, you may not be able to tell the difference. The standard is still 5.1, regardless if you are running a 6.1 or even a 7.1 Receiver. True HD anyone? Oh how I wish.

[Peace]

Anyone remember betamax? How about PlayStation 3? At least Sony learned from their proprietary format mistakes of the past, and allowing other manufacturers to make blu-ray players helps proliferation, as does including them in their PS3's, adding 3 million blu-ray units to the population. That being said, look at PS3 and betamax... Sony does have an uncanny ability to snatch defeat out of the jaws of victory, and I wouldn't count hd-dvd out yet, especially if Microsoft decides to re-embrace it, but I have a feeling that they have lost faith in the format and it is a long slow death awaiting hd-dvd. It is really to early to tell, and I think early adapters are risking investment in unsupported technology whichever side they choose. If you must have hi-def NOW, then I say, go blu!

[jaferris]

i love blu ra the interactive menus the gr8 picture
also bonus not having to spend an extra £120 on a add on drive for me ps3 lol so can watch the movies

looks like blu ra winning the war at the mo well over here in europe and 73% alot :)
http://www.ps3fanboy.com/2007/11/29/blu-ray-holds-73-of-european-hd-market/

[B Rad8908]

HD-DVD is better

Blu-Ray is for people that like the PS3

[DFILL450]

i love blu ra the interactive menus the gr8 picture
also bonus not having to spend an extra £120 on a add on drive for me ps3 lol so can watch the movies

looks like blu ra winning the war at the mo well over here in europe and 73% alot :)
http://www.ps3fanboy.com/2007/11/29/blu-ray-holds-73-of-european-hd-market/

Man, you need to work on your grammer. Its horrible! :p I know you were probably in a rush though so its okay.

I really can't tell the difference between standard dvd and blu ray. My HD TV is just THAT shitty. I mean do you need to be watching it in 1080p for it to look good? Because I really can't afford a 1080p tv.

[alpha305]

Will they remake the HD player for the 360 and add Hdmi support to it? I think if that happens then we can give Br a run for its money. In the meantime Bluray is doing it terms of console wars.

[dh4645]

it's looking pretty bad for hd-dvd...glad i picked blu-ray. good ol' ps3.

http://kotaku.com/340842/warner-bros-goes-blu+ray-only-format-war-lingers-on

http://kotaku.com/341012/ces-hd-dvd-press-conference-canceled

http://kotaku.com/341033/new-line-goes-blu+ray

[dh4645]

looking even worse for hd-dvd today.

http://kotaku.com/341998/paramount-moving-to-blu+ray-hd+dvd-dead-can-we-all-just-get-on-with-our-lives-now

[Bax x360a]

Looks like I'm going to have to pick up a PS3 then :(

[CR JD92]

Looks like I'm going to have to pick up a PS3 then :(
Did that myself a few months ago:( altho I still dont have any games for it at all lol, the gameing will be staying on the 360 for me.

[W. Samuel Jones III]

Seem that the general water cooler talk is that HDDVD is on it's last legs.

I wouldn't rush out and buy a Blue Ray player just yet unless you have be an early adopter. Wait it out and after the big corporations feel that they have gotten their R&D price point the hardware will drop in price.

Remember when a DVD player was $1,000, now you can get one for under $80.

[Shinobi273]

Seem that the general water cooler talk is that HDDVD is on it's last legs.

I wouldn't rush out and buy a Blue Ray player just yet unless you have be an early adopter. Wait it out and after the big corporations feel that they have gotten their R&D price point the hardware will drop in price.

Remember when a DVD player was $1,000, now you can get one for under $80.

You can get a crap DVD player on sale for $20.

Anyway, the reccommendation is not to buy a Blue-ray player until the features catch up to HD-DVD or HD downloads catch up to disk players. Current Blue-ray players don't support the interactive and online features of HD-DVD yet, which are being planned to be released. Also, it is still possible for MS or other Netflix type service to perfect an HD download service. Personally, I like HD better since they are backward compatable, HD-DVD is the natural progression of DVD and progressive scan.

[Kmoney roc]

Blu-Ray is far to expensive at the moment and there is not a huge range of titles available for them in the UAE where i live currently.

However i did have a rather good demo on the panosonic 103 inch HD TV in plug-ins the other day and i could not believe how good the picture was. I was hoping they would let me play gears of war on there but that didnt come off......yet!

[vhayste]

I am still in for standard DVDs. I can still appreciate their quality and I don't have the luxury to "go HD". Not to mention the expensive equipment to fully experience HD.

[Fonkey Monkey]

http://www.gamespot.com/news/6184567.html?action=convert&om_clk=latestnews&tag=latestnews;title;4
hd dvd down for the count?
probably.

[Ash3n]

That report is bunk. If you want the TRUE story, highdefdigest.com is a VERY reliable source. HDDVD is dying, but not quite dead. If Paramount or Uni HD leaves it's over. For now those companies sell over 30% of the DVD's made. So HDDVD still has some clout. I have abandoned HDDVD for now and will no longer buy them until I know they're staying. Here is the link:

http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Universal/Industry_Trends/Universal_Re-Affirms_HD_DVD_Support/1362

[PerpetualHeaven]

Phew and I was about to buy an HD-DVD attachment. They look so cool though. Ah well!

[RogueVasion]

I went Blu-Ray because I got a nice next-gen player built in and didn't need to buy an addon. And when I bought my PS3, it was a get 10 Blu-Rays free instantly. It's a very good quality; I say HD & BluRay are near identical in my eyes.

[Tubson57]

Seems to me that Blu-Ray is gonna be another mini disc type of thing and will possibly die along side the ps3 but of course I could be wrong, I guess only time will tell.
Yea I totally agree with this. I compared HD movies to my friends PS3 movies and there is little or no difference that I can find. There is no reason to pay more for blu ray, and it will probably die out in a little while.

[Webb]

Yea I totally agree with this. I compared HD movies to my friends PS3 movies and there is little or no difference that I can find. There is no reason to pay more for blu ray, and it will probably die out in a little while.

I think you're missing the concept and the war...

Only one of HD and Blu-ray will survive... So by comparing the two, they will be very similar but the fact the Blu-ray are getting all the backing is why HD is dieing out. This is nothing like mini-disc, this is the future of film and possibly the last solid tangible format before everything turns to digital downloads. So once again, this is not a fad, this is the future of films ;)

[Jdm7399]

I think you're missing the concept and the war...

Only one of HD and Blu-ray will survive... So by comparing the two, they will be very similar but the fact the Blu-ray are getting all the backing is why HD is dieing out. This is nothing like mini-disc, this is the future of film and possibly the last solid tangible format before everything turns to digital downloads. So once again, this is not a fad, this is the future of films ;)

^^^You're just saying that Dan because you're a Blu-ray Fanboy.:p

Honestly, I prefer Blu-ray over HD any day. HD is dying quick and unless more Studios come back, then it looks like it's all over for HD. Just like Matt(Ash3n) has said, he is not buying anymore HD movies and I am also doing the same until HD makes somewhat of a Comeback. I will however make an exception for those certain movie "exclusives" that are available only on HD.

Time to sell my 2nd HD-DVD Drive.

[Tasty Ace]

gotta be HD-DVD, although some of the films i reallyl ike areo n blu-ray its the interactive features that really tip it for me

[messym]

I have a Toshiba HD DVD standalone player and the PS3 and can't tell the difference in pic quality on my Pioneer plasma. I hope HD DVD doesn't die out because the competition for high def is what is driving the prices of these players and movies down. The only thing I don't like about HD DVD is the combo format DVD's. If I want a standard def DVD I'll buy one.

[xENVxGAMERSKREW]

one thing i learned from owning a giant DvD collection is that i seldom ever watch them more then twice, and trading in more then 600 of them will get you a 360 elite plus extra controller, plus almost 30 games......

Seriously, i don't think i'll every waste my funds on movies again, get way more entertainment from video games. thats what ive been thinking... we got a grip of movies and keep adding but.. only a few do we ever watch again.. and others we never see ever again...

[dh4645]

thats what ive been thinking... we got a grip of movies and keep adding but.. only a few do we ever watch again.. and others we never see ever again...

yeah i agree, that's why i have netflix. i had blockbuster for over a year, but just switched this month. i used to buy a lot of movies but realized it was a waste. i only buy movies i really really love...on blu-ray if possible.

i am n