(March 10, 2010) The 3D era arrives today with the first sales of complete systems that include a 3D display, a 3D disc player and 3D viewing glasses. Best Buy’s Magnolia stores offer an exclusive featuring the TC-P50VT20 and Panasonic’s DMP-BDT300 3D capable Blu-ray player.

In TV industry parlance the TC-P50VT20 and DMP-BDT300 are referred to as derivative models, both exclusive to Best Buy. The retailer likes selling derivative models since the exclusivity negates the company’s “price match” policy.

Best Buy’s derivative HDTV and Panasonic’s TC-P50VT25 are essentially identical except for the bezel finish (the VT20’s is simulated brushed stainless steel, the VT25’s is a dark simulated brass) and the inclusion of an RS-232 interface in the VT20 that can be used with sophisticated remote control systems such as Crestron’s. We know of no feature differences Update: The difference between Panasonic’s DMP-BDT350 and the derivative DMP-BDT300 is the 350 supports DLNA the 300 does not. The DMP-BDT350 retails for $449.99 and is expected to ship next month.

The TCP-50VT20 retails at Best Buy for $2499.99. The TC-P50VT25 arrives early next month at regional and local retailers at $2599.99 list. Each come packed with a single pair of Panasonic 3D glasses, with addition pairs retailing for $149.99.

I performed tests during a recent visit at Panasonic’s NJ headquarters. Panasonic personnel unpacked the TC-P50VT20 prior to my arrival; all readings are based on out of the box condition with fewer than 10 total hours on the set.

(Continues below photos)

The VT models are Panasonic’s top-of-the-line 2010 plasma HDTVs. In addition to the 3D features, Panasonic added a number of improvements over its 2009 V10 series. Performance enhancements include: shorter decay red and green phosphors, elimination of the 2nd front glass panel with the addition of a new micro-louvered anti-glare filter bonded directly to the glass, a new panel scan system, anti-blur circuitry and higher energy efficiency.

The 50″ TC-P50VT25 includes a swivel table stand and retains 2009 V10 series performance features including THX certification, 96 Hz refresh (in addition to normal 60 Hz 2D and 120 Hz 3D modes), “Custom” mode with user gray scale adjustments, and user gamma settings. For a full list of VT series features, go to our earlier 2010 Panasonic feature (link).

(Continues below photo)

2D

Tests began with peak white level readings.  The “Vivid” default mode (often referred to as showroom or torch mode and not recommend for home viewing) came in at 65.18 ft lamberts using a 100IRE window pattern.  Panasonic’s “Infinite Black Pro” mode kicks in when using the “Vivid” setting and yielded a black level reading of 0.000 (meaning below our Minolta LS-100 light meter sensitivity) with a 0 IRE black test signal, making the contrast ratio indeed infinite.  We calibrated the user controls in Custom mode and measured a white level of 32.39 ft lamberts white and .004 ft lamberts black level for a contrast ratio 8097.5 to 1. (The black level reading is about one-half of reported out of the box black levels of the 2009 V10 series). In THX mode (factory default user settings) respective measurements were 31.5 ft lamberts and again an impressive .004 ft lamberts black level. THX factory default contrast setting is at 60 out of 100, a level which provides the ability to increase the white level in bright viewing environments.

Color points were excellent, almost spot on the HDTV standard (in parentheses) measuring in THX mode R= x.642, y.334 (x.64, y.33) G= x.299, y=.604 (x.30, y.60) B= x.149, y.058 (x.15, y.06)

White balance was close to the D6500K (x.313, y.329) in THX mode. 20 IRE recorded at 6578K (x.312, y.323) at 80 IRE 6289K (x.316, y .332). Gray scale adjustments are available in Custom mode, but time did not permit a calibration.

Signal processing using a 480i signal on the HQV test disc was excellent for the color bar test, picture detail and good for the jaggies tests (2 of the 3 Bars).  To my surprise the VT20 failed the 3:2 pulldown test with the control set to “Auto” (it passed in the “On” position) . The unit also failed the video noise reduction test, with no effect with the control settings at strong, mid, or weak.

HD HQV tests provided similar results with the VT20 failing 3:2 pulldown when the control is switched to “Auto” from “on” and negligible noise reduction. Panasonic personnel on hand during the testing said they’d study my findings. Considering that last year’s models aced the noise reduction and all 3:2 pulldown tests, we will check to see if Panasonic produces a firmware update for both new production and for sets already in inventory.

The 96 Hz mode eliminates the need for 3:2 pulldown and associated judder. It was flicker free for all HD 2D content viewed.

The FHP disc motion resolution test provided excellent results. Enabling the anti-blur mode made the test pattern rock solid and exhibited full 1080 line per-picture-height motion resolution. The moving sign and license plate tests confirmed a significant reduction of phosphor lag. There were no signs of phosphor lag when we switched to viewing an action movie on Blu-ray disc.

The new anti-glare coating is very effective, providing impressive results with extreme off vertical axis light sources such as ceiling fixtures.

2D Viewing

The improved scan and phosphors along with the deep blacks and accurate color provided excellent image reproduction and fine shadow detail. These improvements add up to amazing overall images free of the “video look” associated with 120 and 240 Hz LED LCDs.

3D Viewing

My only 3D source was the demo disc packed with Panasonic’s Blu-ray player, which provides clips from “Astro Boy” as well as numerous live sequences including beach shots, dancing, volleyball, super-slow motion sports and a wonderful underwater fish segment.

As much as I tried to see the issues witnessed with the Sony FHD3D TV (the only production 3D models publicly demoed in 3D link) I did not see them. They simply are not present.  These include crosstalk seen as ghost images, motion artifacts best described as a motion breakup, sort of like a strobe effect and flickering. (One note: when I switched the user control from 120 Hz to 96Hz, flickering appeared in bright scenes, so keep it at 120 Hz).

The mode memory choices such as “Custom” have offsets built-in to compensate for the brightness reduction of the 3D glasses and any other image picture parameter shifts. They proved quite effective, although until Panasonic or someone else makes 3D test signals available on Blu-ray, there is no way to calibrate the user controls in the 3D mode.

Overall, I find the 3D image outstanding with considerably more brightness and pop than the motion picture theater 3D movie experience.

In other words, if you like 3D in the movie theater, you’ll love the way this TV does it at home.

Final Notes

Panasonic has set the bar high for Generation 1 FHD3D TVs. With the exception of the noise reduction and the Auto 3:2 pulldown not functioning (a minor issue, however, and one that should not appear in any 2010 HDTV) the TC-P50V20 is an excellent HDTV and FHD3D TV. The HD Guru awards the Panasonic TC-P50V20 ♥♥♥♥ 4 out of 5 hearts.

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Mitsubishi’s upcoming 3D convertor box will be compatible with 2007 and 2008 Samsung 3D ready DLP rear projectors and plasma TVs, in addition to the Mitsubishi 3D compatible rear projectors, according to an industry source. Mitsubishi and Samsung previously sold about 4 million HDTVs in the US as “only” 3D compatible with games using a 3D capable PC.

The Mitsubishi adaptor converts the over/under 3D Blu-ray signals for display on these pre-2010 3D capable TVs. A Mitsubishi spokesman said its converter will operate with other 3D formats and resolutions too, including those to be used by DirecTV on its three 3D satellite channels launching this June. The legacy 1080p 3D capable HDTVs will display all 3D content at a maximum resolution of 960 x 1080, the same as DirecTVs upcoming 3D signals.  The 3D legacy DLPs display exactly one-half the resolution of 3D Blu-ray player, and provide excellent 3D image reproduction. We saw the adaptor demoed at January’s CES.

The Mitsubishi 3DC-1000 adaptor box will ship this spring, rumored to sell for around $100 .

Samsung no longer sells glasses or IR emitters necessary for viewing 3D on its legacy HDTV 3D displays.  Don’t fret, IO Display Systems in California makes 3D shutter glasses specifically for these earlier Samsung 3D TVs along with the IR emitters required for 3DTV viewing. IO sells their shutter glasses for $59.99 a pair or you can buy them in discounted packages. The two pair 3D glasses package with the IR emitter sells for just $111.75. Add on a 3D Blu-ray player and/or a subscribed DirecTV HD box to your legacy 3D Samsung  with the Mitsubishi 3DC-1000 adapter box and you’re set for 3D sports, movies and programs.

Here is link to the IO Display store and a link to a list of all the 3D compatible 2007 and 2008 model Samsungs and Mitsubishis.

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Best Buy announced 3D TVs and 3D capable Blu-ray player sales and demos at over 200 stores  beginning on March 10, 2010. It will kick off the first Full HD 3D (FHD3D) sales at its Union Square store in New York City with an early morning press event.

The March 10th 3D debuts take place at Best Buy’s Magnolia store-within-a-store. The offerings include a Panasonic’s 50″ TC-P50VT20 plasma 3D HDTV, demoed alongside the Panasonic DMP-BD350 FHD3D Blu-ray player. A source indicates the first Full HD Blu-ray Disc is a Panasonic 3D Blu-ray demo disc which will be included with its 3D Blu-ray players.  The Panasonic FHD3D TVs come packed with one pair of Panasonic 3D shutter glasses.

On March 21, Best Buy plans to offer sales and 3D demos of Samsung’s first 3D FHD TVs at over 900 of its 1000+ stores. The initial 3D offerings include the 46″ UN-46C7000 and 55″ UN-55C7000 LED LCD TVs, along with Samsung’s BD-C6900 3D Blu-ray player and shutter type 3D glasses

According to published reports, Samsung plans to offer a promotional package of 3D glasses and the  first Full HD 3D Blu-ray movie disc “Monsters vs. Aliens” with the purchase of a Samsung 3D TV and 3D Blu-ray player. The promotion is expected to begin with the Best Buy’s March 21st launch.

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(February 22, 2010)  The Internet is replete with bad information regarding 3D ready Blu-ray player/ surround sound receiver/ Full HD 3D TV (FHD3D) HDMI connectivity. Unfortunately, HD Guru is not immune from this: we recently passed along misinformation received in an email from an official Blu-ray Disc Association (BDA) spokesperson, for which we apologize.

To set the record straight HD Guru recently met with Waheed Rasheed, director of product marketing for Silicon Image, the company that created HDMI and its related standards. He provided us with clear and precise information regarding the recently published HDMI standards as they relate to 3D products.

Full HD 3D

Transmitting uncompressed Full High Definition 3D (FHD3D) signals (defined as 1920 x 1080 resolution for both the left and right eye [each frame]) requires connecting a 3D Blu-ray player to a FHD3D TV using a suitable HDMI cable. The FHD3D signal’s bit rate is 6.75 Gbps (gigabits per second). The HDMI 1.4 standard’s maximum bit rate of 10.2Gbps is identical to that of the older HDMI 1.3 standard.

The 1920 x 2205 pixel at 24Hz (see drawing above) FHD3D signal differs from any previous HD or 3D signal. 1920 is the number of active pixels across each frame while 2205 pixels is the vertical resolution of two Full HD frames plus 45 pixels of active blanking separating the FHD left and right frames.

As the drawing illustrates, the signal places the two frames in a configuration known as “over/under.” This is the first and currently only FHD3D TV standard signal and because it is totally new, no non-FHD3D display can accept it.

This is important, as some consumer electronics writers speculate incorrectly that a modification will allow legacy 120Hz and 240Hz LCD displays to handle Blu-ray FHD3D content.

That said, Mitsubishi’s 2007, 2008 and 2009 legacy rear projection sets can be adapted to play these new FHD3D signals. Mitsubishi announced and demonstrated at the 2010 CES a converter box that down-converts the Blu-ray FHD3D HDMI signal (albeit at half resolution [960 x1080] for each eye). The converter box is due to arrive around the same time the first 3D capable Blu-ray players ship this spring.

The new HDMI 1.4 standard also permits another “over/under” 3D configuration at the lower 720p HD resolution (1280×720) at either 60Hz or 50 Hz Blu-ray player output.

All 3D Blu-ray players output FHD3D movies at 24 fps. Both LED LCD and CCFL backlit FH3D HDTVs internally convert the signal to sequential display (alternating left and right frames) at 240Hz (synchronizing with shutter glasses that provide 120 views per second for left and right eyes [120+120 =240]. All announced FHD3D plasma displays internally convert the 3D Blu-ray movie signals from “over/under” to frame sequential at 120 Hz for 60 views per second for each eye.

Surround Sound Receivers

Unfortunately, your current HDMI equipped surround sound receiver will not pass the new FHD3D signal and no upgrades are possible according to both Sony and Denon. Why? A system called EDID (Extended Display Identification Data) currently handles communications between your TV, receiver and source components and it works fine. However, when your new 3D television communicates that it is an FHD3D television, the receiver will not understand because the 3D ID was not part of the standard when your receiver was designed. The receiver will shut off the HDMI signal and your new 3D TV screen will go black.

Your only solution will be to replace your receiver with a new one that’s 3D compatible or use one of a number of available “work arounds.”  You can still use your current HDMI receiver with Panasonic’s upcoming 3D Blu-ray player because it includes a separate “audio only” HDMI output. Connect the video HDMI directly to your 3D set and the audio HDMI to your receiver to decode Dolby TruHD or DTS lossless codecs. No other manufacturer has announced this feature. You can also use coax or optical digital “outs” from the 3D Blu-ray player but you won’t get lossless audio and you’ll still have to connect the 3D Blu-ray player directly to the 3D HDTV to see the picture.

3D HDMI Cables

Will your existing 1.3 HDMI cables handle the FHD3D signal or will you have to replace them? The only way to really know is to connect it and see if they work. Some will, some won’t. If the cable can handle the 6.75 Gbps FHD3D data rate, it probably will.

There are two types of legacy 1.3 HDMI cables: Category 1 and Category 2. The former must be able to handle at least 2.25 Gbps signals, meaning it may not be able to handle FHD3D signal . Category 2 HDMI 1.3 cables handle signals up to 10.2 Gbps. These will certainly work.

The HDMI 1.4 standard has optional features for both TV and source component makers, including an audio return function and Ethernet connectivity (which allows one Ethernet signal to be carried to other connected components via HDMI if the maker includes this 1.4 feature).

To streamline HDMI cable selection Silicon Image dispensed with the old numerical system and replaced it with the following categories  (source: hdmi.org website):

Standard HDMI Cable
The Standard HDMI cable is designed to handle most home applications, and is tested to reliably transmit 1080i or 720p video – the HD resolutions that are commonly associated with cable and satellite television, digital broadcast HD, and upscaling DVD players.

Standard HDMI Cable with Ethernet
This cable type offers the same baseline performance as the Standard HDMI Cable shown above (720p or 1080i video resolution), plus an additional, dedicated data channel, known as the HDMI Ethernet Channel, for device networking. HDMI Ethernet Channel functionality is only available if both linked devices are HDMI Ethernet Channel-enabled.

Automotive HDMI Cable
Designed for internal cabling of vehicles equipped with onboard HD video systems. Tested to a more robust performance standard, and capable of withstanding the unique stresses of the motoring environment such as vibration and temperature extremes.

High Speed HDMI Cable
The High Speed HDMI cable is designed and tested to handle video resolutions of 1080p and beyond, including advanced display technologies such as 4K, 3D, and Deep Color. If you are using any of these technologies, or if you are connecting your 1080p display to a 1080p content source, such as a Blu-ray Disc player, this is the recommended cable.

High Speed HDMI Cable with Ethernet
This cable type offers the same baseline performance as the High Speed HDMI Cable shown above (1080p video resolution and beyond), plus an additional, dedicated data channel, known as the HDMI Ethernet Channel, for device networking. HDMI Ethernet Channel functionality is only available if both linked devices are HDMI Ethernet Channel-enabled.

Edited by Michael Fremer

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(Feb. 14, 2010) On-line retailers are now taking pre-orders for Samsung’s LED LCD 3D ready 1080p HDTVs for delivery later this month. Samsung’s C7000 series models in the 46-inch (UN46C7000) and 55-inch (UN55C7000) screen sizes will ship on February 26, 2010 (according to an on-line retailer) to be followed in late March by the 40″ screen size. The 7000 series 3D Samsung LED LCDs will offer frame sequential 3D, with the addition of optional, extra cost 3D shutter type glasses ($ and availability TBA).

The link for the 46″  and 55″ models can be found on Amazon.com here  and here (You must roll over the link  to see the ad, Amazon has dropped the link to the page. By rolling and holding your cursor over the link word “here”, the dropdown ad will appear, You can use it to  pre-order and see the price and other info.)

The Samsung UNxxC7000s are Samsung’s 2010 entry level 3D LED LCD series, replacing the 2009 UNxxB7000 and UNxxB7100 models. Amazon prices for the 40″, 46″ and 55″ sizes (including free shipping) are $1999.99, $2599.99 and $3299.99 respectively. These prices are significantly lower than the 2D 2009 “B” 7000 series at release last year. They were introduced at $2499.99 (40″) $2999.99 (46″) and $3799.99 (55″).

Viewing “Full HD” (1920 x 1080) 3D content requires three additional items: a 3D compatible Blu-ray player, a 3D Blu-ray movie disc, and Samsung 3D shutter glasses. Amazon briefly listed the Samsung 3D Blu-ray player model BD-C6900 late last month for $399.99 retail. (Sony announced this week its 3D Blu-ray upgradeable players will ship later this month starting at $199.99 retail, however, the firmware upgrade necessary for 3D playback won’t be available until July 2010, when Sony begins to ship its 3D LED LCD HDTVs.)

Samsung has not announced when it will be shipping its 3D glasses and its 3D Blu-ray player. We expect they will ship along with initial Blu-ray titles upon the C7000s release. Unlike Sony’s 3D offerings, these Samsung LED LCDs have a 3D conversion mode that will add the 3D effect to any 2D content. (You will still need the 3D glasses to see it.)

In addition to Amazon, on-line retailers Vanns, One Call and Electronics-Depot are taking pre-orders for the UNxxC7000 HDTVs. Currently Electronics Depot offers the lowest pre-order prices at $1719.59, $2233.19 and $2831.99 for the 40″, 46″ and 55″ models respectively. According to a Electronics Depot’s sales person we spoke to, these prices include free shipping.

Below are the main specifications for Samsung’s 2010 UNxxC7000 LED LCD models.

• 3D-ready / Skype compatible / 240Hz Clear Motion rate / Internet@TV
• 4 rear HDMI inputs
• Other inputs: 2 rear USB ports / 1 rear component-video in / 1 rear PC in / 1 rear Ethernet in / 1 RF
• Audio enhancements: SRS TheaterSound / Dolby Digital decoding / DTS decoding
• Built-in speakers: 10W x 2-channels
• Mounting options: Swivel stand included / VESA 400mm x 400mm wall-mounting compatible

• 3D-ready with built-in wireless transmitter / Wireless shutter glasses sold separately (special 3D video content required)
• Internet@TV widgets for BLOCKBUSTER, Facebook, YouTube, Flickr, AccuWeather, Netflix, Pandora, Twitter, Vudu, and more / Separate internet connection required
• Skype picture-in-picture video calls (separate internet connection required)
• Audio output: 1 rear optical digital audio out
• Efficiency: Exceeds ENERGY STAR 4.0 standards by up to 57% / Light Sensor panel-brightness optimization
• Panel response time: Less than 4 ms
• BD Wise automatic picture adjustment
• Built-in digital tuner

• Ultra Slim design
• Mystic Earth Touch of Color bezel with chrome trim
• AllShare streaming from your PC
• ConnectShare Movie fast connection to digital cameras and thumbdrives
• Game Mode picture and sound optimization
• Wide Color Enhancer
• Ultra Clear Panel

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Just Posted At HDGURU3D.com- Our 3D HDTV Primer (1/2/10)

(January 2, 2010) 2010 marks the beginning of the 3D home video era. While in many ways it is similar to the introduction of HDTV in late 1998-1999,  in others it’s quite different.

In 1998 and early 1999 TV makers introduced their first HDTVs. The set makers generally limited the initial offerings to one model per company. The changes needed to make a display high definition were huge, requiring modifications to picture tubes, far wider bandwidth circuitry, the incorporation of up-conversion technology and other expenses. Prices ranged from $9000 for a 34″ Sony direct view model to $10,000 for a Philips 64″ rear projector. Programming was limited to a handful of network shows in 1999 and most of 2000. The first full time HD channel, HD Net launched Sept 6, 2001.

The cost delta to enable 3D capability within a HDTV will be small, especially when compared to the standard to high definition switch. 3D requires a high refresh rate (generally 120 Hz for plasma and 240 Hz for LED and LCD), the display’s ability to send a sync signal to 3D glasses, and additional signal processing.

On to the predictions.

3D Full HDTV Prices Will Be Low

1. HG Guru predicts 3D ready versions of flat panels will sell for around the same as their 2D 2009 counterparts, with initial street prices beginning around $1299 for a 40″ 3D ready 240 Hz edge lit LED LCD. By comparison, a 2009 Samsung 40″ 120 Hz Edge Lit LED Samsung sells today on Amazon for $1249.99.

Nearly 50 3D HDTVs To Be Available

2. HD Guru predicts vendors will offer multiple Full HD 3D models in their 2010 lines with an industry total of 40-50 different models using plasma, LCD, LED LCD, DLP and front projection by year’s end.

3D Programming and Content Will Arrive Quickly

3. 3D programming will arrive much faster in 2010 than HDTV did back in the late nineties and early 2000s with dozens of Blu-ray discs, Playstation 3D games, and a full time 3D DirecTV channel. HD Guru predicts one or more cable providers will have a 3D channel before the end of 2010. In addition to movies and games, 3D broadcasts of sporting events will commence.

Low Cost 3D Blu-ray Players

4. HD Guru predicts 3D Blu-ray players will be available from every 3D TV maker, priced about $100-$150 higher their 2D counterparts.

LED HDTVs To Get Local Dimming

5. New thin, edge lit LED LCD HDTVs will arrive from virtually all big screen LED TV makers. New designs will provide edge lit “local dimming” for the first time, for better blacks and better contrast, along with other picture enhancements.

Thin LED HDTVs in 60″ and Above Screen  Sizes

6. TV Vendors will begin to sell thin LED edge-lit models in 60″ and larger screen sizes.

3D Compatible Surround Sound Receivers

7.  All major audio companies will introduce 3D compatible surround sound receivers in 2010. Consumers will learn their pre-2010 models will not be able to handle HDMI 3D signals, requiring the use of external switching and legacy sound formats such as Dolby Digital (instead of  Dolby TrueHD) or the purchase of a new SS receiver.

Mobile Digital TV Arrives Within Portable Devices

8. Mobile Digital TVs will finally arrive with a number of 21st century Watchman-type products as well as inclusion within other screened portable devices.

Home 3D HDTV Will Succeed

9. 3D HDTV will be declared a success with faster consumer adoption than HDTV in year one.

Glasses Free 3D  Will Arrive

10. Our final prediction, a glasses-free Full HD 3D consumer computer monitor and/or laptop computer will be announced before year’s end, though it will be designed for a single viewer.

HD Guru Wishes Our Readers a Happy New Year

Just Posted At HDGURU3D.com- Our 3D HDTV Primer

To learn more about choosing an HDTV please click this link.

For a list of the Best HDTVs under $1000 please click this link.

For a list of the 10 Best HDTVs please click this link

.

Edited by Michael Fremer

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Copyright ©2010 HD Guru Inc. All rights reserved. HDGURU is a registered trademark. The content and photos within may not be distributed electronically or copied mechanically without specific written permission. The content within is based upon information provided to the editor, which is believed to be reliable. Data within is subject to change. HD GURU is not responsible for errors or omissions.

(December 21, 2009) The Blu-ray Disc Association (BDA) announced last week an industry-wide standard for 3D high definition content on disc. The HD Guru reveals here details not contained within that press release.

According to Futuresource Consulting, a U.K. specialist research and knowledge-based consulting company with expertise in consumer electronics, “next generation 3D Blu-ray players will be available in the second quarter of 2010“—far earlier than other reporters’ predictions. Full HD 3D Blu-ray content will appear at the same time as the players’ introduction, as occurred with the previous format releases of DVD and  2D Blu-ray.

Futuresource  Consulting’s press release obtained by HD Guru states that “…3D-enabled BD players will be available in Q2 next year to support the major push on 3D TVs that will start at CES and build throughout the year. Further interest will be driven by owners of PS3 consoles, which will be able to play ‘Blu-ray 3D’ content.”

Sony, LG and Panasonic have already announced plans to launch 3D products in 2010. Samsung, Sharp and Toshiba publicly displayed prototypes of their respective 3D designs in 2009. The industry wide Blu-ray 3D standard requires all players to output Full HD (1920 x 1080p) 3D resolution.

The BDA press release highlights are:

• 3D players deliver 1080p Full HD to the each eye
• 3D players are standardized to operate with any brand or model 3D-enabled HDTV
• 3D players will play standard 2D Blu-ray discs as well as 3D ones
• Current Blu-ray players will all be able to play 3D titles, however only in 2D
• PlayStation 3 game console will be upgradable to play 3D titles in 3D
• Standard includes new graphic features, such as 3D menus and subtitles

In an email response to questions regarding the new Blu-ray 3D standard, a BDA representative revealed players may output 3D 1080p HD at a 48 frame per second rate (fps). This output represents sequential alternate frames of the left and right 24fps motion picture film. 3D Blu-ray players can also output 3D as 1080p/120 Hz.

A number of 3D HDTVs will display at 120 Hz (as demonstrated by Panasonic’s 50″ and 103″ plasma prototypes) while others will choose to upconvert all HD 3D and 2D content to 240 Hz, the refresh rate cited by some LCD manufacturers in their 3D demonstrations.

With unified support of a 3D Blu-ray standard by the Hollywood movie studios and the TV manufacturers, a format war has been avoided that would have resulted in consumer confusion and doubt. The industries are expected to join together at the International CES in Las Vegas next month to roll out the first consumer 3D displays and Blu-ray players.

With great pleasure HD Guru announces its new 3D dedicated website, HDGURU3D.com. We intend to make it the go-to source for 3D information, product reviews, news and much more.

To learn more about choosing an HDTV please click this link.

For a list of last minute HDTV deals please click this link.

For a list of the Best HDTVs under $1000 please click this link.

For a list of the 10 Best HDTVs please click this link.

Edited By Michael Fremer. If you’re looking for great music to play on your home theater/audio system, check out Michael’s website (link)

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Copyright ©2009 HD Guru Inc. All rights reserved. HDGURU is a registered trademark. The content and photos within may not be distributed electronically or copied mechanically without specific written permission. The content within is based upon information provided to the editor, which is believed to be reliable. Data within is subject to change. HD GURU is not responsible for errors or omissions.

Updated 12/20/09 10:00 am (eastern time)

(12/19/09) HD Guru obtained an advanced copy of this Sunday’s Best Buy (12/20/09) weekly circular. We analyzed it and found 11 of the 40 HDTVs advertised are real deals, they’re at the lowest price ever offered by Best Buy  (source: camelbuy).   We’ve added J&R’s Sunday 12/20/09 sale HDTVs  and comparisons to Amazon’s dealers’ best prices.

(Note: Most of the Amazon prices include free shipping [listed as FS]. Bundle Best Buy packages are listed with the bundle price, the Amazon price next to it is for TVs only.)

Use this article to get the “hottest” prices from the listed retailers or to negotiate the best deal at your local brick and mortar store with the help of our “How to Negotiate” article link.

Samsung PN50B550 50″ 1080p plasma $979.99 Best Buy with free $100  Gift Card/ $959.99 Amazon FS

Toshiba 46XV645U 46″ 1080p 120 Hz LCD Best Buy $999.98 with Free Toshiba BDX2000 Blu-ray player bundle/$949.99 Amazon FS

Sony KDL-40XBR9 40″ 1080p 240 Hz LCD Best Buy $1244.97 with Free Sony BDPS360 Blu-ray player and HTSS360 5.1 Home Theater in a Box system/$1249.99 increased $1299.00 Amazon FS

Sony KDL-46XBR9 46″ 1080p 240 Hz LCD Best Buy $1704.97 with Free Sony BDPS360 Blu-ray player and HTSS360 5.1 Home Theater in a Box system/$1759.00 Amazon FS

Sony KDL-52V5100 52″ 1080p 120 Hz LCD $1299.99  Best Buy/ $1299.00 One Call via Amazon FS

Samsung PN42B450 42″ 720p Plasma $624.99 Best Buy/$624.00 Amazon FS

Samsung LN22B460 720p 60Hz LCD $299.99 Best Buy $291.00 Amazon FS

Dynex DX-LDVD19 19″ 720p 60 Hz LCD w/built-in DVD player Best Buy $189.99 (Best Buy’s house brand not sold elsewhere)

Samsung LN46B530 46″ 1080p 60Hz LCD $879.99 Best Buy/$879.00 Amazon FS

Samsung LN55B640 55″ 1080p 120 Hz LCD $1599.99 Best Buy/$1797.00 Amazon FS (LN55B650)

LG  42LH40 1080p 120Hz LCD $899.98 Best Buy Bundle with LG BD370 Blu-ray player/ $789.99 lowered $783.49 Amazon FS

Sharp LC-46LE700UN 120Hz LED Backlight LCD $1249.00+ $115.01 shipping=$1364.01 J&R /price derease $1196.96+ $99.99 Shiping= $1296.95  Electronics Expo via Amazon

JVC LT-42P300 42″ 1080p 60Hz LCD $799.00 J&R via Amazon FS

JVC LT-32P300 32″ 1080p 60Hz LCD $439.00 J&R via Amazon FS

To learn more about choosing an HDTV please click this link.

For a list of great last minute Holiday gifts for the HDTV owner click this link

For a list of the Best HDTVs under $1000 please click this link.

For a list of the 10 Best HDTVs please click this link.

Edited By Michael Fremer. If you’re looking for great music to play on your home theater/audio system, check out Michael’s website (link)

Have a question for the HD Guru?
HD GURU|Email

Copyright ©2009 HD Guru Inc. All rights reserved. HDGURU is a registered trademark. The content and photos within may not be distributed electronically or copied mechanically without specific written permission. The content within is based upon information provided to the editor, which is believed to be reliable. Data within is subject to change. HD GURU is not responsible for errors or omissions.

HD Guru’s list of last minute gift items will help you pick outstanding products for the video and audio enthusiasts in your family. HD Guru or a staff member tested every product and each one is highly rated. To make shopping easy, we’ve included links to Amazon.

Spears and Munsil Blu-ray Test Disc $25

This Blu-ray disc contains all the test signals you’ll need to properly set the main user controls on any HDTV. Among other useful tests is the moving wedge HDGuru used for 120Hz/240Hz LCD evaluations. This disc, our least expensive suggestion, will be a welcome addition to any HDTV owner’s Blu-ray collection.

Moxi DVR MR 1500-T3 $499

HD Guru sampled Motorola and Cisco HD DVRs provided by cable providers and Verizon’s FIOS  and the Moxi significantly outperformed all of them thanks to better graphics, improved functionality and far greater storage capacity—a built-in 500GB hard drive stores 75 hours of HD— plus the ability to add a large external hard drive (up to 6TB) for 1000 hours of HD content.

Moxi also brings to your HDTV Internet content from Hulu, Netflix YouTube and web servicess. Best of all, there is no monthly box fee. You’ll only pay for an M CableCard rental (typically about $2 a month from your cable provider) to supply its built-in twin tuners.  HD Guru gives the Moxi its highest ♥♥♥♥♥ rating (a full review will be coming soon).

Monsoon HAVA Titanium HD WIFI $149.95

The Monsoon HAVA Titanium HD WIFI extends your HD content throughout your home and anywhere in the world using a broadband internet connection and PC or laptop. You can view your live or DVR recorded content where and when you desire. The HAVA accepts any HD video source and wirelessly streams it throughout your home in DVD-quality video. You can also watch and control programming on a mobile phone with a broadband Internet connection.  Makes a great gift for anyone who’s on spends a lot of time “on the road.” Hammacher Schlemmer via Amazon

Panasonic Real Pro Ultra Massage Chair 30007KX $3446.81

The 30007KX is Panasonic’s best massage chair with 7 different techniques (Swedish, Kneading, Junetsu, Percussion, Compression, Tapping, Shiatsu and Rolling). It has 36 air bags covering 460 sq. inches for your feet, calves, arm/hand, waist, shoulder and your butt!  The back area rollers provide 200 sq. inches of heavenly massage. This chair also features auto body scanning to customize the massage to your body. We love ours. Disclaimer: we purchased it. Gizmos for life via Amazon

Tripp Lite AVR900U Surge Protector/Uninterrupted Power Supply $99.65 (Free Shipping)

Don’t fall victim to salesmen spouting benefits of a power line conditioner, claiming it will give you a sharper picture or richer color. It’s nonsense. All you’ll really need is protection against power surges and blackouts ( the latter if your system uses a hard drive such as a DVR or Vudu). Tripp Lite`s AVR900U line-interactive UPS provides surge protection for home theaters in an ultra-compact housing. Its battery-supported AC output will supply continuous power during short blackouts, while its automatic voltage regulation corrects for brownouts (low voltage)  and over voltages. The AVR900A includes 12 output receptacles, 4 of which are widely spaced to accommodate large transformer blocks without obstructing adjacent outlets. 6 outlets feature full battery support and surge suppression. The remaining 6 supply surge suppression for components such as a cable box or surround sound receiver. Single-line telephone suppression jacks protect equipment with a DSL or standard dialup RJ-11 phone line connection such as a TiVo or a DirecTV receiver.  Amazon

Sony  MDR500NC Noise Cancelling  Headphones $271.99

The  Sony MDR-NC500D headphones use digital technology  to reduce up to 99% of the noise from planes, trains and buses, while providing high-quality audio. Its built-in lithium-ion rechargable battery provided over 15 hours of noise cancellation in our tests. The MDR500NC fit snugly yet comfortably without any of the ear pressure discomfort of the Bose noise cancelling headphones (as reported by CNET and NY Time’s David Pogue). The 500s come with hard case and adapters for twin miniature plugs found in many planes and a battery backup (in case you forgot to recharge). The HD Guru gives it our highest recommendation. The price has just been reduced (for the first time) to below $300 Buy.com via Amazon.

Panasonic DMP-BD60 Blu-ray Player $127.99

If you have not seen a Blu-ray movie on your 1080p HDTV, you have never seen how good high def can appear. Broadcast, cable and satellite HDTV is far more compressed than Blu-ray movies, resulting in noise or artifacts that are not present on Blu-ray. The Panasonic Blu-ray player uses proprietary chips to create superb Blu-ray playback and excellent functionality.

Vudu Movie Streaming Player $149.99 and up

The Vudu system offers “on demand” viewing of movies in standard and high def versions with a library of over 10,000 titles. Why Vudu instead of Amazon on demand, Netflix (on-line) or other services? Because it has the best picture quality of any provider we’ve tested to date. It’s also simple to operate and has a fantastic user interface. Vudu is available as a free standing box or embedded within the LG BD390 Blu-ray player. Best Buy has the lowest price on each at $149.99 for the BX100 free standing box and $279.99 for the  LG BD390 (currently in store pickup only).

To learn more about choosing an HDTV please click this link.

For a list of the Best HDTVs under $1000 please click this link.

For a list of the 10 Best HDTVs please click this link.

Edited By Michael Fremer. If you’re looking for great music to play on your home theater/audio system, check out Michael’s website (link)

Have a question for the HD Guru?
HD GURU|Email

Copyright ©2009 HD Guru Inc. All rights reserved. HDGURU is a registered trademark. The content and photos within may not be distributed electronically or copied mechanically without specific written permission. The content within is based upon information provided to the editor, which is believed to be reliable. Data within is subject to change. HD GURU is not responsible for errors or omissions.

The HD Guru scoured the web to find the hottest post-Cyber Monday deals on the best HDTVs. All these HDTVs have free shipping. Use the links below to check out the deals. (Note: These prices are correct as of publication. However, stores tend to raise prices as supplies diminish.)

Updated 3:00pm 12/3/09

Updated 7:30pm 12/3/09

Updated 9:30 am 12/4/09

Updated 10:30 am 12/4/09

Updated 1:00 pm 12/4/09

Updated 5:15 pm 12/5/09

Updated 8:15 pm 12/6/09

Cyber Week Blu-ray Movies under $10

Panasonic DMP-BD60 $118.99 Andychc

Samsung UN-55B7000 55-Inch 1080p LED LCD $2549.13 Amazon

Panasonic X1 Series TC-L37X1 37-Inch 720p LCD $469.99 Buy.com Sold out

Panasonic TC-P50S1 50-Inch 1080p Plasma $1095.99 Buy.com (under buying choice on right side after link jump)

Samsung LN40B500 40-Inch 1080p LCD $609.00 6 Ave raised to $678.00 DataVision $609 Sold out

Panasonic TC-P46G15 46-Inch 1080p Plasma with Panasonic DMP-BD60 Blu-ray play $1179.96 6 Ave

Samsung LN46B500 46-Inch 1080p LCD $799.00 Sold out

Panasonic TC-P50G10 50-Inch 1080p Plasma $1248.85 raised to $1255.00 Amazon

Panasonic TC-P42S1 42-Inch 1080p Plasma $784.99 Amazon

Toshiba 55ZV650U Regza 55″ Class Clearscan 240 Hz LCD HDTV and Toshiba BDX2000 Blu-Ray Player With BD Live Bundle$1699.98 Tiger Direct

Panasonic X1 Series TC-P50X1 50-Inch 720p Plasma $639.59 raised to $784 lowered to $689.98 raised to $859 Lowered to $799.98 Vanns

To learn more about choosing an HDTV please click this link.

For a list of the Best HDTVs under $1000 please click this link.

For a list of the 10 Best HDTVs please click this link.

Edited By Michael Fremer. If you’re looking for great music to play on your home theater/audio system, check out Michael’s website (link)

Have a question for the HD Guru?
HD GURU|Email

Copyright ©2009 HD Guru Inc. All rights reserved. HDGURU is a registered trademark. The content and photos within may not be distributed electronically or copied mechanically without specific written permission. The content within is based upon information provided to the editor, which is believed to be reliable. Data within is subject to change. HD GURU is not responsible for errors or omissions.