By Tamaryn Pratt

(August 31, 2010) As a market analyst and researcher I’d say yes, but the stats say it is unclear today. Internet TVs have been around in some fashion for a while now, let’s call it year 3, and actual sales results have been, well, lukewarm. It was CES 2009 that kicked off the first big year for Internet TVs as 2008 was really a starter year with unit sales of little over a half a million.  In 2009, 8 percent of the LCDTVs sold had Internet capabilities and due to the screen size offering almost 20 percent of Plasma TVs. When looking at the total 40-inch and above Flat Panel TV market about 20 percent of the TVs had Internet capabilities in 2009. Not bad results. However, we’re now halfway through 2010 and Internet TV sales are still only about 20 percent of the 40-inch and above flat panel TV market in units, and sales for the LCD TV category have inched up to about 10 percent for the same time period.

Why? This is where market research comes into play and if you are an Internet TV owner we need your help, but more on that later.

Here is what we know from the marketplace. There are a limited number of products and screen sizes that include the Internet TV feature. The offering is expanding, but many of us are too strapped to pay up for a feature that is typically only included in the higher end and higher priced models. Manufacturers have been changing their approaches. Some were supporting Yahoo Widgets early on, but now are offering up their own home grown apps. I’m not sure if consumers care per se, but it might be confusing to the tech savvy, especially now that there is news of Google TV. One thing is for sure, 3D TV marketing has been over the top, with 3D TV pitched as the second coming of HDTV. Maybe manufacturers have focused too much on 3DTV, which deemphasized the Internet TV feature, keeping it from getting a fair shake on the retail floor.

One thing is for sure, CE manufacturers want to know what current owners think about their Internet TV. Here is where you chime in if you are an Internet TV owner – because the reality is that industry needs your help! Several CE manufacturers tasked Quixel Research and HD Guru to form a panel of Internet TV owners. This is a limited group of owners who will share details about their TV and experiences roughly four times a year.  It is the crucial time in the Internet TV lifecycle to determine which product features are fantastic and which are flops.

Joining the Internet TV panel is simple and easy for those of us who like to prattle on about our electronic gadgets. Just click the banner ad on the right side of this page to join the panel and start the first survey. Do not worry; we are not trying to sell you anything.  Your name and personal information will not be used, sold, or traded. We only want your feedback. The panel is just getting underway so there is still room to join the group.

Did I mention the perks for joining? We’re giving away a FREE Flat Panel TV to one panelist each time we run a survey. Also, as an Internet TV panel member you’ll have access to current product updates as well as details on new products and apps. On an ongoing basis Quixel will provide members the panel research summaries to keep you informed on what your fellow members are doing with their Internet TVs… and of course all those juicy industry tidbits.

Someday Internet TVs will be mainstream, but for now they are still cutting edge. If you own one, your valuable experience and insights will help manufacturers fully develop this feature. Join now!

Tamaryn Pratt is the Principal at Quixel Research a market intelligence firm located in Portland Oregon. Quixel’s expertise is in providing primary research as well as market tracking and forecasting for the USA TV market.

Have a question for the HD Guru?

HD GURU|Email

©Copyright 2010 HD Guru® All Rights Reserved. HD Guru is a registered trademark

(August 29, 2010) The start of the football season traditionally marks the beginning of the TV selling season. With the economic slowdown continuing HDTV sales have not been up to set makers’ optimistic projections, resulting in swollen inventories. This is great news for consumers. Dealers are offering dramatic price drops aided by factory sponsored deals to try to get sales back on target.

Looking back at our 2009 selling season article, sale prices this year are 20%-25% lower than last year’s equivalent models, with the 2010s offering better performance (such as higher contrast ratios) and more features.

We have scoured Amazon, Best Buy’s latest circular and other retailers to find the most outstanding deals. We have also provided hot links to Amazon (most include free shipping too). Want to buy locally?  Use these deals to negotiate with your local retailer. To learn the secrets of how to get the best deal from a brick and mortar store, read our “Getting the Best Price” article (link).

LCDs

With the growth of 2010 LED and plasma market share, traditional LCD HDTVs (with CCFL florescent light type backlights) have become the unwanted step-child of flat panel HDTVs. The result, big price drops from TV makers. You should be aware there are only two inherent advantages to LED (LCD) TVs over conventional LCDs (contrary to what some salesman may say). They are a thinner form factor and better power efficiency.  All other factors being equal, there is only one picture quality advantages to LCD available in a number of  high-end models, the ability to shut off the LEDs in regions of the panel called “local dimming”. This feature produces  blacker blacks, though due to the regional nature halos appear around light objects or text with a black background  (disclaimer, many product lines add additional features and better signal processing to their higher priced step-up LED models). HD Guru is all for energy savings, however please note for screen sizes below 40-inches, it can be quite negligible compared to the cost delta for going with the LED model.  Consider a LCD over an LED if you are desiring a flat panel in 40-inch or smaller size especially if you are planning to use the table stand (in lieu of wall mounting). Even if you are going to mount the TV on the wall, do you really care if the TV two or three inches thin rather than an inch and a half when saving hundreds of dollars?

LEDs

Set makers have added lower cost 60Hz models to the mix. As noted above, conventional LCDs  are a better value.

Plasma

Performance is up and prices are down. Plasma HDTV market share has risen as wise consumers realize plasma provides the best big screen picture quality, widest viewing angle and highest motion performance at low cost . Plasma panel makers (Panasonic, Samsung and LG) have aggressively dropped 720p and 1080p prices while increasing energy efficiency. If you are looking for a 42″ or larger HDTV, you should seriously consider plasma. Don’t believe salesman telling you they are old technology or they permanently burn-in. Not true, all LEDs are LCDs and they are the older tech. Burn-in is no longer an issue (and hasn’t been for a few years) thanks to the new, more energy efficient designs.   LEDs and LCD can be cranked to  brighter levels, which may fool you into thinking their higher price yields better image quality. Many stores ambient lighting levels are typically 5 to 10 times higher than most homes. Don’t be fooled. Plasmas are far brighter (3-5x) than the old tube type TV or rear projector you may be replacing.

3D

The big news, prices are dropping and vendors are beginning to offer four pairs of 3D glasses with the purchase of a 3D TV and many are throwing in a 3D capable Blu-ray player. LG just started its free four pairs of glasses promotion (link) and industry sources tell us the other vendors plan similar promotions. Remember 3D capability includes the best 2D performance available today. (BB=Best Buy; JR =J&R)

Make/Model	Size	Was	Now	$ Savings	Store	Amazon Price
Sam/PN42C450	42″	$600	$499.99	$100	BB	$497
Sony/KDL40EX700	40″	$1400	$899.99	$500	BB	$807
LG/55LD520	55″	$1900	$1499.99	$400	BB	$1298
Sam/LN46C550	46″	$1050	$894.99	$155	JR	$816
Pan/TCL37X2	37″	$680	$499.99	180	JR	$490
LG/32LD350	32″	$500	$399.99	$100	BB	$358
Sam/LN46C530	46″	$850	$799.99	$150	BB	$799
Pan/TCP65S2	65″	$2800	$1999.99	$800	BB	$1897
Pan/TCP58S2	58″	$1900	$1299.99	$600	BB	$1226

Packages (packages only available from “Store”) Amazon price for TV only (except LG 3D TVs)

Make/Model	Size	Was	Now	$ Savings	Store	Amazon Price
Pan/TCP50S2*	50″	$1550	$999.98	$550	BB	$899
Pan/TCP42S2**	42″	$1150	$799.98	$350	BB	$678
LG/47LE5400***	47″	$2360	$1399.95	$960	BB	$1133
LG/55LE5400****	55″	$3160	$1999.95	$1160	BB	$1124
Sam/LN46C670*****	46″	$1500	$999.99	$500	BB	$1050 (LN46C650)
LG/47LX6500	47″	$3820	$1748	$2071	Amazon	$1748.98

Buy the 47LX6500 3D LED TV and get LG 3D capable BX580 Blu-ray player  and four pair of LG S100 3D Glasses free (offer good through Sept.11, 2010)

Make/Model	Size	Was	Now	$ Savings	Store	Amazon Price
LG/55LX6500	55″	$4720	$2019.00	$2701	Amazon	$2019

Buy the 55LX6500 3D LED TV and get LG 3D capable BX580 Blu-ray player  and four pair of LG S100 3D Glasses free (offer good through Sept.11, 2010)

Make/Model	Size	Was	Now	$ Savings	Store	Amazon Price
Pan/TCP42G25	42″	$1370	$919.99	$450	JR	$869

Buy the TCPG25 and get the Panasonic TY-CC10W 720p Skype Video Camera free.

Have a question for the HD Guru?

HD GURU|Email

©Copyright 2010 HD Guru® All Rights Reserved. HD Guru is a registered trademark.

(August 24, 2010) DirecTV’s commitment to 3D sports brought Major League baseball, professional golf and NASCAR to 3D equipped homes across America. Beginning on September 4, 2010, DirecTV will add the third dimension to the U.S. Open, one of the world’s most prestigious and watched tennis tournaments. Live, third round coverage begins at 11:00 am eastern, according to industry sources.

The 3D broadcasts will be on DirecTV’s exclusive N3D channel 103. The program runs until 5:00pm on the 4th and continues with the men’s and women’s fourth round on Sunday September.5th and through Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 6.

The final weekend rounds on  Saturday, Sept. 11 and Sunday, Sept. 12 will also be broadcast in 3D on DirecTV channel 103.

CBS Sports, as the TV rights holder to the US Open will be handling the 2D and 3D production. According to a report in Broadcasting and Cable , “CBS plans to use six or seven cameras to produce the 3D coverage, with the primary camera position utilizing a new combination 2D/3D rig that PACE CEO Vince Pace created with lens manufacturer Fujinon.” This Pace rig  allows both 2D and 3D shots from a single camera operator.

The United States Open tennis tournament is one of America’s oldest sporting events. It is played at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center at Flushing Meadow-Corona Park in Queens, New York.

To learn how to receive DirecTv in 3D click this link

Edited By Michael Fremer

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

©Copyright 2010 HD Guru® All Rights Reserved. HD Guru is a registered trademark.

(August 16, 2010) Panasonic launched  its GT25 series of Full HD 1080p 3D plasma HDTVs today. The new line consists of a 42″ model at $1699.95 and a 50″ at 2099.95. Both TVs retain many of the features of the higher line VT25 series including VieraCast Internet content services, THX certification and Skype video phone with an optional camera.

The GT25s add 2D to 3D conversion circuitry, becoming the first Panasonic 3D TVs to offer this feature.  The required 3D glasses are not included. Below is the press release.

PANASONIC EXPANDS ITS LINE OF FULL HD 3D VIERA PLASMA TVS

New VIERA GT25 Full HD 3D Plasma Series Introduces New 42-inch Class and 50-inch Class Screen Sizes

SECAUCUS, NJ (August 16, 2010) – Panasonic, a worldwide leader in Full HD 3D¹ technology, announced today the expansion of its award-winning line of Full HD 3D VIERA^® Plasma TVs with the launch of the Panasonic VIERA GT25 Series of Full HD 3D Plasma TVs².  The series will feature Panasonic’s first 42-inch class (41.6” measured diagonally) Full HD 3D Plasma TV, broadening Panasonic’s range of Full HD 3D TV offerings and addressing consumer requests for a smaller 3D set for video gaming.

The VIERA GT25 Series features 42-inch class (41.6” measured diagonally) and 50-inch class (49.9” measured diagonally) screen sizes.  The TC-P42G25 will have an MSRP³ of $1699.95 and the TC-P50GT25 will have an MSRP of $2099.95.  Both models will be available in late August 2010.  Active Shutter 3D Eyewear required for viewing 3D content is sold separately.  Complete technical specifications for the GT25 Series are now available at www.panasonic.com.

The VIERA GT25 series augments Panasonic’s VT25 series (named Best in Show at the 2010 International Consumer Electronics Show) of Full HD 3D Plasma TVs providing consumers with a broader product line which now ranges from 42-inch class through 65-inch class screen sizes.  Panasonic also markets 85-inch class, 103-inch class and 152-inch class professional Full HD 3D Plasma models.

“From the beginning, Panasonic has led the charge into the immersive world of 3D home entertainment by offering end-to-end 3D home entertainment solutions including Full HD 3D VIERA Plasma TVs, 3D Blu-ray Disc Players, professional and consumer 3D camcorders, the nation’s first suite of 3D TV channels with partner DIRECTV, and the authoring of 3D Blu-ray movies in cooperation with the Hollywood studios,” said Henry Hauser, Panasonic Vice President, Merchandising, Display Group. “The debut of our VIERA GT25 Series of Full HD 3D TVs further expands our portfolio of 3D offerings and makes it even easier for consumers to join the immersive world of Full HD 3D for the home.”

While the VIERA^® GT25 Series represents a new price point, the models include many of the same innovative features found on the critically-acclaimed VIERA VT25 models including Panasonic’s proprietary IPTV functionality, VIERA CAST™ which features USB connectivity, allowing for the addition of a wireless LAN adaptor, keyboard and USB memory.  VIERA CAST now includes such favorite entertainment sites as Amazon Video-on-Demand™, Netflix™, Google’s YouTube™, Picasa™ Web Album, Bloomberg, Pandora, Twitter and a weather service, as well as Skype⁴™ on Your VIERA TV.  With ease of use as a major focus, VIERA CAST’s interface implements quick keyword input (like a cell phone) to help retrieve favorite content faster and easier.

Another prominent feature of the GT25 series that is also found in the VT25 series is VIERA Link™, which allows Panasonic owners to control their VIERA Link compatible audio and video products with just one remote. This feature also affords the consumer the opportunity to add a network camera to the mix.  And THX® Certified Display certification insures that every Panasonic Full HD 3D TV displays motion pictures and television content with the quality and color palette that the director intended.

Like its VT25 counterpart, the GT25 series also features 600Hz Sub-field Drive; 1080p Full HD resolution; 1080 lines of moving picture resolution; VIERA Image Viewer (for  viewing of digital still images), 24p Cinematic Playback and new fast switching phosphors.

The GT25 Series also includes 2D to 3D conversion which can convert a 2D image or video to 3D.

Panasonic’s range of Full HD 3D VIERA Plasma HDTVs, when coupled with Panasonic’s 3D Blu-ray Disc players (DMP-BDT100, DMP- BDT300, DMP-BDT350) bring a new era of immersive visual entertainment into consumers’ homes, by creating a 3D experience that easily rivals the best that can be seen in cinemas.   In addition, Panasonic and DIRECTV recently ushered in a new age in the rapid growth of 3D entertainment for the home with the launch of n3D^TM powered by Panasonic – a DIRECTV channel dedicated exclusively to 3D programming. n3D powered by Panasonic is now available at no additional cost to millions of DIRECTV HD customers and features a range of sports and entertainment programming exclusively in 3D.  Panasonic is the exclusive presenting sponsor of DIRECTV’s n3D channel, one of three 3D TV channels from DIRECTV that deliver movies, sports and entertainment content from some of the world’s most renowned 3D producers.

All Panasonic VIERA^® Full HD 3D TV models are also Full HD TVs that display pristine 1080p content in two dimensions (2D) for conventional HD viewing.

For more information on Panasonic’s Full HD 3D technology, visit www.panasonic.com/3D.

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

Copyright © 2010. All rights reserved. HD GURU ® is a registered trademark.

(August 12, 2010) Have you seen HDMI cables online or in stores labeled “120 Hz,” “240Hz” and “480 Hz”? It’s easy enough to slap such labels on HDMI cables but it’s a sham. HDMI cables can no more be manufactured for specific refresh rate HDTVs than garden hose can be manufactured specifically to water seeded lawns and sod lawns. The same water flows through either one. The same HDTV signal flows through all HDMI cables, whether labeled “120Hz” or “480Hz.”

In fact a set’s refresh rate has nothing whatsoever to do with the signal flowing to that set. The refresh rate is determined by the set’s circuitry once the signal gets there (link), so how can different HDMI cables be manufactured for different refresh rate sets?

Clearly the intent of the refresh rate labeling is simply to confuse you into spending more money on HDMI cables than you need to. TV retailers, including Best Buy, use this new misleading labeling to push naïve customers into buying unnecessary, overpriced cables that can cost 800%-5750% more than necessary (link). Adding such—the latest being “3D”—helps sales clerks persuade customers to overspend. The extra dollars spent will have no effect on image quality but it will lighten your wallet.

To view Blu-ray, Full HD 3D content and any other source at the highest (1080p) resolution you need HDMI cables. It is a single wire solution that conducts a standard definition or high definition 2D or 3D video image and accompanying audio tracks from a source device to an HDTV. Only two types of HDMI cables are included in the HDMI licensing spec: “Standard” (aka category 1) or “High Speed” (aka category 2). The latter is required to assure the cable passes 1080p signals (including 3D), which is the highest bandwidth video signal (now and for the foreseeable future).

Monster, Audioquest and other HDMI cable makers mislead consumers by mis-labeling their step-up quality HDMI cables with the various refresh rates used by set makers to improve picture quality. The signal fed by an HDMI cable to a set never exceeds 60Hz.

The HDMI Standard

HDMI Licensing LLC licenses the design, specifications and requires labeling of cables as either “Standard” or “Hi Speed”. HDMI does not have any rules concerning additional labels, according to its spokesman. While the HDMI standard has been updated to include new (optional) functionality such as passing Ethernet signals, there remains only two speed categories. Any “Hi Speed” HDMI cable should handle any display and any video signal you can throw at it.

HD Guru visited a number of local TV dealers. Best Buy (BB) had the widest selection, offering “Hi Speed” HDMI cables from Monster, Audioquest and Rocketfish (BB house brand) and Dynex (BB house brand). They all display labels that tout their own capabilities. The least expensive is a Dynex 4ft. length “Hi Speed” cable and costs $29.99. The box says 1080p 60Hz. The first step-up is the Rocketfish at $49.99/4 ft and the package reads 120Hz. Next is a 4 ft. $69.99 Monster 700 model cable, with a label stating 60/120 Hz. followed by 120 Hz and 3D labeled model 900 for $79.99. The Monster 1000 model boasts a 240Hz-480 Hz and 3D for $129.99 for 8 ft. Audioquest has a line of  “Hi Speed” HDMI cables, its packaging states “Delivers 100% of the data required for 120Hz, 240 Hz, 600 Hz  displays” and costs up to a whopping $229.99 for its 6’6″ Carbon model (sold on line at Bestbuy.com) . The BB website states “High-speed 1080p/120Hz-4K”.  (Note: there  are no 4K consumer video signals).

(continues after photo)

By comparison you can purchase a 6″6″  ”Hi Speed” HDMI cable from Amazon for as little as  $3.99 ($20 retail). It is a “High Speed” rated cable that will pass any HD signal (including 3D) to any HDTV. Keep in mind a signal carried over an HDMI cable is all digital, meaning any properly functioning cable will provide a perfect picture. There is absolutely no picture quality advantage of purchasing a cable that is rated higher than the HDMI “High Speed” standard of a 10.2 Gbps!

There are added features available on  HDMI “Hi Speed” cables. They are audio return and Ethernet pass through. However no source devices sold today include the Ethernet feature and no some HDTVs today include audio return channel.

There may be differences in the quality of materials, construction and wire gauge using premium priced HDMI cables. These differences could be beneficial  if you are constantly disconnecting and reconnecting the same cable. HDMI cables  provide a complete signal transfer as long as the cable conforms to the HDMI specifications (if it is defective  or improperly designed i.e. a bad HDMI cable will produce a high error rate which can cause signal dropouts, such as the screen going black then the image reappearing ).

To summarize, buying a more expensive HDMI “Hi Speed” cable , regardless of labeling or what a salesman tells you will not give you any improvement in picture quality. Use the money you save from falling victim to misleading HDMI packaging towards the purchase of products or services that will increase your enjoyment of HDTV such as a Blu-ray player, professional set-up and calibration or a surround sound audio system.

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

Copyright © 2010. All rights reserved. HD GURU ® is a registered trademark.

$989 with free shipping from Amazon

40″Samsung LN40C750 LCD

PN50C490

HD Guru is testing Samsung’s top of the line 3D plasma TV (for a review to be published soon). Preliminary results reveals its 3D performance exceeds Samsung’s 8000 series LED model. It produces fine 2D HDTV images as well. The specs for the Samsung PN50C490 are listed below.

Screen size: 50″ class (49.9″ diagonal) plasma panel / HD 1366 x 768p resolution

Aspect ratio: Widescreen 16:9

Progressive features: E³ Panel technology, including 600Hz sub-field motion

Best video inputs: 3 HDMI v1.4 in (3D capable)

Other inputs: 1 USB port / 2 component video + L/R audio / 1 composite-vid (shared) / 1 PC (RGB) + PC audio / 1 RF

Audio enhancements: SRS TruSurround HD

Built-in speakers: 10W x 2

Mounting options: Table stand included / VESA 400mm x 400mm wall-mount compatible

Remote control: Included

E³ Panel technology: 600Hz subfield motion / 2,000,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio / 0.001ms response time

USB support: ConnectShare Movie fast connection to digital cameras and thumbdrives

Outputs: 1 digital optical audio output

Tuners: ATSC / NTSC / QAM

ENERGY STAR qualified

BD Wise

Clear Image panel

Touch of Color Bezel with black-to-gray gradation

3D active-shutter glasses sold separately

Dimensions: 47.3″ W x 28.4″ H x 2.7″ D, without stand / 47.3″ W x 31.0″ H x 11.2″ D, with stand

Weight: 51.8 lbs, without stand / 56.2 lbs, with stand

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

Copyright © 2010. All rights reserved. HD GURU ® is a registered trademark.

(August 8, 2010) THX has teamed with Blufocus to offer the industry’s first and only 3D certification for Blu-ray movies and broadcast programs. Based on HD Guru’s observations of some of the early content on DirecTV’s N3D channel, the new program is a welcome boost for the home 3D experience.

The THX-Blufocus Certification program will cover all aspects of 3D production including on-screen characters, graphics, subtitles as well as audio and authoring quality assurance.

This timely move by THX will set the bar for quality 3D and we look forward to evaluating soon the first  THX-Blufocus Certified 3D Blu-ray movie release.

Below is THX’s press release.

THX PARTNERS WITH BLUFOCUS TO DEVELOP BEST PRACTICES FOR 3D POST-PRODUCTION AND AUTHORING

THX-BluFocus Certification Sets Guidelines and Testing Procedures for Evaluating 3D Audio-Video Quality, Disc Interoperability and the Physiological Effects of 3D

SAN RAFAEL, Calif., August 9, 2010— THX Ltd. has teamed with BluFocus, a quality assurance and advanced testing facility for the home entertainment industry, to build an ecosystem of services to address the technical challenges of 3D post-production. THX®-BluFocus 3D certification sets authoring and production guidelines and testing procedures for evaluating 3D Audio-Video quality, 3D Blu-ray disc and player Interoperability, and the physiological effects of 3D on home viewers.

“The long-term success of 3D in the home depends heavily on content producers and consumer electronics manufacturers delivering a comfortable and compelling experience for today’s first wave of consumer adopters,” said Rick Dean, senior vice president at THX. “Our partnership with BluFocus complements the work THX is doing with leading HDTV manufacturers and other industry organizations to drive standards for 3D visual quality and usability.”

One of the biggest reported concerns among consumers is experiencing fatigue from 3D video and glasses. THX and BluFocus are researching root causes of viewer fatigue to better understand the physiological effects of 3D. The goal is to work closely with content producers to implement best practices and guidelines for all 3D elements, including onscreen characters, objects, graphics and subtitles. THX-BluFocus certification also evaluates how 2D-to-3D conversion adds depth to the picture, and whether this added depth causes any creative errors or flaws that deviate from the storyline or may cause fatigue.

“The added dimension of 3D brings with it more technical challenges than traditional 2D post-production and authoring, and requires more steps in the production chain,” said Paulette Pantoja, CEO of BluFocus. “The certification program we are creating with THX will help refine 3D post-production and authoring and help content producers minimize technical flaws long before 3D content is broadcast, streamed or authored on optical disc.”

During the THX-BluFocus 3D AV certification process, engineers analyze Left and Right Eye images frame-by-frame to ensure they retain the sharpness and detail of the original master video elements. All audio material is also fully evaluated to make sure they meet studio Reference Level and remain faithful to the master recordings. In addition to focusing on 3D Audio-Video quality, THX-BluFocus certification also evaluates Blu-ray Disc and Blu-ray player interoperability to ensure they play seamlessly together.

THX-BluFocus 3D Certification Categories

THX-BluFocus certification will be offered to the producers and distributors of movies, television programs, games and other content. When shopping for a 3D Blu-ray Disc or digital download, consumers will be instructed to look for the following THX-BluFocus certification logo and icons on disc packaging and digital artwork.

THX-BluFocus AV Certification – THX-BluFocus AV certification indicates that sound and images have been analyzed to ensure they maintain the quality and detail of the original master elements.

THX-BluFocus Creative Certification – The THX-BluFocus Creative certification indicates that all 3D elements in the feature presentation have been analyzed to detect any creative errors and flaws that deviate from the director’s intent or may cause viewer fatigue. Subtitles, menus, graphics and other elements may also be reviewed.

THX-BluFocus Interoperability – THX-BluFocus Interoperability certification applies to Blu-ray Discs to ensure they play seamlessly on 2D and 3D Blu-ray Players from many major consumer electronics brands.  More than 100 Blu-ray Players, from different regions, are evaluated with each THX-BluFocus Certified Disc to deliver a hassle-free user experience.

ABOUT BLUFOCUS

BluFocus Inc. is the entertainment industry’s first advanced testing and advisory service specialist for Blu-ray. The company offers products and services to content owners, player manufacturers, content developers and tool developers to ensure a seamless, issue-free customer experience that makes full use of Blu-ray Disc’s expanded capabilities which include BD-J, BD-Live and now 3D.  BluFocus has recently expanded into the Digital Distribution and Broadcast areas to offer the same quality services and expertise they have proven with Blu-ray and DVD.

ABOUT THX LTD.

Founded by George Lucas and recognized by audiences around the globe, THX is synonymous with the design and certification of world-class cinemas, premium audio systems, HDTVs, and blockbuster movies and games. Products featuring THX defy convention and define quality in their class, whether in the cinema, home or on the road. For more information, visit www.thx.com. Become a THX Facebook Fan and get THX Tech Tips, Fan Videos and more. Go to Facebook and search “THX Ltd.”

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

Copyright © 2010. All rights reserved. HD GURU ® is a registered trademark.

(August 5, 2010) Do movies shot on film look like videotape on your LCD HDTV? Does it bother you? If so, you’re not alone. That problem tops the email complaints we get from readers and it comes exclusively from those owning 120Hz or 240Hz LCD or LED LCD HDTVs. It never comes from plasma owners.

The visible reduction of film grain and other film-based irregularities that should be present in the picture is often referred to as the Soap Opera Effect (or SOE) because the increase of the frame refresh rate from the 24 Hz to the rate of the display (120 or 240Hz) appears like a videotaped soap opera. While viewers don’t see the problem when watching sports or other live or taped broadcasts (which are shot at either a 30 or 60 Hz frame rate), they are rightly troubled when movies look like video, though not everyone is bothered by it.

A number of solutions provide a fix for some but not for all LCD/LED TVs suffering from SOE  What follows are the SOE “whys” and the fixes currently available as well as news of a possible total solution coming to 2011 models.

The Cause

HD Guru began testing HDTV motion blur in 2007 using a test disc from the Plasma Display Coalition that moves a resolution chart horizontally at a fixed rate of roughly 6.5 pixels per frame. 60 Hz LCDs have very poor motion performance, with a reduction from 1080 lines resolution per picture height (static) to around 300 lines with motion. The TV manufactures followed up with the introduction of 120 Hz LCD (and LED) flat panels and later adding 240 Hz models. The 120 Hz models raised the motion resolution to around 600 lines and the 240 Hz models kicked it to the 900 and up (depending on the model tested), however both types introduced the Soap Opera Effect when viewing 24 frame per second content which includes all film based motion pictures. To achieve 120Hz or 240Hz instead of the standard 60Hz rate requires a circuit called Motion Estimation/ Motion Compensation (ME/MC), which creates interpolated frames between the real frames. The interpolated frames have the artificial appearance that imparts the video look of a soap opera. You can turn off the interpolation on a number of displays, which will change processing to repeating the frame 5 times (in the case of 120 Hz displays) however, degradation remains visible on a many 120 and 240hz displays. According to a MC/ME chip maker this is due to the circuit altering the image even when it is not inserting interpolated frames.

Solutions

Currently the only consistent method to eliminate the effect on LCD and LED HDTV is to bypass the 120Hz or 240 Hz MC/ME circuits thereby forcing an TV from utilizing frame interpolation. This is accomplished on Samsungs or Sonys (we have not had a chance to check other makes and models) by engaging the “Game” picture mode. If you notice the Soap Opera Effect with film based content on your LCD or LED TV (and almost everyone does) you will see the difference in the “Game” mode. Of course motion blur and judder (jerky motion during horizontal pans) will appear without interpolation (or frame repeat), so choose the artifact you prefer. For Blu-ray movies, be sure set the output of your disc player to 1080p/60 to assure 3:2 film conversion occurs. Frame repeat is a better method, although as stated above, many sets continue to create SOE artifacts in this mode too.

Plasma HDTVs have inherently high motion resolution without the SOE. This is due to the way they create a high definition image. Plasmas create moving images by a stream of short bursts of light (at least 600 times per second) instead of a “sample and hold” technique employed in all LED and LCD HDTVs. The result, 900 lines to full 1080 lines of motion resolution (meaning no blur) while maintaining the look of film. If you want film-like image on your flat panel without motion blur, buy a plasma (top end Samsung C590 series, C8000 series, C6500 series, C7000 series and Panasonic models now offer 4X frame repeat to eliminate 3:2 judder as well). Plasma HDTV pricing is at an all time low while sales are at record highs and overall performance is better than ever.

A 2011 Solution

We spoke to a representative of Integrated Device Technology (IDT) the owner’s of Silicon Optix HQV processing technology (obtained when they purchased the company a few years ago). IDT is introducing new MC/ME frame conversion chips. It claims their chips allow LCD and LED TV makers to use 120 Hz or 240 Hz in their respective displays without the dreaded SOE and other artifacts. They have promised us a demo in September at the CEDIA Expo and we will look and report with hopeful but as always skeptical eyes. Here’s the relevant section of IDTs recent press release.

“Integrated Device Technology, Inc. a leading provider of essential mixed signal semiconductor solutions that enrich the digital media experience, today announced the industry’s first motion-compensated frame rate conversion processors with an integrated resolution-enhancement engine for use in 120Hz and 240Hz televisions and high-definition video projectors. The new IDT VHD1200 and VHD2400 devices feature the industry-leading IDT HQV™ MotionSMART™ technology, which provides smooth motion and full-detail images while minimizing side effects seen with competitive solutions.

The new IDT frame-rate conversion processors are also 3-D capable, providing smooth motion with minimal side effects, which is significant for 3-D where varying side effects could be very distracting to the viewer.

“IDT continues to provide its customers with innovative video solutions. These new frame rate converters provide smooth motion and crisp, clear images for today’s HD and 3-D displays,” said Ji Park, vice president and general manager of the Video and Display Operation group at IDT. “The VHD1200 and VHD2400 follow in the footsteps of our other innovative video processing solutions, providing our customers devices that deliver the best picture quality.”

The IDT HQV MotionSMART technology includes per-pixel processing, providing the capability to make intelligent localized decisions in the detection and processing of complex images and motion in video images. The IDT solutions also feature cadence detection, which removes judder from sources with cadence, and a wide detection range to eliminate “flickering” when images move horizontally, vertically or diagonally on the screen.”

An IDT spokesperson says their new ME/MC chips will appear in select 2011 LCD/LED flat panels and front projectors. Stay tuned.

Samsung recently offered a new firmware update they claim shuts off its the ME/MC circuit when its Auto Motion Plus feature is set to the “Off” position. An alternative (according to a Samsung spokesperson) is to set a Samsung 120 or 240 Hz LCD or LED TV to “Clear” mode or to move the “Judder” control to “0″ using the “Custom” mode (post firmware update). You can update your Samsung LCD or LED TV by connecting it to your Internet router. For more on firmware updates read this link.

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

Copyright © 2010. All rights reserved. HD GURU ® is a registered trademark.

(July 22, 2010) The best selling HDTV screen size in America is 32″. Almost every TV maker offers models in this class, which creates stiff competition that drives prices down to record low levels.

A  number of name brand entry models can be found for under $400, though you can also spend over $900 for a 1.1″ thin LED LCD loaded with many extra features. Which one is right for you?

The Basics

All 32″ flat screen TVs today are LCDs lit using either CCFL fluorescent lamps or LEDs (which is why such sets are often incorrectly referred to as “LED TVs”)

An advantage in larger screen sets using LED lighting can include the ability to extinguish appropriate screen sectors to produce deeper black (the feature is referred to as “local dimming”). Unfortunately, we know of no LED models in the 32″ class that have this feature. Only 40″ and larger sets do. (Ditto for 3D capability).

LEDs are more energy efficient than CCFL lamps, but in the 32″ size the power consumption differential is minimal (about 45 watts for LED versus around 75 watts for CCFL). Thus the purchase price premium is more likely far greater than the lifetime energy savings.

720p vs. 1080p

At 32″ screen size you have to be about four feet from the TV to fully appreciate the increased resolution of 1080p over 720p. Most people typically sit nine feet from their TVs. This statistic is referred to as the “Lechner Distance” named after the engineer who did the research.  If you sit that far away, save your money and opt for a 720p model.

60 Hz vs. 120 Hz

All LCD TVs (whether LED or CCFL) blur fast moving screen objects (i.e. a runners’ legs or a speeding car). 120 Hz HDTVs reduce the motion blur. However, if you are sitting at the Lechner Distance, you will probably not find the blur of the slower sets objectionable.

120 Hz is only available on 1080p LCD (and LED) models.  If you sit near the four foot optimal viewing distance and view  content with a lot of motion, such as sports or adventure movies you should opt for a 120 Hz sets.  Be aware:  all current LCD/LED models operating in the 120Hz mode,  make film based sources appear to resemble  video (sometimes referred to as the soap opera effect), which is a phenomena some viewers find objectionable.

Internet Connectivity

A number of higher end models include Internet widgets and provide other content such as weather forecasts, sports scores, Amazon (movies) on Demand, Flickr and Net Flix. The  list will vary among brands. If this is important to you, consider purchasing a Blu-ray player with similar Internet services. You will get the functionality without the additional cost tacked on to the TV. An example is the Panasonic DMP-BD65. It is available from Amazon for $124.68 with free shipping.

HDMI Inputs

HDMI is the best way to connect an HDTV to a high definition source component. Most 32″ models have at least two HDMI inputs, while others have three to four. You will need one for your cable or satellite box/DVR and another for a Blu-ray  player. You may need a third for a connecting a camcorder or a media box such as a VUDU player. Decide your needs before making a purchase decision.

If you are planning to also get a surround sound audio system, you may need only one HDMI input if the receiver or home theater in a box (HTIB) you select includes multiple HDMI inputs.

What Else To Look For

Once you’ve decided on the features you want in a 32″ HDTV, the two most important performance criteria are viewing angle and black level. The former is easy to test. Simply begin moving to the right or left of the screen center and see how quickly the image becomes darker and the blacks get lighter resulting in a darker image with lower contrast.  Some sets (such as the Panasonic LCDs) are known for their wide viewing angle while others quickly get a flat, dull look as one moves off center. If you always view alone and only on-axis you can skip to the next item. However, if you will have friends or family over regularly, check the off-axis performance before buying the set.

Black level is the Achilles heel of small screen LCD HDTVs. A number of models we’ve looked at have very blue or purplish blacks. Other have more neutral blacks but they’re gray, not inky.

Unfortunately evaluating in the brighter than home, store retail environment  is difficult. To determine the color and depth of black, cup your hand on the screen to block out room ambient light and wait for a fade to black or a   dark scene during observing the store’s demo content. Also inspect  the depth and shade of black when viewing off-axis. Some 32″screens get quite blue as you move to off center.

Final Suggestions

Do your homework online to make a list of 32″ HDTVs that have the features you desire within your price range. Amazon carries many 32″ models and you can get there using our link. Just click Amazon’s ad on the left column.

With your model list in hand, get to over to your local TV retailer, test viewing angles and black levels then choose your ideal 32″ HDTV.

Edited by Michael Fremer

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

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.

(July 17, 2010) On July 12, 2010 DirecTV nationally broadcast the Major League Baseball (MLB) All Star Game in 3D. Fox Network produced the program for exclusive telecast on the N3D channel 103. The format used was 720p side-by-side. Fox’s production was excellent, adding another dimension to America’s favorite pastime.

Unlike last week’s Yankees-Mariners game reviewed here, the All Star game came off with hardly a hitch. There were many close-up shots which emphasized the 3D effect, no quick cuts (which can cause eye fatigue), many shots made in the technically superior field level camera position, limiting overhead views to the minimum necessary for a proper production.

We never saw the wandering camera focus that was present on the Yankees game. We observed the game on the Panasonic TC-P50VT25 plasma and the Samsung UN55C8000 LED, recording it on the DirecTV’s HR22 and HR24 DVRs so we may use it as source material in our upcoming review of Sony’s KDL-52HX909.

The Panasonic displayed the game with virtually no ghosting (crosstalk) while the Samsung revealed some occasionally, usually limited to shots of the stands and outfield players. Overall both displays were acceptable with much less crosstalk then occurred in the Yankee game.

Out of sync audio was the only problem observed, with the 3D cameras shooting the announcers or booth commentator Will Ferrell. He made comic quips and announced the starting lineups. It’s funny how an audio problem that was solved decades ago cropped up, while the tough technical challenges of live 3D came off so well.

Our favorite scenes were the shots behind the hitter during the pitches and assorted close-ups of the field during plays. Fox also treated us to superb slow-mo 3D replays.

You really need to experience MLB in 3D to appreciate it. To date, baseball and golf are the sports best suited for 3D. Props to Fox Sports for its outstanding first effort, they obviously tested, retested and rehearsed their new production techniques prior to airtime and it showed.

3D Quality A

Content A

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

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.