BenQ’s Triple Blu-ray Burner
Published by Admin on 30.4.06 at 4/30/2006 10:10:00 PM.
BenQ has announced the first triple writer BW1000 which supports BD, DVD and CD writing. BenQ BW1000 supports SATA and it writes and reads Blu-ray Disc formats at 2X. It also features SolidBurn and Write Right technologies. Link
Buffalo's "all the cool kids are doing it" Blu-ray burner
Published by Admin on at 4/30/2006 10:09:00 PM.
They're just stuffing that Panasonic OEM drive into a USB 2.0 case like everyone else is, but Buffalo has the distinction of selling their external BR-H2U2 Blu-ray drive for $1012, along with black and white internal versions for the equally steep $916 Link
LBD-A2FU2 Blu-ray burner available for Mac
Published by Admin on at 4/30/2006 10:09:00 PM.
Logitec Japan has unveiled the LBD-A2FU2/WM Blu-ray burner that is compatible with both the PC and the Mac. It is competitively priced (read: similar to its contemporaries) at around 800 Euros and will be available to consumers at the beginning of June. Link
Blu-Ray DVD burner from IO-DATA
Published by Admin on at 4/30/2006 10:08:00 PM.
IO-DATA's new Blu-ray DVD burner is actually a rebranded Pioneer drive underneath the hood. Available in internal and external versions, be more than prepared to cough up a pretty penny for this Blu-ray DVD burner. The internal drive costs 735 Euros while the external drive is nearly 100 Euros more expensive at 810 Euros. Link
Panasonic Blu-ray burner set for June
Published by Admin on at 4/30/2006 10:07:00 PM.
Panasonic has announced a June 10 launch date in Japan for its first PC-based Blu-ray drive.
Dubbed the LF-MB121JD BD, the drive is a half-height drive that can read and write single-layer 25GB and single-sided, dual-layer 50GB blank Blu-Ray discs (BDs).
Boasting two lenses – one for CD/DVDs and the other for BDs – the drive will write to an impressive array of formats including BD-RE, BD-R, DVD-RAM, DVD-R, DVD-R DL, DVD-RW, DVD+R, DVD+R DL, DVD+RW, CD-R and CD-RW.
It can also playback DVD and CDs, as well as BD-Roms when software becomes available. Link
Dubbed the LF-MB121JD BD, the drive is a half-height drive that can read and write single-layer 25GB and single-sided, dual-layer 50GB blank Blu-Ray discs (BDs).
Boasting two lenses – one for CD/DVDs and the other for BDs – the drive will write to an impressive array of formats including BD-RE, BD-R, DVD-RAM, DVD-R, DVD-R DL, DVD-RW, DVD+R, DVD+R DL, DVD+RW, CD-R and CD-RW.
It can also playback DVD and CDs, as well as BD-Roms when software becomes available. Link
Should I get a DVD, HDD, flash or MiniDV camcorder?
Published by Admin on at 4/30/2006 10:06:00 PM.
He's archiving priceless family memories with the most convenient camcorder he's ever used.
"I just love it," the attorney and married father of two from Wilmington, N.C., said of his DVD camcorder. "You just pop it out of your camera, put it in any DVD player, and there's no wires involved."
Mr. White bought it last year, helping to make DVD camcorders the fastest growing format in camcorder history. But new, lightweight tapeless models are now giving consumers more choices than ever. With hard-disk drives and flash memory, they're vying for attention with camcorders using the popular DVD format or the tried-and-true MiniDV, which records digitally to compact tapes. Link
"I just love it," the attorney and married father of two from Wilmington, N.C., said of his DVD camcorder. "You just pop it out of your camera, put it in any DVD player, and there's no wires involved."
Mr. White bought it last year, helping to make DVD camcorders the fastest growing format in camcorder history. But new, lightweight tapeless models are now giving consumers more choices than ever. With hard-disk drives and flash memory, they're vying for attention with camcorders using the popular DVD format or the tried-and-true MiniDV, which records digitally to compact tapes. Link
High-def DVD player: Don't expect to be dazzled just yet
Published by Admin on at 4/30/2006 10:05:00 PM.
As it rolls out the first high-definition DVD player, Toshiba Corp. is boasting: "Image is everything."
After testing the so-called HD DVD machine on three TVs of various dimensions, I hit on a more appropriate slogan: "Size matters."
We reached a milestone in viewing recently with the debut of the Toshiba HD-A1, which costs just shy of $500. (A deluxe model, the HD-XA1, goes for $800).
Should you care? Probably not. Because unless you already have a high-definition television at least 40 inches in size, you won't notice much of a difference.
Here's my advice: If you have a spare $500, use it toward an upgrade to a bigger set instead. In the time it takes to save up another $500, the price of HD disc players will probably drop and a pending format war may well be decided. Link
After testing the so-called HD DVD machine on three TVs of various dimensions, I hit on a more appropriate slogan: "Size matters."
We reached a milestone in viewing recently with the debut of the Toshiba HD-A1, which costs just shy of $500. (A deluxe model, the HD-XA1, goes for $800).
Should you care? Probably not. Because unless you already have a high-definition television at least 40 inches in size, you won't notice much of a difference.
Here's my advice: If you have a spare $500, use it toward an upgrade to a bigger set instead. In the time it takes to save up another $500, the price of HD disc players will probably drop and a pending format war may well be decided. Link
'Enron,' 'Bubble' among new films on high-def DVD
Published by Admin on at 4/30/2006 10:04:00 PM.
The meager library of HD DVDs nearly doubled in size with Magnolia Home Entertainment's announcement that it will soon release five films in the high-definition optical disc format.
Slated for May release are best documentary Oscar nominee "Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room," the Steven Soderbergh murder mystery "Bubble," and "The War Within," which explores the transformation of a Pakistani man into a suicide bomber.
Also bound for HD DVD in May are two programs from corporate sibling HDNet, a high-definition cable network: the sexy travel series "Bikini Destinations," which follows bikini models as they sail around the world, and "HDNet World Report Special: Shuttle Discovery's Historic Mission," the network's exclusive high-definition coverage of the space shuttle Discovery's 2005 launch. Link
Slated for May release are best documentary Oscar nominee "Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room," the Steven Soderbergh murder mystery "Bubble," and "The War Within," which explores the transformation of a Pakistani man into a suicide bomber.
Also bound for HD DVD in May are two programs from corporate sibling HDNet, a high-definition cable network: the sexy travel series "Bikini Destinations," which follows bikini models as they sail around the world, and "HDNet World Report Special: Shuttle Discovery's Historic Mission," the network's exclusive high-definition coverage of the space shuttle Discovery's 2005 launch. Link
TDK cracks 200GB Blu-ray Disc problem
Published by Admin on 28.4.06 at 4/28/2006 07:00:00 PM.
TDK has gone ahead and produced the 200GB Blu-ray Disc it announced a few weeks ago that it was working on. And while it appears to have failed to compress four standard dual-layer 50GB discs together into a single unit, it has nonetheless come up with a novel alternative Link
DVD Rental Machines On McDonald's Menu
Published by Admin on 27.4.06 at 4/27/2006 08:43:00 AM.
Machines run by McDonald's Corp. subsidiary Redbox Automated Retail have popped up in hundreds of Golden Arches restaurants in an experiment to see whether they drive more customers into the stores.
The spread of DVD rental machines comes as rental stores are struggling under a business model that has not changed much from the mom-and-pop video stores of 20 years ago. The rental business has suffered from the sale of cheap DVDs, rent-by-mail services such as Netflix Inc., and expanding video-on-demand from cable companies. Link
The spread of DVD rental machines comes as rental stores are struggling under a business model that has not changed much from the mom-and-pop video stores of 20 years ago. The rental business has suffered from the sale of cheap DVDs, rent-by-mail services such as Netflix Inc., and expanding video-on-demand from cable companies. Link
Warner Charges Premium for Standard Definition Video on HD-DVD Disc
Published by Admin on at 4/27/2006 08:42:00 AM.
Two versions of a movie on flip-sides of the disc, who would have ever thought
Warner Home Video will be releasing the first HD-DVD title, "Rumor Has It", in both high-definition and standard DVD definition quality on the same HD-DVD disc. Each version will be on either side of the disc unlike what we thought HD-DVD hybrid discs were supposed to be. Link
Warner Home Video will be releasing the first HD-DVD title, "Rumor Has It", in both high-definition and standard DVD definition quality on the same HD-DVD disc. Each version will be on either side of the disc unlike what we thought HD-DVD hybrid discs were supposed to be. Link
Blu-Ray/HD-DVD Talks End
Published by Admin on at 4/27/2006 08:41:00 AM.
Last minute talks to unify the HD-DVD and Blu-Ray formats have failed. Matsushita, owner of the Panasonic brand, has stated 'the market will decide the winner.' From the article: "The two sides held talks last year in the hopes of avoiding a prolonged format battle similar to the one between Betamax and VHS videotapes in the 1980s, knowing that it could discourage consumers from shifting to the advanced discs and stifle the industry's growth. Link
Warner ready with second wave of HD-DVD
Published by Admin on at 4/27/2006 08:40:00 AM.
Next week the second wave of HD-DVD titles from Warner Bros. will hit stores.
May 2nd will see "Swordfish" and "Goodfellas."
May 9th will see "Training Day" and "Rumor Has it" which will be the first hybrid disc for the format.
"What is really exciting is the release of the first title, Rumor Has It, in the HD DVD and DVD Combo format. Link
May 2nd will see "Swordfish" and "Goodfellas."
May 9th will see "Training Day" and "Rumor Has it" which will be the first hybrid disc for the format.
"What is really exciting is the release of the first title, Rumor Has It, in the HD DVD and DVD Combo format. Link
Microsoft and Universal Reach Agreement on HD DVD
Published by Admin on 25.4.06 at 4/25/2006 12:50:00 PM.
Microsoft and Universal Studios announced a collaboration to use Microsoft technologies in upcoming HD DVD discs.
The announcement was made at the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Convention in Las Vegas on Monday.
Universal has agreed to use iHD, an interactivity feature for DVDs, in its upcoming titles.It will also use VC-1, a compression protocol recently approved as a standard to be included in HD DVD discs. Both technologies were developed in part by researchers at Microsoft. The Redmond software maker is a strong supporter of the next-generation DVD technology..
VC-1 will allow Universal to offer full 1080p resolution and have enough space on the 30GB HD DVD disc for additional features. iHD will allow for the accessing of interactive features without the need to interrupt playback. Link
The announcement was made at the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Convention in Las Vegas on Monday.
Universal has agreed to use iHD, an interactivity feature for DVDs, in its upcoming titles.It will also use VC-1, a compression protocol recently approved as a standard to be included in HD DVD discs. Both technologies were developed in part by researchers at Microsoft. The Redmond software maker is a strong supporter of the next-generation DVD technology..
VC-1 will allow Universal to offer full 1080p resolution and have enough space on the 30GB HD DVD disc for additional features. iHD will allow for the accessing of interactive features without the need to interrupt playback. Link
Universal Studios signs up for interactive HD DVD
Published by Admin on at 4/25/2006 12:50:00 PM.
Microsoft and Universal Studios announced at the National Association of Broadcasters Convention in Las Vegas Monday a collaboration to use Microsoft technologies in upcoming HD DVD discs. The Redmond company is a strong supporter of the next-generation DVD technology.
Universal has agreed to use iHD, an interactivity feature for DVDs, in its upcoming titles. Additionally, it will use VC-1, a compression protocol recently approved as a standard for use in HD DVD discs. Both technologies were developed in part by researchers at Microsoft.
VC-1 will allow Universal to offer full 1080p resolution, yet have enough space on the 30GB HD DVD disc for additional features. iHD will allow for the accessing of interactive features without the need to interrupt playback. Link
Universal has agreed to use iHD, an interactivity feature for DVDs, in its upcoming titles. Additionally, it will use VC-1, a compression protocol recently approved as a standard for use in HD DVD discs. Both technologies were developed in part by researchers at Microsoft.
VC-1 will allow Universal to offer full 1080p resolution, yet have enough space on the 30GB HD DVD disc for additional features. iHD will allow for the accessing of interactive features without the need to interrupt playback. Link
Amazon puts a bet on both DVD formats
Published by Admin on at 4/25/2006 12:49:00 PM.
Amazon, the largest US online retailer, has entered the developing show-down over high-definition DVD formats, with a new "DVD on demand" service.
The service allows content owners to produce discs in either of the competing new formats in response to demand.
The retailer has already begun selling a limited selection of films in the new HD-DVD format on its US site, including discs produced through its CustomFlix subsidiary, which transfers analogue material to digital format.
Amazon said CustomFlix would also start working with HDNet, the US high-definition television network, to "digitise hundreds of high definition titles" from its licensed film catalogue for sale on Amazon, and that this "initiative will dramatically increase the number of high-definition titles available in the US market this year". Link
The service allows content owners to produce discs in either of the competing new formats in response to demand.
The retailer has already begun selling a limited selection of films in the new HD-DVD format on its US site, including discs produced through its CustomFlix subsidiary, which transfers analogue material to digital format.
Amazon said CustomFlix would also start working with HDNet, the US high-definition television network, to "digitise hundreds of high definition titles" from its licensed film catalogue for sale on Amazon, and that this "initiative will dramatically increase the number of high-definition titles available in the US market this year". Link
Chinese DVD producer aims to put pirates in a spin
Published by Admin on at 4/25/2006 12:47:00 PM.
For couch-potato film fans elsewhere, the handling of the Chinese DVD release last year of local fantasy epic The Promise must seem almost as hard to believe as the film's computer graphic-enhanced martial arts sequences.
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While consumers in the US or Europe wait months after a film's cinema release for it to be available on DVD, Zoke Culture Group, China's biggest legitimate DVD producer, launched retail sales of The Promise just 15 days after it hit local cinemas.
And The Promise DVD sold for just Rmb10 (US$1.25) - a price that contrasts with the US$20-US$30 typically charged for a recent-release Hollywood picture. Link
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While consumers in the US or Europe wait months after a film's cinema release for it to be available on DVD, Zoke Culture Group, China's biggest legitimate DVD producer, launched retail sales of The Promise just 15 days after it hit local cinemas.
And The Promise DVD sold for just Rmb10 (US$1.25) - a price that contrasts with the US$20-US$30 typically charged for a recent-release Hollywood picture. Link
Universal with strong HD-DVD line-up
Published by Admin on at 4/25/2006 12:47:00 PM.
With 14 official announced HD-DVD titles Universal is a strong supporter of the HD-DVD format. It is the only major Hollywood studio that is going HD-DVD only.
According to a recent press release "The Bourne Supremacy" will be the first title to really cash in on the benefits of the HD-DVD format with it's unique special features. "The Bourne Supremacy DVD will be the first title from Universal to introduce an all-new interactive feature called "Bourne Instant Access," a feature-length picture-in-picture presentation that simultaneously transports viewers behind-the-scenes with the cast and filmmakers, all without leaving the movie experience. Additionally, all Universal HD DVDs will showcase enhanced interactive menus that allow viewers to easily navigate and access any menu option at any time while the movie is playing." said the press release. Link
According to a recent press release "The Bourne Supremacy" will be the first title to really cash in on the benefits of the HD-DVD format with it's unique special features. "The Bourne Supremacy DVD will be the first title from Universal to introduce an all-new interactive feature called "Bourne Instant Access," a feature-length picture-in-picture presentation that simultaneously transports viewers behind-the-scenes with the cast and filmmakers, all without leaving the movie experience. Additionally, all Universal HD DVDs will showcase enhanced interactive menus that allow viewers to easily navigate and access any menu option at any time while the movie is playing." said the press release. Link
Microsoft to Detail External HD DVD Drive for Xbox 360 at E3
Published by Admin on 24.4.06 at 4/24/2006 09:00:00 AM.
Microsoft Corp., the developer of the popular Xbox 360 game console and the backer of HD DVD standard, said in an interview that it would detail its external HD DVD disc drive for the latest gaming machine at E3 trade-show in San Francisco, California next month.
In an interview with German Spiegel Online web-site Chris Lewis, vice president of the home and entertainment division for Microsoft Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) region said that the company would unveil some new details concerning the already announced external HD DVD drive for the Xbox 360. He said that with the help of the drive users will be able to watch HD DVD movies and, probably, have some other benefits.
“We’ll say a little bit more about it at E3. It will give people access to HD DVD. […] We will make sure that the HD-DVD-peripheral device will meet all the requirements for consumers to enjoy high-definition DVD playback,” said Mr. Lewis.
The Microsoft executive also took an opportunity to once again blast competing Blu-ray disc format, which will be featured in arch-rival’s Sony PlayStation 3 console. He claimed the HD DVD technology might be behind Blu-ray technologically, but end-users and published would still prefer the former.
“Blu-ray right now reminds us of another technology from Sony: Betamax. A bit like VHS – we think that HD DVD is the format that consumers, film studios and publishers will embrace,” Mr. Lewis indicated. Link
In an interview with German Spiegel Online web-site Chris Lewis, vice president of the home and entertainment division for Microsoft Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) region said that the company would unveil some new details concerning the already announced external HD DVD drive for the Xbox 360. He said that with the help of the drive users will be able to watch HD DVD movies and, probably, have some other benefits.
“We’ll say a little bit more about it at E3. It will give people access to HD DVD. […] We will make sure that the HD-DVD-peripheral device will meet all the requirements for consumers to enjoy high-definition DVD playback,” said Mr. Lewis.
The Microsoft executive also took an opportunity to once again blast competing Blu-ray disc format, which will be featured in arch-rival’s Sony PlayStation 3 console. He claimed the HD DVD technology might be behind Blu-ray technologically, but end-users and published would still prefer the former.
“Blu-ray right now reminds us of another technology from Sony: Betamax. A bit like VHS – we think that HD DVD is the format that consumers, film studios and publishers will embrace,” Mr. Lewis indicated. Link
LITE-ON SHM-165H6S Internal DVD Writer
Published by Admin on 23.4.06 at 4/23/2006 04:43:00 PM.
The first salvos in the ongoing battle between the two next-generation formats aiming to succeed the incumbent DVD standard have been fired by two Japanese manufacturers. Earlier this week, Fujitsu became the first vendor to announce the availability of Blu-ray compatible PCs and that it will ship a desktop and a notebook equipped with Blu-ray drives in Japan by June. This followed hot on the heels of news that Toshiba plans to equip HD-DVD players in its notebooks by May.
With both camps seemingly set for a battle royale in the marketplace, most shrewd consumers will probably be sitting on the fence until the dust has settled from the clash. Early adopters as usual will place their bets on either formats or even both; it all depends on the applications, movies or games that will be released for the new formats. For the general public who are clueless about all this, don't fret as the DVD has more than a few years in the market, going by how the much older CD-ROM is still comfortably coasting along.
Therefore, if you are one of those who have been putting off the purchase of a DVD writer because it wasn't fast or cheap enough, now is probably the best time to buy. In fact, it is a sunset industry. There won't be any significant technological refinements to it as companies are increasingly diverting their resources to the new formats, which have greater profit margins. Prices are also probably at an all-time low as manufacturing processes and yields have been tuned to maximum efficiency. Link
With both camps seemingly set for a battle royale in the marketplace, most shrewd consumers will probably be sitting on the fence until the dust has settled from the clash. Early adopters as usual will place their bets on either formats or even both; it all depends on the applications, movies or games that will be released for the new formats. For the general public who are clueless about all this, don't fret as the DVD has more than a few years in the market, going by how the much older CD-ROM is still comfortably coasting along.
Therefore, if you are one of those who have been putting off the purchase of a DVD writer because it wasn't fast or cheap enough, now is probably the best time to buy. In fact, it is a sunset industry. There won't be any significant technological refinements to it as companies are increasingly diverting their resources to the new formats, which have greater profit margins. Prices are also probably at an all-time low as manufacturing processes and yields have been tuned to maximum efficiency. Link
Feuding Next-Gen DVD Camps Drop Compromise Talks
Published by Admin on 21.4.06 at 4/21/2006 09:29:00 PM.
The companies backing competing formats for next-generation DVD technology will never again talk about forming a unified standard, an executive at Matsushita Electric Industrial Co. said on Friday, leaving it to the consumer to choose the winning side.
"We are not talking and we will not talk," Kazuhiro Tsuga, an executive officer at Matsushita, the world's largest consumer electronics maker, told Reuters in an interview. "The market will decide the winner."
Matsushita, best known for its Panasonic brand, is a leading supporter of Blu-ray, one of two competing formats for the next-generation DVD. The other format, called HD-DVD, is backed by a group led by Toshiba Corp.
At the core of both formats are blue lasers, which have a shorter wavelength than the red lasers used in current DVD equipment, enabling discs to store data at the higher densities needed for high-definition movies and TV. Link
"We are not talking and we will not talk," Kazuhiro Tsuga, an executive officer at Matsushita, the world's largest consumer electronics maker, told Reuters in an interview. "The market will decide the winner."
Matsushita, best known for its Panasonic brand, is a leading supporter of Blu-ray, one of two competing formats for the next-generation DVD. The other format, called HD-DVD, is backed by a group led by Toshiba Corp.
At the core of both formats are blue lasers, which have a shorter wavelength than the red lasers used in current DVD equipment, enabling discs to store data at the higher densities needed for high-definition movies and TV. Link
HD DVD Debuts and Disappears
Published by Admin on at 4/21/2006 09:29:00 PM.
The next-gen HD DVD format appeared in stores this week. Toshiba introduced two players, a basic $499 model and a premium model for $799. And the machines have already sold out. The fact that the initial batch was relatively small (reportedly 10,000 to 15,000 units) undoubtedly helped. Still, the sales are surprising considering how few films have been released Link
XBox 360 HD DVD Drive confirmed
Published by Admin on at 4/21/2006 09:28:00 PM.
Confirmation of the addition of a HD DVD drive is great news for both those keen to push the new format and also those who are looking for an additional option to watch HD movies besides splashing out on a HD DVD player as well as a console. This ad-on HD DVD drive will give 360 users access to HD DVD movies as well as games.
However unlike Sony’s PS3 the 360 doesn't have an HDMI-Interface – this could potentially cause problems with copy protection mechanisms. When questioned on this matter Lewis commented Link
However unlike Sony’s PS3 the 360 doesn't have an HDMI-Interface – this could potentially cause problems with copy protection mechanisms. When questioned on this matter Lewis commented Link
Microsoft stands firm behind HD DVD
Published by Admin on at 4/21/2006 09:27:00 PM.
Microsoft has reiterated its confidence in its decision to back HD DVD over Blu-ray in the battle for supremacy of the high definition optical disc market.
According to Chris Lewis, Microsoft's regional vice president for Europe, the Middle East and Africa and the man responsible for the company's Xbox 360 gaming console business in Europe, Blu-ray smacks of another technology developed by Sony. Link
According to Chris Lewis, Microsoft's regional vice president for Europe, the Middle East and Africa and the man responsible for the company's Xbox 360 gaming console business in Europe, Blu-ray smacks of another technology developed by Sony. Link
HD DVD to outsell Blu-ray 2.5:1 in 2006
Published by Admin on at 4/21/2006 09:27:00 PM.
HD DVD will have taken almost 70 per cent of the high-definition media market by the end of the year, leaving rival format Blu-ray Disc with a market share of just 30 per cent. So claimed market watcher ABI Research this week, though it warned the picture may change in 2007.
ABI paints the arena as a Sony vs Toshiba fight, noting that Sony's Blu-ray player is four months away while Toshiba's HD-A1 and HD-XA1 HD DVD players are shipping in the US now. Samsung's player is supposedly just two months away, so Toshiba's lead isn't as long as ABI suggests, but it's a good one nonetheless. Link
ABI paints the arena as a Sony vs Toshiba fight, noting that Sony's Blu-ray player is four months away while Toshiba's HD-A1 and HD-XA1 HD DVD players are shipping in the US now. Samsung's player is supposedly just two months away, so Toshiba's lead isn't as long as ABI suggests, but it's a good one nonetheless. Link
Sony DRU-820A DL DVD Burner
Published by Admin on at 4/21/2006 09:26:00 PM.
Sony’s DRU-820A is a complete retail internal DVD burner with fast, DVD-RAM compatibility and comprehensive Nero software package. In typical Sony style, the drive also looks great and would make a neat upgrade for most typical desktop systems. The only downside is that it doesn’t support LightScribe direct labelling.
As Sony's 11-generation multi-format DVD burner the DRU-820A (re-badged BenQ) ships as part of a complete retail package which includes replaceable front bezels (black and beige) and Nero’s excellent recording software suite. The retail kit (Best Current Price: £43.77) also includes bonus tools for DVD authoring, audio editing and DVD backup, as well as an ATAPI cable, mounting hardware, and operating manual.
In addition to DVD-RAM media with a rewritable speed of 5x, the DRU-820A (146x173x41mm) burns all DVD+R/RW and DVD-R/RW media, including the latest double and dual layer DVD recordable discs, maintaining its high read/write speeds and writing quality.
The DRU-820A records DVD+R DL media at 8x speed, DVD-R DL media at 6x speed and single-layer DVD±R discs at 16x speed. Rewritable DVDs can be recorded at 8x (DVD+RW) and 6x (DVD-RW), respectively, and the drive offers 48x CD-ROM and 32x CD-RW burning. The drive is equipped with a buffer memory size of 2MB, Ultra DMA Mode 2 ATAPI interface, average access time of 130ms (DVD 16x) and 135ms (CD 48x). Link
As Sony's 11-generation multi-format DVD burner the DRU-820A (re-badged BenQ) ships as part of a complete retail package which includes replaceable front bezels (black and beige) and Nero’s excellent recording software suite. The retail kit (Best Current Price: £43.77) also includes bonus tools for DVD authoring, audio editing and DVD backup, as well as an ATAPI cable, mounting hardware, and operating manual.
In addition to DVD-RAM media with a rewritable speed of 5x, the DRU-820A (146x173x41mm) burns all DVD+R/RW and DVD-R/RW media, including the latest double and dual layer DVD recordable discs, maintaining its high read/write speeds and writing quality.
The DRU-820A records DVD+R DL media at 8x speed, DVD-R DL media at 6x speed and single-layer DVD±R discs at 16x speed. Rewritable DVDs can be recorded at 8x (DVD+RW) and 6x (DVD-RW), respectively, and the drive offers 48x CD-ROM and 32x CD-RW burning. The drive is equipped with a buffer memory size of 2MB, Ultra DMA Mode 2 ATAPI interface, average access time of 130ms (DVD 16x) and 135ms (CD 48x). Link
Toshiba US shipping HD-DVD players
Published by Admin on 18.4.06 at 4/18/2006 11:06:00 PM.
Toshiba America Consumer Products is now shipping its new series of HD DVD players, HD-XA1 and HD-A1, to retailers in the US. This release will be supported by consumer promotions and an extensive advertising campaign, highlighting consumer benefits, following a 40 city retail tour.
Toshiba has also announced a promotion with Netflix, which includes a coupon for one free month of DVD rentals, including HD DVD content. Another tie in is a King Kong promotional campaign: consumers who purchase a player before 31 May 2006 can receive by mail a US$25 coupon to be used towards the purchase of King Kong or any DVD/HD DVD at participating retailers. Link
Toshiba has also announced a promotion with Netflix, which includes a coupon for one free month of DVD rentals, including HD DVD content. Another tie in is a King Kong promotional campaign: consumers who purchase a player before 31 May 2006 can receive by mail a US$25 coupon to be used towards the purchase of King Kong or any DVD/HD DVD at participating retailers. Link
Fujifilm to Produce Blu-Ray, HD DVD Discs
Published by Admin on at 4/18/2006 11:05:00 PM.
Fujifilm announced that it would market own-branded Blu-ray discs and expected them to be commercially available by June and also indicated that it would supply HD DVD discs, possibly, recordable and rewritable, which are expected to be available later during the year. No actual product details or approximate pricing have been announced by the company.
Fujifilm, along with Verbatim and some Taiwan-based recordable media producers, are among the companies that support both Blu-ray and HD DVD formats, which compete with each other. Companies like TDK or Panasonic, who are the main Blu-ray pushers, will naturally produce only Blu-ray discs.
Traditional single-layer DVDs allow consumers to watch movies in 720x480 (NTSC) or 720x576 (PAL) resolution with Dolby Digital audio. The blue-laser discs will provide consumers 1920x1080 resolution as well as DTS or Dolby Digital Plus audio along with some additional interactive features. Link
Fujifilm, along with Verbatim and some Taiwan-based recordable media producers, are among the companies that support both Blu-ray and HD DVD formats, which compete with each other. Companies like TDK or Panasonic, who are the main Blu-ray pushers, will naturally produce only Blu-ray discs.
Traditional single-layer DVDs allow consumers to watch movies in 720x480 (NTSC) or 720x576 (PAL) resolution with Dolby Digital audio. The blue-laser discs will provide consumers 1920x1080 resolution as well as DTS or Dolby Digital Plus audio along with some additional interactive features. Link
Polaroid DVD Recorders
Published by Admin on at 4/18/2006 11:04:00 PM.
Polaroid Corporation, YesVideo, Inc., and LSI Logic Corporation LSI today announced that they have collaborated to incorporate YesDVD technology into Polaroid's newest line of DVD recorders. Enabled by the LSI DoMiNo(R) media processor, Polaroid's combination hard disc drive/DVD recorder with YesDVD software makes it easy for consumers to create Hollywood-style DVDs from their home movies at the touch of a button. The new Polaroid DRM-2001G DVD recorder is available at Wal-Mart stores, the world's largest retail company. Link
Universal Studios Debuts Ten Titles in HD DVD
Published by Admin on at 4/18/2006 11:03:00 PM.
Futuristic action-adventure Serenity is the first in the progressive rollout of flagship titles available in the new format. Doom and Apollo 13 are slated to follow on April 25, 2006, with Cinderella Man, Jarhead and Assault on Precinct 13 hitting shelves on May 9, 2006.
A fourth wave of releases on May 23, 2006 includes The Chronicles of Riddick, Van Helsing, U-571 and The Bourne Supremacy. Each of the ten releases has a suggested retail price of $34.98, and looking ahead Universal stated it will continue its rolling introduction of HD DVD titles on a monthly basis. Link
A fourth wave of releases on May 23, 2006 includes The Chronicles of Riddick, Van Helsing, U-571 and The Bourne Supremacy. Each of the ten releases has a suggested retail price of $34.98, and looking ahead Universal stated it will continue its rolling introduction of HD DVD titles on a monthly basis. Link
LITE-ON SHM-165H6S Internal DVD Writer
Published by Admin on 17.4.06 at 4/17/2006 10:45:00 AM.
The first salvos in the ongoing battle between the two next-generation formats aiming to succeed the incumbent DVD standard have been fired by two Japanese manufacturers. Earlier this week, Fujitsu became the first vendor to announce the availability of Blu-ray compatible PCs and that it will ship a desktop and a notebook equipped with Blu-ray drives in Japan by June. This followed hot on the heels of news that Toshiba plans to equip HD-DVD players in its notebooks by May.
With both camps seemingly set for a battle royale in the marketplace, most shrewd consumers will probably be sitting on the fence until the dust has settled from the clash. Early adopters as usual will place their bets on either formats or even both; it all depends on the applications, movies or games that will be released for the new formats. For the general public who are clueless about all this, don't fret as the DVD has more than a few years in the market, going by how the much older CD-ROM is still comfortably coasting along. Link
With both camps seemingly set for a battle royale in the marketplace, most shrewd consumers will probably be sitting on the fence until the dust has settled from the clash. Early adopters as usual will place their bets on either formats or even both; it all depends on the applications, movies or games that will be released for the new formats. For the general public who are clueless about all this, don't fret as the DVD has more than a few years in the market, going by how the much older CD-ROM is still comfortably coasting along. Link
BlueDot BDP-1200 12″ Portable DVD Player
Published by Admin on at 4/17/2006 10:44:00 AM.
BlueDot’s latest portable DVD player is definitely no slouch. Boasting a 12-inch 800×480 display, USB port, microSD/Memory Stick card slot, and even MPEG/DivX/XviD/MP3 support. It measures a slim 308 x 202 x 37 mm and weighs just 3.5-pounds. Pricing and availability have not yet been announced. Link
Toshiba HD-A1 HD DVD player goes topless
Published by Admin on at 4/17/2006 10:42:00 AM.
There is a bit of curiosity in all of us. Even if you don't know how the heck it works, you still would love to see the insides of one of the new Toshiba's HD-A1 HD DVD players. AVS Forum user Zerokills just got his hands on his player and cracked it open as soon as he could. Link
TDK working on 200GB Blu-ray disc
Published by Admin on 14.4.06 at 4/14/2006 03:37:00 PM.
TDK this week confirmed its plan to develop a Blu-ray disc with a storage capacity of 200GB. Let's put that into perspective - how big is the hard drive in the PC or laptop you're currently using? It's around three times the size of the storage available on my current machine.
If successful, the company's R&D team will produce a disc with four times the capacity of today's biggest BDs and double the size of protoype next-generation BD-Rs TDK has already shown off. TDK unveiled a 100GB prototype in May 2005, which contained four data-storage layers, is recordable and supports a write speed of up to 216Mbps, double that of 50GB BD-Rs. Link
If successful, the company's R&D team will produce a disc with four times the capacity of today's biggest BDs and double the size of protoype next-generation BD-Rs TDK has already shown off. TDK unveiled a 100GB prototype in May 2005, which contained four data-storage layers, is recordable and supports a write speed of up to 216Mbps, double that of 50GB BD-Rs. Link
100,000 Disney-branded DVD players recalled
Published by Admin on at 4/14/2006 03:31:00 PM.
OVER 100,000 battery packs sold with Disney-branded DVD players could blow up in kiddies’ faces the US Consumer Product Safety Commission warned.
Distributor Memcorp Inc of Florida said it had received 17 reports of batteries overheating, "including three reports of minor skin irritations and three reports of minor property damage."
In all 102,000 battery packs are being recalled. These were all built in China and sold in stoes throughout the US. Link
Distributor Memcorp Inc of Florida said it had received 17 reports of batteries overheating, "including three reports of minor skin irritations and three reports of minor property damage."
In all 102,000 battery packs are being recalled. These were all built in China and sold in stoes throughout the US. Link
Pioneer DVR-R100 Dual Layer DVD Burner
Published by Admin on at 4/14/2006 03:30:00 PM.
The rate at which the price of DVD burners has dropped over the past few years has been quite impressive. DVD burners went from being unpredictable devices for big budget users to standard equipment in just a year or two. An internal DVD writer is something which is a smart investment with any new computer, and given their prices and usefulness, it almost always make sense to get one.
Whether you want to use it for storage, multimedia, or backing up, a DVD writer is a great tool to have around. This review will be taking a look at Pioneers DVR-R100 DVD burner. When comparing these products it can be tough to tell one from another or decide between a Plextor or a Pioneer Link
Whether you want to use it for storage, multimedia, or backing up, a DVD writer is a great tool to have around. This review will be taking a look at Pioneers DVR-R100 DVD burner. When comparing these products it can be tough to tell one from another or decide between a Plextor or a Pioneer Link
Double Layer Rewritable DVD Officially Announced
Published by Admin on at 4/14/2006 03:29:00 PM.
The DVD+RW Alliance officially announced on Thursday the release of version 1.0 specifications for 2.4X rewriting on Double Layer DVD+RW media.
The DVD+RW Alliance announced the establishment of the "DVD+RW DL" format almost two years ago. HP, Mitsubishi Kagaku Media/Verbatim, Royal Philips Electronics, Ricoh, Sony Corporation, Thomson Inc. and Yamaha have supported the new format.
DVD+RW media and writers are designed to rewrite up to a full 8.5 GB DVD+RW. The new 2.4X DVD+RW Double Layer discs will be based on new phase-change materials, which enable writing on both the semi-transparent layer 0 and the more reflective layer 1.
Due to its special characteristics, the new DVD+RW Double Layer media will only be read and write compatible with new specially designed recorders and read out devices. The read out reflectivity on both layers of the new media is very low when compared with traditional single layer DVD+RW media. Red laser reflectivity is specified between 5 and 10 percent for the new media and 15 to 20 percent for traditional single layer media. Link
The DVD+RW Alliance announced the establishment of the "DVD+RW DL" format almost two years ago. HP, Mitsubishi Kagaku Media/Verbatim, Royal Philips Electronics, Ricoh, Sony Corporation, Thomson Inc. and Yamaha have supported the new format.
DVD+RW media and writers are designed to rewrite up to a full 8.5 GB DVD+RW. The new 2.4X DVD+RW Double Layer discs will be based on new phase-change materials, which enable writing on both the semi-transparent layer 0 and the more reflective layer 1.
Due to its special characteristics, the new DVD+RW Double Layer media will only be read and write compatible with new specially designed recorders and read out devices. The read out reflectivity on both layers of the new media is very low when compared with traditional single layer DVD+RW media. Red laser reflectivity is specified between 5 and 10 percent for the new media and 15 to 20 percent for traditional single layer media. Link
Early HD DVD flicks to be 1080p
Published by Admin on at 4/14/2006 03:28:00 PM.
Early scans of the boxes from some of the first flicks to be released on HD DVD and Blu-ray Disc are starting to show up, and it looks like at least some of the first releases will ship in 1080p. DVDActive has shots of the boxes from several HD DVD movies, including "Million Dollar Baby" and "The Last Samurai," and they're listed as being in 1080p.
No word yet if this is an across-the-board thing, or whether the early BD titles are also 1080p (DVDActive only has the fronts of the BD boxes).
But this is sure to be good news for anyone planning to build a collection of discs; at least you won't have to toss them when you can finally buy a 1080p-capable player. Link
No word yet if this is an across-the-board thing, or whether the early BD titles are also 1080p (DVDActive only has the fronts of the BD boxes).
But this is sure to be good news for anyone planning to build a collection of discs; at least you won't have to toss them when you can finally buy a 1080p-capable player. Link
Atmel Unveils Industry-first Read-only Laser Diode Driver IC for HD-DVD/Blu-ray Players
Published by Admin on 11.4.06 at 4/11/2006 04:16:00 PM.
The ATR0885 contains three outputs, each of which can be used for either the connection of blue laser diodes with a wavelength of 405 nm (HD-DVD/Blu-ray), DVD laser diodes with a wavelength of 780 nm, or CD laser diodes with 650 nm. Competing products only have outputs predetermined for the blue laser functionality, whereas the ATR0885 lets the system designer freely select which of the three outputs shall be dedicated to blue laser functionality. This means the designer can chose the output optimally located in a specific design so that the connection lines are as short as possible. This allows the creation of designs which are smaller and more cost-efficient while providing high performance.
Up to now, a cost-efficient HD-DVD/Blu-ray/DVD/CD system required the use of four devices: three oscillator chips and one transimpedance amplifier, whereas the ATR0885 makes it possible to build an extremely cost-efficient blue laser system with only one IC.
Blue laser diodes used for HD-DVD and Blu-ray systems need a voltage source, which is capable of handling higher voltages than the 5V commonly used for DVD and CD laser diodes. To meet this demand, each of the ATR0885's three outputs has a separate voltage supply pin providing up to 8V.
For automatic power control, a transimpedance amplifier is integrated and supports all three output channels. The gain of each channel can be set separately by using three individual resistors. Link
Up to now, a cost-efficient HD-DVD/Blu-ray/DVD/CD system required the use of four devices: three oscillator chips and one transimpedance amplifier, whereas the ATR0885 makes it possible to build an extremely cost-efficient blue laser system with only one IC.
Blue laser diodes used for HD-DVD and Blu-ray systems need a voltage source, which is capable of handling higher voltages than the 5V commonly used for DVD and CD laser diodes. To meet this demand, each of the ATR0885's three outputs has a separate voltage supply pin providing up to 8V.
For automatic power control, a transimpedance amplifier is integrated and supports all three output channels. The gain of each channel can be set separately by using three individual resistors. Link
Fujitsu unveils world's third HD DVD laptop
Published by Admin on at 4/11/2006 03:41:00 PM.
The FMV-Biblio Loox NX 95S/D - a notebook that curiously shares the same model number as Fujitsu's Blu-ray Disc-equipped PC-TV system, also announced today - is based on a 1.67GHz Intel Core Duo T2300 processor and an Intel 955PM chipset. It's got 1MB of dual-channel DDR 2 SDRAM and an ATI Mobility Radeon X1400 GPU with 128MB of dedicated graphics memory but access to a further 128MB of system RAM courtesy of ATI's HyperMemory technology. Link
Industry-first read-only laser diode driver IC for HD-DVD/Blu-ray players
Published by Admin on at 4/11/2006 03:38:00 PM.
Atmel Corporation has announced its new ATR0885 laser diode driver IC
for use in combined HD-DVD/Blu-ray, DVD, CD players and PC CD-ROM
drives. HD-DVD and Blu-ray are new disc standards, which will offer
significantly more storage capacity than today's DVD standards.
Since the new ATR0885 is available in very small packages, it is
particularly suitable for small SLIM drives used in notebook
computers, as well as for half-height drives used in desktop PCs and
consumer DVD players.
The ATR0885 is the industry's first available
product for such applications and enables outstanding
cost-effectiveness, an important factor for high-volume consumer
products. Link
for use in combined HD-DVD/Blu-ray, DVD, CD players and PC CD-ROM
drives. HD-DVD and Blu-ray are new disc standards, which will offer
significantly more storage capacity than today's DVD standards.
Since the new ATR0885 is available in very small packages, it is
particularly suitable for small SLIM drives used in notebook
computers, as well as for half-height drives used in desktop PCs and
consumer DVD players.
The ATR0885 is the industry's first available
product for such applications and enables outstanding
cost-effectiveness, an important factor for high-volume consumer
products. Link
Samsung to Release 18X Super-multi DVD Writer
Published by Admin on at 4/11/2006 02:36:00 PM.
The SH-S182D can write to DVD R/RW with 18X, DVD-RAM with 12X, DVD R/RW Double Layer with 8X, DVD+RW with 8X and DVD-RW with 6X.
With the new 18X DVD writer, it takes around 4 minutes and 48 seconds to back up 4.7GB data on a DVD R/RW disc, which is nearly one minute faster than with the standard 16x drives, and less than 17 minutes to burn a 4.7GB data disc in DVD-RAM format. The drive will be available also in internal and external formats with LightScribe function. Link
With the new 18X DVD writer, it takes around 4 minutes and 48 seconds to back up 4.7GB data on a DVD R/RW disc, which is nearly one minute faster than with the standard 16x drives, and less than 17 minutes to burn a 4.7GB data disc in DVD-RAM format. The drive will be available also in internal and external formats with LightScribe function. Link
Acer Aspire 9800 HD-DVD Notebook
Published by Admin on 8.4.06 at 4/08/2006 11:32:00 AM.
Obviously this is beyond being a "laptop", it's more like a TV replacement given the 20.1-inch screen size. The built-in TV tuner and HD-DVD drive that will eventually be available also suggests this is more entertainment center than laptop. The exact weight isn't known for the 9800, but you could expect it to weigh around 15-pounds or possibly more. It's a bit of a shame Acer did not include a higher end graphics card to make this a true gaming machine as well, but the nVidia 7600 graphics will be pretty decent nonetheless, and certainly better than integrated graphics, so you could have some fun with games. Link
Lovefilm and Video Island join forces against US DVD threat
Published by Admin on at 4/08/2006 11:32:00 AM.
ONLINE DVD rental firms Lovefilm and Video Island have agreed to merge to bulk up against US competitors and defend their 17 per cent share of the UK market. Link
Sonys new HDD/DVD Recorders the RDR-HX925 (250GB HD) and RDR-HX725 (160GB HD)
Published by Admin on at 4/08/2006 11:31:00 AM.
Sony have also announced its new IQ recording system range of HDD/DVD Recorders the RDR-HX925 (250GB HD) and RDR-HX725 (160GB HD), which now include the GUIDE Plus+ system (Electronic Programme Guide) for easier programme recording. Link
Biggest UK DVD Pirate Ring Busted
Published by Admin on at 4/08/2006 11:30:00 AM.
Authorities say the underground factory was capable of producing over 60,000 DVDs per day, or 2,700 per hour, with an estimated daily street value over $438,000. The raid occurred near London in an area called Leyton after an investigation into the supply of counterfeit DVDs in London and South East England.
The police seized over 300 titles, among them the film, Ice Age 2, scheduled for release in theatres two days later. The FPU will be investigating the financing of the operation.
"Waltham Forest has a zero tolerance attitude to organised counterfeiting and will continue to enforce this policy," said Gavin Douglas, Group Manager, Public Protection for the London Borough of Waltham Forest. Link
The police seized over 300 titles, among them the film, Ice Age 2, scheduled for release in theatres two days later. The FPU will be investigating the financing of the operation.
"Waltham Forest has a zero tolerance attitude to organised counterfeiting and will continue to enforce this policy," said Gavin Douglas, Group Manager, Public Protection for the London Borough of Waltham Forest. Link
Sony launch two new HHD DVD recorders
Published by Admin on at 4/08/2006 11:29:00 AM.
Sony has announced the launch of its new range HDD DVD Recorders, the RDR-HX925 and RDR-HX725.
The new players will include its GUIDE Plus+ system for what it says will offer "even easier programme recording".
The two models are available we either 250GB and 160GB hard drive respectively and feature Sony's new IQ recording system that offers features such as DV terminal (i.LINK) for one-touch dubbing, Set-Top-Box Control, Pause Live TV, Chasing Playback, and a HQ+ high quality recording mode.
The newly developed Electronic Programme Guide interface, GUIDE Plus+ displays up to seven days of programme listings. Link
The new players will include its GUIDE Plus+ system for what it says will offer "even easier programme recording".
The two models are available we either 250GB and 160GB hard drive respectively and feature Sony's new IQ recording system that offers features such as DV terminal (i.LINK) for one-touch dubbing, Set-Top-Box Control, Pause Live TV, Chasing Playback, and a HQ+ high quality recording mode.
The newly developed Electronic Programme Guide interface, GUIDE Plus+ displays up to seven days of programme listings. Link
Pioneer DVR-111 DVD writer
Published by Admin on at 4/08/2006 11:29:00 AM.
DVD writers have now become so ridiculously cheap it's almost unbelievable. Go back a few years and you'd be hard pushed to find one for under £200, but these days it's possible to pick one up for well under £50. Indeed, we found this new DVR-111 online for as little as £27.
The DVR-111 from Pioneer actually comes to market just a couple of months after the DVR-110 and very little appears to have changed.
All the speeds remain the same, but the chassis looks slightly different and Pioneer has brought in its Disc-Resonance Stabiliser. Link
The DVR-111 from Pioneer actually comes to market just a couple of months after the DVR-110 and very little appears to have changed.
All the speeds remain the same, but the chassis looks slightly different and Pioneer has brought in its Disc-Resonance Stabiliser. Link
Tosh touts portable DVD-Freeview combo
Published by Admin on at 4/08/2006 11:28:00 AM.
the SD-P30DT can serve up access to 35 digital channels, including edifying documentaries from BBC 3 and 4, Shipwrecked omnibuses on E4 and, of course, The Hits.
Your portal to vacuous entertainment and epic films is a sizeable 9in screen, which has a decent 800x480 resolution and a 170-degree viewing angle to save neck-craning on the backseat.
Keen disc burners are catered for with support for DVD-R/-RW and DivX loaded discs, and you’ll be able to hook it up to an LCD back home thanks to a component video output.
Tosh has also added some entry-level models with handy 4-in-1 card slots to its range. The SD-P2800, SD-P1880 and SD-P1700 – which have 9in, 8in and 7in screens respectively – will all take SD, MMC, XD and Memory Sticks loaded with photos or video. Link
Your portal to vacuous entertainment and epic films is a sizeable 9in screen, which has a decent 800x480 resolution and a 170-degree viewing angle to save neck-craning on the backseat.
Keen disc burners are catered for with support for DVD-R/-RW and DivX loaded discs, and you’ll be able to hook it up to an LCD back home thanks to a component video output.
Tosh has also added some entry-level models with handy 4-in-1 card slots to its range. The SD-P2800, SD-P1880 and SD-P1700 – which have 9in, 8in and 7in screens respectively – will all take SD, MMC, XD and Memory Sticks loaded with photos or video. Link
Acer Aspire 9800 to be next HD DVD-equipped laptop
Published by Admin on at 4/08/2006 11:27:00 AM.
Toshiba's Qosmio G30 may be the first laptop to launch with a built-in HD DVD drive, but it certainly won't be the last. And as of now, it looks like Acer will be next to market with the Aspire 9800, a media-centric semi-portable due to hit Europe next month. The Acer laptop, in addition to its HD drive, will feature a mammoth 20-inch 1680x1050 display, NVIDIA GeForce Go 7600, digital/analog hybrid tuner, 1.3 megapixel webcam, DVI-D out and up to 240GB of storage. Link
Tosh confirms HD DVD UK launch
Published by Admin on at 4/08/2006 11:25:00 AM.
At a press event in Hertfordshire Tosh confirmed it will launch its HD DVD player this autumn. Already available in Japan and launching in the US this month (April 18th), the HD-XA1 will be the first high def DVD player available in the UK - several months ahead of players using the rival Blu-Ray DVD format. Link
Japan-based Sino-JP forgoes investment in Taiwan DVD disc maker Optodisc
Published by Admin on 6.4.06 at 4/06/2006 11:12:00 AM.
Optodisc Technology, a second-tier maker of DVD discs in Taiwan, on April 5 announced that Japan-based Sino-JP Assets Management has decided to cancel its original plan of becoming its largest shareholder because both sides have been unable to settle on the price and volume of new shares and convertible bonds to be issued Link
DVD market to reach 176.6 million units in 2010
Published by Admin on at 4/06/2006 11:11:00 AM.
DVD players and recorders will have a combined number of 176.6 million units sold worldwide in 2010, up from 140.8 million units in 2005, reports research firm In-Stat. For 2006, Europe will be the strongest region for DVD players and recorders with a combined total of 38.4 million units sold, followed by North America with 37.4 million units, the market research firm anticipates.
The DVD player segment remained strong. DVD player sales grew from 114.2 million units in 2004 to 126.7 million units in 2005, In-Stat said. The strongest gains were made in portable DVD players (14 million shipped in 2005 as opposed to 11.3 million shipped in 2005), home theater-in-a-box + DVD player (13.8 million shipped in 2005 as opposed to 12.4 million shipped in 2004) and automotive (8.2 million shipped in 2005 as opposed to 7.1 million shipped in 2004), the research firm stated.
The DVD player market benefits from versatility in form factors. DVD players can be seen in portable renditions, or integrated with VCRs, or in the back panel seats of SUVs, In-Stat indicated. While DVD recorders have come down in price, there is still delineation in the pricing of DVD players and DVD recorders – each represents a different value proposition, according to the research firm. Link
The DVD player segment remained strong. DVD player sales grew from 114.2 million units in 2004 to 126.7 million units in 2005, In-Stat said. The strongest gains were made in portable DVD players (14 million shipped in 2005 as opposed to 11.3 million shipped in 2005), home theater-in-a-box + DVD player (13.8 million shipped in 2005 as opposed to 12.4 million shipped in 2004) and automotive (8.2 million shipped in 2005 as opposed to 7.1 million shipped in 2004), the research firm stated.
The DVD player market benefits from versatility in form factors. DVD players can be seen in portable renditions, or integrated with VCRs, or in the back panel seats of SUVs, In-Stat indicated. While DVD recorders have come down in price, there is still delineation in the pricing of DVD players and DVD recorders – each represents a different value proposition, according to the research firm. Link
Battle over standards heat up in the Chinese digital TV and DVD markets
Published by Admin on at 4/06/2006 11:10:00 AM.
The research firm said the Chinese television market is experiencing three dramatic changes: the migration from CRT TVs to flat panel TVs; the transition from analog to digital TV broadcasting; and the replacement of traditional TVs with next-generation models that form part of the information/networking home system. Meanwhile, the Chinese DVD market has maintained its structure with little change since 2004.
In 2005, the EVD (enhanced versatile disc) standard was announced as the industrial high definition DVD standard in China; the video part of AVS (advanced vision system) was established as the national video coding standard; and IGRS was approved as the national 3C-convergence industry standard. Although the terrestrial digital TV standard is still pending, ABI Research expects that a mixed standard based on several proposals will be set up as the national norm. Link
In 2005, the EVD (enhanced versatile disc) standard was announced as the industrial high definition DVD standard in China; the video part of AVS (advanced vision system) was established as the national video coding standard; and IGRS was approved as the national 3C-convergence industry standard. Although the terrestrial digital TV standard is still pending, ABI Research expects that a mixed standard based on several proposals will be set up as the national norm. Link
Download vs. DVD What would you prefer
Published by Admin on at 4/06/2006 11:09:00 AM.
Until now, only a few of Hollywood's latest films have been available online — typically weeks after they have hit DVD — but usually only for rental on sites such as Movielink, CinemaNow and Starz's Vongo. Movielink's announcement beats to the punch a similar service scheduled to launch in the UK next week by movie site Lovefilm, Universal and America Online. Online retailer Amazon also is reportedly talking with studios about the idea.
"We're probably three to five years away from any huge market, but early adopters are very interested," says Mike McGuire of Gartner Research.
Movielink's downloads will be of lesser quality than DVD but comparable to that of digital cable and satellite TV, Ramo says. "It certainly looks good on a notebook computer, desktop computer and a TV."
It takes about an hour to download a film, but it can be viewed within minutes. Customers can burn copies to DVD, but the movies, which are in Windows Media format, can't be played on standard DVD players. Downloads can be transferred to up to two PCs. A copy can be transferred to a laptop, but not to an iPod or Sony PSP, though eventually it will be compatible with Microsoft-supported portables.
Studios that will supply films to Movielink include Universal, Warner Bros., Paramount, Fox, Sony and MGM. Talks continue with other studios, Ramo says. Link
"We're probably three to five years away from any huge market, but early adopters are very interested," says Mike McGuire of Gartner Research.
Movielink's downloads will be of lesser quality than DVD but comparable to that of digital cable and satellite TV, Ramo says. "It certainly looks good on a notebook computer, desktop computer and a TV."
It takes about an hour to download a film, but it can be viewed within minutes. Customers can burn copies to DVD, but the movies, which are in Windows Media format, can't be played on standard DVD players. Downloads can be transferred to up to two PCs. A copy can be transferred to a laptop, but not to an iPod or Sony PSP, though eventually it will be compatible with Microsoft-supported portables.
Studios that will supply films to Movielink include Universal, Warner Bros., Paramount, Fox, Sony and MGM. Talks continue with other studios, Ramo says. Link
Arcam announces 1080p DVD deck and HDMI AV receiver
Published by Admin on at 4/06/2006 11:08:00 AM.
It's been a while since Arcam unleashed any new home cinema gear on the world, but it looks like all that's about to change. Apparently the respected British brand is about to roll out a new DiVA AVR 350 AV receiver complete with HDMI functionality, and a new DiVA DV 137 DVD deck with 1080p upscaling. Link
Blu-Ray, HD DVD Players Cost Over $400 to Build
Published by Admin on at 4/06/2006 11:07:00 AM.
The significant growth of the traditional DVD market is predicted as a result of very high manufacturing costs of blue-laser players: with the servo chipset, optical pick-up, H.264 decoder and royalties making up the majority of the cost, the initial estimates for the bill of materials for blue-laser disc players is over $400, according to In-Stat. Most of the costs are forecasted to decline considerably by 2010, except for royalties. The promise of the guaranteed premium royalty bounty is obviously at the heart the high definition DVD format wars.
“The future of this market though is all about high definition DVD players based on ‘blue laser’ technology; however, the future may be farther off than we would like. These players will enter the market at premium prices, and as there has been no compromise between the HD-DVD camp and the companies that sponsor Blu ray technology, a format battle seems inevitable. There will be some casualties, companies and consumers alike,” said Chris Kissel, In-Stat analyst.
It is generally believed that the HD DVD devices are less expensive to build than Blu-ray players, which seems to be correct, as the most affordable HD DVD announced so far is a $499 product from Toshiba, while the least expensive Blu-ray rival from Samsung costs $999. Nevertheless, as a result of cost-efficiency and availability, the market of DVD players and content will still have significant share.
“The DVD player market benefits from versatility in form factors. DVD players can be seen in portable renditions, or integrated with VCRs, or in the back panel seats of SUVs. While DVD recorders have come down in price, there is still delineation in the pricing of DVD players and DVD recorders- each represents a different value proposition,” said Mr. Kassel.
Traditional single-layer DVDs allow consumers to watch movies in 720x480 (NTSC) or 720x576 (PAL) resolution with Dolby Digital audio. The blue-laser discs will provide consumers 1920x1080 resolution as well as Dolby Digital Plus audio along with some additional interactive features. Link
“The future of this market though is all about high definition DVD players based on ‘blue laser’ technology; however, the future may be farther off than we would like. These players will enter the market at premium prices, and as there has been no compromise between the HD-DVD camp and the companies that sponsor Blu ray technology, a format battle seems inevitable. There will be some casualties, companies and consumers alike,” said Chris Kissel, In-Stat analyst.
It is generally believed that the HD DVD devices are less expensive to build than Blu-ray players, which seems to be correct, as the most affordable HD DVD announced so far is a $499 product from Toshiba, while the least expensive Blu-ray rival from Samsung costs $999. Nevertheless, as a result of cost-efficiency and availability, the market of DVD players and content will still have significant share.
“The DVD player market benefits from versatility in form factors. DVD players can be seen in portable renditions, or integrated with VCRs, or in the back panel seats of SUVs. While DVD recorders have come down in price, there is still delineation in the pricing of DVD players and DVD recorders- each represents a different value proposition,” said Mr. Kassel.
Traditional single-layer DVDs allow consumers to watch movies in 720x480 (NTSC) or 720x576 (PAL) resolution with Dolby Digital audio. The blue-laser discs will provide consumers 1920x1080 resolution as well as Dolby Digital Plus audio along with some additional interactive features. Link
Netflix sues rival Blockbuster
Published by Admin on 5.4.06 at 4/05/2006 07:19:00 AM.
Online DVD rental service Netflix Inc. on Tuesday accused Blockbuster Inc. of illegally copying its ideas in a patent infringement lawsuit challenging the video store chain’s recent Internet expansion.
The complaint, filed in U.S. District Court in San Francisco, focuses largely on the online wish lists that prioritize the DVD desires of about 5.4 million people who subscribe to either Netflix or Blockbuster’s Internet service.
Netflix also believes its patents cover perhaps its most popular feature — the option of renting a DVD for an unlimited time without incurring late fees. Link
The complaint, filed in U.S. District Court in San Francisco, focuses largely on the online wish lists that prioritize the DVD desires of about 5.4 million people who subscribe to either Netflix or Blockbuster’s Internet service.
Netflix also believes its patents cover perhaps its most popular feature — the option of renting a DVD for an unlimited time without incurring late fees. Link
LightScribe: Professional Labels in Your DVD Recorder!
Published by Admin on at 4/05/2006 07:18:00 AM.
The latest novelty, LightScribe, is a fairly useful addition. It allows a recorder to actually label the CD (or DVD) directly. No more messy marker pens or sticky labels. Picture yourself producing professional-style labels using the same laser that burns your data, right inside your own CD/DVD drive! Is it worth it? Read on as we find out.
LightScribe technology was introduced just over a year ago by Hewlett Packard, and has now become a standard component that can be integrated by all manufacturers who want to offer this technology. How does it work? Well, once your recording is finished, you go back to the disk and use a simple tool called Nero Burning ROM, which guides you step by step through the process of creating the silk-screen image that will become your label. Link
LightScribe technology was introduced just over a year ago by Hewlett Packard, and has now become a standard component that can be integrated by all manufacturers who want to offer this technology. How does it work? Well, once your recording is finished, you go back to the disk and use a simple tool called Nero Burning ROM, which guides you step by step through the process of creating the silk-screen image that will become your label. Link
Toshiba launches next-generation DVD player
Published by Admin on 2.4.06 at 4/02/2006 03:19:00 PM.
Toshiba began selling the first players using the next-generation HD DVD video format Friday, beating the rival Blu-ray disc format to market in a high-stakes competition to deliver theater-quality movies to living rooms.
Japanese electronics maker Toshiba Corp. said its HD-XA1, priced at about 110,000 yen ($936) is the world's first commercially available HD DVD player. The product, which has no recording function, is being promised for the United States in April at about $799.
The HD DVD format, also backed by NEC Corp. of Japan, competes against the Blu-ray disc format, supported by Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., which makes Panasonic brand products, and Sony Corp.
Both can deliver dazzling high-definition video and can store much more data than today's DVDs, but are incompatible.
Sony has said it will start selling Blu-ray disc DVD players in the United States in the summer but has not announced a date for Japan sales.
Sony recently postponed until November the sale of its PlayStation 3 video game console, which runs Blu-ray discs and was initially promised for spring. Prices have not been announced.
Matsushita has said its first Blu-ray disc player will be available in the United States in September but has not given a date for when it will sell in Japan. The Osaka-based manufacturer said the price was undecided but will be under $1,500. Link
Japanese electronics maker Toshiba Corp. said its HD-XA1, priced at about 110,000 yen ($936) is the world's first commercially available HD DVD player. The product, which has no recording function, is being promised for the United States in April at about $799.
The HD DVD format, also backed by NEC Corp. of Japan, competes against the Blu-ray disc format, supported by Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., which makes Panasonic brand products, and Sony Corp.
Both can deliver dazzling high-definition video and can store much more data than today's DVDs, but are incompatible.
Sony has said it will start selling Blu-ray disc DVD players in the United States in the summer but has not announced a date for Japan sales.
Sony recently postponed until November the sale of its PlayStation 3 video game console, which runs Blu-ray discs and was initially promised for spring. Prices have not been announced.
Matsushita has said its first Blu-ray disc player will be available in the United States in September but has not given a date for when it will sell in Japan. The Osaka-based manufacturer said the price was undecided but will be under $1,500. Link