HD DVD thread - Toshiba: HD DVD DISCONTINUED, REPAIR/SUPPORT CONTINUES, NO BLU PLANS

[LinkinPrime]

Beginning this Sunday (May 20th) and continuing until June 16th, consumers buying Toshiba's HD-A2 model player will receive an an instant, in-store rebate of $100. During the final week of the promotion (from June 10th through June 16th), Toshiba will extend the $100 rebate to any Toshiba HD DVD player, and will offer an additional $100 rebate to consumers purchasing both an HD DVD player and a 42 inch (or larger) Toshiba HDTV.
http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Hardware/High-Def_Retailing/Toshiba_Offers_$100_Rebate_on_New_HD_DVD_Players/637

I wonder if this brings the HD-A2 from $299 down to $199 next week?

[tenzor]

http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Hardware/High-Def_Retailing/Toshiba_Offers_$100_Rebate_on_New_HD_DVD_Players/637

I wonder if this brings the HD-A2 from $299 down to $199 next week?


hmm I may bite on getting that for my downstairs TV at that price. Especially if its $199.99 with 2 or 4 free HD-DVDs

[LinkinPrime]

hmm I may bite on getting that for my downstairs TV at that price. Especially if its $199.99 with 2 or 4 free HD-DVDs

Its actually with 5 HD DVD's right now...that and if you get the Matrix set you get 2 additional HD DVD's @ Circuit City.

[ryanbph]

might be a stupid question, but the 5 free hd dvds (7 at best buy/circuitcity) do you get to pick them from a store (bestbuy/circuitcity) or is it a mail in rebate thing? If it is a mail in rebate do they have a good selection? If it is intant at the store, do you have to take the 5 movies then or can you get a gift card or something? Most of the movies that have come out so far that I wanted, I have purchased.

[DomLando]

might be a stupid question, but the 5 free hd dvds (7 at best buy/circuitcity) do you get to pick them from a store (bestbuy/circuitcity) or is it a mail in rebate thing? If it is a mail in rebate do they have a good selection? If it is intant at the store, do you have to take the 5 movies then or can you get a gift card or something? Most of the movies that have come out so far that I wanted, I have purchased.
I am going format neutral now with the great deal on the Toshiba's HD-A2. Can you explain how you can get 7 free HD-DVDs? Thanks in advance.

Edit: I just read Speedys Thread. So this Sunday I go to BB and I pick up the Toshiba's HD-A2 and Matrix and then I get two additional HD DVDs and then you get a mail in form for the other 5? And my last questions are the $100 rebate will come off automatically on the player and what movies should I pick up? Thanks for all the help.

[Sarang01]

I thought the A2 or A20 was suppose to be the first low cost 1080p output standalone player. What about outputting TrueHD to a receiver, can these standalones do that?

[doubledown]

I was playing with the Dynamic Range with On/Off.....I didn't really notice a difference. What setting do I want it on typically?

[grendel19]

I was playing with the Dynamic Range with On/Off.....I didn't really notice a difference. What setting do I want it on typically?I tried this last night also and didn't notice a difference. But the default should "off." Leaving it on supposedly would be the Night Mode that we couldnt' turn off before.

[Troz1820]

I thought the A2 or A20 was suppose to be the first low cost 1080p output standalone player. What about outputting TrueHD to a receiver, can these standalones do that?

The A20 can do 1080p, and all the players have the ability to output TrueHD via the HDMI output.

[Duo_Maxwell]

might be a stupid question, but the 5 free hd dvds (7 at best buy/circuitcity) do you get to pick them from a store (bestbuy/circuitcity) or is it a mail in rebate thing? If it is a mail in rebate do they have a good selection? If it is intant at the store, do you have to take the 5 movies then or can you get a gift card or something? Most of the movies that have come out so far that I wanted, I have purchased.

The 5 free is through a Toshiba mail in rebate only, no in store purchasing or exchanging is available for it.

I am going format neutral now with the great deal on the Toshiba's HD-A2. Can you explain how you can get 7 free HD-DVDs? Thanks in advance.

Edit: I just read Speedys Thread. So this Sunday I go to BB and I pick up the Toshiba's HD-A2 and Matrix and then I get two additional HD DVDs and then you get a mail in form for the other 5? And my last questions are the $100 rebate will come off automatically on the player and what movies should I pick up? Thanks for all the help.

Again, I think some have jumped the gun in assuming the $100 rebate is on top of the $299. I'm guessing it is included in the $299 price, so it will come off at the register but not at the $199 price that's being floated around here. And the Matrix deal is only at CC I think but you can probably match at a BB, you can pick the 2 movies in store, the other 5 are mail-in from a select list. What you pikc is up to you ultimately, but I suggest looking for combo discreleases you may like first as they are typically the most expensive and you'll get a little bette rvalue that way (I suggest Children of Men as one, but that's just me).

[Transformah]

Children of Men should be on everyone's shelf. I got a copy of the newly pressed batch and had no issues on my 360 player.

Also, I was playing around with the dynamic range function with the NIN sampler disk, and noticed a huge difference in the audio.

[LinkinPrime]

The 5 free is through a Toshiba mail in rebate only, no in store purchasing or exchanging is available for it.



Again, I think some have jumped the gun in assuming the $100 rebate is on top of the $299. I'm guessing it is included in the $299 price, so it will come off at the register but not at the $199 price that's being floated around here. And the Matrix deal is only at CC I think but you can probably match at a BB, you can pick the 2 movies in store, the other 5 are mail-in from a select list. What you pikc is up to you ultimately, but I suggest looking for combo discreleases you may like first as they are typically the most expensive and you'll get a little bette rvalue that way (I suggest Children of Men as one, but that's just me).

I think I did jump the gun, with my posted deal...The reason why I did is because Amazon.com already has the player at $277.88 and the $100 instant rebate doesn't start till Sunday. Its a good indication, but yeah...I may have jumped the gun, along with all the other on the hidefdigest.com forums.

[AdvOfJet]

Has anyone picked up The Fountain yet ? Was looking for some personal opinions on how good the disc was. Just bought the 360 player last week and only have three movies so not an expert yet.

[Duo_Maxwell]

Has anyone picked up The Fountain yet ? Was looking for some personal opinions on how good the disc was. Just bought the 360 player last week and only have three movies so not an expert yet.

I kinda liked the movie, but opinions on that could vary widely as it's def. not one for everybody. As far as looks goes it was pretty nice in HD, but it's kind of one of those films that is designed to purpossly look off as well. Like oversaturated and almost too vibrant colors at times and how alot of the action is covered in shadows (one thing is sure, you can test out your TV's black level with this), but again that's the way the film is basically designed not so much the fault of the disc. It is a nice treat if you have surround sound too as the sound seemed pretty stellar to me.

[rodeojones903]

Has anyone picked up The Fountain yet ? Was looking for some personal opinions on how good the disc was. Just bought the 360 player last week and only have three movies so not an expert yet.

I can't decide if I liked it or not. The HD transfer was ok, but not something I would use to show off HD. Overall I wish I bought Children of Men instead.

[LinkinPrime]

Children of Men should be on everyone's shelf. I got a copy of the newly pressed batch and had no issues on my 360 player.

Also, I was playing around with the dynamic range function with the NIN sampler disk, and noticed a huge difference in the audio.

I don't know about Children of Men being on everyone's shelf...I saw the movie on dvd and I didnt like it. I don't think that its a film that everyone will enjoy.

[Ruined]

just FYI, the $299 HD DVD player at CC/BB doesn't do 1080p tho the 360 one does

so if you got a 1080p set, 360 drive is still the best since the XA2 is about $600

Good 1080p sets do inverse telecine on a 1080i signal to convert it to 1080p without loss, therefore the 1080i HD-A2 will often end up looking the same as a 1080p 360 HD DVD player anyway. Not to mention that the HD-A2 can output lossless audio via HDMI while the 360 cannot.

Although, if your set has particularly poor deinterlacing you can pick up the 1080p HD-A20 for $350-$399, which is essentially the HD-A2 with a deinterlacing chip bolted on.

The ~$550 XA2 you mentioned not only is 1080p but also has the Silicon Optix Reon video processing chip for extra high quality deinterlacing and DVD upconversion and looks significantly better than any other player out there period. So you are getting a lot more for you money here than 1080p.

[Ruined]

I was playing with the Dynamic Range with On/Off.....I didn't really notice a difference. What setting do I want it on typically?

This setting is Dynamic Range Compression. For best quality, you want to turn it off, because when it is on it basically makes the low sounds louder and the high sounds softer. It is useful to turn on if you live in an apartment where you need to keep the volume low on a regular basis.

[LinkinPrime]

MS is promoting The Matrix Trilogy:


What better way to enjoy your Xbox 360™ HD DVD Player than watching all three Matrix films for the first time in breathtaking high-definition?

If ever a film series was meant to be seen in HD DVD, that series is now here. The Matrix, the legendary, groundbreaking sci-fi film, and its visually dazzling second and third installments, The Matrix Reloaded and The Matrix Revolutions were produced with future technology execution in mind.

The Complete Matrix Trilogy contains the exclusive HD DVD versions of the three Matrix films in a three-disc set and presents the complete adventures of machine battling truth-seekers Neo (Keanu Reeves), Trinity (Carrie-Anne Moss), and Morpheus (Laurence Fishburne).

When you purchase The Complete Matrix Trilogy, you will also receive a token in the box to download the entire Animatrix series from Xbox LIVE® Marketplace.

There will also be great content available on Xbox LIVE Marketplace from The Complete Matrix Trilogy and Animatrix.

From May 15 through May 25, download free content like HD trailers from all three Matrix movies and some of your favorite scenes in HD like "Bullet Time in the Subway" and "Morpheus fighting Agent Smith." You can also purchase and download themes for all three films plus Animatrix.

Don't forget, you can still rent the original Matrix movie in standard definition as a download from Xbox LIVE Marketplace.

So if you want to find out the difference between knowing the path and walking the path, get The Complete Matrix Trilogy—and get on Xbox LIVE Marketplace.



http://www.xbox.com/en-US/live/marketplace/moviestv/matrixcollection.htm?WText.camp=TS2-MatrixCollection&WText.campSrc=Home

[TheRock88]

So does the Animatrix code also come with the Ultimate edition or just the Complete edition?

Also, which version are you guys getting? I'll stick with the complete edition mainly because it has the disk art on it and also because I'm not really into the special features, just the movies.

[LinkinPrime]

So does the Animatrix code also come with the Ultimate edition or just the Complete edition?

Also, which version are you guys getting? I'll stick with the complete edition mainly because it has the disk art on it and also because I'm not really into the special features, just the movies.

Sounds like its just going to be on the Complete Edition, since the Ultimate already contains it on disc.

I also went with the Complete Edition since I never watch extras, and I want the disc art as well.

[nharmon91]

Ive had the Ultimate for a few days now so through me some questions if you have any.

[DomLando]

I am looking to either get the Toshiba A2 or A20. I know the big difference is the A20 does 1080p. Does anyone know if there are any other big differences? And how does the upconverting compare between the two for SD DVDs. If the A20 does a lot better job I would be more inclined to spend the extra cash. Thanks in advance for any help.

[nharmon91]

A20 will not do a better job of upconverting than the A2 will as they both use the same faroudja processor. The only differnce between the two is 1080i/p. To recieve better upconvertion you have to resort to the XA2 because it uses the reon instead of the faroudja chip for upconverting. I should also say the XA2 rivals upconversion of $1K DVD Players (such as Denons)

[DomLando]

A20 will not do a better job of upconverting than the A2 will as they both use the same faroudja processor. The only differnce between the two is 1080i/p. To recieve better upconvertion you have to resort to the XA2 because it uses the reon instead of the faroudja chip for upconverting. I should also say the XA2 rivals upconversion of $1K DVD Players (such as Denons)
So I might just go for the A2 then since my TV only outputs 1080i not 1080p. The XA2 is a little to high price wise.

[nnja]

Ive had the Ultimate for a few days now so through me some questions if you have any.
why buy anything other than the first matrix? its like having the choice to buy the first 4 rockys but deciding to go with a set that has the first 5 instead.

[porieux]

why buy anything other than the first matrix? its like having the choice to buy the first 4 rockys but deciding to go with a set that has the first 5 instead.

Unfortunately they are only sold as a set AFAIK.

I will be renting the first one from Netflix.

[thrustbucket]

why buy anything other than the first matrix? its like having the choice to buy the first 4 rockys but deciding to go with a set that has the first 5 instead.

Not everyone loathes the other two matrix films. Some people enjoy watching it for the HD eyecand alone.

[LinkinPrime]

I love the Trilogy...and not just for the eye candy but because of the story.

[LinkinPrime]

Just incase anyone misses the Fry's deals thread or the HD DVD/Blu-Ray thread:

Fry's 1 Day Sale (courtesy of fidodo)

HD DVD

$13.99 (DFW, HOU, LA, LV and SJ)
Batman Begins
Constantine
Full Metal Jacket
GoodFellas
The Last Samurai
March of the Penguins
Swordfish
Training Day
Troy
Unforgiven

[nharmon91]

I love the Trilogy...and not just for the eye candy but because of the story.
Yup, I liked all 3 though the third was the worst by far.

[tenzor]

will the HD-DVD version of Heroes have the same extras if not more then the regular DVD version? I know HD-DVD/Blu Ray have been slacking on extras compared to DVD versions lately, and I would hate for this to happen with heroes.

[thrustbucket]

will the HD-DVD version of Heroes have the same extras if not more then the regular DVD version? I know HD-DVD/Blu Ray have been slacking on extras compared to DVD versions lately, and I would hate for this to happen with heroes.

Nothing has been announced for sure. But i think it is a safe bet, since it's from universal, that it will have the same or more. I'm wondering what they will add to bsg.

[SteveMcQ]

Anyone know any sites that sell the HD-DVD cases in packs? I came across one, but they only sell them in singles.

[tenzor]

so is it confirmed that the "Complete Matrix" Trilogy will have the disc art? and the Ultimate will be double sided without art? I am leaning towards the Complete now especially if it has disc art, and also because I already own the Ultimate Regular DVD version w/ all the extras including the Animatrix.

If anyone got the matrix set early please post some screenshots !!:D

EDIT: found one from fryinpan1 (http://forum.dvdtalk.com/member.php?u=53140) at DVDtalk.com:
http://i207.photobucket.com/albums/bb284/KAZAMA_photos/IMG_0002.jpg

[Sporadic]

so is it confirmed that the "Complete Matrix" Trilogy will have the disc art? and the Ultimate will be double sided without art? I am leaning towards the Complete now especially if it has disc art, and also because I already own the Ultimate Regular DVD version w/ all the extras including the Animatrix.

If anyone got the matrix set early please post some screenshots !!:D

EDIT: found one from fryinpan1 (http://forum.dvdtalk.com/member.php?u=53140) at DVDtalk.com:
*snip*

Yes, it's been confirmed.

Complete is a 3 disc and Ultimate is 5 combo discs.

[nharmon91]

Yea the Ultimate is double sided, movie on one side extras on the other. Then there is a fourth disc with animatrix and other bonuses.

[nharmon91]

If anyone got the matrix set early please post some screenshots !!:D
I'd post some if my camera was remotly good but it is terrible. Ive watched the first two so far and reloaded has slightly better picture quality. If anyone wants to get discs earlier use DVDPacific as they could careless about release dates.

[LinkinPrime]

The Complete Matrix Trilogy 59.99 @ Frys.com...might be same instore this coming Tuesday.

http://image.ak.outpost.com/art/product/box_shots/5214437.box.GIF

http://shop3.outpost.com/product/5214437?site=sr:SEARCH:MAIN_RSLT_PG

Ultimate 79.99

[zman73]

Just got my Matrix set Friday... only watched the first movie... damn...it looks awesome... cant wait to check out Monica Belucci on the second and third movies in high def...

[Duo_Maxwell]

Anyone know any sites that sell the HD-DVD cases in packs? I came across one, but they only sell them in singles.

Mind posting a link to that site? I've been searching for a couple cases to replace some slightly damaged ones I bought from EB used. I don't mind buying in singles either. But I'll keep looking for bundled ones as well just in case.

Edit: Found some bundled, Sleeve City is carrying BD and Hd cases now. It's on their front page as a new item and you can buy in quanities up to 50 (not that most will actually need that many yet). LINK (http://www.sleevetown.com/)

[GizmoGC]

Tuesday will be EXPENSIVE for me

The 40-Year-Old Virgin (Universal) HD
Both Pirates on BR
The OC Season 4
Kitchen Confidential
And 2 other things I am forgetting about.
Damn

Lost in Translation is next week along with Weeds on Blu-Ray.

[SteveMcQ]

Mind posting a link to that site? I've been searching for a couple cases to replace some slightly damaged ones I bought from EB used. I don't mind buying in singles either. But I'll keep looking for bundled ones as well just in case.

Edit: Found some bundled, Sleeve City is carrying BD and Hd cases now. It's on their front page as a new item and you can buy in quanities up to 50 (not that most will actually need that many yet). LINK (http://www.sleevetown.com/)This site (http://www.dvdinternational.com/pd_hd.cfm) has them for $1.49 each. Not sure how much shipping is, though. Thanks for the link you provided. Definitely cheaper from them, but unfortunately, I'm looking for HD cases without the snaps on the sides. I prefer the plain ones without the feet on the bottom as well. I'd appreciate if you updated if you found some of those kind for a better price.

[anomynous]

I'm gonna get the Toshiba HDA2 tomorrow on Amazon if the rebate applies to it

[GizmoGC]

I'm gonna get the Toshiba HDA2 tomorrow on Amazon if the rebate applies to it

It won't. I'd be shocked if it did, and they will be sold out within minutes if so. The rebate is already in effect at Amazon.

Toshiba will begin offering a $100 instant rebate May 20 off its entry-level HD-A2 player, effectively cutting the price to $299 at Best Buy, Circuit City, Amazon.com, HHGregg and other participating retailers.

[geko29]

It won't. I'd be shocked if it did, and they will be sold out within minutes if so. The rebate is already in effect at Amazon.
If that were true, Amazon would be selling the HD-A2 for $10 OVER MSRP, which their CE arm has never done in its entire history. It's currently $310.37, more than pretty much any other retailer at the moment. I expect by tomorrow the $100 rebate will be applied. $299 isn't a hard price, as Costco participation demonstrates. They're selling the HD-D2 (same as the A2 but with a free HDMI cable) for $249.99 as of today. So I'd expect Amazon to be in the $210-220 range within a day or so.

[anomynous]

IMO, The rebate can't already be in affect at amazon, because it's been floating around $300 for months now

[GizmoGC]

IMO, The rebate can't already be in affect at amazon, because it's been floating around $300 for months now

ValueElectronics.com has had the A2 for $300 for the past month+ as well.

[nharmon91]

The 40 Year Old Virgin looks like complete ass, I wouldn't advise spending the extra cash for the HD version since the DVD one is so cheap.

[nharmon91]

ValueElectronics.com has had the A2 for $300 for the past month+ as well. Yeah for AVS members only though (all you need is the affiliate link however). VE is also offering 3 free movies and a 6 ft hdmi cable free.

[GizmoGC]

The 40 Year Old Virgin looks like complete ass, I wouldn't advise spending the extra cash for the HD version since the DVD one is so cheap.

...Do you have it or are you just going buy the 1 person on AVS? Oh, it IS you. Still waiting for pictures of the slipcase...
And I wouldn't take one persons word on anything.

[thrustbucket]

For those of you not subscribed to the hd/bd deals thread:
http://entertainment.circuitcity.com/movies/movie.aspx?prodid=WHV115974HD&linkid=j13459594k1971&affiliateid=k1971&mid=sduidp0t0
Prob a misprint so ymmv.

[icyjones]

that is on slickdeal's front page, so i'm sure they'll get a million orders, and cancel them all. but it's worth a try.

[LinkinPrime]

Shooter on HD DVD July 31st (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Disc_Announcements/Paramount/Shooter_Takes_Aim_on_Blu-ray,_HD_DVD_This_July/643). It was a great movie, will be adding it to my collection.

[Sporadic]

Looks like Pan's Labyrinth is coming to HD-DVD over in France.

Hopefully it will have English subtitles.

http://translate.google.com/translate?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wildside.fr%2Fvideo%2 Ffiche.php%3Fid%3D322%26version%3D3&langpair=fr%7Cen&hl=en&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&prev=%2Flanguage_tools

Wild Side Video has announced Le Labyrinthe de Pan (Pan's Labyrinth) on DVD in 3 editions due for release in France, this July 4.
The HD DVD release of the film will only be available as part of the 5-discs Ultimate Edition set. It will be the world's first THX-Certified high-definition release. The main feature will be presented in 1080p High Definition 16x9 1.85:1 and (supposedly) with DTS-HD audio (Spanish & French).

The 3 DVD discs in the set would contain the standard definition release of the film plus bonus materials found exclusively on the Spanish DVD release, North American DVD release and the French 2-disc DVD release. The last disc of the set will be the original film score/soundtrack CD.

The 5-disc Ultimate Edition set is expected to be priced at 49,99 €.

No details as to whether the French subtitles will be forced or optional English subtitles will be provided. But the HD DVD release is good news anyway, as it may mean that other distributors of the film on home video in other regions may be encouraged to follow suit.

http://hddvdformat.blogspot.com/search/label/HD%20DVD%20Software

[DomLando]

Specs revealed for Heroes on HD DVD: http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Universal/Disc_Announcements/Heroes_HD_DVD_Specs_Revealed/645

[LinkinPrime]

My B/O Underworld Evolution from xploitedcinema.com finally shipped. Woohoo. I'll give impressions as soon as I get my hands on it.

[CaptDS9E]

This coming week will be a treat for those who have not seen the discs yet (got them early). Matrix Trilogy, Closer, Flags of our Fathers, Letters from Iwa Jima, Apocalypto all look terrific. Enjoy!!

[LinkinPrime]

This coming week will be a treat for those who have not seen the discs yet (got them early). Matrix Trilogy, Closer, Flags of our Fathers, Letters from Iwa Jima, Apocalypto all look terrific. Enjoy!!
You mean tomorrow ;)

The Frighteners next week :bouncy:

http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/images/post/1/1941/original.gif

[guyver2077]

for some reason matrix 1 seems out of sync for me....

[Deadpool]

Looks like Pan's Labyrinth is coming to HD-DVD over in France.

Hopefully it will have English subtitles.

http://translate.google.com/translate?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wildside.fr%2Fvideo%2 Ffiche.php%3Fid%3D322%26version%3D3&langpair=fr%7Cen&hl=en&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&prev=%2Flanguage_tools



http://hddvdformat.blogspot.com/search/label/HD%20DVD%20Software

Why the fuck would anyone need 5 discs for 1 movie?!?!

[guyver2077]

this is pissing me off.. i cant figure out this sound delay issue with matrix..

i cant find anyone having the same probs though

[LinkinPrime]

Just watched a few action sequences of The Matrix, and OMG, this is fucking sweet. I'm so giddy with joy right now. The PQ and SQ is amazing. It does seem that I had to turn up the volume a bit more when watching it but I checked the DVD's and it was the same thing for those. I could not be more happier with my set. I would have gladly paid full price.

[guyver2077]

Just watched a few action sequences of The Matrix, and OMG, this is fucking sweet. I'm so giddy with joy right now. The PQ and SQ is amazing. It does seem that I had to turn up the volume a bit more when watching it but I checked the DVD's and it was the same thing for those. I could not be more happier with my set. I would have gladly paid full price.

are you using the 360 add on? does everything appear and sound in sync?
it seems to run better on my pc

[LinkinPrime]

are you using the 360 add on? does everything appear and sound in sync?
it seems to run better on my pc

On 360 add-on and in sync.

[guyver2077]

On 360 add-on and in sync.

maybe its just me... what type of audio connection are you using..

i noticed that the audio coming through my tv speakers is in sync but the audio coming from my optical cable to my sound system is off by a second...

this is strange because there is no audio lag when playing games..

edit- think i got it.... i changed it from dts to dd 5.1 and now its back in sync...

strange that its "lagged" in dts...wonder if anyone else can test this

[nharmon91]

...Do you have it or are you just going buy the 1 person on AVS? Oh, it IS you. Still waiting for pictures of the slipcase...
And I wouldn't take one persons word on anything. Haha yep its me and I didnt take a pic of the lipcase because my camera is 3 mps so it basically looks worse than Amazons pics of it.

[GizmoGC]

Haha yep its me and I didnt take a pic of the lipcase because my camera is 3 mps so it basically looks worse than Amazons pics of it.

I saw the DVD version of it and its pretty cool.
Gonna be poor tomorrow!

[asianxcore]

Why the fuck would anyone need 5 discs for 1 movie?!?!

I was wondering that too. Pan's Labyrinth was one of my favorite movies of 06' but I'm not going to drop $70+ shipping for that set.

The extras would be nice, but having the SD release when the HD release is included in the set just seems off.

I am really excited for next week as well.
-Lost In Translation
-The Frighteners (Director's Cut)
-Dragonheart

I am going to wait on PQ reviews of all three, since I own two on SD already (Lost in Translation + Frighteners). Hopefully The Frighteners HD-DVD will have all the extras, including the 4 hour documentary from the Laserdisc.

[Sporadic]

I'm all over Lost In Translation and (the rumored delayed) The Big Lebowski.

[guyver2077]

ill prob get big lebowski as well...

just got finished watchin matrix 1... fukkin awesome!

[LinkinPrime]

maybe its just me... what type of audio connection are you using..

i noticed that the audio coming through my tv speakers is in sync but the audio coming from my optical cable to my sound system is off by a second...

this is strange because there is no audio lag when playing games..

edit- think i got it.... i changed it from dts to dd 5.1 and now its back in sync...

strange that its "lagged" in dts...wonder if anyone else can test this

I have mine using the Optical Cable, using DTS.

[anomynous]

So how does the 40 Year Old Virgin look?

[TheRock88]

Just picked up Matrix Complete at CC and cant wait to watch it tonight. I was lucky to open it up in my car cause it came with The Matrix and 2 copies of Matrix Revolutions. Had to go back and get an exchange. Just wanted to bring it up to see if this happened to anyone else.

[LinkinPrime]

So "Le Prestige" aka The Prestige comes out on 6/4 on HD DVD in UK....Amazon.co.uk currently sells it for £16.59.

If I converted properly, the total to ship to me is: $38.79. Its very tempting, since it was a kick ass movie.

The "£" symbol is for GBP (Pounds) right?

[cleaver]

So how does the 40 Year Old Virgin look?
Like this
http://www.boostetavie.com/Images_temoignages/mod2_temoignage_green.jpg

[anomynous]

Like this
http://www.boostetavie.com/Images_temoignages/mod2_temoignage_green.jpg
:lol: seriously

[tenzor]

I spent a lot of money today on HD-DVDs/ Blu Ray
-Complete Matrix Trilogy - $69.99 (also got in on the $19.99 CC.com deal, so when I get that shipped I am going to return it back to the store for my $69.99 back, and really only payed $19.99 for the Matrix)
-Letter frrom Iwo Jima - $24.99
-Flags of Our Fathers - $28.99

Blu Ray - Pirates 1 and 2 $24.99 each.

Total was around $190 ouch, but at least the CC.com deal will help lower it down another $50

[anomynous]

I spent a lot of money today on HD-DVDs/ Blu Ray
-Complete Matrix Trilogy - $69.99 (also got in on the $19.99 CC.com deal, so when I get that shipped I am going to return it back to the store for my $69.99 back, and really only payed $19.99 for the Matrix)
-Letter frrom Iwo Jima - $24.99
-Flags of Our Fathers - $28.99

Blu Ray - Pirates 1 and 2 $24.99 each.

Total was around $190 ouch, but at least the CC.com deal will help lower it down another $50
I doubt you're going to get the Matrix for $20

EDIT: nevermind

[guyver2077]

So "Le Prestige" aka The Prestige comes out on 6/4 on HD DVD in UK....Amazon.co.uk currently sells it for £16.59.

If I converted properly, the total to ship to me is: $38.79. Its very tempting, since it was a kick ass movie.

The "£" symbol is for GBP (Pounds) right?

i love that movie...

but cant really justify spending that much when i can get the br for 2x.xx

[Sporadic]

Why the fuck would anyone need 5 discs for 1 movie?!?!

1 HD-DVD, 1 DVD, 2 DVDs full of extras, 1 CD soundtrack and a 64 page booklet

http://img263.imageshack.us/img263/2391/panon3gf1.gif

----------------

So "Le Prestige" aka The Prestige comes out on 6/4 on HD DVD in UK....Amazon.co.uk currently sells it for £16.59.

If I converted properly, the total to ship to me is: $38.79. Its very tempting, since it was a kick ass movie.

The "£" symbol is for GBP (Pounds) right?

UK£ 16.59 = 32.718798 U.S. dollars according to Google.

And I heard they take off the VAT tax when they realize they are shipping it out of the country.

Haven't done it myself so I can't tell you how much if any.

----------

i love that movie...

but cant really justify spending that much when i can get the br for 2x.xx

Well for us HD-DVD only guys, it's the price we have to pay.

It kind of sucks but I just tell myself at least I have the choice and I don't have to pay 500 more dollars to access it.

[guyver2077]

Well for us HD-DVD only guys, it's the price we have to pay.

It kind of sucks but I just tell myself at least I have the choice and I don't have to pay 500 more dollars to access it.

yea i know.... i wouldnt have a br player either had i not gotten the ps3 for a good price..

i still root for hd all the way though

it pisses me off we dont have more studio support in the us

[SteveMcQ]

How did HD vs. BR sales end up last year anyway?

I just got the mailer from HD-DVD world, I believe and the number there haven't looked too good for HD, but I don't know if they factor in the sales of the B2G1 deals for BR lately. The numbers were kinda ugly: 68 to 32 percent in favor of BR.

[Deadpool]

[QUOTE=Sporadic;2946855]1 HD-DVD, 1 DVD, 2 DVDs full of extras, 1 CD soundtrack and a 64 page booklet

http://img263.imageshack.us/img263/2391/panon3gf1.gif

----------------



Holy crap that looks awesome!@

[dafunkk12]

Boo-urns. No indication on the 40-Year Old Virgin slipcase of there being a free ticket to Knocked Up, versus a sticker being on the DVD release. Haven't opened it up yet, though, since I'm waiting for some reviews. It's not necessarily the kind of movie that I believe would demand strong visuals, so I think I'd be willing to return it for the SD release with free ticket for a better value.

[guyver2077]

http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/40yearoldvirgin.html

[LinkinPrime]

----------------
UK£ 16.59 = 32.718798 U.S. dollars according to Google.

And I heard they take off the VAT tax when they realize they are shipping it out of the country.

Haven't done it myself so I can't tell you how much if any.
----------


They do take VAT off. I almost pulled the trigger just wanted to see the actual total. It was like $6 for Air Mail, which is pretty damn good.

[Machikunas]

Does anyone have any idea how long it will be before I can get just the 1st Matrix on HD DVD? I don't want the other two.

[KaneRobot]

I just got the mailer from HD-DVD world, I believe and the number there haven't looked too good for HD.

The format will be fine. Ever since the Feb/Mar drought ended, there has been a strong upward trend in sales. If discs are released, people will buy them.

[Ruined]

The Prestige HD DVD

A bit pricey, but HD DVD fans can now preorder this UK Warner Bros title for $38 US shipped from amazon.co.uk:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/exec/obidos/ASIN/B000QEIPXO/026-2921256-5247654

Since its Warner, expect pristine VC-1 video and high quality audio on an HD30 disc.

Note that this release will work great on all HD DVD players as it is 1080p24 and not region coded.

[LinkinPrime]

The Prestige HD DVD

A bit pricey, but HD DVD fans can now preorder this UK Warner Bros title for $38 US shipped from amazon.co.uk:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/exec/obidos/ASIN/B000QEIPXO/026-2921256-5247654

Since its Warner, expect pristine VC-1 video and high quality audio on an HD30 disc.

Note that this release will work great on all HD DVD players as it is 1080p24 and not region coded.
Look a few posts up from yours...;)

[CaptDS9E]

I have the BR version of The Prestige. Hopefully it looks just as good on the HDDVD release. I couldn't wait to see the movie so I caved

[guyver2077]

lebowski has a release date of june 26 on amazon...

wtf

[Sporadic]

lebowski has a release date of june 26 on amazon...

wtf

That's the rumored delayed thing I was talking about.

-------

Good news on the import front. Disc 2 of Terminator 2 is subtitle free while disc 1 has the ablitiy to shrink them down small enough to stay in the black bar.

Also Mullholland Dr.'s subtitles are removeable.

[KaneRobot]

T2 does have the audio speed-up, though, despite people screaming about it relentlessly earlier this year. Pretty sad that they still haven't fixed it.

Still, the pitch thing is minor/unnoticeable to some people, so if you can deal with that and not sweat the subtitles on the theatrical cut, it's probably safe bet.

[Sporadic]

T2 does have the audio speed-up, though, despite people screaming about it relentlessly earlier this year. Pretty sad that they still haven't fixed it.

Still, the pitch thing is minor/unnoticeable to some people, so if you can deal with that and not sweat the subtitles on the theatrical cut, it's probably safe bet.

Yeah, I have Total Recall and IMO the whole audio speed-up thing is blown way out of proportion.

The only way you are going to notice it is if you a giant fan of the movies/seen it a thousand times or if you have a side by side comparison.

Even after doing a side by side with Total Recall, it isn't a dealbreaker in my eyes.

[TheRock88]

Sounds good, Xploited is out of T2 right now but I'm gonna order it as soon as they get more in.

[Sporadic]

Sounds good, Xploited is out of T2 right now but I'm gonna order it as soon as they get more in.

They aren't sold out, it's still listed as a preorder.

[GizmoGC]

Just placed my order from 'The Graduate' HD DVD from Xploited...will report back when I get mine.

[Sporadic]

I'm selling a chunk of my HD-DVD collection because I crave import Terminator 2 and Mulholland Dr.

So if you are interested in La Haine, Bullitt, Training Day and Unforgiven; check out my thread.

http://www.cheapassgamer.com/forums/showthread.php?p=2950770#post2950770

[LinkinPrime]

Warner Says 'Departed' is Most Sold High-Def Title; Studio Trumpets Dual Support of HD DVD, Blu-ray


Warner Home Entertainment today announced that their dual-format release of 'The Departed' is the highest selling high-def disc title, having moved over 100,000 units since its release in February of this year. Those who keep track of such things may remember that back in March, Sony issued its own press release (http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/news/show/544) saying that the Blu-ray edition of 'Casino Royale (http://bluray.highdefdigest.com/casinoroyale.html)' (released a full month after 'The Departed') had shipped 100,000 units. The key difference between the two announcements is that Sony's referred to the number of discs shipped, whereas Warner's refers to the number of discs sold.


highdefdigest (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Warner/Disc_Sales/Warner_Says_Departed_is_Most_Sold_High-Def_Title_Studio_Trumpets_Dual_Support_of_HD_DVD,_ Blu-ray/649)

I hope that other companies see this type of success and they go neutral and start making stuff for HD DVD...I'm talking to you Disney!

[grendel19]

highdefdigest (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Warner/Disc_Sales/Warner_Says_Departed_is_Most_Sold_High-Def_Title_Studio_Trumpets_Dual_Support_of_HD_DVD,_ Blu-ray/649)

I hope that other companies see this type of success and they go neutral and start making stuff for HD DVD...I'm talking to you Disney!I'm really curious as to why any studios would care to be exclusive. There must be something going on behind the scenes with these corporations that we consumers would never know about.

By staying exclusive with one format, a studio is essentially cutting themselves out of a portion of the high definition optical disc market. For example for the PoTC movies, Disney is losing all the business they could generate had they released on HDDVD also. A HDDVD owner isn't necessarily going to go out and buy a BD player just for these BD only movies. So essentially Disney prefers to have lost the sales this market could have potentially generated for them?

Isn't corporations about making money after all?

Just for argument sake, if 33% only has a BD player, 33% has both formats, and 33% only has HDDVD player. Why lose out on that other 33% you're not supporting?

If production cost is really a factor for these studios, then they would have supported HDDVD in the first place. The same machinery currently pressing standard DVDs can also run HDDVDs with slight adjustments. Production for BD supposedly costs even more and requires completely new machinery. So I don't buy the production cost excuse.

What about costing more to produce in both formats? I highly doubt adding HDDVD support (or even BD for that matter for Universal) would put a dent in these corporations' pockets. Considering that then they'd be able to sell to 100% of the HD optical disc market, I think it more than makes up for the increased costs.

I just don't understand why IP companies would be such staunch supporters of a specific technology. Wouldn't they want to get their IP's out in the market as much as possible for complete penetration and the best overall sales?

[Sarang01]

Grendel, Sony is putting money in their pocket.

[LinkinPrime]

Well, most of the time, they have exclusivity contracts with the hardware co. For instance, from what I've heard, Sony gives bonuses or "contracts" to studios like Fox, Disney...etc. just like Toshiba has with Universal. As long as they stay with one format, they get bonuses. But at some point, the bonus is going to end up losing them money and studios might go neutral.

[Bezerker]

The 360 HD-DVD audio fix is out. I downloaded the update from the xbox site, but it didnt do any update status screens or anything. It basically just booted the disc and said "press A to eject". Did anyone else that downloaded the update online get any status screens?

[ryanbph]

thanks to linkins post on the matrix collection on amazon, I ordered that and flags of our fathers and letters from iwagima (sp?) from amazon the other day....is there a reason why it takes so long for amazon to ship there items...I can understand that maybe the matrix might be sold out, but I can't imagine that the other 2 discs are being bought up a lot..

[LinkinPrime]

thanks to linkins post on the matrix collection on amazon, I ordered that and flags of our fathers and letters from iwagima (sp?) from amazon the other day....is there a reason why it takes so long for amazon to ship there items...I can understand that maybe the matrix might be sold out, but I can't imagine that the other 2 discs are being bought up a lot..

Your welcome ;).

Amazon tends to wait for all items to be available to ship them together. This way it saves you and them money. They are also notorious for not shipping on time. I imaging that they have giagantic warehouses and it takes 24-48hrs to process an order to ship.

[LinkinPrime]

Just watched some of "Underworld Evolution" and OMG! The PQ and Sound is amazing, easily one of the best. HD DVD keeps impressing me with every new title I watch. I will definately be purchasing imports from xploitedcinema.com again.

[Deadpool]

Just watched some of "Underworld Evolution" and OMG! The PQ and Sound is amazing, easily one of the best. HD DVD keeps impressing me with every new title I watch. I will definately be purchasing imports from xploitedcinema.com again.

But they cost so damn much.... urgh.

[Sporadic]

Good and bad news.

Shaun Of The Dead has been confirmed for July 31
The Big Lebowski has been confirmed delayed to June 26

[Sporadic]

Let the pants-shitting commence.

Warner Bros will release Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles on August 7.

DVD - $28.98 US SRP
HD DVD/DVD - $39.99 SRP
Blu-ray - $34.99 SRP

Includes:

An Alternate opening and an alternate ending
Commentary by writer/director Kevin Munroe
Deleted Scenes
Storyboard sequences
Voice Talent: First Look

http://forums.highdefdigest.com/showthread.php?t=8349

[LinkinPrime]

Let the pants-shitting commence.
Warner Bros will release Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles on August 7.

DVD - $28.98 US SRP
HD DVD/DVD - $39.99 SRP
Blu-ray - $34.99 SRP

Includes:

An Alternate opening and an alternate ending
Commentary by writer/director Kevin Munroe
Deleted Scenes
Storyboard sequences
Voice Talent: First Look


http://forums.highdefdigest.com/showthread.php?t=8349
Fuck! It had to be a motherfucking combo. Oh well I'll still be getting it.

[guyver2077]

Let the pants-shitting commence.



http://forums.highdefdigest.com/showthread.php?t=8349

fuck was hoping for a weinstein exclusive...

fuk and como disks~!!!!!!! nooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

[SteveMcQ]

fuk and como disks~!!!!!!! noooooooooooooooooooooooooooWhat he said.

[thrustbucket]

bring on the releases, don't mind combo discs

[CaptDS9E]

Big fan of everything TMNT, so looking forward to seeing the movie

[rsigley]

too bad weinstein didn't handle the dvd release like the theater

hd dvd would been $29.99 and no combo :(

[Sporadic]

Band Of Brothers is up on amazon.co.jp

$123.27 without shipping for all 5.

http://www.amazon.co.jp/exec/obidos/ASIN/B000QUUG8K/ref=ord_cart_shr/503-1575232-5175900?%5Fencoding=UTF8&m=AN1VRQENFRJN5

http://www.amazon.co.jp/exec/obidos/ASIN/B000QUUG8U/ref=ord_cart_shr/503-1575232-5175900?%5Fencoding=UTF8&m=AN1VRQENFRJN5

http://www.amazon.co.jp/exec/obidos/ASIN/B000QUUG94/ref=ord_cart_shr/503-1575232-5175900?%5Fencoding=UTF8&m=AN1VRQENFRJN5

http://www.amazon.co.jp/exec/obidos/ASIN/B000QUUG9E/ref=ord_cart_shr/503-1575232-5175900?%5Fencoding=UTF8&m=AN1VRQENFRJN5

http://www.amazon.co.jp/exec/obidos/ASIN/B000QUUG9O/ref=ord_cart_shr/503-1575232-5175900?%5Fencoding=UTF8&m=AN1VRQENFRJN5

Toshiba Entertainment Inc. and Amuse Soft Entertainment ,Inc has announced that the HD DVD release of Tom Hanks' and Steven Spielberg's Band of Brothers will arrive in Japan on July 27.

The entire series which was originally produced with high definition TVs in mind and consist of 10 parts will released in 5 volumes. Each HD DVD (HD-30 disc) will contain one volume of the series, comprising of 2 parts. The 5 volumes are expected to be sold seperately, with each volume being priced at 3,990 Yen. The main feature on each disc will be presented in 1080p High Definition 16x9 1.78:1 with DTS-HD 5.1 (English & Japanese voiceover) audio tracks. Previously, it was indicated that the 2 audio tracks will be in Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1. Only Japanese subtitles (for both the English and Japanese voiceover audio tracks) are provided.

All discs will contain the following as bonus materials:
Preview trailer of the next few parts (Japanese edition)
Cast & Crew Profile (Stills)

Documentary We Stand Alone Together (80 mins.) will be available only on the Vol. 5 HD DVD disc.

http://img501.imageshack.us/img501/393/hddvdph01ra5.jpg

[thrustbucket]

Warner Home Video is running another 20% off coupon. They also have 300 up for preorder, which you can use the coupon on. 300 only appears through this (http://www.warnervideo.com/warner_bros_hi_definition/us/html/titles.html)site. Click on "browse titles".

Note that you will not get free shipping unless your order is at least $60. The coupon code is WBWEL

Here is my haul:
1 300 (HD/DVD Combo) HD-DVD $23.96
1 Blood Diamond (HD) HD-DVD $15.96
1 Letters From Iwo Jima (HD/DVD Combo) HD-DVD $23.96
Product Subtotal: $63.88
Tax: $0.00

[rsigley]

thanks

picked up letters, the fountain, and blue planet for the same price $63.88

[Sarang01]

Does anyone know in particular who did the CGI on TMNT?

[LinkinPrime]

Does anyone know in particular who did the CGI on TMNT?

Imagi

[Ruined]

Memorial Day 2007

Toshiba HD-A2 is the #1 selling DVD player on AMAZON.COM:
http://www.amazon.com/Toshiba-HD-A2-HD-DVD-Player/dp/B000IJV4BC
Only $242!

AMAZON.COM AVSFORUM HD DVD buy day (today) slingshots HD DVD past BD in software sales:
http://www.hdgamedb.com/amazon/history.aspx?TYPE=25&SPAN=0

[guyver2077]

Warner Home Video is running another 20% off coupon. They also have 300 up for preorder, which you can use the coupon on. 300 only appears through this (http://www.warnervideo.com/warner_bros_hi_definition/us/html/titles.html)site. Click on "browse titles".

Note that you will not get free shipping unless your order is at least $60. The coupon code is WBWEL

Here is my haul:
1 300 (HD/DVD Combo) HD-DVD $23.96
1 Blood Diamond (HD) HD-DVD $15.96
1 Letters From Iwo Jima (HD/DVD Combo) HD-DVD $23.96
Product Subtotal: $63.88
Tax: $0.00

interesting.. may jump on this offer again... both preorders ive made on wb so far have arrived on the monday before release tuesday.....i like the fact that they ship early..great service so far..

im contemplating on what format to order 300 on... i really wanted to get this on hd but the combo disks turns me off on top of the extra $$..

they still dont have tmnt on there?.

[Sporadic]

interesting.. may jump on this offer again... both preorders ive made on wb so far have arrived on the monday before release tuesday.....i like the fact that they ship early..great service so far..

im contemplating on what format to order 300 on... i really wanted to get this on hd but the combo disks turns me off on top of the extra $$..

they still dont have tmnt on there?.

300 has extra features like Blood Diamond last time I heard.

[guyver2077]

300 has extra features like Blood Diamond last time I heard.

really? gotta see if i can find some info..

edit.. yea i read the hd dvd version will have the pip commentary and an exlcusive game

what was that movie that was supposed to have online features...?

edit.. that was blood diamond.. interesting it looks like its not a combo either but comes out a month after the br

[Sporadic]

Here's the 300 exclusives.

Both the BD-50 Blu-ray and HD DVD/DVD combo versions will feature identical 1080p/VC-1 transfers and, in a welcome move from Warner, matching Dolby TrueHD (48kHz/16-bit) 5.1 surround tracks.

Also comparable on each will be "over 90 minutes of bonus features," including audio commentary with director Zack Snyder and the filmmakers, multiple featurettes and more.

Things become a bit more lopsided as we move into the high-def exclusive features, with only the HD DVD edition (not the Blu-ray) also boasting a picture-in-picture video commentary, plus the exclusive "Vengeance & Valor" interactive game.

[Deadpool]

Warner Home Video is running another 20% off coupon. They also have 300 up for preorder, which you can use the coupon on. 300 only appears through this (http://www.warnervideo.com/warner_bros_hi_definition/us/html/titles.html)site. Click on "browse titles".

Note that you will not get free shipping unless your order is at least $60. The coupon code is WBWEL

Here is my haul:
1 300 (HD/DVD Combo) HD-DVD $23.96
1 Blood Diamond (HD) HD-DVD $15.96
1 Letters From Iwo Jima (HD/DVD Combo) HD-DVD $23.96
Product Subtotal: $63.88
Tax: $0.00


Damn there goes more cash! Thanx

[LinkinPrime]

Heroes Season One HD DVD $69.99 @ Amazon.com

http://www.amazon.com/Heroes-Season-1-HD-DVD/dp/B000QTD5TS/ref=sr_1_20/104-2849798-0466352?ie=UTF8&s=dvd&qid=1180408623&sr=8-20

[Tha Xecutioner]

Anyone who pre-ordered the Terminator 2 HD-DVD from Xploited Cinema needs to check their e-mail. I got a message saying that the details of the movie where changed, in that:
While the extended version has optional French subtitles for the English track the theatrical version has FORCED French subtitles when accessing the English audio track.

[guyver2077]

Heroes Season One HD DVD $69.99 @ Amazon.com

http://www.amazon.com/Heroes-Season-1-HD-DVD/dp/B000QTD5TS/ref=sr_1_20/104-2849798-0466352?ie=UTF8&s=dvd&qid=1180408623&sr=8-20

i guess we prob wont get deals on this..its universal right?

[Sporadic]

Anyone who pre-ordered the Terminator 2 HD-DVD from Xploited Cinema needs to check their e-mail. I got a message saying that the details of the movie where changed, in that:

Yeah, that has been known for a while now.

Thankfully you can shrink the subtitles and make them sit only in the black bar.

[Sporadic]

Hot Fuzz confirmed for July 24th. Kind of weird they are releasing it before Shaun Of The Dead.

Get ready for a heaping of 'Hot Fuzz' on HD DVD this summer, when Universal Studios Home Entertainment releases the hit cult comedy on July 24.

The brainchild of 'Shaun of the Dead' co-creators Simon Pegg and Edgar Wright, 'Hot Fuzz' received strong critical notice and break-out box office during its limited theatrical run this past season. But as with 'Shaun,' the film should enjoy an even stronger audience when it hits HD DVD day-and-date with the standard DVD release.


Universal will grant the film the special edition treatment on high-def, with a 1080p/VC-1 transfer and Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 surround (1.5mbps) soundtrack.

Extras are set to include audio commentary with Pegg and Wright, two making-of featurettes, deleted scenes, outtakes and more.

Universal has set a $39.98 list price for the HD DVD/DVD combo release.

http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Universal/Disc_Announcements/HD_DVD_to_Get_a_Little_Hot_Fuzz_This_July/655

[LinkinPrime]

Anyone seen The Frighteners cheaper than Amazon's $19.99?

Also, here's the cover art for TMNT:

http://img508.imageshack.us/img508/166/untitledsh0.jpg

[guyver2077]

lol at the boo!.

i agree but ill definitely envy the disc art

[SteveMcQ]

Fuck! Combo!

At least Michelangelo is up front.

[ryanbph]

dammit all, everytime I check in on this thread my wallet opens somewhere

[LinkinPrime]

Got Frighteners for $15.xx after GGC at Buy.com. Guess I'll see it in about a week or so.

[guyver2077]

anyone know how long the wb coupon will be around?

[asianxcore]

was anyone able to find The Frighteners, Lost In Translation, or Dragonheart at any B&M stores?

I've been busy most of the day so I haven't been able to stop by any stores. I was told by a Best Buy employee who posts on DVDTalk that they wouldn't be carrying the 3 above titles.

[GizmoGC]

was anyone able to find The Frighteners, Lost In Translation, or Dragonheart at any B&M stores?

I've been busy most of the day so I haven't been able to stop by any stores. I was told by a Best Buy employee who posts on DVDTalk that they wouldn't be carrying the 3 above titles.

All three were at Fry's for $19.99. GREAT price for them!
I went to Best Buy first to take advantage of the buy 3 get $20 off...but they don;t even carry them! So I bought all (got 40 Y/O instead of Dragonheart) and Weeds at Frys for $19.99 a pop.

[Sporadic]

anyone know how long the wb coupon will be around?

It's been around for a few months now so I imagine that it isn't going anywhere soon.

[guyver2077]

I's been around for a few months now so I imagine that it isn't going anywhere soon.

k..i thought that it had just came back....

ill wait till tmnt shows up on their site... i cant think of any other movie i want besides 300 and blood diamond

[Psykoboy2]

I can't stand the Combo discs. They never seem to be able to play very well on my 360's HD-DVD drive. At some point during playback, it eventually stops playing altogether and I have to flip the disc just to finish.

Never had that problem with the Blu-Ray on the PS3 - yet.

[Psykoboy2]

Where can one find this WB coupon? Is it in this thread or another?

[Sporadic]

Last page

Warner Home Video is running another 20% off coupon. They also have 300 up for preorder, which you can use the coupon on. 300 only appears through this (http://www.warnervideo.com/warner_bros_hi_definition/us/html/titles.html)site. Click on "browse titles".

Note that you will not get free shipping unless your order is at least $60. The coupon code is WBWEL

Here is my haul:
1 300 (HD/DVD Combo) HD-DVD $23.96
1 Blood Diamond (HD) HD-DVD $15.96
1 Letters From Iwo Jima (HD/DVD Combo) HD-DVD $23.96
Product Subtotal: $63.88
Tax: $0.00

[guyver2077]

wow just saw a commercial for the toshiba hd dvd player...

bout time they market more

[Ruined]

I can't stand the Combo discs. They never seem to be able to play very well on my 360's HD-DVD drive. At some point during playback, it eventually stops playing altogether and I have to flip the disc just to finish.

Never had that problem with the Blu-Ray on the PS3 - yet.

That's because Microsoft has been slow as heck on their updates. Toshiba has already released a fix for the combo issue in the form of v1.6 firmware for the HD-A2/A20/XA2. Basically the issue was that combo discs are microscopically thicker than a regular HD DVD which results in read problems with the Toshiba HD DVDROM drive (the first gen NEC HD DVDROM drives in the A1/XA1 are unaffected). Microsoft needs to release a similar firmware upgrade for the 360 HD DVD because it uses the Toshiba HD DVDROM drive, but they have not yet. Hopefully that will be forthcoming shortly.

[Sporadic]

It's finally judgement day for me.

I can either get:

1) Terminator II, Mulholland Dr, and probably Hot Fuzz
2) One of the imports, Blue Planet, 300 and The Fountain
3) Blue Planet, 300, The Fountain, Shaun Of The Dead, and Hot Fuzz

Things to know:
1) Just about all of these would be blind buys (Terminator II, The Fountain, Shaun Of The Dead aren't)
2) These are all planned to be bought eventually.
3) I'm more interested in quality/replayablity over quantity
4) I have never seen a David Lynch movie and am very intrigued by Mulholland

What would you do?

[KaneRobot]

#2 with Terminator 2, as long as you don't mind the subtitles on the one disc. I didn't see 300, however. Based on the response from people I trust most on movies, I have no desire to see it either. Should be a good looking disc though.

[thrustbucket]

#2 with Terminator 2, as long as you don't mind the subtitles on the one disc. I didn't see 300, however. Based on the response from people I trust most on movies, I have no desire to see it either. Should be a good looking disc though.

It's a comic book movie. Scene by scene recreated for a movie. Just like sin city. As long as you go into it knowing that, and expecting that, I don't know how you can't like it.

Unless, of course, you just hate that type of thing. The only people I know that didn't like 300 were the ones expecting bravehart.

[edison]

It's finally judgement day for me.

I can either get:

1) Terminator II, Mulholland Dr, and probably Hot Fuzz
2) One of the imports, Blue Planet, 300 and The Fountain
3) Blue Planet, 300, The Fountain, Shaun Of The Dead, and Hot Fuzz

Things to know:
1) Just about all of these would be blind buys (Terminator II, The Fountain, Shaun Of The Dead aren't)
2) These are all planned to be bought eventually.
3) I'm more interested in quality/replayablity over quantity
4) I have never seen a David Lynch movie and am very intrigued by Mulholland

What would you do?

Personally, I would lean toward (3) minus The Fountain (sorry I just couldn't get into it, gawd awful boring movie). If you liked Shaun I don't see how you won't like Hot Fuzz (I really enjoyed both), and 300 was awesome in the theater I can't wait to see it in HD.

[Sporadic]

Personally, I would lean toward (3) minus The Fountain (sorry I just couldn't get into it, gawd awful boring movie). If you liked Shaun I don't see how you won't like Hot Fuzz (I really enjoyed both), and 300 was awesome in the theater I can't wait to see it in HD.

I love The Fountain and am a giant fan of the Spaced boys (even imported the DVD set)

[guyver2077]

i almost jumped on the buy 2 hd dvd at bb deal...

too bad they overcharge for every damn movie...i had 40 yr old virgin in my hand but could not decide on another one

[tenzor]

300 Specs/Extras and Box Art revealed for HD/DVd and Blu Ray

HD-DVD Extras


The HD DVD COMBO features the following special features:

BLUESCREEN PICTURE-IN-PICTURE VERSION: Director Zack Snyder Compares the Pre-CGI-Enhanced Version to the Finished Film
ADDITIONAL SCENES of the Traitorous Hunchback and Never-Before-Seen Giant Warriors
FRANK MILLER's Vision Realized on Film [in High Definition]
[I]300 SPARTANS - FACT OR FICTION?: The Shocking Life of a Spartan Revealed
[I]WHO WERE THE SPARTANS?: How the Actors Built Their Characters Based on Spartan Customs
WEBISODES: Go on Set with the Cast and Crew
Exclusive to HD DVD Game [I]Vengeance and Valor: Lead More Spartan Warriors into Battle Against Xerxes' Forces and Test Your Combat-Hardened Knowledge of Tactics and Strategy
PICK YOUR FAVORITE SCENES: Assemble Your Favorite Clips and Create Your Own Montage
WEB-ENABLED FEATURES: Cool Mobile Downloads


Blu Ray version:
The Blu-ray disc features the following special features:

ADDITIONAL SCENES of the Traitorous Hunchback and Never-Before-Seen Giant Warriors
FRANK MILLER's Vision Realized on Film [in High Definition]
[I]300 SPARTANS - FACT OR FICTION?: The Shocking Life of a Spartan Revealed
[I]WHO WERE THE SPARTANS?: How the Actors Built Their Characters Based on Spartan Customs [in High Definition]
WEBISODES: Go on Set with the Cast and Crew
COMMENTARY by Director Zack Snyder - and MORE!


article and box art found here http://dvd.ign.com/articles/793/793048p1.html

[Deadpool]

WTF no commentary on the HD-DVD?

[DomLando]

Maybe someone can help me in this thread. Currently my TV has 2 Component ins and 2 HDMI. I have a Satellite receiver, PS3, Xbox 360, Wii, and an HD DVD player. My receiver is an older Yamaha and right now I can not afford to upgrade so it only excepts 3 optical ins. I have an older switch right now that does component. Basically what I want to do is hook everything I can up by HDMI which is the PS3, HD DVD player, and Satellite so I need an HDMI switch. The HDMi switches I see don't have optical for sound. So here is my question. I want to hook up those 3 to HDMI and the 360 and Wii can go to my TVs components but I will need 4 places for optical and only have 3 ins. What can i do? Any info would help. Thanks in advance.

[Sporadic]

WTF no commentary on the HD-DVD?

Wouldn't it be the DVD side that contains the commentary?

[Deadpool]

Wouldn't it be the DVD side that contains the commentary?

God i hope not...

[Sporadic]

God i hope not...

Why not?

Do you need HD visuals to hear the director talk?

---------------

Anyways, I ordered Terminator II and Mulholland Dr tonight from Xploited Cinema.

I paid extra for Priority shipping so hopefully Tony will put some funk on it and they will show up on Saturday.

[guyver2077]

Why not?

Do you need HD visuals to hear the director talk?

---------------

Anyways, I ordered Terminator II and Mulholland Dr tonight from Xploited Cinema.

I paid extra for Priority shipping so hopefully Tony will put some funk on it and they will show up on Saturday.

hell yea i do!!

fuck which brings up back to this shitty combo disk concept...... i dont think ive used the standard dvd side once of any of my combo disk...

do these publishers expect us to switch over for these shitty extras..

fuck combos!!!

i may get 300 combo just to support hd but this may be the last one i get

[tenzor]

its a given that most new movies are combo disc only, and the only time they aren't is when the movie is just being re-released for HD-DVD (ex. Blood Diamond, 40 Yr Old Virgin, etc) or simply just a re-releaed of HD-DVD (ex. Army of darkness, unleashed)

[tenzor]

Maybe someone can help me in this thread. Currently my TV has 2 Component ins and 2 HDMI. I have a Satellite receiver, PS3, Xbox 360, Wii, and an HD DVD player. My receiver is an older Yamaha and right now I can not afford to upgrade so it only excepts 3 optical ins. I have an older switch right now that does component. Basically what I want to do is hook everything I can up by HDMI which is the PS3, HD DVD player, and Satellite so I need an HDMI switch. The HDMi switches I see don't have optical for sound. So here is my question. I want to hook up those 3 to HDMI and the 360 and Wii can go to my TVs components but I will need 4 places for optical and only have 3 ins. What can i do? Any info would help. Thanks in advance.

this should do the trick $19.99
http://www.amazon.com/Digital-Optical-Toslink-Selector-Connections/dp/B000812QC6/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1/103-7160911-6463800?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1180596253&sr=8-1

only does 3, but you said you already have 3 on your receiver meaning once you hook this up to your receiver you will still have two extra optical ports, and 3 on this splitter. So that is a total of 5 optical ports. Then you can use get that HDMI switch separate, and us this splitter to get optical.

[Ruined]

hell yea i do!!

fuck which brings up back to this shitty combo disk concept...... i dont think ive used the standard dvd side once of any of my combo disk...

do these publishers expect us to switch over for these shitty extras..

fuck combos!!!

i may get 300 combo just to support hd but this may be the last one i get

http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Disc_Announcements/Warner/300_to_Conquer_Blu-ray,_HD_DVD_This_July/631

First of all, here is the official 300 feature list

HD-DVD (Combo) Features:
• 1080p Widescreen
• Dolby TrueHD 5.1
• Dolby Digital Plus 5.1
• Audio Commentary with director Zack Snyder, writer Kurt Johnstad and director of photography Larry Fong
• Deleted Scenes with Introduction by Zack Snyder
• 300 Spartans - Fact or Fiction?
• Who Were The Spartans: The Warriors of 300
• Frank Miller Tapes
• Webisodes
• Photo gallery
• EXCLUSIVE: IME: Watch the entire film with Blue Screen Picture-in-Picture (PIP) functionality and special commentary by Zack Snyder.
• EXCLUSIVE: HD strategy game Vengeance & Valor

Blu-ray Features:
• 1080p Widescreen
• Dolby TrueHD 5.1
• Dolby Digital 5.1
• Audio Commentary with director Zack Snyder, writer Kurt Johnstad and director of photography Larry Fong
• Deleted Scenes with Introduction by Zack Snyder
• 300 Spartans - Fact or Fiction?
• Who Were The Spartans: The Warriors of 300
• Frank Miller Tapes
• Webisodes
• Photo gallery

Second...

Dude, you need to fucking chill with your blind hatred of combo discs!

The HD DVD of 300 has not only an audio commentary, but also a PiP video commentary exclusive to the HD DVD version.

A HD30/DVD9 combo is identical on the HD side to a single sided HD30 release. There is no more or less space or functionality, its exactly the same. The only difference is instead of getting a label on one side you get the same film in DVD format.

I think you have some misconceptions about price. Combo or no combo, studios will gouge for new releases. Universal charged 39.99 for a single disc HD30 of King Kong (no combo). Paramount charged 39.99 for a single disc HD30 of Babel. Warner charges $34.99 for single disc Blu-Ray releases. You are not going to get $20 new releases, and it has nothing to do with the combo disc, it has to do with the studios wanting to charge significantly more money for new releases vs. catalog titles - because they know that people will pay more for them. Even if studios drop combos you will still be paying 34.99 - 39.99 for new releases, you will simply be getting less for your money.

I find the combo very useful. It allows the disc to play anywhere and the DVD side allows for easy transcoding to portable formats or backup to media server. Further, when HD DVD goes mainstream the combo disc will allow studios to sell new releases with a single combo SKU (no DVD version at all) causing HD DVD penetration to skyrocket.

I see some complain about scratching... Who cares? Treat the DVD side as you would a label. If you scratch the DVD side, it doesn't matter because a single sided disc wouldn't even have a DVD side! Hell, write 300 HD DVD on the DVD side with a sharpie when you get it if you want to get over scratch anxiety and find no use for the DVD side. You paid for the DVD side? well, you would have paid a $5-$10 premium for a single sided new release anyway -you just would have gotten a label instead. And lets face it, with Amazon prices you are really paying no more than $2 extra for combo releases.

As or glitching, it has been fixed on the standalone side with the 2.2 and 1.6 firmwares for gen1 and gen2 respectively for weeks. I'm aware that the 360 HD DVD player still has issues on combos at times since it uses the same drive as gen2 and hence has the same "thickness" read issues with select discs that gen2 had prior to 1.6 firmware. Microsoft needs to issue a fix for the thickness issue and do it fast instead of taking 6 months like they did to fix the sound issues; Microsoft has plenty of resources and can apply the same fix Toshiba did in gen2 1.6 firmware since its the same HD DVDROM drive. Until then, Universal has an exchange program where you can exchange the problematic discs for replacements.

Anyway, combos are great and I hope they continue with new releases. I feel I'm getting a lot more for my money with a $35-$40 new combo release than if I paid the same for a single sided, single disc new release. While a $20 new release would probably be best of all, I don't see that happening anytime soon with the current price "tiers" of the studios with HD content at this time.

[ashram]

this should do the trick $19.99
http://www.amazon.com/Digital-Optical-Toslink-Selector-Connections/dp/B000812QC6/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1/103-7160911-6463800?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1180596253&sr=8-1

only does 3, but you said you already have 3 on your receiver meaning once you hook this up to your receiver you will still have two extra optical ports, and 3 on this splitter. So that is a total of 5 optical ports. Then you can use get that HDMI switch separate, and us this splitter to get optical.

save some cash buying it here
http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=104&cp_id=10423&cs_id=1042302&p_id=2946&seq=1&format=2&style=

[rsigley]

The problem I have with combo disks is that at most online retailers for multi format releases the blu ray is $24.99 and the combo disk hd dvd is $29.99

Whereas non combo disk HD and blu ray are usually the same price.

Since I have both players I tend to buy the blu ray version. I wanna support HD DVD, but it doesn't make sense to spend $5 extra for every movie and for a regular DVD side I'll never use.

And plus how many people are actually buying combo disks now in anticipation of buying a HD Player soon? Maybe that was true when the players were > $500, but now with the A2 being so cheap I don't think anyone's doing that. I'm sure some people have valid reasons for having combo disks, but I think more people would prefer the lower price than those reasons.

All it does is drive up the price and cost them sales (I'm sure I'm not the only person who chose a blu ray equivilent over price)

[guyver2077]

Well besides my blind hatred for combo discs.....

I just dont see these discs making it or even standing out to consumers. I definitely want all my features on one disk.

Secondly, the prices in store are just ridiculous. These stupid discs are making the prices in stores very unreasonable and out of the pulse-buy range. For instance at best buy yesterday they have these movies in 34.99-39.99 range. That is fucking ridiculous.

If i was an idiot and knew nothing about the format wars, i would instantly probably favor br because of the cheaper prices and better catalog.

I also fall into that "pulling for hd category" where i want to buy the hd version but the combo disks totally fuck that up for me.

Plus you know in the future they will prob release non combo versions of the movie....

Keep in mind that originally dvd pulled the same thing with double sided discs and i thought those sucked as well.

[Duo_Maxwell]

I think you have some misconceptions about price. Combo or no combo, studios will gouge for new releases. Universal charged 39.99 for a single disc HD30 of King Kong (no combo). Paramount charged 39.99 for a single disc HD30 of Babel. Warner charges $34.99 for single disc Blu-Ray releases. You are not going to get $20 new releases, and it has nothing to do with the combo disc, it has to do with the studios wanting to charge significantly more money for new releases vs. catalog titles - because they know that people will pay more for them. Even if studios drop combos you will still be paying 34.99 - 39.99 for new releases, you will simply be getting less for your money.

I find the combo very useful. It allows the disc to play anywhere and the DVD side allows for easy transcoding to portable formats or backup to media server. Further, when HD DVD goes mainstream the combo disc will allow studios to sell new releases with a single combo SKU (no DVD version at all) causing HD DVD penetration to skyrocket.

I see some complain about scratching... Who cares? Treat the DVD side as you would a label. If you scratch the DVD side, it doesn't matter because a single sided disc wouldn't even have a DVD side! Hell, write 300 HD DVD on the DVD side with a sharpie when you get it if you want to get over scratch anxiety and find no use for the DVD side. You paid for the DVD side? well, you would have paid a $5-$10 premium for a single sided new release anyway -you just would have gotten a label instead. And lets face it, with Amazon prices you are really paying no more than $2 extra for combo releases.

As or glitching, it has been fixed on the standalone side with the 2.2 and 1.6 firmwares for gen1 and gen2 respectively for weeks. I'm aware that the 360 HD DVD player still has issues on combos at times since it uses the same drive as gen2 and hence has the same "thickness" read issues with select discs that gen2 had prior to 1.6 firmware. Microsoft needs to issue a fix for the thickness issue and do it fast instead of taking 6 months like they did to fix the sound issues; Microsoft has plenty of resources and can apply the same fix Toshiba did in gen2 1.6 firmware since its the same HD DVDROM drive. Until then, Universal has an exchange program where you can exchange the problematic discs for replacements.

Anyway, combos are great and I hope they continue with new releases. I feel I'm getting a lot more for my money with a $35-$40 new combo release than if I paid the same for a single sided, single disc new release. While a $20 new release would probably be best of all, I don't see that happening anytime soon with the current price "tiers" of the studios with HD content at this time.

Good news about 300, but this is a terrible argument for combo disks. For starters you're the one with a price misconception. MSRPs of DVDs are never what they are sold for, the only place I know of that does sell them for that is FYE/Sam Goody/ Suncoast/ et. al and even they have sales, so that's a very useless statistic. Anywhere else and you're looking at $30-35 tops, not $40. List prices from highdefdigest are not a statistic you can use for this arguement. Even Warner's own video store doesn't sell movies for the price you quoted. What is a relevant statistic is that anywhere you go a HD DVD combo release is more (usually $4-10 more) than their BD or even HD only counterparts. I have not encountered any retailer ahywhere, online or off, where that's not true or they daily prices on next gen releases. Noe more than $2 more on Amazon? Now that's just plain bullshit. Look at the releases this month, with the exception of Flags of Our Fathers (cuz yes I argee Paramount sucks at pricing, but it was a two disc release) everything that was released as a combo is at least $28, releases not combos are $20. What's that price difference at most again? Compare that to their Blu-ray counterparts too. In over 90% of the cases the release on BD (granted some do have fewer features) is $4 less, still not "no more than $2".

Also the arguments you make for the usefulness of combo releases are weak at best. I'll give you it will work virtually anywhere you like, but think about how often do the vast majority of people take their movies anywhere. Most don't drop hundreds on a decent home theater setup to be watching said movies at other people's houses. I know if someone wanted to see a movie I had on HD I'd be inviting them over anyhow as I'd have the desire to watch it with a much better quality picutre. The small part where this has merit is with those who use portable DVD players or DVD players in vehicles (which you really didn't even mention). As for transcoding, again the vast majority of those using a PSP or the like will likely just convert things like downloaded Divx or other format files. There's a small nihce there again I'll grant you that but I still see it as reaching, it's not something the majority of mvoie buyers do. AS for scratching I think all flipdiscs suck ass because of this. You act like I shouldn't care but I do get somewhat pissed when my $20+ movie looks like garbage. Have you keyed every flipdisc in your collection if it's not such a big deal?

The issue of them playing correctly should have never ever been an issue in the first place. It only took them a half a year to solve it too (I'm still waiting on the update from Toshiba actually), and a couple months before they even acknowldged it. Warner never seemed to have issues, but the only (major) HD exclusive studio makes me exchange Children of Men 3 times before getting a working copy. And like you said, they still don't work in the addon which is one if not the top selling HD DVD device. And lastly, if you actually are paying $35-40 for new releases I feel kinda bad for you.

[Psykoboy2]

Hell, write 300 HD DVD on the DVD side with a sharpie when you get it if you want to get over scratch anxiety and find no use for the DVD side.

No. Just....just don't ever do that.

[guyver2077]

I guess it just comes down to preference. I PREFER to have combo art on my disks. Sure it doesnt really matter when you are watching the movie but it is something to look at. The combo disks are just turnoffs.

The only prob ive had with my addon and ocmbo disks is that it would not play a really scratched miami vice hd from netflix. I havent tried children of men yet.

It seems the current trend is combo disks for new releases and single sided for older movies being released on hd dvd.

I also PREFER to have all my features on one side. I forgot which movie it was (ATL) had all the extras on the standard dvd side.

I also understand that movies even dvd's are still expensive at bb if you dont buy them on release week. Hence why they overcharge $5-$10 bucks on hd dvd's. I wish they would have new release deals on new hd releases. Atleast their getting better. Last week they had the discounts on the pirates movies and this week they have the $10 of 2 hd movies.

i think i might go back and pickup 40 yr old virgin (was it worth it?) and skeleton key

[KaneRobot]

Combos are an albatross around the format's neck.

They need to shit get off the pot. Either exclusively release new films in combo form ONLY (meaning no DVD release, so people are forced to buy it...not as ridiculous as it may sound, as not doing the standard DVD release could help with reducing the cost to make the combo price not so ridiculous), OR dump them completely.

This has been discussed before, but "combo only" releases could be a trojan horse that puts the PS3 to shame. Guy buys a DVD, already has the HD DVD version built in. A year down the road when HD DVD players are sub-$199...hey, look, I already have a bunch of HD DVDs. May as well pick one up.

That said - a wishy-washy initiative for an unproven format does absolutely nothing to benefit them. Time to make up their mind, this arbitrary stuff isn't gonna cut it.

[Psykoboy2]

This has been discussed before, but "combo only" releases could be a trojan horse that puts the PS3 to shame. Guy buys a DVD, already has the HD DVD version built in. A year down the road when HD DVD players are sub-$199...hey, look, I already have a bunch of HD DVDs. May as well pick one up.

The come back for that is that if I don't have an HD-DVD player, and I see a combo format sitting next to the plain old DVD format, the price will force my hand. Even on release day, you are comparing $30 to $15 or $17....MAYBE $20.

I'm all about some future proofing, but not when I have no idea of when I'll move into the future (assuming I am an average Joe Consumer). I'll save myself the $10 and pick up the regular DVD non-combo format.

[Tha Xecutioner]

What a day, what a day...

Just got my Terminator 2 HD and Matrix Trilogy Set ($19.99 from the CC price mistake) in the mail today. $50 for 4 great movies in HD, I have a long night ahead of me.

[LinkinPrime]

Its not blind hatred towards the combo disks, these are simply not helping the format move along in the right direction. An average consumer with a regular DVD player will not buy and HD DVD/DVD combo thinking that eventually he/she will upgrade to an HD DVD player and make use of the HD side. It just doesnt make sense to do this to their loyal consumers who want to purchase these movies, who want to see the disc art, who want cheaper discs, who don't give a fuck anymore about DVD's.

[Sporadic]

Its not blind hatred towards the combo disks, these are simply not helping the format move along in the right direction. An average consumer with a regular DVD player will not buy and HD DVD/DVD combo thinking that eventually he/she will upgrade to an HD DVD player and make use of the HD side. It just doesnt make sense to do this to their loyal consumers who want to purchase these movies, who want to see the disc art, who want cheaper discs, who don't give a fuck anymore about DVD's.

That's not true.

I know of a few people who are "future-proofing" just for the hell of it and people who are happy for the DVD side so they can loan the disc out or use it on a trip.

I don't know, I look at them the same as the widescreen/fullscreen flip dvds. Yeah, they will be obsolete in a few years but if they get people on board now, fuck it.

[guyver2077]

those widescreen/full screen discs were a joke...

[guyver2077]

time to order the non warner titles at ddd

[LinkinPrime]

time to order the non warner titles at ddd

Fuckin a...their 20% OFF sale is on!!!!!

[grandmoph]

I'd have to put myself in the anti-combo HD DVD camp. When a DVD format supporter is presented with a choice of a $15 or less DVD or a $30-40 HD DVD combo disc, 9.9 times out of 10 they're going for that cheap DVD.

All it does for HD DVD supporters is drive up the cost. I would have several more HD DVD's in my collection if it weren't for the high price of combo discs. I just can't justify spending that much on one movie. Years of cheap DVD's have spoiled me.

It also hurts HD DVD in the format war with Blu Ray. Many of the Dual Format supporters buy the Blu Ray edition of a movie simply because it is cheaper than the HD DVD combo disc equivalent.

On a different note, I'm very tempted to import Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. The delay and lack of information on the Potter releases is getting rediculous. I'm also debating importing The Prestige. I really, really liked that movie and think it would make a great HD DVD. If only had a bit more money...

[guyver2077]

yea.. i honestly couldnt find too many great deals...

i ordered 40 yr old and (forgot)

[LinkinPrime]

Here's some of the best deals I found on DD:

Prices listed are after 20%

Ultimate Matrix Trilogy $61.77
Complete Matrix Trilogy $52.32
Planet Earth $55.19

$15.45
Batman Begins
Beerfest
Charlie and The Chocolate Factory
Constantine
Corpse's Bride
Dukes of Hazzard
Lethal Weapon
Lethal Weapon II
Scanner Darkly
Superman
Superman II
Swordfish
Terminator 3
V For Vendetta
+ others...

[Sarang01]

The come back for that is that if I don't have an HD-DVD player, and I see a combo format sitting next to the plain old DVD format, the price will force my hand. Even on release day, you are comparing $30 to $15 or $17....MAYBE $20.

I'm all about some future proofing, but not when I have no idea of when I'll move into the future (assuming I am an average Joe Consumer). I'll save myself the $10 and pick up the regular DVD non-combo format.

See I disagree. If Universal does combo only with no DVD it will drive the production costs of HD DVD down greatly as well as the price of combo discs since this will be HD DVD's produced in the millions of copies. I would see $23-25 being the new price for combo's with $20 being the price for this on sale. Warner would not do this as they're not exclusively HD DVD.

[Deadpool]

save some cash buying it here
http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=104&cp_id=10423&cs_id=1042302&p_id=2946&seq=1&format=2&style=

Yes buy that. I have one and it's awesome!

[guyver2077]

sad that matrix didnt perform better.... taken from hidefdigest..

maybe they should have sold them individually as well..


'Pirates' Outsells 'Matrix' in Blu-ray, HD DVD Showdown

Fri Jun 01, 2007 at 01:23 PM ET
http://www.highdefdigest.com/images/post/2/2710/original.pjpeg

Last week's sales estimates are in, and in terms of sheer unit sales, Disney's Blu-ray-only release of the first two "Pirates of the Caribbean" flicks handily beat Warner's HD DVD-only release of the two 'Matrix' box sets.
According to market research estimates from Home Media Magazine, the two 'Pirates' films sold a combined total of a little less than 47,000 units, while the higher-priced 'Matrix' sets sold about 13,900 units.

Since the Matrix sets sold at an cost of nearly three times that of the 'Pirates' flicks, there's slighly more parity in terms of gross sales, but even there (as Blu-ray backers have been quick to point out (http://forums.highdefdigest.com/showthread.php?p=147351#post147351)), Pirates gets the edge.
In comments first published in The Hollywood Reporter, Bob Chapek, worldwide president of Buena Vista Home Entertainment, called the week's win by 'Pirates' a "strong and significant trend toward consumer preference for the Blu-ray Disc format."
"We are thrilled by the critical and industry response to 'Pirates' on Blu-ray disc," Chapek said. "But more importantly, the consumer has spoken loud and clear. This is only the beginning, but it was certainly a significant and explosive indicator of things to come."

[LinkinPrime]

...
In comments first published in The Hollywood Reporter, Bob Chapek, worldwide president of Buena Vista Home Entertainment, called the week's win by 'Pirates' a "strong and significant trend toward consumer preference for the Blu-ray Disc format."
"We are thrilled by the critical and industry response to 'Pirates' on Blu-ray disc," Chapek said. "But more importantly, the consumer has spoken loud and clear. This is only the beginning, but it was certainly a significant and explosive indicator of things to come."
WTF! "The consumer has spoken loud and clear"....really? So they are comparing The Matrix Trilogy vs. 2 separate Pirate movies. Also the Pirate's Movies weren't available on HD DVD, so how is it that the consumer has chosen!? God, I hate these half assed statements.

[Ruined]

Wow. A $25 movie outsells a $70 boxset where many people only want the first movie. Surprise! Funny thing is, Planet Earth is probably outselling BOTH of them according to Amazon.

[Ruined]

DVDTalk: Terminator 2 HD DVD pwns T2 Blu-Ray

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=10681854&&#post10681854

I watched the full Extended Cut last night and did a quick comparison to the Blu-ray. The HD DVD is decidedly sharper and has more saturated colors. It's not perfect, unfortunately. It has some of the same problems as the BD, including a touch of edge ringing, some white clipping, and minor compression problems here and there. It looks good overall. I'll try to crank out a full review soon.
The French 2-disc HD DVD set (Theatrical + Extended Edition) is currently available from amazon.fr (http://amazon.fr/o/ASIN/B000L42JP4/ref=s9_asin_image_1-serq_g1/403-7582292-1976433?pf_rd_m=A1X6FK5RDHNB96&pf_rd_s=center-1&pf_rd_r=1TS7Q67AJK85ET9HEGWT) and xploitedcinema.com (http://xploitedcinema.com/catalog/terminator-judgment-french-release-p-11233.html) if you want it NOW. :)

A slightly more English-friendly UK single disc Extended Edition-only HD DVD will be available for preorder within a month or so from http://amazon.co.uk

Note that only the Extended Edition disc from the French version is English-friendly, as the theatrical version has forced French subtitles when selecting the English soundtrack (you can resize them and move them into the LBX bar however). The Extended edition does not have forced subtitles and in fact the entire menu is in English, it was clearly the same disc that will be in the UK version released later.

The UK version will be identical to disc 2 of the French version - Extended cut, English audio, no forced subs, region free, 1080p24 w/ lossless DTS-HD Master Audio. English Audio tracks have been compared to the R1 DVD release and the audio is perfect, no speedup.

I am waiting for the region-free UK version since I want the English cover art and the Extended Cut is better anyway IMO. Plus, the theatrical disc of the French version is pretty worthless to me with the forced subs (even if tiny). I'll of course post when the AMAZON.CO.UK preorder for T2: Extended Edition is available :)

[Sporadic]

I already ordered the French version and Mulholland Dr from Xploited Cinema

Why would the forced subs on disc 1 be the deal breaker? It's PQ is supposedly better then the Extended Cut and you can make them small enough where they only sit in the black bar.

[SteveMcQ]

WTF! "The consumer has spoken loud and clear"....really? So they are comparing The Matrix Trilogy vs. 2 separate Pirate movies. Also the Pirate's Movies weren't available on HD DVD, so how is it that the consumer has chosen!? God, I hate these half assed statements.And the mass consumers out there are gonna hear this, be completely clueless and agree. Fuck.

[TheRock88]

I already ordered the French version and Mulholland Dr from Xploited Cinema

Why would the forced subs on disc 1 be the deal breaker? It's PQ is supposedly better then the Extended Cut and you can make them small enough where they only sit in the black bar.

That's why I'm getting the French version instead of the UK version.

[guyver2077]

any info on the prestige hd dvd?

[Sporadic]

any info on the prestige hd dvd?

Just got an email from Tony.

DVD FEATURES
- Anamorphic (16:9 1080P Hi-Def) Widescreen (2.35:1) Version
- English 5.1 Dolby Digital Plus, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital Plus, French 5.1 Dolby Digital Plus & German 5.1 Dolby Digital Plus Audio Options
- Optional French, Spanish, Dutch, German, Danish, Norwegian, Swedish & Finnish subtitles
- The Director's Notebook: The Cinematic Sleight of Hand of Christopher Nolan" 5-part featurettes
- The Art of The Prestige - Photo Galleries
- Trailer

http://xploitedcinema.com/catalog/prestige-release-p-11919.html

$37.95

----------

Heads up, The World's Fastest Indian is only $7.99 after GCO at buy.com

http://www.buy.com/prod/worlds-fastest-indian/q/loc/322/204064135.html

Good movie, everybody should grab it at that price.

[Sarang01]

Just got an email from Tony.

DVD FEATURES
- Anamorphic (16:9 1080P Hi-Def) Widescreen (2.35:1) Version
- English 5.1 Dolby Digital Plus, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital Plus, French 5.1 Dolby Digital Plus & German 5.1 Dolby Digital Plus Audio Options
- Optional French, Spanish, Dutch, German, Danish, Norwegian, Swedish & Finnish subtitles
- The Director's Notebook: The Cinematic Sleight of Hand of Christopher Nolan" 5-part featurettes
- The Art of The Prestige - Photo Galleries
- Trailer

http://xploitedcinema.com/catalog/prestige-release-p-11919.html

$37.95

----------

Heads up, The World's Fastest Indian is only $7.99 after GCO at buy.com

http://www.buy.com/prod/worlds-fastest-indian/q/loc/322/204064135.html

Good movie, everybody should grab it at that price.

Ummm wtf isn't it just OAR? Are we going to see another FS epidemic, this time with 16:9? FS needs to NOT be an option on any HD discs unless this is the movies OAR.

[Ruined]

Ummm wtf isn't it just OAR? Are we going to see another FS epidemic, this time with 16:9? FS needs to NOT be an option on any HD discs unless this is the movies OAR.

Don't worry, The Prestige is being put out by Warner in the UK, they have consistently put out awesome hidef material. It will be OAR.

[Ruined]

IWhy would the forced subs on disc 1 be the deal breaker? It's PQ is supposedly better then the Extended Cut and you can make them small enough where they only sit in the black bar.

Acutallly reviewers are stating that the Director's Cut (UK HD DVD release and disc2 of the French HD DVD release) has better picture quality - more natural colors, cleaner master, less artifically "pumped up":


Okay, here's my comments on the new Studio Canal HD DVD edition of Terminator 2...

The background is this. Lionsgate has US distribution for this film. T2 was a fairly early Blu-ray release for them. Lionsgate's BD is a BD25 with MPEG-2 encoding. For whatever reason, Lionsgate has elected to release only the 137 min. theatrical version of the film in the US. Studio Canal, a French company, was one of the co-production companies of the film, and holds international distribution rights.

Studio Canal also supports the HD DVD format. For the French HD DVD release, Studio Canal has released T2 as a 2-disc set using the VC-1 codec. Disc 1 is the theatrical version of the film intended solely for the French market which means the disc has been authored with French subtitles that cannot be turned off if English language audio is selected. That's Studio Canal's policy for France-only releases. The second disc is the 152 min. "Director's Cut" version of the film that was previously released on the "Ultimate Edition" DVD in the US. Note this is not the 156 min. "extended" version also available on the "Ultimate Edition" DVD which has the tacked on Coda ending with an aged Sarah Connor in a park with a voiceover. This is what I consider the best version of the film as it includes several scenes and extensions of scenes that I find enhances the story yet it leaves off the "Coda" ending which becomes illogical with the release of Terminator 3.

It is this Director's Cut disc that is of interest so me, and I expect, quite a few other fans of the film. While the theatrical version has the "forced" subtitles, the Director's Cut disc will be released by Studio Canal in the UK. Because of this, there are no forced subtitles, and indeed, the default playback of the disc is English audio (the only track available) with no subtitles. This disc also contains what is to my eye, the finest video presentation of this film to date.

Having been a fan of this film since its original theatrical run in 1991, I have seen what I believe to be every video release except VHS. This of course includes the several laserdisc and DVD incarnations. I even had the D-Theater hi-def digital VHS edition of this film. It is this background that I base my observations of this new HD DVD edition on. Compared to all that came before, this new HD DVD edition is clearly the finest presentation of Terminator 2 to date (no pun intended).

The most immediate comparison is to Lionsgate's Blu-ray edition, as well as the theatrical version included in the HD DVD set. beginning with the theatrical edition, it appears that the HD DVD and Blu-ray came from the same master, a master that looks to have ben "pushed" to increase the visible contrast. This leads to blown out whites and some crushing of detail in blacks, as well as what some would describe as "edge enhancement". Colors are a bit overstaurated compared to the Director's Cut disc.

Although both these discs appear to be sourced from the same master, the MPEG-2 and VC-1 encodes show some fairly noticeable differences. The MPEG encode on Blu-ray is visibly softer with a bit less fine detail. There is also visible blocking where film grain is present. The VC-1 encode is both smoother and sharper with greater detail and less artifacting associated with the film grain. Even so, the master that was struck for the Director's Cut is quite obviously superior to the master used for the theatrical version.

The transfer for the Director's Cut has a more natural appearance with greater detail in both very dark and very bright areas and a more even color balance. The image is also a bit sharper than even the VC-1 encode of the theatrical version. This encoding also preserves the grain structure of the film element without overt compression artifacts.

With the somewhat limited time I have had to compare these discs I cannot comment on a comparison of audio tracks except to say I found the DTS-HD audio track on the Director's Cut version to convey all the impact and subtlety that I remember from any other version with, perhaps, a bit more authority in the lower octave and a bit more smoothness in the upper frequencies. Certainly nothing lacking in the sound department.

Rarely do the planets line up perfectly in the universe, but for fans of the Director's Cut version of Terminator 2, it seems we have a gift in the form of this French HD DVD release. Combine what I consider the best version of the film with a HD DVD authored without hindrances of any sort, and mastered and encoded as the finest visual quality this film has seen since release day 16 years ago, and you get a true treat for the film enthusiast. Although it feels more like an accident that everything worked out as it has for this disc, it is a very happy accident indeed.

Although, they will probably be the same price in the end given the exchange rate of the British pound vs. the euro. Its a matter of whether you'd rather have the UK/English cover art or the French Cover Art + theatrical version with forced subs.

[Sporadic]

Acutallly reviewers are stating that the Director's Cut (UK HD DVD release and disc2 of the French HD DVD release) has better picture quality - more natural colors, cleaner master, less artifically "pumped up":

Well, the standing opinion over at AVS and most forums I go to that the Theatrical is a step up from the Director's Cut. With the Theatrical at Tier 0 and the Director's Cut at high Tier 1.

I'll find out in a moment because my HD-DVDs showed up today!

http://img339.imageshack.us/img339/7874/hddvdsvo9.jpg

[Deadpool]

http://img339.imageshack.us/img339/7874/hddvdsvo9.jpg

Damn i want both those...

[guyver2077]

Just got an email from Tony.

DVD FEATURES
- Anamorphic (16:9 1080P Hi-Def) Widescreen (2.35:1) Version
- English 5.1 Dolby Digital Plus, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital Plus, French 5.1 Dolby Digital Plus & German 5.1 Dolby Digital Plus Audio Options
- Optional French, Spanish, Dutch, German, Danish, Norwegian, Swedish & Finnish subtitles
- The Director's Notebook: The Cinematic Sleight of Hand of Christopher Nolan" 5-part featurettes
- The Art of The Prestige - Photo Galleries
- Trailer

http://xploitedcinema.com/catalog/prestige-release-p-11919.html

$37.95

----------

Heads up, The World's Fastest Indian is only $7.99 after GCO at buy.com

http://www.buy.com/prod/worlds-fastest-indian/q/loc/322/204064135.html

Good movie, everybody should grab it at that price.

so its already out then.. are there any reviews..im interested in knowing how it compares with the br

[Sporadic]

Don't worry, The Prestige is being put out by Warner in the UK, they have consistently put out awesome hidef material. It will be OAR.

That is the UK version I linked to.

so its already out then.. are there any reviews..im interested in knowing how it compares with the br

It just went up yesterday, so I doubt we will see any reviews until Monday at the earliest.

It's from Warner and encoded with VC-1 so it should at minimum be on par with the Blu-Ray release if not better.

Damn i want both those...

:D

They are great. I watched part of disc 1 of Terminator 2, it's amazing quality. I watched the opening part of Muloholland Dr. it has some grain but it was still worth every penny.

[asianxcore]

nice pickups Sporadic. I really want that Muholland Dr. HD-DVD, but I want to make sure I pick up Le Pacte De Loups first.

did anyone pickup...

Lost In Translation
The Frighteners
Dragonheart

I really want to pick those up, but I'd be douple-dipping on two of them. I just want to make sure the PQ quality is well worth buying titles over again.

I also should be getting my Complete Matrix HD-DVD collection next week, so I'm super excited about that. :)

[Sporadic]

nice pickups Sporadic. I really want that Muholland Dr. HD-DVD, but I want to make sure I pick up Le Pacte De Loups first.

did anyone pickup...

Lost In Translation
The Frighteners
Dragonheart

I really want to pick those up, but I'd be douple-dipping on two of them. I just want to make sure the PQ quality is well worth buying titles over again.

I also should be getting my Complete Matrix HD-DVD collection next week, so I'm super excited about that. :)

I got Lost In Translation from Blockbuster Online.

Going by the tier system at HighDefDigest, I ranked it a low Tier 2.

Hated the actual movie but the Tokyo scenes are really good looking.

[guyver2077]

ill wait for that review of prestige..if its good i may just make it my first import..

any word how long amazon uk takes to get a movie over here? i have a gift certificate so hopefully i can use it in the uk store

[Sporadic]

ill wait for that review of prestige..if its good i may just make it my first import..

any word how long amazon uk takes to get a movie over here? i have a gift certificate so hopefully i can use it in the uk store

I would just go with Xploited Cinema since they are based in America but according to Amazon.co.uk

- Airmail delivery time is 5-7 days, so if you order an item with 24-hour availability you should receive it 6-8 days after placing your order.
- Priority Express delivery time is 1-2 days, so if you order an item with 24-hour availability you should receive it 3-4 days after placing your order.

[captainfrizo]

I got my T2 HD-DVD in the mail today. Watching clips of the theatrical release right now. So far, it looks damn good.

[captainfrizo]

From what I've seen thus of the Terminator discs, disc 1 (the theatrical cut) has significantly better picture quality over the director's cut. Interestingly enough, I think the audio on the director's cut is somehow better than the theatrical cut.

Not being able to remove the French subtitles from the first disc is a bit of a bummer, but the quality more than makes up for it.

[LinkinPrime]

nice pickups Sporadic. I really want that Muholland Dr. HD-DVD, but I want to make sure I pick up Le Pacte De Loups first.

did anyone pickup...

Lost In Translation
The Frighteners
Dragonheart

I really want to pick those up, but I'd be douple-dipping on two of them. I just want to make sure the PQ quality is well worth buying titles over again.

I also should be getting my Complete Matrix HD-DVD collection next week, so I'm super excited about that. :)

I got Frighteners, should be in my mailbox early next week.

[Sporadic]

From what I've seen thus of the Terminator discs, disc 1 (the theatrical cut) has significantly better picture quality over the director's cut. Interestingly enough, I think the audio on the director's cut is somehow better than the theatrical cut.

Not being able to remove the French subtitles from the first disc is a bit of a bummer, but the quality more than makes up for it.

At least you can mash the subtitles into the black bar.

[captainfrizo]

At least you can mash the subtitles into the black bar.

True, but it would have been better if you just turn them off entirely.

[Sporadic]

True, but it would have been better if you just turn them off entirely.

True but the whole reason they had to do that was due to licensing.

I rather have subtitles then no disc 1 at all.

[captainfrizo]

I'm now debating if I should pick up Underworld or not.

[Deadpool]

From what I've seen thus of the Terminator discs, disc 1 (the theatrical cut) has significantly better picture quality over the director's cut. Interestingly enough, I think the audio on the director's cut is somehow better than the theatrical cut.

Not being able to remove the French subtitles from the first disc is a bit of a bummer, but the quality more than makes up for it.


What was that stuff a ways back about the Director's Cut looking better? Is that a different set?

[Ruined]

What was that stuff a ways back about the Director's Cut looking better? Is that a different set?

No its the same set.

What the pro reviewers seem to be saying is that the Director's cut looks better because it is a more accurate transfer. If you have an ISF-calibrated set or your set was self-calibrated very well, the Director's cut will look the best.

Reviewers are stating that the Theatrical cut has the colors artifically pumped up and edge enhancement/etc, in an attempt to give it more of a "wow" effect - but at the same time it is inaccurate and on a properly calibrated set the more accurate/neutral director's cut will likely look better. However, some may like the inflated-contrast look of the theatrical cut better.

The Director's Cut was also minted from a newer master meaning it is cleaner as well.

From what I've read, if your gear is all calibrated properly the Director's Cut will look better and more realistic. Also, the Director's Cut is the superior cut of the movie IMO.

[guyver2077]

i was reading the potter uk review.

any word on when warner will release this here and why they havent already? i might as well wait for us release..

also amazon uk also shows prestige still as a preorder..

[LinkinPrime]

i was reading the potter uk review.

any word on when warner will release this here and why they havent already? i might as well wait for us release..

also amazon uk also shows prestige still as a preorder..
My guess would be right around when the next movie hits theaters this summer. If not, when the DVD of the new movie hits this Winter.

[SteveMcQ]

My guess would be right around when the next movie hits theaters this summer. If not, when the DVD of the new movie hits this Winter.I hope it's soon and it gets some marketing push. The advertising for Matrix was pretty weak, though perhaps being a box set, that kept them from pushing them as much as say, Pirates on Blu-Ray. On the whole, it's been pretty disappointing what little marketing push I've seen for HD-DVD.

[Deadpool]

No its the same set.

What the pro reviewers seem to be saying is that the Director's cut looks better because it is a more accurate transfer. If you have an ISF-calibrated set or your set was self-calibrated very well, the Director's cut will look the best.

Reviewers are stating that the Theatrical cut has the colors artifically pumped up and edge enhancement/etc, in an attempt to give it more of a "wow" effect - but at the same time it is inaccurate and on a properly calibrated set the more accurate/neutral director's cut will likely look better. However, some may like the inflated-contrast look of the theatrical cut better.

The Director's Cut was also minted from a newer master meaning it is cleaner as well.

From what I've read, if your gear is all calibrated properly the Director's Cut will look better and more realistic. Also, the Director's Cut is the superior cut of the movie IMO.


Thank you for that.

[guyver2077]

i wonder if those matrix vs pirates number include sales through online chains or if that was just retail numbers....

[geko29]

i was reading the potter uk review.

any word on when warner will release this here and why they havent already? i might as well wait for us release.

Nobody knows, unfortunately. By all accounts, the discs sold in the UK were originally destined for the US market. They have the FBI Anti-piracy warning bumper at the beginning of the disc, which some have reported is actually illegal in the UK. No idea why they pulled the US release and shipped those discs overseas, or when it will actually come out here.

[Sporadic]

Nobody knows, unfortunately. By all accounts, the discs sold in the UK were originally destined for the US market. They have the FBI Anti-piracy warning bumper at the beginning of the disc, which some have reported is actually illegal in the UK. No idea why they pulled the US release and shipped those discs overseas, or when it will actually come out here.

I wouldn't be surprised to see it come out in a boxset later this year.

Now if they would only finally release The Shawshank Redemption.

[guyver2077]

just received my 40 yr old virgin and skeleton key from ddd... pretty fast

[guyver2077]

since we have importers in this thread, i was wondering where i can go for import reviews..

It doesnt look like hidefdigest regurlarly does import reviews so where do you guys for the scoop.

Thanks

[asianxcore]

since we have importers in this thread, i was wondering where i can go for import reviews..

It doesnt look like hidefdigest regurlarly does import reviews so where do you guys for the scoop.

Thanks

DVDTalk is starting to do them a little more frequently.

Also you could always check on the AVS or DVDTalk forums, since a lot of people on both import.

[Sporadic]

since we have importers in this thread, i was wondering where i can go for import reviews..

It doesnt look like hidefdigest regurlarly does import reviews so where do you guys for the scoop.

Thanks

No idea.

I usually just read up on the movie and if I really think it's worth it, dive right in.

[captainfrizo]

Well, I bit the bullet and purchased Underworld.

[LinkinPrime]

Well, I bit the bullet and purchased Underworld.

You wont be disappointed!

[TheRock88]

You wont be disappointed!

Agreed, looks amazing in HD.;)

[Ruined]

Disc rot rears its head on Blu-Ray format (The Prestige)

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=857067

Looks like several copies of "The Prestige" on Blu-Ray are rotting with little specs on the disc, rendering the disc unplayable. Note that most of these users indicate that the discs looked perfectly fine when they first bought them.

On a related note, while any new optical format may be prone to disc rot, hopefully HD DVD will be less susceptible to it since it is based on the proven DVD manufacturing process.

[LinkinPrime]

Disc rot rears its head on Blu-Ray format (The Prestige)

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=857067

Looks like several copies of "The Prestige" on Blu-Ray are rotting with little specs on the disc, rendering the disc unplayable. Note that most of these users indicate that the discs looked perfectly fine when they first bought them.

On a related note, while any new optical format may be prone to disc rot, hopefully HD DVD will be less susceptible to it since it is based on the proven DVD manufacturing process.
__________________________________________________ _http://rowlandsoffice.typepad.com/weblog/images/simpsons_nelson_haha2.jpg

[SteveMcQ]

Disc rot rears its head on Blu-Ray format (The Prestige)

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=857067

Looks like several copies of "The Prestige" on Blu-Ray are rotting with little specs on the disc, rendering the disc unplayable. Note that most of these users indicate that the discs looked perfectly fine when they first bought them.

On a related note, while any new optical format may be prone to disc rot, hopefully HD DVD will be less susceptible to it since it is based on the proven DVD manufacturing process.That's odd, I was under the impression that Blu-Rays were less prone to any sort of physical problems since, from what I've read, they have an extra layer that makes them less prone to scratching than HD-DVDs.

[captainfrizo]

That's odd, I was under the impression that Blu-Rays were less prone to any sort of physical problems since, from what I've read, they have an extra layer that makes them less prone to scratching than HD-DVDs.

I was also under the impression that Blu-Rays weren't supposed to rot out or anything because it is by far the superior format and thus immune to any defects/errors.* Hmm... :-k



* according to all the BR/Sony fanboys.

[rodeojones903]

Disc rot rears its head on Blu-Ray format (The Prestige)

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=857067

Looks like several copies of "The Prestige" on Blu-Ray are rotting with little specs on the disc, rendering the disc unplayable. Note that most of these users indicate that the discs looked perfectly fine when they first bought them.

On a related note, while any new optical format may be prone to disc rot, hopefully HD DVD will be less susceptible to it since it is based on the proven DVD manufacturing process.


Hmmm, I thought this thread was about HD-DVD software. This belongs in the VS. thread. (On a side note my copy of The Prestige on BR has no problems, nor has any other of my 51 titles.)

[anomynous]

Purple Rain gets dual TrueHD release

http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/sh...HD_Release/680


very nice, and I actually like this movie, and I don't know why

[SteveMcQ]

I was also under the impression that Blu-Rays weren't supposed to rot out or anything because it is by far the superior format and thus immune to any defects/errors.* Hmm... :-k



* according to all the BR/Sony fanboys.I'm quite certain HD-DVDs are more prone to scratching though aren't they? That's pretty much what I was trying to get across, but I wouldn't know for sure since I only have HD-DVD.

[rabidmonkeys]

You wont be disappointed!

Where did you guys get it from? I'm kind of scared to go through ebay.

[LinkinPrime]

Where did you guys get it from? I'm kind of scared to go through ebay.
Hell no, not eBay.

Check out www.xploitedcinema.com (http://www.xploitedcinema.com)

-------
HD DVD Drives on all Toshiba laptops in 2008

Apparently hoping to counter the "PS3-effect" on Blu-ray sales, HD DVD backer Toshiba says it plans to put HD DVD drives in all of its laptops in 2008.

...

Toshiba Senior Vice President Hisatsugu Nonaka said today at a news conference that all Toshiba laptops will come with HD DVD drives next year. "The demand is there; people want to watch their favorite movies in high-definition on the road," explained Nonaka.

...

Of course, Sony's decision to embed Blu-ray drives in its PS3 has been great for Blu-ray (adding 3.6 million installed users), but arguably not-so-great for overall sales of the PS3, which as a result carried a higher pricetag, turning off some would-be buyers. Whether or not Toshiba's laptop sales might suffer the same fate remains to be seen.
http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Toshiba/Hardware/Toshiba_Plans_HD_DVD_Laptop_Counter-Offensive/679

[rodeojones903]

I personally don't care about watching HD-DVDs on the go. The screen is too small for me to care that much. If that raises the price of their laptops a good amount I see that as a bad move.

[Sporadic]

Where did you guys get it from? I'm kind of scared to go through ebay.

When it comes to imports, XploitedCinema is hands down one of the best out there.

I get all of my imports from them.

--------

On a interesting note, I have my HD-DVD attachment hooked up to my computer and I am ripping Mulholland Drive for screenshot purposes.

Anybody have any request? A specific scene?

[rodeojones903]

Anybody have any request? A specific scene?


I don't think you can post the one we all want to see. :D

[LinkinPrime]

I don't think you can post the one we all want to see. :D
Never seen the movie but now I want to see the scene rodeojones903 is talking about.

[Sporadic]

I don't think you can post the one we all want to see. :D

True :)

I know one I am going to take is from the helicopter fly-by of the hollywood sign.

[LinkinPrime]

Damn it...the US mail lost my Frighteners HD DVD...It says it was delivered to me on Saturday but I was here when the mail came and I didn't get it. Emailing Buy.com now to see what can be done...

[SteveMcQ]

Never seen the movie but now I want to see the scene rodeojones903 is talking about.He could probably PM us the link to an upload of the image. I've not seen that movie yet.

[Ruined]

I'm quite certain HD-DVDs are more prone to scratching though aren't they? That's pretty much what I was trying to get across, but I wouldn't know for sure since I only have HD-DVD.

HD DVDs are more prone to scratching, but since the data layer where the laser focuses on is deep within the disc, generally those scratches do not affect the focus of the laser (think of looking through a pair of glasses that have some minor scratches and focusing on an object ahead of you - you won't see the scratches becuase your focus is past them!). Also, similarly since the data layer is buried deep scratches will not permananently harm the data layer and worse comes to worse the DVD can be resurfaced for like new playback even when heavily scratched up. So while HD DVD may scratch easier, the scratches affect playback far less.

BD has a hardcoat and is harder to scratch, but since the data layer is so close to the surface (0.1mm IIRC), scratches on BD discs are far more problematic for playback as the focus of the laser is right near the surface. Also, since the data layer is so close to the surface, scratching a BD disc could easily destroy the data layer. No amount of resurfacing or error correction can fix that (not that you could resurface a BD disc anyway due to the proximity of the data layer ot the surface). So though BD discs are harder to scratch, when they do scratch they can become coasters quite easily.

[SteveMcQ]

HD DVDs are more prone to scratching, but since the data layer where the laser focuses on is deep within the disc, generally those scratches do not affect the focus of the laser (think of looking through a pair of glasses that have some minor scratches and focusing on an object ahead of you - you won't see the scratches becuase your focus is past them!). Also, similarly since the data layer is buried deep scratches will not permananently harm the data layer and worse comes to worse the DVD can be resurfaced for like new playback even when heavily scratched up. So while HD DVD may scratch easier, the scratches affect playback far less.

BD has a hardcoat and is harder to scratch, but since the data layer is so close to the surface (0.1mm IIRC), scratches on BD discs are far more problematic for playback as the focus of the laser is right near the surface. Also, since the data layer is so close to the surface, scratching a BD disc could easily destroy the data layer. No amount of resurfacing or error correction can fix that (not that you could resurface a BD disc anyway due to the proximity of the data layer ot the surface). So though BD discs are harder to scratch, when they do scratch they can become coasters quite easily.See, it's information like that which needs to get out to the masses. I'd like to think I'm more informed than the rest, but I wasn't aware of the sticking point with BDs. Just from media coverage, it seemed like BDs were the tougher of the two medias.

Even sales talk that I've been hearing from various podcasts seem to be inferring, if not saying outright, that Blu-Ray has an insurmountable lead and is likely to be the winner. True or not, Joe Blow hears that and thinks, "Hell, if I'm going next-gen, I'll go with Blu-Ray."

Seems like marketing and upspeak for the HD-DVD side is catered primarily to the tech-savvy and A/V crowd whereas Blu-Ray goes after the rest of the market, either through a more aggressive marketing push (PoTC advertising, new movie release advertisements), or just pushing the bullet points of their products while ignoring less than flattering points (like the one you mentioned about scratchability of their discs).

[Duo_Maxwell]

See, it's information like that which needs to get out to the masses. I'd like to think I'm more informed than the rest, but I wasn't aware of the sticking point with BDs. Just from media coverage, it seemed like BDs were the tougher of the two medias.

Even sales talk that I've been hearing from various podcasts seem to be inferring, if not saying outright, that Blu-Ray has an insurmountable lead and is likely to be the winner. True or not, Joe Blow hears that and thinks, "Hell, if I'm going next-gen, I'll go with Blu-Ray."

Seems like marketing and upspeak for the HD-DVD side is catered primarily to the tech-savvy and A/V crowd whereas Blu-Ray goes after the rest of the market, either through a more aggressive marketing push (PoTC advertising, new movie release advertisements), or just pushing the bullet points of their products while ignoring less than flattering points (like the one you mentioned about scratchability of their discs).

Actually the issue of disc scratches was covered extensively in the early days of the format war (Bd was even initally in hard cases like Minidiscs to protect scratching, after many concerns TDK created a solution they made for protecting CDs, which have a similar durability), but since the hard coating came about you don't really hear about it now. As for highlighting the bullet points and ignoring the less flattering ones, that's what most corporations call marketing.

[SteveMcQ]

As for highlighting the bullet points and ignoring the less flattering ones, that's what most corporations call marketing.Sony's doing a hell of a job with it, unfortunately, coming from an HD-DVD supporter. I wanna see the format get as much push as Blu-Ray.

[rabidmonkeys]

Alright, I'm sold. But, I have some questions about upscaling, the elite and 1080p. Should I ask them here or is there another HD forum here that would be more appropriate?

For example,
We just moved from PGH, PA to Austin, TX and I couldn't take my old WEGA so I bought a new 1080p set. If, I pick up a 360E will it display all the games in 1080p and HD DVDs as well? Coming from a pure 720p resolution to a native 1080p, I'm disappointed in the crispness of the picture when the source material is upscaled from 720p to 1080p through my set. So would an Xbox 360 E help me and my library of games and dvds? And does the HD DVD output at 1080p natively as well? Or is it 720p upscaled. I just don't want to waste the cash.

I guess I just asked all of my questions. Sorry, lol.

[LinkinPrime]

Alright, I'm sold. But, I have some questions about upscaling, the elite and 1080p. Should I ask them here or is there another HD forum here that would be more appropriate?

For example,
We just moved from PGH, PA to Austin, TX and I couldn't take my old WEGA so I bought a new 1080p set. If, I pick up a 360E will it display all the games in 1080p and HD DVDs as well? Coming from a pure 720p resolution to a native 1080p, I'm disappointed in the crispness of the picture when the source material is upscaled from 720p to 1080p through my set. So would an Xbox 360 E help me and my library of games and dvds? And does the HD DVD output at 1080p natively as well? Or is it 720p upscaled. I just don't want to waste the cash.

I guess I just asked all of my questions. Sorry, lol.


The HD DVD movies vary in resolution...some don't have 1080p (older HD DVD) and therfore would be upscaled. Most now a days do come in 1080p and you should have no problems with those. The Elite will upscale everything to 1080p and if you don't like the resolution on some games/dvd's, you can always change the settings temporarily for those games/dvd's. Also, there's some newer games that support 1080p, keep an eye out for those.

Remeber, DVD's were never HD, so it will be upscaled from 480i (IIRC) to 1080p, games vary in resolution so check the back of the case.

[rabidmonkeys]

The HD DVD movies vary in resolution...some don't have 1080p (older HD DVD) and therfore would be upscaled. Most now a days do come in 1080p and you should have no problems with those. The Elite will upscale everything to 1080p and if you don't like the resolution on some games/dvd's, you can always change the settings temporarily for those games/dvd's. Also, there's some newer games that support 1080p, keep an eye out for those.

Remeber, DVD's were never HD, so it will be upscaled from 480i (IIRC) to 1080p, games vary in resolution so check the back of the case.

Thanks, that's what I was wondering. Now I just have to actually find an E.

[geko29]

The HD DVD movies vary in resolution...some don't have 1080p (older HD DVD) and therfore would be upscaled.

I'm not aware of ANY HD DVD movies in a resolution other than 1080p. All 6 launch titles were, and every release I've seen since has been. Every single one of my ~70 movies (about a third of all that have been released) is 1080p as well. Can you list some titles?