As you all know, I've been a big supporter of HD DVD from the outset. So it pains me to admit that I may have started sliding to the "dark side" of the HD format war.

The other day I got 5 discs in the mail, 2 HD DVD (Fearless, Scary Movie 4) and 3 BD (Transporter 1/2, The Omen). Fearless had come loose from its mount and gotten a bit scuffed up. Since I ordered it from amazon, I was hoping to avoid having to return it so I put it through my Gamestop cleaner, which I've had great success with.

Although it looked like I had gotten it nearly pristine, I kept having sinc issues and there was a spot where it froze up entirely. I kept thinking about all the sinc issues I've had with the A1 and how I've had to be diligent about scratches and scuffs on HD DVD discs.

And then there's that stupid black crush problem with DVI inputs which Toshiba doesn't seem too worried about fixing.

Then I thought about BD and how I haven't had any of those issues. Aside from the firmware troubles with the Sammy regarding LXG and The Descent which don't apply to my new PS3, I've never had a single problem with BD playback. It's a relief to stick in a disc and know it will play flawlessly. It's nice to know that there will never be a problem with any BD disc caused by scratches or fingerprints.

And I have to say that I do believe BD discs just plain sound better. I know, I know, I've heard all the "bit for bit identical" arguments about TrueHD, but I personally hear a richer and broader, more immersive soundfield with the PCM tracks. Heck I even think the DTS MA core tracks sound better. Not to mention that TrueHD tracks are rare anyway.

So yesterday, I did the unthinkable. I pre-ordered Scooby-Doo and Black Rain on Blu-ray disc. I'm still obviously going to get all the Universal discs, but that may be it for me and HD DVD.

welcome to the 'dark side', which is actually the good side :p

I should also state that, particularly with Lionsgate and the early Sony discs, they look like crap and are swimming with artifacts. Even today many "reference" BD discs are plagued with these sorts of problems, problems I haven't really experienced with HD DVD.

But the stupid technical limitations (black crush, audio sync, freezing) is a real bummer with HD DVD. Who wants to show off their new machine and have it flip out in the middle?

All the problems you describe both myself and my friends either have never had, never cared about, or were easily able to get over in 5 minutes. I suspect this is true for the VAST majority of users out there as well.

And hell, if we want to nitpick on little problems - then Jesus H. Christ - Blu-ray is the format that really has the motherload.

Try a different HD DVD player, make absolutely sure your hooking everything up right or that there isn't another device solution, wait til there's a new firmware, do whatever but don't go crazy...you'll regret it when all is said and done...

Wow, I just haven't had any of those problems with HD DVD at all. Maybe I'm just really lucky, or you're not.

I should also state that, particularly with Lionsgate and the early Sony discs, they look like crap and are swimming with artifacts. Even today many "reference" BD discs are plagued with these sorts of problems, problems I haven't really experienced with HD DVD.

But the stupid technical limitations (black crush, audio sync, freezing) is a real bummer with HD DVD. Who wants to show off their new machine and have it flip out in the middle?

Well said Fett............I have loved my A1 from day one and I agree with everything you said above. While the Blu has not knocked me out yet in terms of PQ as HD has, I dont have to worry about some tech issues thowing off a demo on my Sammy. HD is still my fav if I had to choose, but having both, right now, I dont have to :)

I have stopped posting on either side in this forums because of all the back and forth and of course people are tossing an egg at your post but I say they both have their issues but damn if they are both not fun to have......

I have like 100 HD DVDs, that may be why I'm experiencing it more often than others. Don't worry about my set-up, it's tip-top. And since I've had the thing for 6 months it's a bit late to exchange it, although I have been thinking about selling it and getting the add-on for the 360. The only thing keeping me from doing so is the analog outs which give me TrueHD and the slim hope that someday over the rainbow Toshiba will fix the black crush problem so I can rehook to HDMI.

You were the last person I was expecting , sigh

Though I do agree that Blu-Ray sounds better.

As you all know, I've been a big supporter of HD DVD from the outset. So it pains me to admit that I may have started sliding to the "dark side" of the HD format war.

The other day I got 5 discs in the mail, 2 HD DVD (Fearless, Scary Movie 4) and 3 BD (Transporter 1/2, The Omen). Fearless had come loose from its mount and gotten a bit scuffed up. Since I ordered it from amazon, I was hoping to avoid having to return it so I put it through my Gamestop cleaner, which I've had great success with.

Although it looked like I had gotten it nearly pristine, I kept having sinc issues and there was a spot where it froze up entirely. I kept thinking about all the sinc issues I've had with the A1 and how I've had to be diligent about scratches and scuffs on HD DVD discs.

And then there's that stupid black crush problem with DVI inputs which Toshiba doesn't seem too worried about fixing.

Then I thought about BD and how I haven't had any of those issues. Aside from the firmware troubles with the Sammy regarding LXG and The Descent which don't apply to my new PS3, I've never had a single problem with BD playback. It's a relief to stick in a disc and know it will play flawlessly. It's nice to know that there will never be a problem with any BD disc caused by scratches or fingerprints.

And I have to say that I do believe BD discs just plain sound better. I know, I know, I've heard all the "bit for bit identical" arguments about TrueHD, but I personally hear a richer and broader, more immersive soundfield with the PCM tracks. Heck I even think the DTS MA core tracks sound better. Not to mention that TrueHD tracks are rare anyway.

So yesterday, I did the unthinkable. I pre-ordered Scooby-Doo and Black Rain on Blu-ray disc. I'm still obviously going to get all the Universal discs, but that may be it for me and HD DVD.

No matter what issues we had in the past Fettastic in the Blu-ray forums with all of our past arguments, your posts are definetly welcome in there, so I hope to see more of you in there in the future my man. We need a zealous guy like you in there! ;)

I've been using the 360 and haven't had any problems.

On the other hand the PS3 did choke once on Talladega Nights and I had to reset it.

Both are very stable for playback though. I'm just glad I can see all the movies now.

I've been using the 360 and haven't had any problems.

On the other hand the PS3 did choke once on Talladega Nights and I had to reset it.

Both are very stable for playback though. I'm just glad I can see all the movies now.
I have countless freezings on my PS3, but I think its becaue its overheating :confused:

And hell, if we want to nitpick on little problems - then Jesus H. Christ - Blu-ray is the format that really has the motherload.


How so? The new releases really do look and sound fantastic regardless of what some may want you to believe in here. And the players have been extremely reliable in general. What Blu-ray player do you have and what problems are you having? Be more specific. Either way if you are having problems feel free to come on into the Blu-ray forum to discuss... Haven't seen you in there, maybe one of us can help out.

I have countless freezings on my PS3, but I think its becaue its overheating :confused:

I've only had the thing a few days, so it's possible this is in my future. Worry about this is what kept me away from it in the first place. But when I saw it sitting there, unloved and unwanted at Wal-Mart, abandoned to the elements of the game cage...I just had to act. So I have a newly adopted PS3, I call him George.

I have it pretty well ventilated and if they ever get a fan-thing like the Intercooler for the 360, I'll get it.

If it freezes or has some other problem, believe me I'll start squealing like a slapped woman about it. :cool:

although I have been thinking about selling it and getting the add-on for the 360. There you go, do that. Or trade up for an A2, or XA2 which is supposed to be the "first high-def player worth the high cost". As you probably know, it's out this week to very high praise. Additionally you may see prices drop or new cheaper hardware at CES for which you can also have options. Note too that, I've had an A1 since launch and have experienced none of the problems you described, or at the very worst never been bothered at all by any one of the problems you described. Maybe you got one of the more buggy units that exists in rare numbers. You have to expect it to happen with small shipments of first-run next-gen hardware.

You have 100 title though so you've done your tour of duty as far as I'm concerned. If you want to buy a BD title every now and then - that's fine. Just remember to check to the reviews carefully first. The BD disc may not have extras, PiP, the same great encode, TruHD (on neutral releases), or any number of things that the future/current HD DVD version of the disc will have.

It's nice to know that there will never be a problem with any BD disc caused by scratches or fingerprints.

Um, you are aware of the fact that due to the physical layout of the disc, a BD disc is more problematic with regard to this--right?

Dave

Um, you are aware of the fact that due to the physical layout of the disc, a BD disc is more problematic with regard to this--right?

Dave

BD has a harder coat though that is more scratchproof, and many are reporting less freezing issues than with HD-DVD. Fettastic's experience is not unique on here. In fact I can't remember a single person on the Blu-ray forums ever complaining about a scratched or smudged disc affecting playback.

I've had problems with the HDMI output of my HD-A1 since day one and, as of today, only the component output of my player works (I mean, the HDMI simply does not work anymore!). I had also sync. issues, but not many. I also had some strange transient PQ degradations, which I managed to control because they always happened at the beginning of the movie, so I just had to stop the player and resume the playing to make everything all right.

I also have a PS3, which I like very much; in fact, I like it much more than my HD-A1. Naturally, the uncompressed audio on BDs is fantastic, especially compared to the standard Dolby Digital of most HD-DVDs. But...I find the average PQ of HD-DVDs is so superior to the
average PQ of BDs that I still prefer HD-DVD! What I am going to do (if I have the bucks)
is to upgrade to an HD-XA2, and hope this player will help me forget the problems I had with the HD-A1.

I don't want to sound offensive (to you Fettastic or anyone else), but do you really think the BD transfer of Black Hawk Down would be considered such a great one if it had been released on HD DVD?

Anyway, let's enjoy our HD and hope the future will bring us the best transfers on the best format(s)!

I never experienced thos problems with my HD-A1.
So far to date, my only hiccups was a 1/2 sec. stutter with Serenity, and the same with the Eagles, Live frm Melbourne which happens in the second song if I start from the firs chapter. Any other skips are my own fault for not cleaning the disk (I've got kids, need I explain? ;))
Other than that, the load up and eject times are annoying, but I can deal with it since at least with HD DVD's I don't have to skip through 30 minutes of previews like I have to with regular DVD's which I find even MORE ANNOYING!

Anyway, to think I'd have to pay double for a player that didn't skip on 2 movies and has a few seconds savings, I can't justify (I got my HD-A1 for $364 delivered). So until a universal player can be had for $300, I'll continue to upscale my Sony Disney and MGM titles.

Dear Amiable,

Since the only ones I can get on Blu that aren't exclusive are from Parmaount and WB, they are essentially identical anyway. Sure there are exceptions, but I'm tuned in enough to see that coming. Now that BD-J is up and running I think BD will be getting a lot of the same features as their HD DVD counterparts. I can tell you that the PiP on The Descent is every bit as good as IME. And Sopranos has uncompressed audio on the BD version but only DD+ on the HD DVD version.

But I agree that in general BD is stingy with the suppliments and HD DVD is generous. But it comes down to "Do you want this title in HD or not?", usually the answer is a resounding yes.

I have like 100 HD DVDs, that may be why I'm experiencing it more often than others. Don't worry about my set-up, it's tip-top. And since I've had the thing for 6 months it's a bit late to exchange it, although I have been thinking about selling it and getting the add-on for the 360. The only thing keeping me from doing so is the analog outs which give me TrueHD and the slim hope that someday over the rainbow Toshiba will fix the black crush problem so I can rehook to HDMI.

Fett From what I have gathered most sync problems and freezes have little to do with the Media itself but the Player. Maybe you can sell it and get a A2, the Toshiba drive (vs. the NEC in the A1) seems to be much more reliable, its also the same drive as the Xbox addon.

Its frustrating I know and maybe this drive will become the tank in reading capabilities as it is with build quality before its firmware hits EOL. But both Formats (all really) have these growing pains. How many CDs are released today that can't play on a Late 80's early 90's player/Walkman, Anyone remember the catastrophe with The Matrix which wouldn't play in like half the DVD players that were sold after its release, as it is BD already has one movie that won't play on two players period. Honestly for format in its infancy the HD-DVD has had probably less problems and more insignificant ones at that. Sorry a slight pause during playback or a slow boot up pretty much are nitpicks. The Black Crush issue while annoying to people who notice only applies to a fraction of whats already a Fraction of the Movie entertainment Industry, and hell probably a fraction of of that fraction actually notice they are being affected.

Growing Pain sucks, hopefully we make it out of this ok. But I think its bit of a stretch to make another Gloomy where has HD-DVD gone threads, and especially for topics that have been going on for 3-4 months now.

The XA2 has HDMI 1.3 and Fett can't handel that :p

Today I sit firmly in the middle with an A1 and a PS3. The way I look at it, I've spent $1,100 on equipment and can enjoy any HD movie that comes out which probably is reasonable for a dual format. There are pros and cons for each, but I'm trying not to get caught up in it. I've been a little more into BD lately because it's the new toy. But now I don't have to worry about who is going to make it and who won't. My attitude is for the studios to just keep the movies coming!

I'm not ready to go to the "dark side" yet, but I agree with everything the op has to say. I have had my HD1 since June and had no issues until the end of Oct. I now get drop outs and at times freezes that require rebooting (two or three times) very frustrating! I'm afraid to show off my system to anyone, living in fear of a freeze up. Please Toshiba, how about a firmware update?

The XA2 has HDMI 1.3 and Fett can't handel that :p

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a262/Fettastic/quotestruth.jpg
"You CAN'T HANDLE the HDMI!"

I still haven't seen anything on BD that looks as good as Hulk.

Of course I haven't seen anything else on HD DVD that looks as good as Hulk, either.

My A1 had the occasional skipping, but that's it. My A2, however, is leagues better than the A1; I've had absolutely NO problems with it.


As you all know, I've been a big supporter of HD DVD from the outset.

I'm going to have to call partial BS on this part, 'cause I know your history before seeing HD DVD. :D

My A1 had the occasional skipping, but that's it. My A2, however, is leagues better than the A1; I've had absolutely NO problems with it.

I've heard the A2 also has problems, but I'm glad you haven't experienced them.

I'm going to have to call partial BS on this part, 'cause I know your history before seeing HD DVD. :D

That was before my spiritual awakening. When I was viciously mauled by my spirit animal, I saw the light.

How so? The new releases really do look and sound fantastic regardless of what some may want you to believe in here. And the players have been extremely reliable in general. What Blu-ray player do you have and what problems are you having? Be more specific. Either way if you are having problems feel free to come on into the Blu-ray forum to discuss... Haven't seen you in there, maybe one of us can help out. Yoyo - god bless your intentions...but you know full and well what I mean. Especially if you don't look at what "seems" to be happening today with BD but what HAS been happening with both formats since day 1. Do people so easily forget that both of these formats and players have been out for six months and that we early adopters have been there with them every slow step along the way?

I was an early Samsung player owner. I bought early releases. Firmware. Price sticker shock on newer stand-alones. Then significant delays on every single one. Still a friend of mine bought a Panasonic, had problems and returned it. Disc features. Speed acting wierd. The Descent acting wierd. There have been reports of PS3 BD playback glitching.

I don't know what else I need to say.

My point is this. Certain batches of players, etc for new tech are gonna be wonky or fade faster than others. It's a given. It's not really a Toshiba problem, a Samsung problem, or a Panasonic/Sony PS3 problem. It's just a fact of life.

But if we are gonna really nitpick like this and make big changes in who we support based on little things like this (as this thread suggests) - then we need to take the "world view" first and foremost. And if we're looking at the entire history and situation of HD DVD versus BD (which is also suggested in this thread, one versus the other, and changing entire preference) - we need to realize that the laundry list of little problems, glitches, lack of features, delays, and errors on the BD side of things is - historically - about 5 times as long as the one for the HD DVD side of things.

Based on this - I know which side I have the most confidence in for the future. I mean, I don't just examine one small success of yesterday and go - "WOW, now everything for the future of the format is perfect!". Rather I look at how things have gone, played out from the beginning. Doing the former is what got the BD camp behind and messed up in the first place...they saw the capacity, BD-J, and the PS3 advantage over HD DVD...then screwed the pooch on delivering everything else that the consumer really cared about. Good one.

And who's to say it won't/can't happen again? BD sure still seems to have all of the historical evidence, abundance of arrogance/greed, and whole corporate bubble mentality needed to continue to let such things happen...

Ya but I think that this is what fet is trying to say, "now" is seems as if BD has caught up with HD-DVD and is surpassing it. I Just jumped into the game in December, and pretty much all the glitches had been worked out in both systems and I just love em both. Both are very good in my eyes, but so far BD has offered me more eye candy, mainly due to the fact I have seen more top tier movies on BD then HD-DVD.

That was before my spiritual awakening. When I was viciously mauled by my spirit animal, I saw the light. LOL!

LOL!

Words cannot descibe just how mauled he was. Trust me.

welcome to the 'dark side', which is actually the good side :pTell that to my Fried PS3...Dead with Disk inside...on it's way to Sony. :rolleyes:

I have countless freezings on my PS3, but I think its becaue its overheating :confused:Better get a extended warranty...mine is dead on it's way to Sony. :mad:

Ya but I think that this is what fet is trying to say, "now" is seems as if BD has caught up with HD-DVD and is surpassing it. I Just jumped into the game in December, and pretty much all the glitches had been worked out in both systems and I just love em both. Both are very good in my eyes, but so far BD has offered me more eye candy, mainly due to the fact I have seen more top tier movies on BD then HD-DVD. Well, to each his own. I've been following the releases and situation very carefully - and in my eyes, with everything tangible that has been seen since yesterday (and not just announcements for the future that may or may not pan out) BD has NOT caught up. I mean at least in amount of titles that really deliver and in the security of knowing that future ones will.

There's a BD player where I work, and I still get a chance to watch about a release a week there - and it shows me that this truth is still very apparent. Moreover, it's echoed by a lot of serious dual-format owners on these boards. I'm not saying BD won't get there but I think it needs a least a couple more months before everybody really feels "safe". I mean, BD-J isn't ready for any kind of normal adoption at all even until sometime after June, right? Meanwhile though, HD DVD has already delivered quality in mass.

Let's not just take (finally) one great reference title on BD, or one great experience on BD - and suddenly come to the boards saying that BD is Jesus and HD DVD is ****ed up. You guys are staying calm, objective, and looking at the whole of what exists, right?

Giggle, giggle.

I kinda wish there was a format neutral forum.


You know you don't HAVE to pick one side or the other right? I love movies and right now I can't fully be in either camp without making some sacrifice. I supported BR at first because it was a better technology on paper. But HDDVD proved to be an equal contender if not surpass it on a release by release basis. and to be honest sony's arrogant attitude that they decide what the next generation is - not the consumer - was a huge turn off. Every interview with a sony exec I read left me liking HDDVD even more - just on principle.

But to hell with principle. I want a transparent reference copy of every damn move I love. Neither format promises that right now. SO why the hell would I side with one format - unless I'm not in this for the movies. and if you're not in this for the movies - you really need proffesional mental help.

I kinda wish there was a format neutral forum.


You know you don't HAVE to pick one side or the other right? I love movies and right now I can't fully be in either camp without making some sacrifice. I supported BR at first because it was a better technology on paper. But HDDVD proved to be an equal contender if not surpass it on a release by release basis. and to be honest sony's arrogant attitude that they decide what the next generation is - not the consumer - was a huge turn off. Every interview with a sony exec I read left me liking HDDVD even more - just on principle.

But to hell with principle. I want a transparent reference copy of every damn move I love. Neither format promises that right now. SO why the hell would I side with one format - unless I'm not in this for the movies. and if you're not in this for the movies - you really need proffesional mental help. Fair post. However, the format war is real and was forced on us. All you new "neutral boys" on these forums who are now popping up for some reason and always spouting off peace, love, and understanding - seem to forget this. Hey, I want everybody to get along too! Hey, I wish I never had to argue this junk for a second either! But it's because we love movies and want to secure their future in well-deserved HD quality - THAT WE HAVE TO!

The dream is one format, one standard, one set of high quality/proven codecs, high quality audio styles, etc. To achieve that in this war, that was again forced on us with no choice, - we have to support the side that lives up to the higher pedigree/standards more consistently - and we have to do it over and over again.

I actually don't care if BD completely wins. If they truly do it by blowing away HD DVD quality across the board for the next several months and not through marketing or backdoor bullsh*t - then I will welcome BD into my home with open arms.

It is BECAUSE we love movies that we need to support a side and tip the scales. We all want one format, that's clear and quality - and able to be adopted by the mass-market - so that the format can reach a peak where we can get anime, asian films, old TV shows, and all kinds of serious quality, ease of use, studios in unison, one kind of packaging, etc - instead of the current mess and confusion.

Because we want the best for our movies that we love, the war has forced us to fight for it. Two formats won't take us anywhere close to the promised land of releases/adoption that SD DVD has seen - however, working to make sure the higher-quality format wins and takes over will.

Fett I think you will be very very pleased by the PS3 as a Blu-ray player regardless of what you hear on AVS.

I made the exact same decision as you 3 weeks a go and I only hope you do not get roasted by the HD-DVD supporters like I did :D

I too use the HD-A1 for Universal releases and use the PS3/Blu-ray for everything else. I experienced the HDMI issues and Freeze issues you mention with my HD-A1 as well.

As far as the PS3 goes, I could not be happier. I have the 20GB version. So far I have watched 20+ movies on it, with no issues whatsoever, none! I also have had the PS3 on for more then 9 hours straight (LOTR Marathon) and had absolutely no heating issues. This thing is the best HD player out there.

I hooked a wireless gaming adapter to the PS3 and now I surf the Internet with it as well in 1080p resolution. I check email, news, and view movie demos in HD. So it is really a HTPC as well, very cool little device.

~Josh

Fair post. However, the format war is real and was forced on us. All you new "neutral boys" on these forums who are now popping up for some reason and always spouting off peace, love, and understanding - seem to forget this. Hey, I want everybody to get along too! Hey, I wish I never had to argue this junk for a second either! But it's because we love movies and want to secure their future in well-deserved HD quality - THAT WE HAVE TO!

The dream is one format, one standard, one set of high quality/proven codecs, high quality audio styles, etc. To achieve that in this war, that was again forced on us with no choice, - we have to support the side that lives up to the higher pedigree/standards more consistently - and we have to do it over and over again.

I actually don't care if BD completely wins. If they truly do it by blowing away HD DVD quality across the board for the next several months and not through marketing or backdoor bullsh*t - then I will welcome BD into my home with open arms.

It is BECAUSE we love movies that we need to support a side and tip the scales. We all want one format, that's clear and quality - and able to be adopted by the mass-market - so that the format can reach a peak where we can get anime, asian films, old TV shows, and all kinds of serious quality, ease of use, studios in unison, one kind of packaging, etc - instead of the current mess and confusion.

Because we want the best for our movies that we love, the war has forced us to fight for it. Two formats won't take us anywhere close to the promised land of releases/adoption that SD DVD has seen - however, working to make sure the higher-quality format wins and takes over will.

How the hell do you type so fast?!?!?!? :D I leave for one minute and come back and you have typed another novel :D

~Josh

I want to say that I too was having issues with DVI hand shaking, black crush, color conversion, glitches, etc with my A1 2.0 and I recently switched over to component and a LOT of the problems went away.

Have you tried component out yet?

As you all know, I've been a big supporter of HD DVD from the outset. So it pains me to admit that I may have started sliding to the "dark side" of the HD format war.

The other day I got 5 discs in the mail, 2 HD DVD (Fearless, Scary Movie 4) and 3 BD (Transporter 1/2, The Omen). Fearless had come loose from its mount and gotten a bit scuffed up. Since I ordered it from amazon, I was hoping to avoid having to return it so I put it through my Gamestop cleaner, which I've had great success with.

Although it looked like I had gotten it nearly pristine, I kept having sinc issues and there was a spot where it froze up entirely. I kept thinking about all the sinc issues I've had with the A1 and how I've had to be diligent about scratches and scuffs on HD DVD discs.

And then there's that stupid black crush problem with DVI inputs which Toshiba doesn't seem too worried about fixing.

Then I thought about BD and how I haven't had any of those issues. Aside from the firmware troubles with the Sammy regarding LXG and The Descent which don't apply to my new PS3, I've never had a single problem with BD playback. It's a relief to stick in a disc and know it will play flawlessly. It's nice to know that there will never be a problem with any BD disc caused by scratches or fingerprints.

And I have to say that I do believe BD discs just plain sound better. I know, I know, I've heard all the "bit for bit identical" arguments about TrueHD, but I personally hear a richer and broader, more immersive soundfield with the PCM tracks. Heck I even think the DTS MA core tracks sound better. Not to mention that TrueHD tracks are rare anyway.

So yesterday, I did the unthinkable. I pre-ordered Scooby-Doo and Black Rain on Blu-ray disc. I'm still obviously going to get all the Universal discs, but that may be it for me and HD DVD.
Et tu, Brute? :(

Just kidding. :D

you had me until Scooby Doo

I made the exact same decision as you 3 weeks a go and I only hope you do not get roasted by the HD-DVD supporters like I did :D



You get flamed for being an annoying little troll/fanboy. Not for changing sides.

As long as you get the PS3 for movies only thats fine. It costs Sony a bundle if you only use it for movies!

Good luck with your purchase and hopefully you will not have any problems while enjoying your favorite flick!

No one should feel guilty about wanting to see their favorite films in HD. No matter what the format, even BR.:)

You get flamed for being an annoying little troll/fanboy. Not for changing sides.
Since crossing over to the Dark Side he's been promoted to Darth FUD Thumper. Fortunately, we know what side wins in the end. ;)

As long as you get the PS3 for movies only thats fine. It costs Sony a bundle if you only use it for movies!

Good luck with your purchase and hopefully you will not have any problems while enjoying your favorite flick!

No one should feel guilty about wanting to see their favorite films in HD. No matter what the format, even BR.:)
Hear, hear.

I want to say that I too was having issues with DVI hand shaking, black crush, color conversion, glitches, etc with my A1 2.0 and I recently switched over to component and a LOT of the problems went away.

Have you tried component out yet?

I had to switch to component when King Kong came out. It looks good, but I wish I could go back to HDMI because I thought it looked a scoshe sharper. And if I get a new HDMI receiver I'd like to hook it up to that.

You get flamed for being an annoying little troll/fanboy. Not for changing sides.

Quoted for absolute truth...

As long as you get the PS3 for movies only thats fine. It costs Sony a bundle if you only use it for movies!

Good luck with your purchase and hopefully you will not have any problems while enjoying your favorite flick!

No one should feel guilty about wanting to see their favorite films in HD. No matter what the format, even BR.:)

The only game I have for it is Resistance: Fall of Man, and while a cool concept and fun to play, the graphics are pretty much first generation XBOX. Kinda dissapointing. But I've got a 360 for games anyway, so yeah, the PS3 is pretty much just for movies.

Hey Fett,

I feel exactly the same way you do. I'm on my 3rd HD-DVD player. I have about 110 HD-DVDs and somewhere around 15 BD titles. I recently chose Blu-ray as the format when ordering titles that offered a choice.

I too prefer the sound of Blu-ray (even though I'm just using digital output). One of the reasons I enjoy Bluray is because I've never had a playback problem. With my first two HD-DVD players (XA1, A1), audio was always out of synch (again, digital output and I chalk it up to slow on-the-fly conversion to DTS) and I could never count on getting through a movie (was very embarassed on more than one occasion with guests).

In all fairness though, I now have a A2 that is NOT going anywhere as it plays back fine (so far, crossing my fingers). But there is something very comforting about that murky protective layer on BD discs....

I only wish BD looked as good as HD-DVD. Yesterday I got Ice Age 2, and found that wasn't anywhere as smooth as I thought it would be (digital transfer, no grain). Compared to Corpse Bride on HD-DVD or King Kong it's not as smooth. Every BD disc has a coarse look to it - unwelcome to my eyes - using component 1080i output to my CRT. projector.

However, with the exception of my Heart Live in Seattle disc, no HD-DVD will let me stop and resume (a feature that I rely on) like Blu-ray will.

I only got Blu-ray recently (well I originally had the Sammy and returned it) because of the titles that it offered, but I'm enjoying the conveniences it offers (even at my perceived expense of lesser PQ).

I won't stop supporting HD-DVD though (especially if the A2 keeps up the good work!)

How the hell do you type so fast?!?!?!? :D I leave for one minute and come back and you have typed another novel :D

~Josh Hah, lol, your comments and smily-faces made me laugh. Whew, maybe I should take a break, huh? I need to go to the gym here in a second, before I end up procrastinating past it...

Good post Ian.

I forgot the main reason I'm irritated about not being able to hook up via HDMI, no upconversion of SD DVDs! Suck, suckie, suck-suck!:mad:

You get flamed for being an annoying little troll/fanboy. Not for changing sides.
Agreed. It's his tactics, not his position, that gets him in trouble.

However, with the exception of my Heart Live in Seattle disc, no HD-DVD will let me stop and resume (a feature that I rely on) like Blu-ray will.


I haven't had that experience with the 360 add-on; resume has worked consistently for me.

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a262/Fettastic/quotestruth.jpg
TACOS!

Sorry. :)

I only wish BD looked as good as HD-DVD. Yesterday I got Ice Age 2, and found that wasn't anywhere as smooth as I thought it would be (digital transfer, no grain). Compared to Corpse Bride on HD-DVD or King Kong it's not as smooth. Every BD disc has a coarse look to it - unwelcome to my eyes - using component 1080i output to my CRT. projector.



Didn't we just have a whole thread on this subject?

Unfortunately that thread went off in another direction, but as I said before, why is it that no BD looks as good as Hulk?

Agreed. It's his tactics, not his position, that gets him in trouble.

I second this second :D

welcome to the 'dark side', which is actually the good side :p

In your not so humble opinion of course.

. So it is really a HTPC as well, very cool little device.

~Josh

Not literally of course. The PS3 gets hotter than a George Foreman grill.

Since crossing over to the Dark Side he's been promoted to Darth FUD Thumper. Fortunately, we know what side wins in the end. ;)

"Evacuate? In our moment of triumph? I think you overestimate their chances."

Famous last words....

I haven't had a single problem with my A-1. Never had a problem with my 360 add-on. None of the people I personally know who owns one or both has had any problems.

Not literally of course. The PS3 gets hotter than a George Foreman grill.

The PS3 gets warm, but I wouldn't label it as getting "hot". It certainly gets no warmer then my Xbox 360.

In-fact the PS3 is the most stable HD player I have owned thus far. Certainly fewer issues then my HD-A1. I am sure Fett can attest to this.

~Josh

Fetta I would be interested to know if you bother level matching your PCM/TrueHD comparisons. Just like brightness on a display makes it more pleasing at first glance, more volume will seem to sound better. Considering the same word length and sample rates saying you prefer an uncompressed track to a losslessly compressed track is like saying prefer a an unzipped file to a zipped file.

Originally Posted by Blkout
Not literally of course. The PS3 gets hotter than a George Foreman grill.

The other problem is that it looks like one too!

I own 2 A2's 1 A1 and the addon and have never experienced any of the problems you so much like to talk about beat. Why is that? And I'm not the only one.

I had an A1 die on me and they replaced it with an A2. But, It never skipped or lost audio sink up until the time it just died.

"Evacuate? In our moment of triumph? I think you overestimate their chances."

Famous last words....

I haven't had a single problem with my A-1. Never had a problem with my 360 add-on. None of the people I personally know who owns one or both has had any problems.

Kevin,

You have been extrememly lucky and are in the minority. It looks like 56% of us HD-DVD owners have had problems. Here is a link to a poll about this very subject started by Midnight Watcher:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=775948

~Josh

The PS3 gets warm, but I wouldn't label it as getting "hot". It certainly gets no warmer then my Xbox 360.

In-fact the PS3 is the most stable HD player I have owned thus far. Certainly fewer issues then my HD-A1. I am sure Fett can attest to this.

~Josh

I've only had the thing a couple of days, but it blows out some pretty hot air. I've got the Intercooler on pre-order at amazon.

http://www.amazon.com/NYKO-TECHNOLOGIES-83010-Playstation-Intercooler/dp/B000KIPDZO/sr=1-100/qid=1168030501/ref=sr_1_100/103-0270073-6656653?ie=UTF8&s=videogames

Kevin,

You have been extrememly lucky and are in the minority. It looks like 56% of us HD-DVD owners have had problems. Here is a link to a poll about this very subject started by Midnight Watcher:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=775948

~Josh

I know people have had problems, but I can only speak for the people I know in person. People still have problems with standard DVD players. My brother owns a DVD player than will not play Rhino or HBO DVDs. My dad's DVD player won't play Lonesome Dove. One of the guys who works for me just had to return a DVD player to Sam's Club because it wouldn't work. Have a look at the returns desk at WalMart sometime and see what gets returned. Nothing ever works perfectly for everyone. It will never happen.

You must also take into account that these boards are just a very small sampling of HD DVD/Blu-ray owners and users. You can't even begin to equate the experiences of the fine men and women who frequent these boards to the general population. I'm the only person out of the dozen or so friends I personally know who own an HD DVD player who even bothers to read a forum. I come here to discuss the format I enjoy, not to be hated because I choose the maroon cases over the blue ones.

People have a choice between HD DVD and Blu-ray and the way they choose to view movies should be as important as what they had for dinner last night. You may have eaten a steak and I may have eaten pizza, but we both got what we wanted.

I'm just tired of reading page after page of personal attacks over what DVD player you have at home. If you dislike HD DVD, this forum has a place for you. Let the HD DVD supporters enjoy their format and you enjoy your format. Negative comments and personal attacks won't make your side win any faster. The same sampling of people who come to this forum aren't going to win this war.

People have a choice between HD DVD and Blu-ray and the way they choose to view movies should be as important as what they had for dinner last night. You may have eaten a steak and I may have eaten pizza, but we both got what we wanted.

I really like this quote. Just one question.......is HD DVD the steak or the pizza? ;)

As you all know, I've been a big supporter of HD DVD from the outset. So it pains me to admit that I may have started sliding to the "dark side" of the HD format war.

The other day I got 5 discs in the mail, 2 HD DVD (Fearless, Scary Movie 4) and 3 BD (Transporter 1/2, The Omen). Fearless had come loose from its mount and gotten a bit scuffed up. Since I ordered it from amazon, I was hoping to avoid having to return it so I put it through my Gamestop cleaner, which I've had great success with.

Although it looked like I had gotten it nearly pristine, I kept having sinc issues and there was a spot where it froze up entirely. I kept thinking about all the sinc issues I've had with the A1 and how I've had to be diligent about scratches and scuffs on HD DVD discs.

And then there's that stupid black crush problem with DVI inputs which Toshiba doesn't seem too worried about fixing.

Then I thought about BD and how I haven't had any of those issues. Aside from the firmware troubles with the Sammy regarding LXG and The Descent which don't apply to my new PS3, I've never had a single problem with BD playback. It's a relief to stick in a disc and know it will play flawlessly. It's nice to know that there will never be a problem with any BD disc caused by scratches or fingerprints.

And I have to say that I do believe BD discs just plain sound better. I know, I know, I've heard all the "bit for bit identical" arguments about TrueHD, but I personally hear a richer and broader, more immersive soundfield with the PCM tracks. Heck I even think the DTS MA core tracks sound better. Not to mention that TrueHD tracks are rare anyway.

So yesterday, I did the unthinkable. I pre-ordered Scooby-Doo and Black Rain on Blu-ray disc. I'm still obviously going to get all the Universal discs, but that may be it for me and HD DVD.
hang in there man,chill!, the a2 plays flawlessly,some have had issues with play back but so have others with bd players,i do respect your concerns cause your lucky to be able to have both formats,hang in there it will work out

I really like this quote. Just one question.......is HD DVD the steak or the pizza? ;)

Probably the pizza. More people can afford pizza.

I also think I'm turning Japanese, I think I'm turning Japanese, I really think so.

Wonderful thread Fett.

Now if only yoyoniner would go HD DVD we could have balance in the Universe again.

Probably the pizza. More people can afford pizza.

The best part about pizza?

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a262/Fettastic/Breakfastclub.jpg
"All the food groups are represented."

As you all know, I've been a big supporter of HD DVD from the outset. So it pains me to admit that I may have started sliding to the "dark side" of the HD format war.

The other day I got 5 discs in the mail, 2 HD DVD (Fearless, Scary Movie 4) and 3 BD (Transporter 1/2, The Omen). Fearless had come loose from its mount and gotten a bit scuffed up. Since I ordered it from amazon, I was hoping to avoid having to return it so I put it through my Gamestop cleaner, which I've had great success with.

Although it looked like I had gotten it nearly pristine, I kept having sinc issues and there was a spot where it froze up entirely. I kept thinking about all the sinc issues I've had with the A1 and how I've had to be diligent about scratches and scuffs on HD DVD discs.

And then there's that stupid black crush problem with DVI inputs which Toshiba doesn't seem too worried about fixing.

Then I thought about BD and how I haven't had any of those issues. Aside from the firmware troubles with the Sammy regarding LXG and The Descent which don't apply to my new PS3, I've never had a single problem with BD playback. It's a relief to stick in a disc and know it will play flawlessly. It's nice to know that there will never be a problem with any BD disc caused by scratches or fingerprints.

And I have to say that I do believe BD discs just plain sound better. I know, I know, I've heard all the "bit for bit identical" arguments about TrueHD, but I personally hear a richer and broader, more immersive soundfield with the PCM tracks. Heck I even think the DTS MA core tracks sound better. Not to mention that TrueHD tracks are rare anyway.

So yesterday, I did the unthinkable. I pre-ordered Scooby-Doo and Black Rain on Blu-ray disc. I'm still obviously going to get all the Universal discs, but that may be it for me and HD DVD.


Not sure what to make of your post. Are you looking for us to convince you not to go blu-ray? Maybe you're looking for support to go blu-ray? Either way I don't care which way you spend your money.

I forgot the main reason I'm irritated about not being able to hook up via HDMI, no upconversion of SD DVDs! Suck, suckie, suck-suck!

Considering the PS3 doesn't upconvert SD DVDs I see you still have an issue. The PS3 has scaling issues and until they are resolved I will not be buying one.

As you all know, I've been a big supporter of HD DVD from the outset. So it pains me to admit that I may have started sliding to the "dark side" of the HD format war.

The other day I got 5 discs in the mail, 2 HD DVD (Fearless, Scary Movie 4) and 3 BD (Transporter 1/2, The Omen). Fearless had come loose from its mount and gotten a bit scuffed up. Since I ordered it from amazon, I was hoping to avoid having to return it so I put it through my Gamestop cleaner, which I've had great success with.

Although it looked like I had gotten it nearly pristine, I kept having sinc issues and there was a spot where it froze up entirely. I kept thinking about all the sinc issues I've had with the A1 and how I've had to be diligent about scratches and scuffs on HD DVD discs.

And then there's that stupid black crush problem with DVI inputs which Toshiba doesn't seem too worried about fixing.

Then I thought about BD and how I haven't had any of those issues. Aside from the firmware troubles with the Sammy regarding LXG and The Descent which don't apply to my new PS3, I've never had a single problem with BD playback. It's a relief to stick in a disc and know it will play flawlessly. It's nice to know that there will never be a problem with any BD disc caused by scratches or fingerprints.

And I have to say that I do believe BD discs just plain sound better. I know, I know, I've heard all the "bit for bit identical" arguments about TrueHD, but I personally hear a richer and broader, more immersive soundfield with the PCM tracks. Heck I even think the DTS MA core tracks sound better. Not to mention that TrueHD tracks are rare anyway.

So yesterday, I did the unthinkable. I pre-ordered Scooby-Doo and Black Rain on Blu-ray disc. I'm still obviously going to get all the Universal discs, but that may be it for me and HD DVD.


Not sure what to make of your post. Are you looking for us to convince you not to go blu-ray? Maybe you're looking for support to go blu-ray? Either way I don't care which way you spend your money.

Considering the PS3 doesn't upconvert SD DVDs I see you still have an issue. The PS3 has scaling issues and until they are resolved I will not be buying one.

If your HDTV accepts 720p you will not have the scaling problem no matter what firmware you have. The latest firmware resolves the problem entirely.

I miss upscaling on the A1 and want it back darnit! It's really tough watching SD DVD without it.

Considering the PS3 doesn't upconvert SD DVDs I see you still have an issue. The PS3 has scaling issues and until they are resolved I will not be buying one.

Reports are that the next FW Update will implement Upconversion on the PS3, so this should be taken care of very soon. I beleive they are Beta testing it now.

~Josh

I've only had the thing a couple of days, but it blows out some pretty hot air. I've got the Intercooler on pre-order at amazon.

http://www.amazon.com/NYKO-TECHNOLOGIES-83010-Playstation-Intercooler/dp/B000KIPDZO/sr=1-100/qid=1168030501/ref=sr_1_100/103-0270073-6656653?ie=UTF8&s=videogamesMy PS3 died with disk inside not sure it was from overheating...it's on it's way to sony for a replacement...I also was told to get one of those intercoolers from a CC computer geek. Regardless of what people are saying these PS3's are shutting off at many of the stores because of overheating. They need to be vented. It's a fact! ;)

Fett, to help make you feel more secure in your dicision to come to the Blu-ray side of things, these Exclusive Blu-ray releases were just announced on The Digital Bits:

Ladder 49 (2/13)
Reign of Fire (2/13)
The Prestige (2/20)
Chicken Little (3/20)
King Arthur: Director's Cut (4/3)
G.I. Jane (4/3)
Con Air (6/8)
Crimson Tide (6/8)
The Rock (6/8)
Cars (Summer)
The Recruit (Summer)
Open Range (Summer)
Remember the Titans (Fall)
Finding Neverland (TBA)

~Josh

You sure don't waste time being a pain in the butt do you? :rolleyes:

I'm sure Fett is well aware of all upcoming releases and probably has them all pre-ordered.

Once again thank you for adding nothing to the topic at hand or the HD-DVD forum in general.

You sure don't waste time being a pain in the butt do you? :rolleyes:

I'm sure Fett is well aware of all upcoming releases and probably has them all pre-ordered.

Once again thank you for adding nothing to the topic at hand or the HD-DVD forum in general.

These were JUST listed on the Digital Bits. I doubt Fett knew of these.

~Josh

i can't believe this. this is just horrible news. i'm not sure how i can go on. excuse me while i go lay down in traffic.
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Yeah I know they were I was just there but you don't think he would find them on he own? He practically lives on these boards!

Don't worry man... I am getting a BR soon. HDDVD pretty much sux imo now.. I am mad as well :(

Fett, to help make you feel more secure in your dicision to come to the Blu-ray side of things, these Exclusive Blu-ray releases were just announced on The Digital Bits:

Ladder 49 (2/13)
Reign of Fire (2/13)
The Prestige (2/20)
Chicken Little (3/20)
King Arthur: Director's Cut (4/3)
G.I. Jane (4/3)
Con Air (6/8)
Crimson Tide (6/8)
The Rock (6/8)
Cars (Summer)
The Recruit (Summer)
Open Range (Summer)
Remember the Titans (Fall)
Finding Neverland (TBA)

~Josh
1. It's inappropriate to post this in the HD DVD section, regardless of your lame attempt to tie it to the topic at hand.
2. My copy of Reign of Fire (on HD DVD) just arrived today from xploitedcinema. How come I have an "Exclusive Blu-Ray Release" a month before it's even out on Blu-Ray?

I dont think that HD-DVD sux, competition is good and thats why capitalism works so well, you have an incentive to do better and beat the competition, you strive to create better quality products then the competition, and the competition also does the same, so technology advances much quicker thus we get better products faster.

I am hoping that HD-DVD will unleash a barage of super hits like.

1.) Jurassic Park
2.) Gladiator
3.) Lock, stock, and 2 smoking barrels.

Well these are just a few, but that would be great!!

I also hope that Blu ray releases
1) Pirates 1 and 2
2.)spidey 1 and 2
3.) all pixar movies

Woo hoooo, go HD

1. It's inappropriate to post this in the HD DVD section, regardless of your lame attempt to tie it to the topic at hand.
2. My copy of Reign of Fire (on HD DVD) just arrived today from xploitedcinema. How come I have an "Exclusive Blu-Ray Release" a month before it's even out on Blu-Ray?

How does this make any sense. I can order some HD specific titles from Europe, asia, etc. for Blu ray, the fact is I am not going to pay out the wazzoo for an import title and would rather wait for it to be released in the continental US.

I am hoping that HD-DVD will unleash a barage of super hits like.

1.) Jurassic Park
2.) Gladiator
3.) Lock, stock, and 2 smoking barrels.

I'd pay top dollar for all three of those titles.

How does this make any sense. I can order some HD specific titles from Europe, asia, etc. for Blu ray, the fact is I am not going to pay out the wazzoo for an import title and would rather wait for it to be released in the continental US.
How does what make sense? He claimed a title that I own on HD DVD is "Blu-Ray Exclusive." If it was really exclusive, would I own it first?

Besides, the main point is there's no reason for him to post a list of BD releases in the HD DVD section. He's been doing this sort of thing for the last few weeks and I'm not the only one who's called him on it.

How does what make sense? He claimed a title that I own on HD DVD is "Blu-Ray Exclusive." If it was really exclusive, would I own it first?

Besides, the main point is there's no reason for him to post a list of BD releases in the HD DVD section. He's been doing this sort of thing for the last few weeks and I'm not the only one who's called him on it.

Steeb,

He clearly started this thread becuase at the time he was a bit unsure or perhaps ashamed of his decision (Why?, I don't know) perhaps because it is natural human nature to feel this way when you switch from one position to another, especially in such a heated debate such as Blu-ray vs. HD-DVD.

I posted the list for him, not anyone else, to help build confidence in his decision. Nothing more, nothing less. Since the message was specifically addressed to him, there is no need for you to comment on it.

As far as the "Exclusive" debate goes, maybe you have me on a technicality. However, Blu-ray supporters will also be able to import some of the Universal releases from overseas as well. Since Universal is the only major Exclusive Studio for HD-DVD, this I would think is more damaging to HD-DVD. However I think overseas imports really are not damaging to either side as J6P will never do it to any degree.

So no, Reign of Fire is not exclusive to Blu-ray with us AVSer's but yes it still exclusive to Blu-ray to J6P as it is doubtful any serious amount of them would import. IMO.

~Josh

I own both formats.. you have to at this point... really.

If you want all the content you can get. you have to have both.


as it statnds now I am with Fett. and have been for a little while now.


My A1 plays fine with new Fw and has never ever had any skips or problems. In fact my ps3 has had more probs. but I am getting most titles on BD cuz they aren't on HD DVD.

the Only titles I will get for HD DVD are Titles are are studio Canal, and that's if they are better than their BD counterparts, and of course Universal.


that pretty much sums it up.


oh. and my ps3 plays like a Real dvd player.

Steeb,

He clearly started this thread becuase at the time he was a bit unsure or perhaps ashamed of his decision (Why?, I don't know) perhaps because it is natural human nature to feel this way when you switch from one position to another, especially in such a heated debate such as Blu-ray vs. HD-DVD.

I posted the list for him, not anyone else, to help build confidence in his decision. Nothing more, nothing less. Since the message was specifically addressed to him, there is no need for you to comment on it.

As far as the "Exclusive" debate goes, maybe you have me on a technicality. However, Blu-ray supporters will also be able to import some of the Universal releases from overseas as well. Since Universal is the only major Exclusive Studio for HD-DVD, this I would think is more damaging to HD-DVD. However I think overseas imports really are not damaging to either side as J6P will never do it to any degree.


~Josh
See, it's your tactics that we all hate, not your choice to support BD. If an HD DVD supporter went into any thread in the BD software section (regardless of the topic at hand) and posted a list of movies that were just announced to be coming out on HD DVD, he would be ripped to shreds in a matter of minutes. The common sentiment among all of the responses would be "Take it to your section, troll."

By the way, you didn't post a link. You posted a list of movies in an attempt to entice Fett to buy into BD, as if it affects you personally in some sick way.

So no, Reign of Fire is not exclusive to Blu-ray with us AVSer's but yes it still exclusive to Blu-ray to J6P as it is doubtful any serious amount of them would import. IMO.
J6P doesn't care a thing about HD DVD or BD. As for importing, it's no longer necessary. There are U.S. sites that do it for you. I've been buying mine from a website based out of Cleveland, as have a number of other people on here. J6P loves buying things online, so when they start caring about HD DVD or BD, it won't be an issue.

See, it's your tactics that we all hate, not your choice to support BD. If an HD DVD supporter went into any thread in the BD software section (regardless of the topic at hand) and posted a list of movies that were just announced to be coming out on HD DVD, he would be ripped to shreds in a matter of minutes. The common sentiment among all of the responses would be "Take it to your section, troll."

By the way, you didn't post a link. You posted a list of movies in an attempt to entice Fett to buy into BD, as if it affects you personally in some sick way.


J6P doesn't care a thing about HD DVD or BD. As for importing, it's no longer necessary. There are U.S. sites that do it for you. I've been buying mine from a website based out of Cleveland, as have a number of other people on here. J6P loves buying things online, so when they start caring about HD DVD or BD, it won't be an issue.

OK, Steeb, I give up, you win, now move on to a new subject please.

~Josh

Are people with the A2 also continuing to have freezing and synch problems ? The lack of new title announcements is hurting HD DVD for now, we'll have to wait until CES to see what happens....

OK, Steeb, I give up, you win, now move on to a new subject please.

~Josh

are you serious?

are you serious?

Yes, I am serious. This thread is about Fett's move to Blu-ray and his potential aprehension about it. It is not about what Steeb feels my motives were in placing a newly released list of Blu-ray titles.

So yes, we need to get on to a new subject other then what Steeb feels my intentions are.

~Josh

Yes, I am serious. This thread is about Fett's move to Blu-ray and his potential aprehension about it. It is not about what Steeb feels my motives were in placing a newly released list of Blu-ray titles.

So yes, we need to get on to a new subject other then what Steeb feels my intentions are.

~Josh

bump

I have the RCA HD DVD player with firmware 2.0. I own 64 HD DVDs. What a great theater experience! I very glad I got it. However, with that said, I see Blu-ray in my rear view mirror – and it's gaining fast. I wouldn't be surprised if it passes up HD DVD within the next six months or so.

Whenever I put an HD DVD movie into my RCA player, I am always a little nervous – especially when I have guests over. I've had a couple of lock-ups that required a reboot. Not too bad. Most of my issues are with fast forward skipping for a few seconds – sometimes with audio sync problems and sometimes without. For example, when I watched King Kong last week, it skipped forward six times within the first 30 minutes. I was really concerned. But then it was smooth sailing from then on. But, those kind of issues are troublesome to me.

I look ahead and see 18 BD movies listed in 2007 that I want. The HD DVD list is at 2. Yes, I know that HD DVD will have billions of announcements at CES (right?), but it still won't dismiss the 18 BD movies I want. Pressure is building from within to get a BD player.

For now, I'm resisting. I'm going to wait and see what the next 3-6 months brings. Come June, if BD has a lot of titles that I want and HD DVD hasn't attracted any new studios to its camp, I think I'll take the plunge and get a BD player (probably in the form of a PS3). Three months ago I would have never even considered it.

I think a LOT of people – even here in the HD DVD forums – will soon be in the same position as Fettastic.

I have the RCA HD DVD player with firmware 2.0. I own 64 HD DVDs. What a great theater experience! I very glad I got it. However, with that said, I see Blu-ray in my rear view mirror – and it's gaining fast. I wouldn't be surprised if it passes up HD DVD within the next six months or so.

Whenever I put an HD DVD movie into my RCA player, I am always a little nervous – especially when I have guests over. I've had a couple of lock-ups that required a reboot. Not too bad. Most of my issues are with fast forward skipping for a few seconds – sometimes with audio sync problems and sometimes without. For example, when I watched King Kong last week, it skipped forward six times within the first 30 minutes. I was really concerned. But then it was smooth sailing from then on. But, those kind of issues are troublesome to me.

I look ahead and see 18 BD movies listed in 2007 that I want. The HD DVD list is at 2. Yes, I know that HD DVD will have billions of announcements at CES (right?), but it still won't dismiss the 18 BD movies I want. Pressure is building from within to get a BD player.

For now, I'm resisting. I'm going to wait and see what the next 3-6 months brings. Come June, if BD has a lot of titles that I want and HD DVD hasn't attracted any new studios to its camp, I think I'll take the plunge and get a BD player (probably in the form of a PS3). Three months ago I would have never even considered it.

I think a LOT of people – even here in the HD DVD forums – will soon be in the same position as Fettastic.

Very nice post and I personally went through a lot of the same thoughts which you are going through. Wait it out and make the best decision for you.

~Josh

In fact my ps3 has had more probs. but I am getting most titles on BD cuz they aren't on HD DVD.



I have had my PS3 lock up once with KOH in it before I got a firmware update, and that was the one and only time it locked up. I have had the A2 lock up once when it was loading, and that happened today, but that was the only time I have ever had a problem with it. So they are both equal in that aspect. But, the PS3 is just so damned smooth and responsive when hitting play, stop, fast forward, menus, ect... it blows away the A2 in that regard. The A2 is really choppy in its aspect to respond to remote commands, but it plays back flawlessly.

I have had my PS3 lock up once with KOH in it before I got a firmware update, and that was the one and only time it locked up. I have had the A2 lock up once when it was loading, and that happened today, but that was the only time I have ever had a problem with it. So they are both equal in that aspect. But, the PS3 is just so damned smooth and responsive when hitting play, stop, fast forward, menus, ect... it blows away the A2 in that regard. The A2 is really choppy in its aspect to respond to remote commands, but it plays back flawlessly.

This is exactly what I have been saying for weeks now but people can not seem to get past the fact that the PS3 is a Gaming Console. I have tried to stress that the PS3 is much more then just a Gaming Console, it is a heck of a great Blu-ray player, the best HD player out there IMO.

~Josh

beatboy, why don't you pack the brushes back into the suitcase and go upsale the BluRay forum?

The PS3 gets warm, but I wouldn't label it as getting "hot". It certainly gets no warmer then my Xbox 360.

In-fact the PS3 is the most stable HD player I have owned thus far. Certainly fewer issues then my HD-A1. I am sure Fett can attest to this.

~Josh


My PS3 gets hotter than my 360, not by much but it's still noticeable. That being said, I haven't had any real issues with my PS3 and it's well ventilated, but I have had 2 Blu-Ray movies freeze, although I was able to resume them after stopping playback and starting it again. My A1 has never frozen on a HD DVD movie, but I have had random hisccups from time to time but they are rare. I'm still wishing for HD DVD to win this race, although I can speak objectionably about both formats since I own them both and have over 100 movies between each of them.

Originally Posted by Blkout
Not literally of course. The PS3 gets hotter than a George Foreman grill.

The other problem is that it looks like one too!

I own 2 A2's 1 A1 and the addon and have never experienced any of the problems you so much like to talk about beat. Why is that? And I'm not the only one.

I had an A1 die on me and they replaced it with an A2. But, It never skipped or lost audio sink up until the time it just died.

The PS3 is one ugly piece of hardware, I'll give you that. A flashy coat of black paint doesn't WOO me like some other people.

Considering the PS3 doesn't upconvert SD DVDs I see you still have an issue. The PS3 has scaling issues and until they are resolved I will not be buying one.


The scaling issues are not a problem on my display, but I can see where it would be a problem for some. Sony really dropped the ball on this machine. It has RUSHED written all over it.

Reports are that the next FW Update will implement Upconversion on the PS3, so this should be taken care of very soon. I beleive they are Beta testing it now.

~Josh

Does no one own a SD DVD player anymore? I don't want my PS3 or A1 reading SD DVD's, I leave that to the Pioneer Elite DV59-AVi.

Fett, to help make you feel more secure in your dicision to come to the Blu-ray side of things, these Exclusive Blu-ray releases were just announced on The Digital Bits:

Ladder 49 (2/13)
Reign of Fire (2/13)
The Prestige (2/20)
Chicken Little (3/20)
King Arthur: Director's Cut (4/3)
G.I. Jane (4/3)
Con Air (6/8)
Crimson Tide (6/8)
The Rock (6/8)
Cars (Summer)
The Recruit (Summer)
Open Range (Summer)
Remember the Titans (Fall)
Finding Neverland (TBA)

~Josh

Out of those titles, there are about 4-5 I'd be interested in. However, You fail to mention there are many HD DVD titles that are exclusive also.

It's a relief to stick in a disc and know it will play flawlessly. It's nice to know that there will never be a problem with any BD disc caused by scratches or fingerprints.

My Sony player wouldn't play 2 minutes from a Netflix Blu-Ray that looked to be flawless, so unless it was a problem with the disk when it was made I'm not sure about that last sentence. My A2 had one audio drop out, but it came after a rewind so it wasn't very objectionable. I've probably watched each of those players about the same amount, and I'd venture to say that they're both probably more reliable than the A1 that I'm thinking about craiglisting because of the sync issues.

This is exactly what I have been saying for weeks now but people can not seem to get past the fact that the PS3 is a Gaming Console. I have tried to stress that the PS3 is much more then just a Gaming Console, it is a heck of a great Blu-ray player, the best HD player out there IMO.

~Josh

Best Blu-Ray player, but not the best HD player. Last time I checked the PS3 can't play HD DVD so for those people that want to play those discs, the PS3 isn't really a good choice, is it?

How does this make any sense. I can order some HD specific titles from Europe, asia, etc. for Blu ray, the fact is I am not going to pay out the wazzoo for an import title and would rather wait for it to be released in the continental US.


It makes sense because HD DVD is region free unlike Blu-Ray so you have the option of importing HD DVD's if you wish. Whether you choose to exercise that option is entirely up to you, but at least the option exists for HD DVD owners.

I own The Elephant Man and Total Recall import HD DVD's, can't get The Elephant Man on Blu-Ray and Total Recall is superior on HD DVD than Blu-Ray.

Although it looked like I had gotten it nearly pristine, I kept having sinc issues and there was a spot where it froze up entirely. I kept thinking about all the sinc issues I've had with the A1 and how I've had to be diligent about scratches and scuffs on HD DVD discs.

And then there's that stupid black crush problem with DVI inputs which Toshiba doesn't seem too worried about fixing.

Fettastic,

Did your player start giving you sync problems and black crush after you updated to FW 2.0? I seem to recall an earlier thread where you were on an earlier FW (I think 1.4) and you were debating about upgrading to 2.0 for fear of these types of problems since you were not having them on 1.4? Is that what happened? If so, could you please state your display brand/model?

The reason I ask is because I have an A1 that has been working almost flawlessly on FW 1.3 (e.g., no black crush, as verified by Avia and by comparison to the component output, and only a few minor skipping incidents in over 6 months of fairly heavy use) and I also have a DVI display and I have not upgraded to FW 2.0 for fear of the problems you describe (especially the black crush). But I know that it does not happen with all DVI displays, that's why I am curious about what display you have. Thanks.

Steeb,


I posted the list for him, not anyone else, to help build confidence in his decision. Nothing more, nothing less. Since the message was specifically addressed to him, there is no need for you to comment on it.


~Josh


I assume that you are aware that this forum has PM functionality. Anything you post publicly is fair game for anyone's comments.

Best Blu-Ray player, but not the best HD player. Last time I checked the PS3 can't play HD DVD so for those people that want to play those discs, the PS3 isn't really a good choice, is it?

I now have experience with all the stand alone/game console Blu-ray/HD-DVD players which are available and I stand by my statement: The PS3 is the best HD player out there now.

~Josh

Good to hear Fett. Playback issues and lack of studio support are the reasons why I finally gave up on HD DVD. Sure the discs look terrific when they're playing but I experienced one to many glitches on one too many players for my liking.

I now have experience with all the stand alone/game console Blu-ray/HD-DVD players which are available and I stand by my statement: The PS3 is the best HD player out there now.

~Josh

In your not so humble opinion, which you are entitled to, just don't speak it as fact since others won't agree with you.

Fair post. However, the format war is real and was forced on us. All you new "neutral boys" on these forums who are now popping up for some reason and always spouting off peace, love, and understanding - seem to forget this. Hey, I want everybody to get along too! Hey, I wish I never had to argue this junk for a second either! But it's because we love movies and want to secure their future in well-deserved HD quality - THAT WE HAVE TO!

The dream is one format, one standard, one set of high quality/proven codecs, high quality audio styles, etc. To achieve that in this war, that was again forced on us with no choice, - we have to support the side that lives up to the higher pedigree/standards more consistently - and we have to do it over and over again.

I actually don't care if BD completely wins. If they truly do it by blowing away HD DVD quality across the board for the next several months and not through marketing or backdoor bullsh*t - then I will welcome BD into my home with open arms.

It is BECAUSE we love movies that we need to support a side and tip the scales. We all want one format, that's clear and quality - and able to be adopted by the mass-market - so that the format can reach a peak where we can get anime, asian films, old TV shows, and all kinds of serious quality, ease of use, studios in unison, one kind of packaging, etc - instead of the current mess and confusion.

Because we want the best for our movies that we love, the war has forced us to fight for it. Two formats won't take us anywhere close to the promised land of releases/adoption that SD DVD has seen - however, working to make sure the higher-quality format wins and takes over will.








Hey pal-ee,

I don't give a chipmunks saddle - if people get along. Why would a grown person care if complete strangers argue over something as trivial as format.

I just think it's stupid to lock yourself up in a box and seal yourself in. I just would rather not be shut in a I WORSHIPY HD DVD or I HUGS FOREVER BLU-RAY box. Besides - even when I don't put myself in a box - you decide you have ot put me in the "neutral guys" box.

I'm not neutral. I'm rational. I love the war - it's making the product I buy immeasurably better. So please, by all means - keep arguing. and thanks again for your great service to this country and the world. I will thank of you everytime I say a sign asking "DO you support the tropps?" - and I will answer to myself...."yes...yes I do". Bless you.


I'm sorry if my "box" metaphor didn't work for you. Feel free to use your own imagination and replace it with your own metaphor.

I think a LOT of people – even here in the HD DVD forums – will soon be in the same position as Fettastic.

You're damn skippy!

Hey pal-ee,

I don't give a chipmunks saddle - if people get along. Why would a grown person care if complete strangers argue over something as trivial as format.

I just think it's stupid to lock yourself up in a box and seal yourself in. I just would rather not be shut in a I WORSHIPY HD DVD or I HUGS FOREVER BLU-RAY box. Besides - even when I don't put myself in a box - you decide you have ot put me in the "neutral guys" box.

I'm not neutral. I'm rational. I love the war - it's making the product I buy immeasurably better. So please, by all means - keep arguing. and thanks again for your great service to this country and the world. I will thank of you everytime I say a sign asking "DO you support the tropps?" - and I will answer to myself...."yes...yes I do". Bless you.


I'm sorry if my "box" metaphor didn't work for you. Feel free to use your own imagination and replace it with your own metaphor.

People will always argue and debate as long as they are entitled to their opinion. It's a fact of life.

You get a cookie.

In your not so humble opinion, which you are entitled to, just don't speak it as fact since others won't agree with you.

What part of his "I stand by my statement" comment did you have a problem with?! :rolleyes:

Kevin,

You have been extrememly lucky and are in the minority. It looks like 56% of us HD-DVD owners have had problems. Here is a link to a poll about this very subject started by Midnight Watcher:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=775948

~Josh
Nearly 2/3 of voters say they've had one to none when it comes to playback issues. Hundreds of discs played, and folks having one to none is VERY good. Heck, didn't you even have a problem this past week with a standard SONY DVD?? Blame ARccOS for that hmm....

And by the way, here are some recent problems folks have been having with Blu-Ray lately:

* Speed refusing to work (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=763242) in many Samsung players
* Descent not working (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=775370) in some Sony or Pioneer players
* Issues (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=774609) with Good Night and Good Luck
* Lip-sync problems (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=773542) with Christmas Vacation
* Talladega Nights not playing (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=768849) in a Panasonic
* Kung Fu Hustle not playing (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=768115) in a PS3
* Legends of Jazz not playing (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=761266) in a PS3
* Issues with getting League of Extraordinary Gentlemen to play properly (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=758019)

At least with HD DVD, Toshiba has released 2.0 firmware for their first gen players that fixed many problems, and have released second generation players. Ask those with the new players who were having issues, and many will tell you that any playback issue has already been ironed out.

Once again CHALLANGE THE INFO NOT THE POSTER, Any more and this thread is done. Also take the high road, report do not respond.

Thanks

I have been a supporter of hd-dvd since I first heard about it, but hadn't really supported it till yesterday. I bought the 360 hd-dvd add on and must say I am loving it. I bought Superman Returns and V for vendetta and so far the only issue I had was with Superman returns I had the bad batch disc, I replaced it today and watched it and was blown away. The PQ is amazing and I love the fact that buying a player this inexpensive delivers such an amazing pq, and is only marginally less than the quality of a standalone.
I have a huge dislike over Blu Ray as anyone who owned a Betamax, Mini-disc, UMD has. Sony doesn't know media formats and with Blu Ray it seems they still haven't learned(price and pq). I could care less how much disc space an hd movie has all I care about is price and picture quality and so far hd-dvd as both. I was uneasy on how it would play on my 30'' Sony KD-30XS955 and when i popped in KK I was completely overwhelmed and relieved to know that even on my small tv hd-dvd delivers. Sure there are some annoyances such as lack of resume, but I feel like even with that hd-dvd is my format of choice and if any win the format war it will be hd-dvd.

This is exactly what I have been saying for weeks now but people can not seem to get past the fact that the PS3 is a Gaming Console. I have tried to stress that the PS3 is much more then just a Gaming Console, it is a heck of a great Blu-ray player, the best HD player out there IMO.

~Josh


Oh brother... :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes:

Even better than the $1400 Pio Elite?? Have you seen the Pio Elite?? I can't believe you are going there again.
If a $500 gaming console is better than what many consider the flagship player for BD costing 3x more, then what does that say about the Blue Ray format??

Craig

Ok Done