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[Cosmic Bus]

An amusing (and likely inconsequential) bit of irony:

Sony sells Cell production facilities to Toshiba

 

[VanMardigan]

All of the other models say "dvdr, cdr" and various other things, that one doesn't"

Actually only the A30 listing goes into detail about dvdr etc. Still, from those listings, I could see how you can assume that it didn't play those recordable formats. Sort of, I mean, it's not like you really care, but whatever. Let's move on.

If this is true, doesn't it mean MS has to drop the price of the HD-DVD addon? How can they sell the HD-DVD addon for $179.99 when a full blown stand alone Toshiba player is selling for $198.00?

The add-on can do 1080p, while that standalone cannot. The standalone can do better audio, however. I would also like them to drop the price, but the add-on holds up pretty well against the HD A2 imo.

 

[OokieSpookie]

it's not like you really care, but whatever

Not really no, but there are some titles in the Paramount and Universal libraries that could make me go dual format so I do keep my eyes open for good deals.

 

[Dot50Cal]

An amusing (and likely inconsequential) bit of irony:

Sony sells Cell production facilities to Toshiba

Not really ironic when you realize Sony, Toshiba, and IBM formed a partnership to make the cell, which still exists.

 

[Raistlin]

An amusing (and likely inconsequential) bit of irony:

Sony sells Cell production facilities to Toshiba

It would be irony if Sony sold it to MS. This is simply what is expected if Sony decided to get out of ownership of semiconductor fabbing.

 

[Narag]

never mind:

Yeah, I ended up with Dawn of the Dead and Corpse Bride today. They didn't ring up as b1g1 but I wanted them anyhow so just bit the bullet.

 

[gkryhewy]

This may have already been posted, but I didn't see it on the last couple of pages. Anyway, if you buy the 360 HD-DVD drive at best buy starting Sunday, you get Heroes Season 1 for free. Plus the 5 free movies by mailback. Helluva deal (fatwallet link).

 

[C4Lukins]

This may have already been posted, but I didn't see it on the last couple of pages. Anyway, if you buy the 360 HD-DVD drive at best buy starting Sunday, you get Heroes Season 1 for free. Plus the 5 free movies by mailback. Helluva deal (fatwallet link).

That is pretty awesome.

 

[The Main Event]

This may have already been posted, but I didn't see it on the last couple of pages. Anyway, if you buy the 360 HD-DVD drive at best buy starting Sunday, you get Heroes Season 1 for free. Plus the 5 free movies by mailback. Helluva deal (fatwallet link).

Wow, that deal is way too good.

 

[StoOgE]

This may have already been posted, but I didn't see it on the last couple of pages. Anyway, if you buy the 360 HD-DVD drive at best buy starting Sunday, you get Heroes Season 1 for free. Plus the 5 free movies by mailback. Helluva deal (fatwallet link).

so the player is free, the costs of the movies are 180 bucks. it still has kk in the box right?

 

[gkryhewy]

so the player is free, the costs of the movies are 180 bucks. it still has kk in the box right?

Yeah, that's still packed in. Forgot about that.

 

[The Main Event]

so the player is free, the costs of the movies are 180 bucks. it still has kk in the box right?

Yeah, along with the Universal Media remote.

Edit: beaten.

 

[Rabid Wolverine]

Gonna go netural by this Christmas and will most likely import a player from the states..... Thankyou Transformers and Bourne.

Any idea if there will be a x3 series by Toshiba incorporating the Reon HQV Chip?

Why did they take it out of the new models?

 

[Poona]

http://www.smarthouse.com.au/Gaming/Console/P4G5C3U2

Toshiba Working With Microsoft On New Entertainment Xbox

By David Richards | Friday | 19/10/2007
Microsoft, according to insiders at Toshiba owner of the HD DVD patents, claim that Microsoft is working on a brand new Xbox that will incorporate not only a new HD DVD drive but a large hard drive and new entertainment software that is a spin off from its struggling media centre offering.

The device is being developed in response to the PS3 driving sales of games software and Blu-ray content in several countries. A recent Sony Brand Wave study conducted in five countries including the UK, Australia, France Germany and Spain revealed that a key reason that consumers are buying a PS3 is because it includes a Blu-ray player.

Recent GFK research reveals that the recently launched Xbox 360 HD DVD attach player is not selling well. Another factor that impacted early sales of the Xbox 360 was that Microsoft failed to include a HDMI port - omitted because Microsoft wanted to cut down the costs of the console in an effort to compete up against the PS3.

The new Xbox device, while allowing for extensive gaming capability, will be positioned as an entertainment hub that includes gaming and extensive wireless networking capability as well as 1080p playback. There is also talk of it including a dual HD TV tuner and EPG capability and a docking port for an MP3 player. For Toshiba, the device is critical if it is to be successful in beating Sony and the Blu-ray promoters.

Also being discussed is the development of an open standard docking port similar to the 17 pin iPod port. This would allow all manufacturers to use the same port for docking.

A senior Toshiba executive in Singapore told SmartHouse that "An Xbox with a built in HD DVD drive is critical. They and we are working on it. It also has to be more than a gaming machine. Microsoft recognise this. A version of the device may also be sold under the Toshiba brand name".

Scott Browning, the Marketing Director of JB HiFi Australia's second largest consumer electronics retailer said, "The device is a lay down mis`ere and essential for the HD DVD camp. We are told that one is coming. The PS3 has been extremely successful for Sony in getting Blu-ray off the ground and for Microsoft, the omission of a built in HD DVD player is set to hurt sales going forward as consumers are aware that the PS3 comes with a Blu-ray player."

Both Toshiba and Microsoft have also explored the possibility of a new open standard chassis system that allows an Xbox to be slotted into a HD TV screen over 40-inch. The open standard bays will allow hard drives to be upgraded and expanded similar to the way that users can upgrade the hard drive on a PC.

Another big problem for Microsoft according to insiders is getting the heat and noise output from the current Xbox 360 under control so that the new device can run silently while a movie is being played. It is known that Toshiba has been working with Microsoft on this issue as it has extensive experience in notebooks and "quiet" drives. Currently most iPods incorporate a Toshiba drive.

Another benefit for Microsoft in moving to a new Xbox platform is that it can introduce new components that are less likely to fail. Currently the PS3 has a failure rate of under two percent. Recently Microsoft was forced to allow for a $1.3 billion charge against warranty claims following reports of up to a 30 percent failure rate of the original Xbox 360.

The new device is expected to be released late in 2008 or at the 2009 CES show in Las Vegas.

 

[snorggy]

picked up 28 weeks later and robocop on blu-ray today.. noticed both offered cantonese subtitles.. is this going to be an on-going trend? or is this only on fox releases? my parents could really benefit from this as they love to watch movies but can't always understand all the dialogue...

 

[Shao Kahn Brewing a Stew]

http://www.smarthouse.com.au/Gaming/Console/P4G5C3U2

SNAP! Rumor alert. Post this in Gaming Thread

 

[Midas]

Another benefit for Microsoft in moving to a new Xbox platform is that it can introduce new components that are less likely to fail. Currently the PS3 has a failure rate of under two percent. Recently Microsoft was forced to allow for a $1.3 billion charge against warranty claims following reports of up to a 30 percent failure rate of the original Xbox 360.

:lol

 

[nubbe]

It sounds like a 360 Media Center...
and MS PR said there would never be a 360 with HD-DVD... PR are such liars

 

[StoOgE]

It sounds like a 360 Media Center...
and MS PR said there would never be a 360 with HD-DVD... PR are such liars

I thought they said that games would never come on HDDVD which would still be the case.

If this can work as my cable box/HDDVD player/game machine/DVR/etc all in one, I would jump all over that thing. Hopefully its not more than 400 bucks.

 

[VanMardigan]

By late 2008, early 2009 (the time frame mentioned in the article), it should be around $400.

And yeah, I'd pick that up in a heartbeat too.

 

[StoOgE]

By late 2008, early 2009 (the time frame mentioned in the article), it should be around $400.

And yeah, I'd pick that up in a heartbeat too.

Well, Im hoping if they do this, its the premium SKU for the 360.. they could still have the "core" at 150-200 bucks in late 2008, and then have this at 100 bucks or so more (like the premium now)...

then have the larger HD on the "elite" version for DVR like functions for 400 bucks.

I think that would be ideal.

 

[Ignatz Mouse]

I stand by my assertion that come Black Friday, you'll be able to find a BluRay player for $100 more than you will an HD-DVD player.

At this point, my certainty of this fact is at an all-time low-- but I do expect a price drop on BluRay players now that the $400 PS3 is coming out. Right now it'll be a $200 difference, I think that will likely narrow more.

 

[The Main Event]

It sounds like a 360 Media Center...
and MS PR said there would never be a 360 with HD-DVD... PR are such liars

I guess the proposition (and pressure?) from Toshiba lead them to that decision.

 

[wotter]

Numbers are up:

 

[The Main Event]

http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Universal_(119_posts)/Exclusive_HD_Content/Disc_Announcements/Universal_Issues_Bourne_Ultimatum_HD_DVD_Specs,_Cover_Art/1086

Universal has delivered final specs for 'The Bourne Ultimatum,' and it promises to be yet another gangbusters next-gen release in the franchise, boasting a host of bonus features and exclusive U-Control content.

As we've previously reported, last month Universal set a December 11 release date for the 'Bourne Ultimatum' HD DVD/DVD combo, day-and-date with the standard DVD version. Though there were no specs revealed at the time, the studio promised a fully-loaded special edition for what is easily one of the eagerly-awaited high-def titles of the year.

Now, the full dossier is in, and the title would seem to live up to expectations. Standard extras shared between the HD DVD and DVD versions include audio commentary with the filmmakers, 12 minutes of deleted scenes, and a collection of five featurettes totaling over 45 minutes: "Driving School," "New York Chase," "Planning the Punches," "Roof Top Pursuit" and "Man on the Move."

Exclusive to the HD DVD will be a "U-Control" picture-in-picture video commentary including additional cast & crew interviews, behind-the-scenes footage and more.

Tech specs are equally impressive, with the set including the studio's usual 1080p/VC-1 video and audio tracks in both Dolby TrueHD and Dolby Digital-Plus 5.1 surround.

As previously reported, 'Ultimatum' will also be included in 'The Jason Bourne Collection' HD DVD box set, which Universal is also debuting on December 11. Full specs for that release are forthcoming. Stay tuned.

And a bigger cover art:

 

[CajoleJuice]

Numbers are up:

I don't follow this stuff much, but Transformers came out on HD-DVD this week, right? This can't be good for HD-DVD...

 

[jjasper]

This is the week before Transformers (HD DVD will most likely "win" that week)

From Hell review:

'From Hell' is a flashy period piece that oozes with style and testosterone. The same can be said about this new Blu-ray release, which features a one-two punch of a stunning video transfer and a powerful DTS-HD MA mix. The one disappointment is the absence of several supplements from 2-disc Special Edition DVD, but overall this one’s still a top-notch effort from Fox that’s sure to leave fans smiling.

fuck yeah I really liked this movie so I am definitely going to pick it up at some point.

 

[bud]

can somebody repost that pic with releases like cast away in it?

 

[CajoleJuice]

This is the week before Transformers (HD DVD will most likely "win" that week)

Oh alright, thanks.

 

[Oni Jazar]

Pretty good numbers for the Blu-ray. lol at the chumps who bought 28 days later (I can't lie I was tempted as well). Can't wait until next week!

1. Fantastic Four 100.00
2. Surf's Up BD 66.99
3. 28 Weeks Later BD 63.66
4. Evan Almighty HD 45.62
5. 300 BD 37.58
6. Knocked Up HD 27.03
7. Reign over Me 24.10
8. 28 Days Later BD 23.13
9. Casino Royale BD 21.96
10. Troy DC BD 19.64

xx 300 HD 18.88
xx Planet Earth HD 14.23
xx Top Gun HD 10.57
xx Troy HD 7.34

 

[djkimothy]

Numbers are up:

That was fast....

Pretty good numbers for the Blu-ray. lol at the chumps who bought 28 days later (I can't lie I was tempted as well). Can't wait until next week!

Heh, we'll see if the Blu-ray deals were enough to counter the Transformers juggernaut.

 

[Oni Jazar]

Here's an interesting fact:

Evan Almighty outsold 28 Weeks Later 2-1 on SD and was outsold 7-5 on HD.

 

[StoOgE]

Here's an interesting fact:

Evan Almighty outsold 28 Weeks Later 2-1 on SD and was outsold 7-5 on HD.

demographics.

Early HDDVD and BRD adopters are more likely to be young males with disposable income. Evan allmighty isnt exactly in their wheelhouse for movies they have to buy. Horror movies are.

Some of that stuff is fairly interesting, I would expect similar results for most family films (outside of Pixar/Shrek which have apeal in that demographic too)

 

[MechDX]

EDIT: oops. Misread. My apologies

 

[VanMardigan]

Great week for Blu Ray. I think the SI numbers went up one point too, unless I missed that last week.

I'll pick up Evan Almighty at some point, but there were....um.......other expenses this week that kept me from picking up more movies. I did get Transformers and Knocked Up, though I haven't received either in the mail yet.

 

[Chemo]

This is not Transformers week, that will be next weeks numbers.

Uhh, yeah. That's what he said. Reading is fun!

 

[SUPREME1]

Wait a minute..

So this weekend, we can pick up:


Xbox360 HD DVD add-on
+
the 360 Universal Remote
+
King Kong
+
Heroes: Season 1
+
5 HD DVDs of your choosing


All for the very low price of $179.99?!!! Wow! What an amazing deal!

Seriously though, if this deal was running for president.. LANDSLIDE!!!

 

[captive]

Here's an interesting fact:

Evan Almighty outsold 28 Weeks Later 2-1 on SD and was outsold 7-5 on HD.

Even almighty was a new release, while the dvd of 28 days later has been out for a few years now.

 

[The Main Event]

http://www.highdefdiscnews.com/

This is a film that proves John Woo is an absolutely brilliant Director and this is easily one of his finer films. This 10-year-old classic action film is now reborn in High Definition and it comes with great welcome. This is definitely a MUST OWN HD DVD!

I mention this to explain what has made me come to the decision that I couldn’t justify giving this a full 5 Star Rating for that small (but still somewhat distracting) of a problem. Don’t get me wrong, the video presentation is absolutely fine and will definitely be like “night and day” in comparison to your previous DVD version(s). This is an action film so you’d expect some artifacts and pixilation, well I’m happy to tell you there are none present that I could notice in any way. Overall this is one solid video transfer that is sure to please the fans as a huge improvement over the DVD version. It’s almost close to being “demo material” even with the 4 ½ Star Rating. You’ve never seen “Face/Off” like this, it’s like seeing it again almost for the first time.

Audio Quality on this release is in DTS ES 6.1 and Dolby Digital Plus 5.1 EX. First off I’d like to say this is THE way Action Films SHOULD sound in surround. This definitely sets a new standard with the DTS ES 6.1 track especially. It honestly has an “extra oomph” that the Dolby Digital Plus 5.1 EX track lacks. It doesn’t seem to require as much amplification to rock your socks off and be “KICK ASS DEMO MATERIAL!” Rear channel presence and the overall LFE are absolutely superb.

Straight off the bat the opening scene will grab your attention (in the DTS 6.1 anyway) as the score comes through beautifully and is interrupted suddenly by the gunshot. The gunfire, explosions, jet engine roars, helicopter blades and all the other sound effects in the film sound extremely lifelike. At times the audio presentation seems to outshine the video because of the extreme surround mixes. Again this is by all means “demo material” at it’s finest.

4 out of 5 stars - The Movie Itself (has an average rating of 7.1 on IMDb)
4 1/2 out of 5 stars - Video Quality (1080p in AVC MPEG-4 on a 30gb disc)
5 out of 5 stars - Audio Quality (DTS 6.1 & Dolby Digital Plus 5.1 EX)
4 out of 5 stars - Bonus Materials (are Great & ALL in High Definition)

This is one of my most anticipated catalog title. It was also the first ever VHS I bought back in the days, and never bothered to upgrade it on DVD. Will definitely pick this one on the 30th.

 

[dallow_bg]

Wait a minute..

So this weekend, we can pick up:


Xbox360 HD DVD add-on
+
the 360 Universal Remote
+
King Kong
+
Heroes: Season 1
+
5 HD DVDs of your choosing


All for the very low price of $179.99?!!! Wow! What an amazing deal!

Seriously though, if this deal was running for president.. LANDSLIDE!!!

Then again, it's the add on.

 

[Christoff Yurievich]

Even almighty was a new release, while the dvd of 28 days later has been out for a few years now.

except he was talking about 28 Weeks Later?

Wait a minute..

So this weekend, we can pick up:


Xbox360 HD DVD add-on
+
the 360 Universal Remote
+
King Kong
+
Heroes: Season 1
+
5 HD DVDs of your choosing


All for the very low price of $179.99?!!! Wow! What an amazing deal!

Seriously though, if this deal was running for president.. LANDSLIDE!!!

to extend the statement - any 5 HD DVD's of your choosing from this limited list.

 

[SleazyC]

Quick question, is the BOGO deal still alive at Circuit City? Wanted to make a trip out there this weekend to pickup a couple movies but wasn't sure if the deal was still active.

 

[captive]

except he was talking about 28 Weeks Later?

laws, i cant read.

 

[Christoff Yurievich]

everyone has the problem in this thread from time to time.

Quick question, is the BOGO deal still alive at Circuit City? Wanted to make a trip out there this weekend to pickup a couple movies but wasn't sure if the deal was still active.

dead. see last post last page.

 

[Forsete]

Great numbers for BD.. That blue Pac-Man mouth is getting small and smaller. :lol

Anyway, just watched Black Book. Very nice image quality (AVC), the movie was quite good but pretty predictable most of the time. Glad I got it.

Anyways, the movie has a splash screen which shows up on PS3. Pretty cool.

 

[distantmantra]

Anyways, the movie has a splash screen which shows up on PS3. Pretty cool.

Tekkonkinkreet does this, too. I've heard that the Spider-man movies also have this feature.

 

[VanMardigan]

Then again, it's the add on.

Unless you have an HDMI-capable reciever that can produce DD plus, TrueHD, DTS MA, or any of the other high res audio formats, the add-on is a great value. Otherwise, yeah, I'd go with a standalone.

Also, the splash screen stuff is alright, but I was hoping it was a full screen splash like the ones you get on the PsP when you pop in a UMD.

 

[dallow_bg]

Unless you have an HDMI-capable reciever that can produce DD plus, TrueHD, DTS MA, or any of the other high res audio formats, the add-on is a great value. Otherwise, yeah, I'd go with a standalone.

Also, the splash screen stuff is alright, but I was hoping it was a full screen splash like the ones you get on the PsP when you pop in a UMD.

Quite agree.
HDMI receivers are getting pretty low now.
If anyone cares about surround sound, the add on isn't even an option.


I was hoping for full screen spash as well.
Still nice.

All new Sony titles feature this.

 

[gkryhewy]

If anyone cares about surround sound, the add on isn't even an option.

What? You get 5.1 through the 360's optical out at a minimum. Not sure if other formats are supported by 5.1 isn't surround now?

 

[VanMardigan]

What? You get 5.1 through the 360's optical out at a minimum. Not sure if other formats are supported by 5.1 isn't surround now?

Yeah, it's Dolby Digital 5.1 and DTS 5.1, plus 2ch PCM. Those are the audio options. Good enough for most people, that's for sure (including me). I plan to get an Onkyo sometime next year, but until then, the add-on is pretty much the ceiling for me. The only other option for me is to get one of the high end Toshiba's ($500 plus) and run 5.1 analog.

I'd much rather just update my receiver.