LaCinema? No Thanks.

LaCie has come out with a product much like the AppleTV, it even costs the same and sports a 500GB (up to 1TB) of space to store all those DVD you've ripped. Well, that's where the nice things end. This $250 unit just wont cut it in the bells and whistles department. There is no WiFi *(or even ethernet) updating so you must upload everything the first time through the USB if you plan on keeping this unit in one place. There is no HDMI and I don't understand why. There is optical audio and component, so it is possible to get a good picture (up to 1080i upscale) The unit's look or remote is nothing special, it's basically a black box with some non-essential lights. The remote is bulky as well. The interface is supposed to be 'easy to use' and 'streamlined' but it's quite ugly and sports the LaCie name twice on the home screen in the largest font.

If you are a movie person, and have a collection of DVD's ripped that your local FBI may want to look into, they you may have an interest in this product. One feature that is nice is there is no requirement to have the files in two places, like with AppleTV that syncs (copies) files from your main computer.

Once you go, Kuro, you never go backo

1080p. Some consider the high point of HDTV. Well it might be to some, but resolution is only one element of a great picture. Jim Catcheside of Pioneer explains in an article at tech.co.uk. "One of the blights on the TV industry at the moment is the big hang-up that people seem to have on resolution. It's a big bugbear of mine. All most people are worried about at the moment is that their new TV should have a resolution of 1920 x 1080. 1080, 1080, 1080, 1080. That's all some people want to hear about." Lots of things go into making a better picture like color, contrast, black levels, and other factors. Resolution is only part of the equation. People need to consider what black quality does to the overall color of the picture. Pioneer claims that if you put their 42in 720p model against other markets 42in 1080P models, the Pioneer model will be the clear winner.

Now it's BOTH of them!?!

Sources are now saying that both Universal and Paramount are both going Blu. They just wont stop and it's making everyone question the longevity of HD DVD. Bill Hunt at Digital Bits is reporting that his "second to none" sources are telling him that BOTH Universal and Paramount are working towards a switch to Blu-ray. A new update to previous posts, the contracts that prevent them from switching now, prevent them from confirming the rumor as well. Paramount could make an announcement any day now, but Universal wont come till February at the earliest, when their contract with HD DVD expires.

HD DVD Should your HD DVD equipment make its way to eBay ASAP? I have already started selling all my HD DVD stuff. I'm thinking about it more and more. I'm sticking with HD DVD till the end. I never even thought they has a chance. Blu FTW. view results

"Current plan is to support the HD DVD format." Key word being Currently

It was reported earlier through the Financial Times and engadget.com that movie studio Paramount was preparing to use their get out clause in the HD DVD exclusivity deal, the same clause Warner used just a few days ago. Paramount now has officially released a statement calling this rumor untrue. Unless you hear different, for now Transformers and Shrek are still HD DVD only :(

150" of Plasma Lifewall Glory

Why any human would ever need an 150 inch television is beyond me, but Panasonic has been showing off their manhood with this monster of a TV. Considered to be the largest TV ever produced, this 11 feet by 6.25 feet giant has 8.84 million pixels (4K) resolution which has very little programing available. Though some may want it now, this monster of a machine has no model number, no price tag, and no date for commercialization. If you don't think it's that big, take a look at this thing compared to last years 103 inch plasma.

Slingbox PRO HD

Those unfamiliar with the Slingbox concept, here is a quick review. A Slingbox takes your living room entertainment set up and connects it to the internet allowing you to view your DVR, Cable Box, Movies, anything connected to the variety of ports, on a computer or cell phone.

The not yet released Slingbox PRO HD (Q3: 2008) offers a full range of HD inputs, but the real kicker is that it will stream out HD video (up to 1080i) which both the Solo and PRO models do not. It also will output 5.1 surround sound throughout your network. Users lucky enough to have an ultra-high-speed internet connection (FiOS) will be able to stream HD content to a remote location.

Engadget Image Gallery

While I have never owned a Slingbox or comparable equipment, the idea seems very cool but may not be for everyone. A lot of video content is already available online though iTunes or video sites. While YouTube may not be the best way to get your dose of Law and Order, throwing down $400 and then having fast enough equipment, may outweigh the benefits. For the long business traveler or someone away from home a lot, a Slingbox may be an option, but unless your a video file, the HD wont reach it's true potential on you Blackberry.