3D Equipment Update

3D Equipment Update - Part 2

Tuesday, 04 January 2011 07:00

So, we now have content available from various sources, including Blu-ray 3D with some 24 titles available by the end of 2010, and there are even more to come. Check out this article from Home Media magazine for 3D software plans in 2011.

How do we display these new depth filled images?

At the present time, most of the systems (and all the flat panel 3D systems) require LCD shutter glasses to realize the 3D effect.

Right now, we have the best 2D Plasma TV on the planet, depending on who you talk to. That would be the Panasonic VT25. Available in sizes ranging from 50, 54, 58 and 65 inches, this set also delivers 3D capabilities. We currently have the 58" model displayed, along with the Panasonic DMP-BDT350 Blu-ray player, and the image is simply stunning. Panasonic also offers the GT25 series in 42 and 50 inch screen sizes. They start at $1699.95.

JVC recently announced their 3D projector offerings. They have three models presently DLA-X3 @ $4495.95, DLA-X7 @ $7995.95, and the DLA-X9 @ $11,995.95. They do have a press release here. Their glasses will sell for $179.95 each and the IR transmitter is $79.95. We will be bringing in the DLA-X9 for demo use in the store, as soon as they ship.

Runco recently introduced their plans for 3D. Their 3Dimensions Series D-73d starts at $49,995, with anamorphic options ranging from $55,995 to $72.395. You can read more about them here. Runco does not utilize their LCD shutter glasses, opting for the more affordable polarized lens glasses that most theaters utilize. This allows for a much brighter image than is possible with many other 3D systems, but you may need to purchase a screen that retains the left and right eye polarity properly.

Of course there are many flat panel solutions from other manufacturers, but for now, none of it means anything without content and that appears to be changing. With major studio support and cable networks scrambling to provide more content this year, 3D will finally be a contender, and all those people that already purchased 3D capable TVs will have something to celebrate.