Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Spark tablet available for pre-order, still aiming for 200 euro price tag]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/18/spark-tablet-available-for-pre-order-still-aiming-for-200-euro/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/18/spark-tablet-available-for-pre-order-still-aiming-for-200-euro/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/18/spark-tablet-available-for-pre-order-still-aiming-for-200-euro/#comments We're sure some Linux fans broke into a cold sweat over the open source Spark tab. Fortunately it's taken the next step towards their eager paws: the seven inch slab is now up for pre-order. Sign up for one and you'll net a priority order code to ensure you get one of the first units off the production line, alongside 500 points to use at the manufacturer's add-on store. The site still expects to launch the Spark for around €200 ($262), which is a fair chunk of change less than those top-drawer tablets -- and what price can you put on freedom?

[Thanks Jose]

Spark tablet available for pre-order, still aiming for 200 euro price tag originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 18 Feb 2012 00:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kdelinuxminipostopen sourceOpenSourceplasmaplasma activePlasmaActivepreorderqtslatesparkspark tabletSparkTablettablet ktablet kdeTabletKTabletKdeSat, 18 Feb 2012 00:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Spark pre-orders delayed, but here's a video instead (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/12/spark-pre-orders-delayed-but-heres-a-video-instead-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/12/spark-pre-orders-delayed-but-heres-a-video-instead-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/12/spark-pre-orders-delayed-but-heres-a-video-instead-video/#comments
We had hoped that the Linux-based open-source Spark tablet would be up for pre-order already, but the logistics gods have decreed it not to be. Order registrations are now simply said to go online "ASAP". In the meantime, the developers hope to whet your appetite with this video of the 7-inch budget-slab in action. So it looks a little bit laggy right now, but the team behind it says there's plenty of performance to be squeezed out of it yet. Likewise the UI you see above is optimized for a larger screen, meaning thumbnails and margins should be sharper once those kinks have been ironed out. Hit the source below to get the full update on the pre-order setbacks.

Spark pre-orders delayed, but here's a video instead (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 12 Feb 2012 04:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>delaykdelinuxopen sourceOpenSourceplasmaplasma activePlasmaActivepre-orderqtslatesparkspark tabletSparkTablettabletvideoSun, 12 Feb 2012 04:27:00 EST<![CDATA[2012 HDTV pricing leaks out for Panasonic, Sony, Sharp and Samsung]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/09/2012-hdtv-pricing-leaks-out-for-panasonic-sony-sharp-and-samsu/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/09/2012-hdtv-pricing-leaks-out-for-panasonic-sony-sharp-and-samsu/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/09/2012-hdtv-pricing-leaks-out-for-panasonic-sony-sharp-and-samsu/#comments The madness of CES 2012 is long over and now that we've seen all of the new HDTVs, it's time to find out when they're actually going on sale, and for how much. HDGuru has just dug up advertised pricing for some of the new models from Sony (BX, EX and HX lines) and Sharp (640, 745, 844, 847 and 945), while US pricing and ship dates for Panasonic's new plasmas have been revealed by Value Electronics. For Samsung, some of the new HDTVs have already showed up for preorders at retailers like Vanns, including the top of the line 75-inch ES8000 priced at $7,999, while a more reasonably sized 46-inch model is $2,699. Sony's prices range from $399 for the KDL-32BX320 to $2299 for the KDL-55HX750, while Sharp's range from LC-46-L540U for $1,099 to the LC-80LE844U for $6,499. Most of the ship dates are still TBA, although Panasonic is planning to unleash the ST50 later this month, followed by the UT50 and GT50, then the top of the line VT50 in May. While we wait for official announcements, you can hit the source links below for more details, and let us know if you've seen any other 2012 model information peeking out early.

2012 HDTV pricing leaks out for Panasonic, Sony, Sharp and Samsung originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 22:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20123d3d tv3dtves8000Financegt50hdpostcrosshdtvkdl-55hx750LC-46-L540ULC-80LE844UlcdledpanasonicPanasonic CorporationplasmaquattronsamsungSci/Techsharpsonyst50UN46ES8000un75es8000ut50vt50Thu, 09 Feb 2012 22:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Panasonic prices, dates some of its 2012 HDTVs (VT, GT, ET) and accessories in Japan]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/07/panasonic-prices-and-dates-some-2012-hdtvs-vt-gt-et-and-acce/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/07/panasonic-prices-and-dates-some-2012-hdtvs-vt-gt-et-and-acce/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/07/panasonic-prices-and-dates-some-2012-hdtvs-vt-gt-et-and-acce/#comments If Panasonic's CES 2012 lineup of plasma and LCD HDTVs interested you, it's time to dig into more details it's just released about their Japanese cousins. Those "Infinite Black Ultra Panel" plasmas will arrive April 20th as the VT5 series and AV Watch reports the 60-inch will be priced at about 500,000 yen ($6517), while the 50-inch is 360,000 yen ($4694). There's also details on the new GT5 plasmas, in 60-, 55-, 50- and 42-inch sizes, as well as the DT5 and ET5 LCDs. All of those are 3D capable and will start rolling out March 9th (April 20th for some of the larger sizes), although the ET series is its first that works with passive 3D glasses. The new 3D glasses -- passive (2,000 yen, $26) and active with Bluetooth link (13,000 yen, $169) will also arrive in March along new Blu-ray players and recorders plus a refreshed Skype camera that's slimmer and half the weight of last year's model. Hit the links below and let Google Translate bring in the details, we should probably hear more about US prices, specs and ship dates in a few weeks.

Panasonic prices, dates some of its 2012 HDTVs (VT, GT, ET) and accessories in Japan originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d glasses3dGlasses3dtvactive shutterActiveShutterblu-raydtetglassesgthdpostcrosshdtvjapanlcdledpanasonicpassive 3dpassive 3d glassesPassive3dPassive3dGlassesplasmaskypety-cc20wvtTue, 07 Feb 2012 11:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Spark Linux tablet specs updated, going up for pre-order next week]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/05/spark-linux-tablet-specs-updated-going-up-for-pre-order-next-we/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/05/spark-linux-tablet-specs-updated-going-up-for-pre-order-next-we/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/05/spark-linux-tablet-specs-updated-going-up-for-pre-order-next-we/#comments We already got a brief introduction to the Spark Linux-based tablet, but details were a little sparse. Since then, a few more key bits of info have been added to its Q&A page, which might help sway your purchasing decision. That KDE Plasma Active UI we knew it'd be sporting will stare out at you via a modest 800 x 480 screen, and there's a 1.3 megapixel snapper tucked in alongside for video calling. The 1GHz / 512 MB internals we initially reported remain unchanged and the two USB ports and 3.5mm audio jack we saw in the pre-release picture above also get the official seal. There's talk of GPS making it into the next iteration, but for now you'll have to find your own way. The main news, however, is that pre-orders are pegged for next week, and shipping set for May. The initial focus is on Europe, but plans for it to arrive in US retailers are apparently underway. If that's suitably tickled your fancy, head on over the break and tap the source for more info.

Spark Linux tablet specs updated, going up for pre-order next week originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 05 Feb 2012 05:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AMlogickdelinuxlinux tabletLinuxTabletopen sourceopen source tabletOpenSourceOpenSourceTabletplasmaplasma activePlasmaActiveqtsdkslatesparkspark tabletSparkTablettabletusbSun, 05 Feb 2012 05:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Meet Spark, the 200 euro slate packing Linux-based Plasma Active UX]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/01/meet-spark-the-200-slate-packing-linux-based-plasma-active-ux/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/01/meet-spark-the-200-slate-packing-linux-based-plasma-active-ux/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/01/meet-spark-the-200-slate-packing-linux-based-plasma-active-ux/#comments As we all know, the Kindle Fire's hot, Apple's selling bushels of iPads, and there's plenty of Honeycomb slates out there for you to choose from, but what if you want a tablet free from corporate influence? Enter Spark, a seven-inch slate that comes running the Plasma Active UX, an open-source OS based on Linux kernel, KDE's multi-platform Plasma environment and a dash of Qt for good measure. Now, this isn't just a consumer tablet -- Spark's aimed at "those who love writing great software... using the typical Linux tools" -- but it will offer access to ebooks from Project Gutenberg, plus Qt and QML apps, too. It's powered by a 1GHz AMLogic ARM processor, has a Mali-400 GPU and comes with 512MB of RAM, 4GB of internal storage, plus an SD card slot for future expansion. Modest underpinnings, to be sure, but for €200 ($262), you can't expect quad core silicon, right? Naturally, order and delivery dates remain a mystery, but plenty of other info about the open-source slate can be found at the source below.

Meet Spark, the 200 euro slate packing Linux-based Plasma Active UX originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 04:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kdelinuxopen sourceOpenSourceplasmaplasma activePlasmaActiveqtslatesparkspark tabletSparkTablettabletWed, 01 Feb 2012 04:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Samsung 2011 Q4 earnings official: $42 billion in sales, $4.7 billion operating profit]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/26/samsung-2011-q4-earnings-official-billion-in-revenue-4-6-bi/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/26/samsung-2011-q4-earnings-official-billion-in-revenue-4-6-bi/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/26/samsung-2011-q4-earnings-official-billion-in-revenue-4-6-bi/#comments It might not be making as much money as the competition in Cupertino, but that doesn't mean Samsung isn't raking in cash at an astonishing clip. We reported earnings estimates a few weeks ago, but now it's official that the firm posted a 5.3 trillion won ($4.7 billion) operating profit in Q4 2011. That represents over a 2 trillion won ($1.8 billion) increase year over year. In all, it pulled in 47.3 trillion won ($42 billion) in sales, thanks in no small part to the over 300 million phones Sammy sold last year. While mobile accounted for roughly 40 percent of company sales and half of its operating profit (2.6 trillion won, or $2.3 billion), its semiconductor business did almost as well, raking in 2.3 trillion won ($2 billion) in profit over the same period. Samsung's Display Panel business outperformed 2010 -- buoyed by strong sales in LED televisions -- as sales were up almost 20 percent, to 8.55 trillion won ($7.6 billion).

Well the call just finished up, and Sammy provided some prognosication for 2012. It anticipates the mobile business to continue to grow, with LTE and and new market segments (read: Galaxy Note) helping drive sales. TV sales are also expected to remain on the uptick, as Samsung anticipates demand to continue growing due in part to the London Olympics and roll-out of more Smart TVs. Feel free to check out all the numbers giving Samsung reason for its optimism at the source link below.

Samsung 2011 Q4 earnings official: $42 billion in sales, $4.7 billion operating profit originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 26 Jan 2012 19:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>earningsfinancialsgalaxyhdpostcrosshdtvlcdmobilepostcrossphonesplasmaprofitprofitsq4q4 2011q4-2011Q42011quarterlysalessamsungsmartphonestablettabletstvThu, 26 Jan 2012 19:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Hitachi to halt domestic production of Wooo LCD and plasma TVs, Mitsubishi to axe optical discs?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/23/hitachi-to-halt-domestic-production-of-wooo-lcd-and-plasma-tvs/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/23/hitachi-to-halt-domestic-production-of-wooo-lcd-and-plasma-tvs/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/23/hitachi-to-halt-domestic-production-of-wooo-lcd-and-plasma-tvs/#comments Hitachi's line of domestically produced Wooo TVs is coming to an end, now that the manufacturer has confirmed plans to close a major plant in central Japan. In an announcement issued today, Hitachi said it will shutter its factory in Gifu, where some 100,000 LCD and plasma TVs are produced each month. Citing industry-wide price competition as the deciding factor, the company went on to clarify that the facility will shut down by September of this year, and that it will instead be used to manufacture projectors and chips. Hitachi will, however, continue to offer non-Wooo TVs manufactured by non-Japanese contractors. Japan's Asahi Shimbun, meanwhile, is reporting that Mitsubishi has decided to terminate domestic production of DVDs and Blu-Rays, due to declining sales of each. From now on, optical disc manufacturing will instead be outsourced to partner companies in India and Taiwan. For more details, check out the post-break press release.

Continue reading Hitachi to halt domestic production of Wooo LCD and plasma TVs, Mitsubishi to axe optical discs?

Hitachi to halt domestic production of Wooo LCD and plasma TVs, Mitsubishi to axe optical discs? originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 23 Jan 2012 06:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu rayBluRaybusinessdvdhdpostcrosshitachiindustryjapanLCDLCD TVLcdTvmitsubishimoneyoptical discOpticalDiscplasmaplasma TVPlasmaTvpriceproductionTVwoooMon, 23 Jan 2012 06:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Panasonic unveils Infinite Black Ultra Panel plasmas for 2012 (eyes-on)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/11/panasonic-unveils-infinite-black-ultra-panel-plasmas-for-2012-e/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/11/panasonic-unveils-infinite-black-ultra-panel-plasmas-for-2012-e/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/11/panasonic-unveils-infinite-black-ultra-panel-plasmas-for-2012-e/#comments The leader in plasmas TVs keeps stepping up its game with 16 new 3D models for 2012 and one lonely 2D set. At the top of the line is the VT50 series -- 4 is unlucky in Japan -- featuring the new Infinite Black Ultra Panel with blacker blacks than the 2011 VT35 and 24,576 steps of gradation, which should provide more detail in dark scenes. It's too early to tell if this will officially dethrone the king of blacks, but we were able to appreciate the improved performance in a side by side demo. The picture quality isn't the only thing new, 2012 brings DLNA, a new more anti-reflective screen and a web browser that uses a smartphone app to avoid entering data with an onscreen keyboard. There are also new 3D glasses for 2012 that are much ligher and work via Bluetooth -- and of course not compatible with last year's. We wish there were more details (like price and availability) in the press release after the break, but we'd guess this Summer for less than you paid for your 2011 HDTV.

Gallery: Panasonic Infinite Black Ultra Panel plasma eyes-on


Gallery: Panasonic VT50 2012 plasma hands-on


Gallery: Panasonic 2012 3D glasses hands-on

Continue reading Panasonic unveils Infinite Black Ultra Panel plasmas for 2012 (eyes-on)

Panasonic unveils Infinite Black Ultra Panel plasmas for 2012 (eyes-on) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 16:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3DCESCES 2012Ces2012DLNAhands-onhdpostcrossInfinite Black Ultra PanelInfiniteBlackUltraPanelNeoPlasmaNeoPlasma Black 2500NeoplasmaBlack2500Panasonicplasmaplasma tvPlasmaTvTHXVT50Wed, 11 Jan 2012 16:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Samsung estimates operating profit of $4.5 billion on cellphone, hard drive biz sales]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/samsung-q4-2011-earnings/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/samsung-q4-2011-earnings/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/samsung-q4-2011-earnings/#comments Fourth quarter estimates for Samsung's earnings are out and wouldn't you know it, selling a record number of mobile phones -- more than three times over what it sold in the same period last year -- is a pretty good way to turn a profit. Businessweek notes it closed the three months ending in December with an operating profit of 5.2 trillion won ($4.5 billion), beating analyst estimates. Other than the more than 300 million phones it sold, there was also a bump from the $1.38 billion sale of its hard drive business to Seagate that helped overcome drops in profits from its chipmaking and flat-screen units. Detailed results are expected later on this month, but The Wall Street Journal reports Samsung expects to notch an operating profit of 16.2 trillion won ($14 billion). Here's hoping it takes a break from counting up all that cash to show off a few things better and brighter next week at CES.

Samsung estimates operating profit of $4.5 billion on cellphone, hard drive biz sales originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 22:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>earningsgalaxyhdpostcrosshdtvlcdmobilepostcrossphonesplasmaprofitsq4quarterlysalessamsungseagatesmartphonestvThu, 05 Jan 2012 22:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Engadget's holiday gift guide 2011: HDTV and home theater]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/29/engadgets-holiday-gift-guide-2011-hdtv-and-home-theater/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/29/engadgets-holiday-gift-guide-2011-hdtv-and-home-theater/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/29/engadgets-holiday-gift-guide-2011-hdtv-and-home-theater/#commentsWelcome to the Engadget Holiday Gift Guide! We're well aware of the heartbreaking difficulties surrounding the seasonal shopping experience, so we're here to help you sort out this year's tech treasures. Below is today's bevy of curated picks, and you can head back to the Gift Guide hub to see the rest of the product guides as they're added throughout the holiday season.
For a crowd-pleasing holiday gift, it's hard to do better than a TV (or something that plays on or plugs into a TV), so naturally we're here to help you out once again. Of course, this is an ever-changing industry segment, but we've got you covered -- regardless of whether you need a flat panel or a projector. If you're out shopping for someone that has (or wants to) cut the cable, or someone that has every channel, there's something for you. Of course, we'd also recommend keeping a close eye on the tablet and gaming categories too, but companies like Roku, Samsung and Ceton are making sure you have all kinds of options dedicated purely to video. Give them a look after the break.

Continue reading Engadget's holiday gift guide 2011: HDTV and home theater

Engadget's holiday gift guide 2011: HDTV and home theater originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bd-d5700blu-rayblu-ray playerBlu-rayPlayercetonceton infinitv 4ceton infinitv 4 USBCetonInfinitv4CetonInfinitv4Usbhd33hdpostcrosshdtvhgghgg2011holiday gift guideholiday gift guide 2011HolidayGiftGuideHolidayGiftGuide2011home theaterHomeTheaterinfinitv 4Infinitv4lc-80le632ulcdmedia streamerMediaStreameroptomaoptoma hd33OptomaHd33panasonicplasmaprojectorrokuroku xdRokuXdsamsungsharpstar warsStar Wars: The Complete Saga on Blu-rayStarWarsStarWars:TheCompleteSagaOnBlu-raytc-p65vt30tivotivo premiere eliteTivoPremiereElitetrontron: legacyTron:LegacyTue, 29 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Engadget Primed: HDTV technologies detailed, past and future]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/11/engadget-primed-hdtv-technologies-detailed-past-and-future/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/11/engadget-primed-hdtv-technologies-detailed-past-and-future/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/11/engadget-primed-hdtv-technologies-detailed-past-and-future/#commentsPrimed goes in-depth on the technobabble you hear on Engadget every day -- we dig deep into each topic's history and how it benefits our lives. You can follow the series here. Looking to suggest a piece of technology for us to break down? Drop us a line at primed *at* engadget *dawt* com.


Like so many things in life, when it comes to high-definition televisions, size matters. So, too, does picture quality -- we like watching the devil in crisp detail, after all. As the centerpiece of home entertainment systems, today's flat big-screen HDTVs pull triple duty. They're the preferred display when you're braining zombies during a flesh-tearing PS3 game of Dead Island. They're ideal for watching zombies (er, walkers) get brained on AMC's hit The Walking Dead. And in terms of social status, big HDTVs serve notice that, yes world, you've arrived. So join us as we explore and demystify the acronym-filled habitat of HDTVs -- and in the process maybe save your bank account from getting bitten.

In this installment of Primed, we'll examine the two main breeds of flat-panel HDTVs, including a look at liquid crystal display and plasma technologies. We'll also put screen size, resolution and frame rates under the microscope. We'll wrap things up with a view of what's on the high-def horizon and close out with a critical assessment of 3D HDTV. Strap yourselves in, couch jockeys, it's time for Primed.

Continue reading Engadget Primed: HDTV technologies detailed, past and future

Engadget Primed: HDTV technologies detailed, past and future originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 11 Nov 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ddisplayengadget primedEngadgetPrimedhdpostcrosshdtvlcdlcd tvLcdTvpdpplasmaprimedFri, 11 Nov 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LG flexes its pre-CES design muscle with a cubey AirPlay dock, svelte 3D HDTVs (update)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/10/lg-flexes-its-pre-ces-design-muscle-with-a-cubey-airplay-dock-s/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/10/lg-flexes-its-pre-ces-design-muscle-with-a-cubey-airplay-dock-s/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/10/lg-flexes-its-pre-ces-design-muscle-with-a-cubey-airplay-dock-s/#comments LG has a habit of creating gadgets for everyday use with super-thin and ultra-sleek designs. This year, the company was recently awarded a whopping 12 Innovation Awards for CES 2012, which notably included very light details on three of its upcoming Smart TVs and its cubey Powerful Sound AirPlay-enabled speaker dock. Among the displays are two 55-inch HDTVs, dubbed LED Cinema 3D LM8600 and Nano Full LED Cinema 3D LM9600 -- both are listed as sporting "LG's narrowest bezel and ultra-slim Clear Screen design," but the Nano variant is said to offer "brighter and smoother" picture quality. For the plasma lovers out there, LG's also let details loose on its PM9700 -- a massive 60-inch 3D HD Plasma display, complete with a Magic Motion remote. For those on the audio side, that cubey AirPlay speaker is said to pack 80-watts of power and a 2.1 stereo speaker array, along with an obligatory iDevice dock on its top. We'll let you know if we catch a glimpse of the new gear at CES, but in the meantime, you'll find details in the press release past the break.

Update: LG has requested that the images be removed, sorry folks.

Continue reading LG flexes its pre-CES design muscle with a cubey AirPlay dock, svelte 3D HDTVs (update)

LG flexes its pre-CES design muscle with a cubey AirPlay dock, svelte 3D HDTVs (update) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 10 Nov 2011 10:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airplayappleawardcesces 2012ces innovationCes2012CesInnovationCINEMA 3D HDTVsCinema3dHdtvshdpostcrossHDTViosLED CINEMA 3D LM8600LedCinema3dLm8600lgLG iPod Speaker DockLgIpodSpeakerDockLM8600LM9600Nano Full LED Cinema 3DNanoFullLedCinema3dND8520plasmaPM9700pmppowerful soundPowerfulSoundsoundwirelessThu, 10 Nov 2011 10:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Energy Star 5.3 now in effect, some chunkier TVs left out in the cold]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/03/energy-star-5-3-now-in-effect-some-chunkier-tvs-left-out-in-the/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/03/energy-star-5-3-now-in-effect-some-chunkier-tvs-left-out-in-the/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/03/energy-star-5-3-now-in-effect-some-chunkier-tvs-left-out-in-the/#commentsA revamped set of Energy Star requirements went into effect last week, much to the chagrin of plus-sized plasma TVs everywhere. Under the new specification (Version 5.3), sets bearing that vaunted blue sticker will have to be, on average, about 40 percent more energy efficient than standard models, while larger displays will be held to even stricter requirements. The latest iteration also calls for qualifying TVs to adhere to a "hard cap" of 108 watts (irrespective of size), essentially disqualifying any plasmas at least 50-inches in size, and any larger, non-LED-backlit LCDs. Among those sets that qualified for certification under Version 4.2, a full 14 percent consume more than 108 watts (mostly 2010 models), and only three are LED LCD-based (including Samsung's UN65D8000). Some newly disqualified 2011 models, however, may still bear blue stickers, due to Energy Star's ongoing transition process. "With the intention of seeing products that meet the newest requirements on retail shelves when 5.3 takes effect, EPA halted certification of new TVs that met the 4.2 requirements (but not the 5.3 requirements) as of May 31, 2011," Energy Star product manager Katherine Kaplan explained to CNET. "All new products certified since May 31 meet the 5.3 requirements. A product newly manufactured and certified in June had to meet the 5.3 requirements to be labeled." Hit up the source link below for more details.

Energy Star 5.3 now in effect, some chunkier TVs left out in the cold originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 03 Oct 2011 11:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>108 watts108Wattscertificationenergy consumptionenergy efficiencyenergy starenergy star 5.0energy star 5.3energy star version 5.3EnergyConsumptionEnergyEfficiencyEnergyStarEnergyStar5.0EnergyStar5.3EnergyStarVersion5.3hdpostminiLCDLEDLED LCDLedLcdplasmaplasma tvPlasmaTvrequirementsamsungsamsung UN65D8000SamsungUn65d8000standardtelevisionTVversion 5.3Version5.3Mon, 03 Oct 2011 11:22:00 EST<![CDATA[LG PZ850 Pentouch Plasma TV hands-on (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/02/lg-pz850-pentouch-plasma-tv-hands-on-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/02/lg-pz850-pentouch-plasma-tv-hands-on-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/02/lg-pz850-pentouch-plasma-tv-hands-on-video/#comments
Samsung took IFA by storm yesterday with its now-legendary "S Pen" (that Galaxy Note comes bundled), so it's only fair that LG gets its chance in the spotlight with a pen of its own. The company's Pentouch comes with a plasma TV in tow, and lets you do super-slick stuff to your productivity suite -- you can mark up Word docs, handwrite URLs in the browser, highlight elements in your PowerPoint presentations, or even flick one of those little red balls of fluff in Angry Birds. $2,199 will net you a 3D-enabled 60-inch LG PZ850 with Pentouch TV -- a non-3D model is available for $1,699, and there's a 50-inch version as well, priced at a mere $1,099.

You'll need to collect quite a few ingredients before you can get cookin' here, including the TV, the pair of included pens, and a computer to pump content to your TV. If you're planning to use the display with kids, a printer might be a good idea as well, so your little ones will have a platform to preserve all those on-screen sketched masterpieces (this thing puts coloring books to shame). Everything seemed to work as described (note: this isn't a touchscreen, so you'll need to use the pen), though the software did hiccup once while attempting to hand-write the Engadget URL. We see this being more of a hit for enterprise use, since there isn't really any need to mark up photos or tap the screen to launch apps in your living room. Still thinking about taking the plunge? Jump past the break for a video walkthrough (yes, and yet another clip of Angry Birds).

Gallery: LG PZ850 Pentouch Plasma TV hands-on

Continue reading LG PZ850 Pentouch Plasma TV hands-on (video)

LG PZ850 Pentouch Plasma TV hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 02 Sep 2011 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d3d tv3dTv50PV49060PV49060PZ850angry birdsAngryBirdshands-onhdpostcrosshdtvifaifa 2011Ifa2011lglg pentouchLgPentouchpenpentouchplasmaPZ850TstylustouchvideoFri, 02 Sep 2011 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[LG goes big with stylus-equipped PenTouch plasma TVs]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/01/lg-goes-big-with-stylus-equipped-pentouch-plasma-tvs/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/01/lg-goes-big-with-stylus-equipped-pentouch-plasma-tvs/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/01/lg-goes-big-with-stylus-equipped-pentouch-plasma-tvs/#comments It's a good time to be a stylus fan. Not only has Samsung debuted its handwriting-friendly Series 7 Slate and Galaxy Note tablets, but LG is also bringing the stylus into the living room with its new series of PenTouch plasma TVs. Available in both 50-inch and 60-inch varieties, each TV comes with a pair of Touch Pens that let you either control the TV and included software like a calendar and photo gallery, or simply draw on it to your heart's content. As if that wasn't enough, the top-end 60-inch model is also a 3D TV, and include one pair of active shutter glasses -- it'll run you $2,199, while the non-3D models come in at $1,699 and $1,099. Unfortunately, you'll also have to supply your own Windows PC to take full advantage of that touch-functionality.

Continue reading LG goes big with stylus-equipped PenTouch plasma TVs

LG goes big with stylus-equipped PenTouch plasma TVs originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 01 Sep 2011 22:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d3d tv3dTv50PV49060PV49060PZ850hdpostcrosshdtvifaifa 2011Ifa2011lglg pentouchLgPentouchpenpentouchplasmaPZ850TstylustouchThu, 01 Sep 2011 22:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Hitachi's 50-inch P50-GP08 3D TV could be its Japanese swan song]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/11/hitachis-50-inch-p50-gp08-3d-tv-could-be-its-japanese-swan-song/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/11/hitachis-50-inch-p50-gp08-3d-tv-could-be-its-japanese-swan-song/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/11/hitachis-50-inch-p50-gp08-3d-tv-could-be-its-japanese-swan-song/#comments
If the P50-GP08 is indeed Hitachi's last domestically produced TV, it would make for a pretty worthy finale. Unveiled today, this 3D TV features a 50-inch plasma screen capable of beaming images in full HD, 1920 x 1080 resolution, with a contrast ratio of 5,000,000:1. The beast also packs five TV tuners, a 500GB removable HDD, a quartet of HDMI ports and a motion sensor that turns off the set after a preset period of time (between five and 60 seconds). Best of all, everything can be controlled from the comfort of an iPad or iPhone, thanks to the Wooo Remote app, scheduled for release later this month (see an image, after the break). According to AV Watch, the P50-GP08 should start shipping on August 27th for about ¥220,000 (around $2,875), though there's no word yet on whether it'll ever make it to markets overseas.

Continue reading Hitachi's 50-inch P50-GP08 3D TV could be its Japanese swan song

Hitachi's 50-inch P50-GP08 3D TV could be its Japanese swan song originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 11 Aug 2011 16:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1920 x 10801920X10803d3d tv3dTv500GB500gb hdd500gbHddappfull hdFullHdHDHDDHDMIhdpostcrosshitachiiosipadiphonejapanp50-gp08plasmaplasma tvPlasmaTvremovable HDDRemovableHddresolutiontvwoo remoteWooRemoteThu, 11 Aug 2011 16:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Samsung sews up 60 percent of the 3D TV market]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/04/samsung-sews-up-60-percent-of-the-3d-tv-market/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/04/samsung-sews-up-60-percent-of-the-3d-tv-market/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/04/samsung-sews-up-60-percent-of-the-3d-tv-market/#comments In the face of claims by LG that customers prefer its passive 3D technology, Samsung's pointing to the scoreboard. Recent NPD data shows its plasma and LCD 3D TVs account for 60 percent of those sold between May 22nd and June 18th, and more than half of those sold for April to May. One question would be how many of those are actually set up to watch 3D but with its slew of free glasses promotions, we have to expect most of those owners have the proper equipment. Of course the other question is how many total sales does that amount to but those numbers weren't revealed. The press release is after the break for further dissection, we'll check back later in the year to see which side customers are choosing -- if they're choosing based on 3D at all -- then.

Continue reading Samsung sews up 60 percent of the 3D TV market

Samsung sews up 60 percent of the 3D TV market originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 04 Jul 2011 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d3d tv3dTvhdlcdlgmarket shareMarketSharenpdplasmasalessales dataSalesDatasamsungMon, 04 Jul 2011 16:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Plasma coalition says sales are up over last year]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/21/plasma-coalition-says-sales-are-up-over-last-year/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/21/plasma-coalition-says-sales-are-up-over-last-year/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/21/plasma-coalition-says-sales-are-up-over-last-year/#comments After a terrible 2009 plasma manufacturers seem to have turned their fortunes around, shipping more TVs in the early months of 2011 than they did last year. Having large sizes and features like 3D is nice, but interestingly the CEA stats nearly two thirds of plasma sales are accounted for by 720p displays. While our focus is usually on the higher end sets, we know from experience the draw of large sets for cheap is a major driver in sales, and now you know why manufacturers keep selling them. Beyond that there's plenty of analyst blather to consider in the press release after the break, but if you were feeling insecure about the flat panel battle there are some positive numbers to focus on.

Continue reading Plasma coalition says sales are up over last year

Plasma coalition says sales are up over last year originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Jun 2011 23:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hdplasmaTue, 21 Jun 2011 23:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Poll: Why don't you have a projector?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/15/poll-why-dont-you-have-a-projector/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/15/poll-why-dont-you-have-a-projector/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/15/poll-why-dont-you-have-a-projector/#comments Seriously, what's stopping you from hooking up a projector and enjoying your high definition viewing on a 100-inch or bigger screen the way we all know you deserve? There's no arguing that bigger is better, so now that projectors are cheaper and brighter than ever there's less of a reason to opt for anything else. But there you sit, staring at your puny 50- or 60-inch plasma, LCD or rear projection unit pretending that it's actually getting the job done. Explain the reasoning to us below because frankly we just don't get it.

View Poll

Poll: Why don't you have a projector? originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 15 May 2011 13:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hdlcdplasmapollprojectorrptvSun, 15 May 2011 13:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Bang & Olufsen's 85-inch 3DTV comes to North America for $1,000 per inch]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/12/bang-and-olufsens-85-inch-tv-comes-to-north-america-for-1-000-pe/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/12/bang-and-olufsens-85-inch-tv-comes-to-north-america-for-1-000-pe/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/12/bang-and-olufsens-85-inch-tv-comes-to-north-america-for-1-000-pe/#comments Because the current lineup of 3D capable HDTVs just aren't exclusive enough, Bang & Olufsen has expanded its lineup with the BeoVision 4-85 plasma which will be available to North American buyers next month for a mere $85,000. While we prefer to save our riches for even rarer sets like Panasonic's 152-incher, the BeoVision system does include the triangular BeoLab 10 center channel speaker and a motorized stand that lowers it when you're not watching. Either way, we won't tell you how to spend your (presumably ill-gotten) ducats beyond pointing out the specs in the press release below, but those interested in staying one step ahead of the Joneses should remember a refreshed version of the 103-inch edition with 3D will be available this summer as well.

Continue reading Bang & Olufsen's 85-inch 3DTV comes to North America for $1,000 per inch

Bang & Olufsen's 85-inch 3DTV comes to North America for $1,000 per inch originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 12 May 2011 12:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d3d tv3dTvbangbang olufsenBangOlufsenbeolabbeovisionbeovision 4-85Beovision4-85hdtvplasmaThu, 12 May 2011 12:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Eyes on with the VT30, Panasonic's flagship 3D plasma]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/10/eyes-on-with-the-vt30-panasonics-flagship-3d-plasma/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/10/eyes-on-with-the-vt30-panasonics-flagship-3d-plasma/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/10/eyes-on-with-the-vt30-panasonics-flagship-3d-plasma/#comments
The latest and greatest (and largest) 3D plasmas from Panasonic are finally shipping, including the flagship, THX-certified Viera VT30 sets with their single sheet of glass panels and Infinite Black Pro2 filters. We first caught a glimpse of these bad boys back at CES and we've been impatiently waiting for a chance to blast our retinas with their PDP goodness in all three dimensions. The company was nice enough to invite us over recently to have a little TV powwow that featured an uncomfortable amount of Avatar on Bluray. Keep reading after the break for all the not-so-gory details.

Gallery: Panasonic 2011 3D TVs

Continue reading Eyes on with the VT30, Panasonic's flagship 3D plasma

Eyes on with the VT30, Panasonic's flagship 3D plasma originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 10 May 2011 18:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3D3d tv3dTvactive 3dActive3ddlnaeyes oneyes-onEyesOngt30hands onhands-onHandsOnhdtvpanasonicpanasonic vieraPanasonicVierapdpplasmast30TVvieraviera connetviera gt30viera linkviera st30viera vt30VieraConnetVieraGt30VieraLinkVieraSt30VieraVt30vt30Tue, 10 May 2011 18:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Engadget HD: I need a new HDTV]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/20/ask-engadget-hd-i-need-a-new-hdtv/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/20/ask-engadget-hd-i-need-a-new-hdtv/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/20/ask-engadget-hd-i-need-a-new-hdtv/#comments Sure, sometimes our queries are incredibly specific, super high end or relate to a deeper need for a comfortable home life, but sometimes a guy just needs a new TV. This is the case for our friend Jared, but we'll let him spill the details:
My TV just died. It was a 50 inch Vizio Plasma unit. I've been looking for a new one and I'm having a hard time choosing which type to go with. I mainly play video games (Xbox and Playstation) and I watch a lot of sports with some Netflix streaming in there as well. So which type of HDTV is best for those things? LCD or LED or Plasma?
There you go, Jared is a simple man with simple needs. We don't know specifically what size or price range he's targeting but let's assume he wants to stay in the same range as his old TV. Let us know in the comments below which model you'd suggest to someone just looking to pick up a TV quickly, probably without scanning the luminance, contrast and motion detail of every display on the shelf.

Got a burning question that you'd love to toss out for Engadget HD (or its readers) to take a look at? Tired of Google's blank stares when you ask for real-world experiences? Hit us up at ask at engadgethd dawt com and keep an eye on this space -- your inquiry could be next.

Ask Engadget HD: I need a new HDTV originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 20 Apr 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask engadgetask engadget hdAskEngadgetAskEngadgetHdhdhdtvlcdlednew hdtvNewHdtvplasmaWed, 20 Apr 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Samsung's 3D TV experience is getting cheaper: two pairs of glasses packed in, $50 for extras]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/06/samsungs-3d-tv-experience-is-getting-cheaper-2/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/06/samsungs-3d-tv-experience-is-getting-cheaper-2/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/06/samsungs-3d-tv-experience-is-getting-cheaper-2/#comments As the battle between active and passive 3D glasses display technology heats up, Samsung has responded by announcing its cheapest pair of active shutter 3D glasses will cost $50 (previously $130) beginning May 1st. Additionally, all of its 3D-capable 2011 HDTVs will come with two pairs of glasses packed in, unless the purchase is eligible for the Megamind/Shrek starter kit that already comes with them. This move comes just as FPR-based displays from LG, Vizio, Toshiba and Philips hit the marketplace. LG specifically focused on the cost of glasses as a selling point over Samsung in recent ads that ran heavily throughout the NCAA Tournament (embedded after the break.) LG is charging $10 per pair for its RealD-compatible Theater 3D glasses while Vizio has pairs on its website for $29.99 or two for $44.99.

The cheap pair of Samsung glasses is the SSG-3100GB model with replaceable battery pictured above and while it promises the new, lighter Silhouette-designed SSG-3700GR glasses will also get cheaper, no new price has yet been announced. A 62% price reduction is nothing to sneeze at, but it looks like customers will still need to buy into 3D -- and that active glasses beat passive on picture quality and viewing angle like it says in the press release (after the break) -- to spur sales of the new TVs.

Continue reading Samsung's 3D TV experience is getting cheaper: two pairs of glasses packed in, $50 for extras

Samsung's 3D TV experience is getting cheaper: two pairs of glasses packed in, $50 for extras originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 06 Apr 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d3d glasses3dGlasses3dtvaccessoriesactive shutter 3d glassesActiveShutter3dGlassescheaperfprhdtvlcdpack inPackInpassive 3d glassesPassive3dGlassesplasmapricesamsungssg-3100gbssg-3700grvideoWed, 06 Apr 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Samsung announces availability, pricing for 2011 HDTVs, Blu-ray players and HTIB]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/16/samsung-announces-availability-pricing-for-2011-hdtvs-blu-ray/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/16/samsung-announces-availability-pricing-for-2011-hdtvs-blu-ray/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/16/samsung-announces-availability-pricing-for-2011-hdtvs-blu-ray/#comments It's coming a little late in the game since many of these models have already started shipping, but Samsung has finally seen fit to reveal prices and approximate shipping dates for its 2011 HDTVs (both LCD and plasma), Blu-ray players, and home theater in a box systems. There's no surprises as far as features from what we saw at CES, both plasma and LCD HDTV lines have new slim bezeled models, with new LED lighting tech for the LCDs and "Real Black" panels for the plasmas that have grown an inch in size this year. Meanwhile, the Blu-ray players have predictably gotten slimmer and faster, booting up in just three seconds. 3D and Smart TV features are standard on the majority of the new products this time around, check after the break for more details on what's new and how much they'll cost to start out.

Continue reading Samsung announces availability, pricing for 2011 HDTVs, Blu-ray players and HTIB

Samsung announces availability, pricing for 2011 HDTVs, Blu-ray players and HTIB originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 16 Mar 2011 13:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20113d3d tv3dTvbd-d5300bd-d5500bd-d5700bd-d6500bd-d6700bd-d7000bd-d7500blu-rayd700d7000d8000hdtvhtiblcdledplasmapn51d6500pn51d7000pn51d8000pn59d6500pn59d7000pn59d8000pn64d7000PN64D8000samsungshowcasesmart tvSmartTvun40d6400un46d6400UN46D7000un46d8000UN55d6400UN55D7000UN55D8000Wed, 16 Mar 2011 13:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Could this be the year the Kuro is completely dethroned?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/13/could-this-be-the-year-the-kuro-is-completely-dethroned/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/13/could-this-be-the-year-the-kuro-is-completely-dethroned/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/13/could-this-be-the-year-the-kuro-is-completely-dethroned/#commentsNeoPlasma improvements Every year since that sad day Pioneer announced its exodus from the plasma TV market videophiles have looked to Panasonic to take the baton forward and push picture quality to new heights, but so far it has come up short in the one metric that many consider the most important; black levels. Plenty of TVs have great realistic colors, vivid whites and great contrast, but there is something about staring into the abyss that is a Kuro that warms the heart. So while it is debatable whether a TV with better contrast, but greyer blacks can be better than a Kuro, the debate might be over if Panasonic's engineers are to be believed. At an event in New York City last week they did just that, telling members of the press that Panasonic's new VT30 line will indeed match the black levels of the 2009 Kuros. Apparently the key is the new and improved louver structure of the filter that blocks reflective light, which block ambient light -- and Kuro fans are mocked for saying the Kuro is blacker when its off than other TVs, ha. We'll have to wait to see if the reviewers agree before we get excited, but it is still pretty crazy to think it's taken this long for the industry to catch up with where Pioneer was years ago in at least one category.

Could this be the year the Kuro is completely dethroned? originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 13 Mar 2011 20:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blackscontrasthdKuroPanasonicplasmaVT30Sun, 13 Mar 2011 20:28:00 EST<![CDATA[NASA and Ad Astra team up to test VASIMR plasma rocket in space]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/11/nasa-and-ad-astra-team-up-to-test-vasimr-plasma-rocket-in-space/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/11/nasa-and-ad-astra-team-up-to-test-vasimr-plasma-rocket-in-space/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/11/nasa-and-ad-astra-team-up-to-test-vasimr-plasma-rocket-in-space/#comments Plasma propulsion may very well be our ticket to visit those little green men on Mars, which is why NASA is becoming besties with Ad Astra, makers of the VASIMR VX-200 plasma rocket. After successful terrestrial testing, the next step is to try out a VF-200 flight model in space -- and a new agreement gives NASA engineers access to VASIMR while letting Ad Astra leverage NASA's spacecraft expertise to get it into orbit. The plasma rocket was assumed to be destined for use on the International Space Station because it requires far less fuel than conventional boosters -- making it better suited than the propellant-hungry thrusters keeping the station in orbit today -- and can take advantage of the ISS's considerable electrical power (250kW) to fully test VASIMR's 200kW output. Plasma rockets produce sustained thrust, as opposed to the quick bursts of its chemical cousin, which makes it the preferred means of propulsion for space travel as well. NASA hasn't fully committed to either use -- but if Marvin and his fellow Red Planet denizens know what's good for them, they'll be watching VASIMR's development with great interest.

NASA and Ad Astra team up to test VASIMR plasma rocket in space originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 11 Mar 2011 18:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ad astraAdAstrainternational space stationInternationalSpaceStationissnasaplasmaplasma rocketPlasmaRocketpropulsionrocketspacevasimrFri, 11 Mar 2011 18:48:00 EST<![CDATA[Panasonic celebrates higher plasma TV sales for 2010, sets prices for 2011]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/01/panasonic-celebrates-higher-plasma-tv-sales-for-2010-sets-pric/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/01/panasonic-celebrates-higher-plasma-tv-sales-for-2010-sets-pric/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/01/panasonic-celebrates-higher-plasma-tv-sales-for-2010-sets-pric/#comments After setting its LED pricing for the year to come, Panasonic has finally set its plasma HDTV info in stone. Again matching the information leaked from retailers, the MSRPs (before any retailer discounts) range from the 65-inch TC-P65VT30 sticking at $4,299 down to the $599 720p TC-P42X3. Also of note is the inclusion of not only the previously announced S30 series without 3D technology or the new Infinite Black 2 panel (unlike the step-up ST30 models) but there will also apparently be a V30 line without the 3D fittings, although there's no specs, prices or ship dates mentioned. Last year the only top of the line model available was the VT25, although there was a 2D only V20-series plasma available in Australia and other regions. 3D or no, things appear to be looking up for plasma TVs, with shipments jumping nine percent last year. Check the press release after the break for all the details, but we'll have to wait until the TVs to arrive to find out if Panasonic is going to be able to hold onto its crown again.

Continue reading Panasonic celebrates higher plasma TV sales for 2010, sets prices for 2011

Panasonic celebrates higher plasma TV sales for 2010, sets prices for 2011 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 01 Mar 2011 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20113d tv3dTvgt30hdtvpanasonicplasmas30st30v30vieraviera connectVieraConnectvt30x3Tue, 01 Mar 2011 13:01:00 EST<![CDATA[2011's new HDTVs from Samsung, Panasonic, LG start to arrive in stores, pricing leaks out]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/24/2011s-new-hdtvs-from-samsung-panasonic-lg-start-to-arrive-in/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/24/2011s-new-hdtvs-from-samsung-panasonic-lg-start-to-arrive-in/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/24/2011s-new-hdtvs-from-samsung-panasonic-lg-start-to-arrive-in/#comments After they strut their stuff on the CES runway the only thing left for 2011's latest & greatest HDTVs to do is take their act on the road and that's exactly what's happening. CNET's David Katzmaier has tweeted about finding a few Samsung and Panasonic models at various retailers already, though as usual it's the lower end models that are coming in first -- if you want a top of the line Panasonic VT30 instead of a 720p 3D Samsung D490 plasma (51-inch, $969), you'll have to wait. Still, it's good to ballpark what you'll have to budget and while HDGuru has followed up on previous Panasonic pricing leaks with MAP and specs for most of Samsung's line, cj1319 on AVSForum has early details on minimum advertised prices on LG's Nano LED lit LCDs & plasmas. Check the source links below for all the details, but don't expect any help from us while you're scraping together 10 g's for the 72-inch 72LZ9700 LG LCD pictured above.

2011's new HDTVs from Samsung, Panasonic, LG start to arrive in stores, pricing leaks out originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 24 Feb 2011 14:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>72LZ9700d490hdtvlcdlgpicingplasmaretailsalesmasungThu, 24 Feb 2011 14:18:00 EST<![CDATA[US pricing for Panasonic's 2011 HDTVs leaks out]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/08/us-pricing-for-panasonics-2011-hdtvs-leaks-out/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/08/us-pricing-for-panasonics-2011-hdtvs-leaks-out/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/08/us-pricing-for-panasonics-2011-hdtvs-leaks-out/#comments Forget about doing any yen conversions, the planned US (as always, subject to possible change or retailer discounts) pricing for Panasonic's 2011 lineup of HDTVs has been posted over at HDGuru. According to the information it's received from retailers, the starting price of the top of the line 65-inch VT30 due in May is unchanged from last year's VT25 at $4,299.95. The 55-inch arriving in April is a bit cheaper, starting at $2,799, $300 less than a comparable model was last year, but a new year mans there's also more versions of the 3D capable plasmas to choose from. The ST30 series doesn't feature certifications from ISF and THX like the higher end models or some of their design tweaks, but a 42-inch plasma with the new Infinite Black 2 panel can be had for $1,099 to start. Unfortunately the 3D-less S30 appears to have a different panel and no Viera Connect features so we can't do a direct comparison to see how much 3D is adding on to the price tag, but its 42-inch model is $200 less. Check out the site for the full pricing information and approximate release dates

US pricing for Panasonic's 2011 HDTVs leaks out originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 08 Feb 2011 16:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gt30hdhdtvlcdpanasonicplasmapricingstg0vt30Tue, 08 Feb 2011 16:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Panasonic's 2011 HDTVs shown off in Japan with prices, March release dates]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/03/panasonics-2011-hdtvs-shown-off-in-japan-with-prices-march-rel/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/03/panasonics-2011-hdtvs-shown-off-in-japan-with-prices-march-rel/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/03/panasonics-2011-hdtvs-shown-off-in-japan-with-prices-march-rel/#comments Panasonic's found time to show off its latest series of HDTVs in Japan, including the new top 3D-capable VT3, GT3 and ST3 generation plasmas, and DT3 LCDs, . As one might expect, the feature list is predictably similar to the US models with the next iteration of 3D panel technology, including a few Japan-specific features like VOD services and recording TV to USB drives. According to AV watch it looks like the starting prices have gone down slightly YoY as well, with the new 50-inch VT3 predicted to arrive March 18 for 380,000 yen ($4,654) down from 430,000 yen ($5,267) last year. The lower end GT3 series and new DT3 3D LCDs should arrive a week earlier on March 11, though we'll probably have to wait until much closer to launch again to find out precisely what the predictably lower US pricing will be this time around. Click on through for all the details you can stand in the meantime.

Panasonic's 2011 HDTVs shown off in Japan with prices, March release dates originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 03 Feb 2011 10:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d3dtvavialabilitydtdt3full hd 3dFullHd3dgtgt3hdtvjapanlcdpanasonicplasmapricingstst3vieravtvt3Thu, 03 Feb 2011 10:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Totally blow out the big game! Super Bowl XLV]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/31/totally-blow-out-the-big-game-super-bowl-xlv/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/31/totally-blow-out-the-big-game-super-bowl-xlv/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/31/totally-blow-out-the-big-game-super-bowl-xlv/#comments It's been confirmed, Super Bowl XLV will not be the first one with a full HD 3D broadcast (no gimmicky 3D commercials this year either, you can put the paper glasses away) despite featuring a halftime show by James Cameron's BFFs, the Black Eyed Peas. Still, considering what happened the last time they tried 3D at the House That Jerry Jones Built it's probably for the best. Still, just because you don't have one of Cowboys Stadium's record breaking HD screens you should still enjoy the game in style. In 2011 that means going beyond just the screen, the sounds and the seats -- we'll tell you how after the break.

Continue reading Totally blow out the big game! Super Bowl XLV

Totally blow out the big game! Super Bowl XLV originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 31 Jan 2011 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappleappsconnected tvConnectedTvdealfootballhdtvioslcdpanasonicphoneplasmasamsungsuper bowlsuper bowl xlvSuperBowlSuperBowlXlvtabletvizioMon, 31 Jan 2011 17:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Panasonic's CES 2011 HD lineup: Blu-ray players, 3D video conferencing, HDTVs, audio gear]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/panasonics-ces-2011-hd-lineup-blu-ray-players-3d-video-confer/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/panasonics-ces-2011-hd-lineup-blu-ray-players-3d-video-confer/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/panasonics-ces-2011-hd-lineup-blu-ray-players-3d-video-confer/#comments Panasonic's blowing it out here at CES, partciularly on the HD front. There's a boatload of new content to disgest, so we'll take you through it all step-by-step below:
  • For starters, Panasonic is dishing out seven new plasma HDTVs, six new LED LCDs and five new standard LCD HDTVs. For the 2011 model year, Panny's introducing the VT30 series, GT30 and ST30 lines, and two of the LED LCDs are joining its array of Full HD 3D TVs. Naturally, the biggest addition to the new sets is the Viera Connect system, but the Easy IPTV functionality is another boon.
  • For those who've got a Viera Cast-enabled BD deck, Panny's adding Skype voice and video calling. The addition of Skype to Panasonic's new DMP-BDT310, DMP-BDT210, and DMP-BDT110 VIERA CAST-enabled Blu-ray Disc Players allows consumers to make Skype voice and video calls on virtually any HDTV using a Skype-compatible camera.
  • As for new Blu-ray and DVD players? There's a near-limitless flow of them, with the DMP-B200 (8.9-inch display) and DVD-LS92 (9-inch) portable players serving the road warriors. The DMP-BDT210 3D Blu-ray deck is now holding down the top spot in the company's at-home range, and if you're still down with DVD, you'll find a load of new options with USB ports for loading up additional media.
  • The company is also debuting the April-bound SC-HTB520 soundbar, meant to match up with flat-panels that are 42-inches or larger, and it's also throwing in a wireless, down-firing subwoofer.
  • Finally, Panny's introducing 3D video conferencing (HDVC), which may or may not make your weekly boardroom meetings entirely more tolerable.
Head on down to the source for more, but don't expect to find much in the way of price and availability.

Gallery: Panasonic's CES 2011 HD lineup

Panasonic's CES 2011 HD lineup: Blu-ray players, 3D video conferencing, HDTVs, audio gear originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 05 Jan 2011 21:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d3d blu-ray3dBlu-rayblu-raycesces 2011ces2011earbudshdtvlcdpanasonicpdpplasmaSkypethrustmastervideovideo conferencingVideoConferencingvieraviera connectVieraConnectWed, 05 Jan 2011 21:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Samsung touts Bluetooth 3D support on LED 8000 / 7000 HDTV line, intros D8000 and D6500 plasmas]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/samsung-touts-bluetooth-3d-support-on-led-8000-7000-hdtv-line/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/samsung-touts-bluetooth-3d-support-on-led-8000-7000-hdtv-line/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/samsung-touts-bluetooth-3d-support-on-led-8000-7000-hdtv-line/#comments Are you ready to look your existing 3D HDTV in the face (yeah, the one you purchased a fortnight ago) and tell it that aren't enticed in the least by Samsung's latest? Good luck with that. As it tends to do each year, Sammy is busting out a barrage of new releases here at CES, and is kicking things off with a smattering of big-screen television sets. Up first is the high-end LED 8000 series, comprised of 46-, 55-, 60- and 65-inch models. The UND8000 line boasts a restyled, 0.2-inch wide metal bezel, and there's plenty of Smart TV enhancements to gawk over. You'll get a full web browser, media search panel, an advanced recommendation feature and a Touch Control TV remote (complete with 3-inch screen) to dictate it all. The most interesting feature, however, is likely the support for Bluetooth 3D glasses; rather than relying on IR, the Bluetooth approach promises to improve on the line-of-sight, range and interference issues that some struggle with today. Other specifications across the line include 240Hz de-jitter technology, a 1080p panel, inbuilt WiFi and support for Skype.

Moving right along, the D7000 series arrives as a threesome, offering buyers the choice of 46-, 55- or 60-inches of diagonal screen space. You'll still find a frighteningly thin 0.2-inch thick bezel here, Bluetooth 3D Active Glasses support, 3D playback, a 1080p panel, inbuilt WiFi and Skype support, but you'll miss out on the Micro Dimming Plus and the snazzy universal remote. If you'd prefer to go the plasma route, the D8000 crew would be happy to oblige. Available in 51-, 59- and 64-inch screen sizes, these 1080p 3D sets were designed with a slimmer bezel that offers up to a full inch increase in viewing screen size over last year's models, and each one measures just 1.5-inch thick. You'll also get a Touch Control TV remote thrown in, a 0.001ms response time, USB ConnectShare Movie, inbuilt WiFi, DLNA streaming support and the ability to Skype over your TV if you buy an optional webcam. Stepping down a notch, there's the D6500 line, which is offered in 51- and 59-inch sizes and simply trims down on a few of the more advanced features. We're still waiting to hear back on MSRPs, but you can expect each and every one of these to hit US retailers in the first half of the year.

Gallery: Samsung's LED 8000 / 7000 HDTV line debuts at CES 2011


Gallery: Samsung's D8000 and D6500 plasma HDTV launch at CES 2011

Samsung touts Bluetooth 3D support on LED 8000 / 7000 HDTV line, intros D8000 and D6500 plasmas originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 05 Jan 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>240hz3d3d hdtv3d tv3dHdtv3dTvactive shutterActiveShutterbluetoothcesces 2011Ces2011connected hdtvConnectedHdtvconnectsharedisplayhdtvlcdledLED 8000LED D6400Led8000LedD6400micro dimming plusMicroDimmingPlusP51D6500plasmaPlasma D6500Plasma D8000PlasmaD6500PlasmaD8000PN51D8000PN59D6500PN59D8000PN64D8000samsungsmart tvSmartTvtelevisionUN32D6400UN40D6400UN46D6400UN46D7000UN46D8000UN55D6400UN55D7000UN55D8000UN60D6400UN60D7000UN60D8000UN65D8000UND7000usbwifiWed, 05 Jan 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LG's CES 2011 HD lineup: SmartTV platform, network Blu-ray players and HDTVs]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/lgs-ces-2011-hd-lineup-smarttv-platform-network-blu-ray-playe/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/lgs-ces-2011-hd-lineup-smarttv-platform-network-blu-ray-playe/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/lgs-ces-2011-hd-lineup-smarttv-platform-network-blu-ray-playe/#comments Thanks to a couple of carefully planned slips over in South Korea, hardly anything about LG's CES 2011 is apt to take you fully by surprise. But if you just so happened to disconnect over the holidays, we'll break it all down below to ensure you remain firmly in the loop.
  • For starters, the outfit seems pretty darn proud of its new SmartTV platform. Hinted at last month, this system enables HDTVs, Blu-ray players and other sources to access all sorts of streaming media, apps and even provides users with a way to surf the web. Four main sections are given -- TV Live, Premium Content, TV Apps and a Launch Bar -- and for TV models, owners will control things with a wave of the hand (read: Magic Remote). SmartTV picks up where NetCast left off, offering access to Vudu, Netflix, YouTube, CinemaNow, Hulu Plus, Amazon Video on Demand, NHL Gamecenter, NBA Game Live and MLB.tv. This here functionality is baked into quite a few of the outfit's 2011 HDTVs, but should own an older model...
  • Then there's the all-new SmartTV upgrader! The ST600 is a minuscule set-top box that aims to transform any TV into a SmartTV. So long as your set has an HDMI input, you'll be able to access the content mentioned above. But, of course, it's on you to source your own Magic Remote.
  • If it's an all-new TV you're after, the company is also revealing its 2011 LED and LCD HDTV line. Nary a one is different than those we heard about last week, but at least you can now rest easy knowing that the LW9500 and LW7700 Nano Full HD 3D models will indeed see a stateside release this month. The best news here is the use of polarizing glasses -- none of that headache-inducing active shutter mess. There are 13 new LED LCD models in all, with nine of 'em shipping with the SmartTV platform embedded. Unfortunately, LG's not dishing out pricing information on these bad boys just yet.
  • Not so keen on picking up an LCD? Plasma still lives, you know! LG's rolling out its 1080p Infinia PZ950 and PZ750 lines here at CES, with both available in 50-inch and 60-inch class sizes. Both lines come equipped with the SmartTV platform, a gesture-based Magic Motion remote andl as a free Android / iPhone app if you'd rather use your phone as a remote. The 50- / 60-inch PZ550 is saddling with NetCast 1.0, but it -- along with the PW350, PZ950 and PZ750 lines -- can handle 3D imagery. Sadly, LG's also straying from providing pricing details on these.
  • Wrapping things up, the company is debuting its 2011 line of networked Blu-ray players and home theater systems. The BD690 supports 3D BD playback and ships with an inbuilt 250GB HDD and the SmartTV platform. The majority of LG's line also includes WiFi, DLNA streaming support and a MusicID feature by Gracenote that enables consumers to play a song from a movie of TV show by mashing a single button on the remote. The BD670, BD650, BD640, BD630 and BD650 are also seeing the light of day, with the latter being LG's first portable BD deck.
  • Finally, LG snuck in an image (seen above) of a 3D mobile TV prototype. We've no details whatsoever to go on, but you can rest assured we'll be scouring the show floor in search of just that.
For more information on all of the goods here, head on past the break for the full releases. Don't expect to find any pricing information, though.

Gallery: LG's CES 2011 launch lineup: Blu-ray, HDTV, 3D mobile TV prototype

Continue reading LG's CES 2011 HD lineup: SmartTV platform, network Blu-ray players and HDTVs

LG's CES 2011 HD lineup: SmartTV platform, network Blu-ray players and HDTVs originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 05 Jan 2011 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1080p3d3d blu-ray3d hdtv3d tv3dBlu-ray3dHdtv3dTvactive shutterActiveShutterBD690blu-raybrowsercesces 2011ces2011cinemanowconnected tvConnectedTvdisplaydlnaGestureControlhdtvINFINIAlcdlcd hdtvlcd tvLcdHdtvLcdTvlglg appslg smart tvlg st600LgAppsLgSmartTvLgSt600LW5600LW6500LW7700LW9500LZ9700magic motionMagic Motion Remote ControlMagicMotionMagicMotionRemoteControlmobile tvMobileTvnano full ledNanoFullLednetflixpdpplasmapremium contentPremiumContentprototypePT350PV450PW350PZ550PZ750PZ950PZ950.regzaset-top boxset-top-boxSet-topBoxsmart tvsmart tv upgraderSmartTvSmartTvUpgraderst600stbthxvuduwebyoutubeWed, 05 Jan 2011 11:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Engadget's Holiday Gift Guide: HDTVs and home theater]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/14/engadgets-holiday-gift-guide-hdtvs-and-home-theater/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/14/engadgets-holiday-gift-guide-hdtvs-and-home-theater/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/14/engadgets-holiday-gift-guide-hdtvs-and-home-theater/#commentsWelcome to the Engadget Holiday Gift Guide! The team here is well aware of the heartbreaking difficulties of the seasonal shopping experience, and we want to help you sort through the trash and come up with the treasures this year. Below is today's bevy of hand curated picks, and you can head back to the Gift Guide hub to see the rest of the product guides as they're added throughout the holiday season.
A brand new HDTV is a gift that can get plenty of use throughout the year, but it's also one of the more expensive items on Santa's list. If you're shopping for the home theater enthusiast who has everything, there's always room in the cabinet for another streamer or demo disc. From 3DTV to network connected to throwback disc-based media, there's a lot of new options on deck for the 2010 holiday season - let's see if we can narrow the list a bit and make sure your gift scores a ten out of ten even if your budget is more like a two.

Continue reading Engadget's Holiday Gift Guide: HDTVs and home theater

Engadget's Holiday Gift Guide: HDTVs and home theater originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 14 Dec 2010 13:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Blu-Rayblu-ray playerBlu-rayPlayercalibrationhdtvhgghgg 2010Hgg2010holiday gift guideholiday gift guide 2010HolidayGiftGuideHolidayGiftGuide2010home theaterHomeTheaterlcdledmedia streamerMediaStreamerplasmaset top boxSetTopBoxstreamingTue, 14 Dec 2010 13:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Panasonic hits the road again for the Unwrap 3D mall tour]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/30/panasonic-hits-the-road-again-for-the-unwrap-3d-mall-tour/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/30/panasonic-hits-the-road-again-for-the-unwrap-3d-mall-tour/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/30/panasonic-hits-the-road-again-for-the-unwrap-3d-mall-tour/#comments It's that time of year again, as regular as the circus coming to town, when Panasonic pulls out the 18-wheeler and hits the road. After its Touch the Future tour earlier this year, Panasonic's heading back to the mall Robin Sherbatsky-style with the Unwrap 3D tour over the next two weeks. Starting tomorrow it hits 14 cities across the country with 3D TVs, Blu-ray players, glasses cameras and whatever else it can fit in that truck. Thanks to that exclusivity deal, expect plenty of Avatar demos wherever the tour makes a stop, along with sweepstakes to win Panasonic gear. If 3D is going to be adopted, people will need a good experience before they buy and it seems like this is the best form of exposure Panasonic can think of, check the press release after the break for dates and locations.

Panasonic hits the road again for the Unwrap 3D mall tour originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 30 Nov 2010 22:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d3dtvblu-ray 3dBlu-ray3dhdpanasonicplasmatourunwrap 3dUnwrap3dvt25Tue, 30 Nov 2010 22:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Panasonic's 103-inch 3D plasma hits for massive $100,000 price]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/17/panasonics-103-inch-3d-plasma-hits-for-massive-100-000-price/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/17/panasonics-103-inch-3d-plasma-hits-for-massive-100-000-price/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/17/panasonics-103-inch-3d-plasma-hits-for-massive-100-000-price/#comments Incredibly, Panasonic's been the proud parent of a 103-inch plasma since January 2006. Here we are almost five years later learning off a 3D variant, model TH-P103MT2. The Full HD 3D plasma with 5m:1 native contrast ratio is expected to cost about 8.5 million yen or a bit more than $100,000 when Panny begins taking orders tomorrow, November 18th -- and that still doesn't include the cost to ship, handle, and install the 439 pound TV onto the wall of your country estate. At least it ships with one pair of active shutter glasses.

Panasonic's 103-inch 3D plasma hits for massive $100,000 price originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 17 Nov 2010 01:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>103-inch3djapanpanasonicpdpplasmaTH-P103MT2Wed, 17 Nov 2010 01:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Runco stays in the plasma game with 3D-ready Vistage flat panels]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/24/runco-stays-in-the-plasma-game-with-3d-ready-vistage-flat-panels/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/24/runco-stays-in-the-plasma-game-with-3d-ready-vistage-flat-panels/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/24/runco-stays-in-the-plasma-game-with-3d-ready-vistage-flat-panels/#comments We understand, you can't just put a $50k 3Dimension series projector in every room, so Runco's continuing to develop its plasma HDTV offerings with the new Vistage series. Available in 63-, 58- or 50-inch sizes, the 1.7-inch think panels also include the company's latest scaler, the DHD-LS. Unlike that projector we just mentioned, these do 3D with the addition of active shutter glasses and an IR emitter, courtesy of an add-on pack shipping early next year. We got a quick glance at the screens which promise contrast and black levels "previously unachieved in the industry" and while they did look amazing, you may not be able to decide if cashing out for between $6,000 and $10,000 for one of these screens is worthwhile -- until you find out you can outfit the back of the panel with decorations including your college logo of choice.

Continue reading Runco stays in the plasma game with 3D-ready Vistage flat panels

Runco stays in the plasma game with 3D-ready Vistage flat panels originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 24 Sep 2010 15:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d3dtvcediacedia 2010Cedia2010hdplasmaruncoscalervistageFri, 24 Sep 2010 15:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Samsung adds two free pairs of glasses to sub-$1,000 3DTV package]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/15/samsung-adds-two-free-pairs-of-glasses-to-sub-1-000-3dtv-packag/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/15/samsung-adds-two-free-pairs-of-glasses-to-sub-1-000-3dtv-packag/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/15/samsung-adds-two-free-pairs-of-glasses-to-sub-1-000-3dtv-packag/#comments Don't think there's some give in those 3DTV prices? Now that Samsung's sub-$1000 50-inch PN50C490 plasma HDTV is on store shelves, it's improving the offer by throwing two pairs of those (normally $149 retail value each) active shutter 3D glasses in for free. Since it comes with the IR emitter already built in, that's all anyone will need to get every pixel available of the 3D games on PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 or any of ESPN 3D's broadcasts. Of course, the 720p resolution will give up a few pixels on 1080p Blu-ray and Blu-ray 3D discs, but if you absolutely must be 3D ready before next week's Auburn/Clemson game and only have $1,000 to spend, this is your day. Of course, even among the fraction of the crowd interested in 3D now or in the near future, we're wondering what kind of deals might be floating around once Black Friday hits. The bundle deal's been spotted online at Amazon, Best Buy and Vanns, as well as in-store at hhgregg, so you shouldn't have too much trouble sniffing it out -- or avoiding it, if that's your deal -- locally.

Samsung adds two free pairs of glasses to sub-$1,000 3DTV package originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Sep 2010 09:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d3d glasses3dGlasses3dtv720pbundleglasseshdtvplasmapn50c490salesamsungWed, 15 Sep 2010 09:40:00 EST