DirecTV rolls out 3D upgrade for newer set-tops, older ones left in the cold

We thought it was pretty cheesy when cable operators broadcast The Masters in frame compatible side by side 3D without updating the set-top boxes, which forced users to manually select the format with their 3DTV's remote, but this is much worse. Today DirecTV started rolling out an update so its H21 and HR21 (and higher) receivers were 3D aware, but left the first generation H.264 HD receivers out. So instead of forcing customers to manually select side by side 3D, they have to upgrade their receiver. We're sure there are other benefits to the upgrade, like a 3D guide or something, and other features the latest hardware offers, but still. The other item of concern is that the set-top does check to make sure your 3DTV is up to the challenge and we've posted the compatible 3DTVs below. Just about every 3D set available today is on the list and even the older Mitsubishi DLPs will work if you have the checkerboard converter.

• Panasonic - TC-P50VT25, TC-P54VT25, TC-P58VT25, TC-P65VT25

• Samsung - LN55C750R2F, LN46C750R2F, UN55C9000ZF, UN46C9000ZF, UN55C8000XF, UN46C8000XF, UN55C7000WF, UN46C7000WF, UN40C7000WF, PN50C7000YF, PN58C7000YF, PN63C7000YF, PN50C8000YF, PN58C8000YF, PN63C8000YF

• Mitsubishi - WD-60737 with Dongle 3DC-1000