When shopping for a new HDTV, you may wonder which should you get, LCD or Plasma? It’s really a good question and is often subject to almost a religious debate amoungst videophiles. But the reality of it is, that it largely depends on where the TV is going to go. Here’s breakdown of the differences between LCD and Plasma and what you should get for your home.

Resolution:

When it comes to how sharp either HDTV is, it’s pretty much a wash. Both come in 1080p models so the resolution is about the same, depending on what model you get. Additionally, both come in 120hz versions (meaning 120 frames go by per second) and LCDs actually go up to 240 and even 480 in some high end models. The down side here is that you end up with the “soap opera” effect of a plastic like look with a higher resolution TV – especially when most broadcast programs are sent at 60hz.

Color and Contrast:

Here’s where plasma can really shine. Plasmas offer richer, bolder colors – especially with blacks, which look really dark and make scenes that are in shadow highly detailed. LCDs that have back lit LEDs and local dimming are closing the gap here, but plasma still has the edge, especially with conventional LCDs that use edge-lit LEDs or florescent light, which can make for a pretty contrasty display.

Off angle viewing

Plasma offers a nice bright and vibrant picture from any angle that is off axis, while some viewing LCDs off axis (especially 3D) may find a slightly dimmer picture.

Reflectivity

This where room location is key. Plasmas have highly reflective surfaces and as such, are generally better in home theater rooms that have either no windows or where the room can be completely darkened. If you have a living room or den with bright, ambient light, then and LCD is your best bet since most models opt for a matte finish display.

Power consumption

LCDs have the lead here, especially LEDs which are very stingy when it comes to power. Plasma, by contrast, are power hogs and will definitely put a dent in your monthly electric bill. As time goes on, though, plasma manufacturers are working to improve power consumption levels – they have to since states like California have mandated it by law. But in the short run, LCDs use far less electricty than their plasma cousins.

Life Span

Both LCDs and Plasma are generally rated at 60,000 hours, or about 20 years if used 8 hours per day. But some plasmas, have been experiencing a phenomenon where after only a few thousand hours the screen amps up the brightness of black levels which could cut the lifespan short. Panasonic has acknowledged the issue and is working to solve the problem with a potential firmware fix. Plasmas also need a break in time of about 100 hours where only full screen viewing should be done, and in movie or cinema modes. This prevents the plasmas phosphors from being overly stimulated by the dynamic brightness settings which could impact it’s lifespan. And widescreen or letterboxed programming need to be avoided in those first 100 hours to avoid prematurely affecting the phosphors with black stripes as well. Digital Video Essentials (not the Blu-ray) has a great pattern that’s a solid, full white field of noise which will exercise all the pixel phosphors the same. Also, there’s a Plasma TV Logo Removing DVD, available in NTSC or PAL format. You can get it at beginwithsoftware.com. It puts colored noise on screen.

What about burn-in complaints on plasma? That was a problem with early models which would have those station logos (called bugs) burned into the corners since they are always on. But plasma makers have virtually eliminated that issue although it could manifest itself if the TV is on 24/7.

3D

You can find 3D capable HDTVs in both Plasma and LCD. In fact, many experts – including Walt Mossberg and Scott Wilkinson, are of the mind that 3D TVs are the best 2D TVs on the market. And as time goes on, 3D is going to become just another available feature. The real question is, active or passive. And generally, passive is far cheaper than active. And if you like to entertain, using passive 3D glasses will impact your wallet far easier than active – where you must have the same glasses for each person viewing.

Price

Because LCDs are more popular and available, they tend to be less expensive than plasma TVs. Additionally, only two or three manufacturers (namely Panasonic and Samsung) actually still make Plasma.

Conclusion

So whether you are looking to get an LCD or Plasma TV, the important thing is to start with where you’re going to put it. If it’s near a bright light source like a window or sliding back door, then LCDs are probably your best bet. If in a darkened room like a den or basement, then plasmas definitely provide a leg up.

Samsung has released information on three new displays that continue to place elegant deign as the focus. New to the Series 9 and Series 7 name and aesthetic are a 27-inch monitor, and two new HDTVs that double as large screen monitors for your PC. All feature a sleek appearance and provide an elegant touch to computing.

The Series 9 S27B970 is Samsung’s new 27-inch premium monitor that features Samsung’s professional-grade Plane Line Switching and Natural Color Expert technology, now in a large-screen package. Spec include: 2560-by-1440 resolution, edge-to-edge anti-glare glass, a height adjustable aluminum stand, connections for DisplayPort, Dual Link-DVI, and HDMI video, a USB hub, two built-in 7W stereo speakers, Mobile High Definition Link (MHL) for seamless use with MHL-enabled smartphones. The model will begin at $1,199.99 in March.

The new new Series 7 HDTV monitors, T24B750 and T27B750 models, are just as stunning as the Series 9 S27B970, too. It comes in two sizes, 24- and 27-inches, and features specs like: connections for HDMI Audio-out and TV-tuner as well as USB 3.0 and 2.0 ports, LAN, WiFi and integrated WiDi 2.0 connectivity, 1920-by-1080 resolution, and a 1000:1 contrast ratio. Both come with Samsung’s SmartHub functionality and features apps for Hulu Plus, Netflix, and more. Also available in March, the 27-inch Series 7 T27B750HDTV monitor will run for $599.

Even though it’s the time for giving, many won’t be getting an HDTV in their stocking this Christmas. But with the beginning of the post game season of football looming on the horizon, it’s also the time of year that people start thinking about getting a new HDTV to watch all the big games on New Year’s Day. Here’s a few tips on what to look for when choosing an HDTV.

Summary:

• Know your lingo
• Size Matters
• 3D is optional
• Internet capability means cutting the cable
• Calibrate your HDTV

1. Definitions

First, it may be a good idea to go over nomenclature. When you head over to the local big box store to shop for a TV, you’re going to hear a lot of lingo. So understanding vocabulary is key to not getting lost. Here’s a few terms to learn:

• LCD – Liquid Crystal Display. The image is produced by passing light through pixels that are turned on/off like little shutters. The pixels also have red/green/blue filters to change the color when necessary. Most newer LCDs right now are either edge-lit or back-lit by LEDs, although many budget LCDs still use a series of from florescent tubes to emit their light.  This cannot be overstated as all LED TVs are LCDs, but not all LCDs are LEDs.  Budget LCD TVs may opt for displaying with florescent light rather than LEDs, which we will talk about next.
• LED – Light emitting diode.  Rather than using florescecnt backlite, the current trend in LCD design using LEDs as the light source.    This has several advantages since they are very stingy on power consumption and are also infinitely controllable thanks to a concept called “local dimming,” where each individual LED can be turned on, off, or even dimmed slightly.
• EdgeLit vs. BackLit - With LEDs, the TV can control the light and provide much better detail in color and shadows.  Edge lit LEDs are more popular and cost effective and consist of an array of LED lights on each side of the TV itself. But they can provide an uneven light on screen. This is where back-lit (or local) LEDs come in handy, as the light is coming directly behind the image, rather than being cast from the side.  This provides the best spread of light and better color and contrast.
• Contrast Ratio/Brightness – defined officially as “ratio of the luminance of the brightest color (white) to that of the darkest color (black),” Contrast ratio is essentially how “black” your blacks are.  This is really important for getting greater detail in shadow.  You’ll hear some pretty wild figures from salesmen as to how much a CR ratio should be, but unfortunately, there really isn’t a standard here.  Manufacturers are all over the map in how they measure and rate the contrast ratio, which can make it very difficult to compare from one set to another based on the specs.   And as stated above, edge lit LCDs will have lesser blacks than backlits will, even if the contrast ratio is higher.  So in the end, it depends on how good those blacks look to you personally.
• Resolution – We’ll get to size later, but in general, when trying to choose between 720p or 1080p, smaller 1080p TVs (under 40”) are simply a waste because you can’t really get the advantage of it. Additionally, the TV will also downscale the 1080p image from a Blu-ray disc which can cause some artifacting. So screens larger than 40” should go with 1080p. Smaller screens, like those that are also used for computer screens do just fine with 720p. But in the end, broadcast television looks the same with either.
• Interlaced – your TV signal comes interlaced, meaning that every other line is projected on a screen at any given time. Your eye sees it as an entire image because the frames move at 60 frames a second, but you’re really on seeing half the image with a 1080i TV. The standard for broadcast television is 1080i, meaning that 540 lines are procast with each frame. Older HDTVs were 1080i by design.
• Progressive – Nowadays, HDTV standards are progressive, meaning that they show the entire image, with every line of resolution, with each frame. TVs can come in 720p or 1080p, meaning 720 lines of resolution or 1080 lines of resolution. Naturally, the higher the number, the sharper and more colorful the image. Some stations broadcast in 720p, but not many, especially in cable or satellite, where the image is compressed.
• Hertz (hz) – Hertz is essentially the number of frames per second, or times the pixels turn on and off. The more Hz you have on you picture, the more sharp it becomes. But it also can reduce motion blur and make your image look more plastic … called the “soap opera effect.” Most TVs now are 120 to 240 hz.  Now your salesman will be pushing you towards 240hz.  But for most, that’s overkill.  Broadcast signals are usually sent at 60hz since that is the standard. This requires the TV to “interpolate” or add frames in between to the image and that’s what causes the effect. It’s great for sports and action films, but not so much on dramas, which cause the plastic look. But frame interpolation can be turned off which will cause the kind of motion blur that we are used to.  Blu-ray, however, does take advantage of 120hz, so if you watch a lot of movies on Blu-ray, that may be a good option.  And if the soap opera effect is off putting, most TVs have the option to turn off frame interpolation and bring back the motion blur you are used to.
• Plasma – Plasma uses a trapped gas that is charged by electricity to create incredible light to pass through. It usually produces far bolder colors and great blacks, which are marvelous for shadow scenes. The downside with Plasma is that they are usually poor in bright, ambient lit rooms and originally suffered from a “burn in effect” (which has been overcome in recent years). These drawbacks have allowed LCDs to pass them in popularity to the point that Plasma is becoming less and less a factor in HDTV as more manufacturers abandon it for more popular and cheaper LCD designs. Since LCD has greatly improved in quality (thanks to LED backlighting), the contrast ratio gap between plasma and LCD has greatly reduced to the point where paying more for Plasma’s benefits is largely wasted on the average viewer.

2. Size Matters

Now that we have definitions out of the way, we can turn out attention to the most important factor when buying an LCD TV … Size. Most people tend to buy HDTVs that are smaller than they really need. They do this in an attempt to save money. But the trade offs can really affect the viewing experience. As a rule of thumb is to get a screen large enough to fill a 30 degree viewing angle at the distance that you are sitting. Anything less will cause you to be pulled out of the program. Here’s a handy calcuation to determine the best size for your room:

• Minimum size= Viewing distance/3
• Maximum size=Viewing distance/1.5

Using this calculation, and the average viewing distance of about 10-12 feet, the proper HDTV size would be about 42-55 inches, or more depending on your budget.

3. To 3D or not 3D … that is the question

These days, most higher end TVs are 3D.   But more budget conscious designs are also offering 3D, making it just another feature. And many experts say that the best 2D TVs are 3D capable. However, there are some drawbacks with a 3DTV, chiefly being the lack of programming and having to buy glasses. Active or Passive? Active more expensive. And it pretty much puts the kabosh on viewing parties unless everyone has the same pair of glasses.  Another important consideration with 3D is that the best refresh rate for 3D is 120Hz minimum. This is because 3D splits the frames, one for the left eye, one for the right and as such, the resolution is halved for each frame.  To that end, if you had a 60hz 3DTV, the refresh rate to each eye would only be 30hz which would be terrible.  So manufacturers made the spec 120hz minimum to keep up with broadcast standards.  On the other side of the coin, though, we’re starting to see 240hz TVs and frankly, that’s a waste of money since there really is no broadcast signal at 240hz and the TV ends up doing way too much interpolating and again, making hte images look like a  soap opera.  But some prefer it because the look is essentially flicker free.

4. Wired or Wireless Connectivity?

HDTVs that are Internet capable are rapidly becoming a standard feature. In fact, most new HDTVs are now able to stream video directly from the Internet. And with over a third of all internet traffic being streaming video from services like Netflix, and with more people “cutting the cable” and getting free from payTV services, streaming is a solid option. So having an internet capable TV is beneficial. But not required, as many Blu-ray players are also internet capable, along with streaming boxes like AppleTV, Roku, and the Boxee box.

Wired considerations also lead to having a wireless connection that will hook into your Network wirelessly.  This is of great advantage because then you don’t have to string long ethernet cables from your router to your TV.  However, wireless does have the drawback of signal interference and slower speeds.  If you have your router on the other side of the house, or maybe in a room upstairs, you may need to get a repeater to pass the signal along for better streaming of video.

5. A little input

What inputs should one look for in a good LCDTV?  Well, at this stage, you want to keep things all digital. HDMI is the digital standard and every TV comes with it.  This also allows you to hook it into a current home theater, satellite box, and keep both audio and video signals completely digital.  The more HDMI connectors you have, the better, but 3 is the minimum since that would allow you to connect to to your cable or satellite box, video game console, and Blu-ray/DVD player.  Other inputs would be component-video (red, green and blue), SVideo or standard composite connections (red, white, and yellow) for older components.  But some are looking to use LCDTVs as computer monitors and for that you can use a DVI connector. But with DVI, you’ll also need an audio cable connector to handle your sound since DVI doesn’t carry the audio signal.  Another input option is Ethernet.  If you have a computer or networked attached storage to stream video and audio, an Ethernet connector will give you access to that network.

6. Sound choices

Should you rely on the speakers that are built into the TV or go with a home theater or sound bar? I haven’t found a TV that has a speaker setup that rivals a home theater system. If you can swing a system, which usually comes with at least 6 speakers and a subwoofer, and a Blu-ray player, I’d say go for it. But if you don’t have space in your room, then by all means look at a soundbar. But if you’re on a budget, then sometimes the reality is that the home theater system will have to wait. Just start saving up for it. As for which one to get? That’s another show.

7.  App obsessions

Many TVs have apps built into them.  Applications that can be used to stream video from Netflix, do video conferencing via Skype, and even enjoy photographs you’ve uploaded to flickr.  There are dozens of them.  Is this a key feature not to miss?  Not really.  If your TV has them, that’s great, but chances are, if they don’t have the app you want, your new Blu-ray player will.

8.  What’s on the horizon?

The future is bringing all kinds of innovations, including glasses free 3D, 4K resolution, Skype support and even holographic projection. But at this point, they are largely prototypical, limited in viewing area, and there isn’t much in the way of content to support 4K or laser based TVs. And they are quite expensive.  So for now, they are on the horizon and something to keep an eye on for your NEXT HDTV.  The only exception is Skype support as many models do offer this as an “app” built into the system.

9. Which ones to choose?

So, what are the best LCD TVs out there? Samsung and Panasonic are top sellers, as is SONY’s Bravia line. But don’t count out Vizio, who makes a great LCD for the money. Still, there are plenty of great TVs out there and it’s a good do your research. HomeTheaterMag.com is a great resource for reviews on HDTVs.  Also, keep in mind that Costco is a great source of LCD TVs, as they offer a 90-day warranty and 2-year warranty on all their sets.  Amazon is another great place to look as they don’t charge tax in many states, which can often ad upwards of 10% to the price tag.

10. Setting them up

Once you get the TV home, you’ll need to calibrate your TV to fit your room’s lighting conditions. Every TV is set for a “dynamic mode,” at the factory to look great on the showroom floor. That’s because they don’t know which one will be chosen to demo the model. But that also doesn’t look that great when you get it home. You can spend hundreds having a professional calibrate your TV, or you can go the DIY route with a great DVD called Digital Video Essentials: HD Basics, by Joe Kane. This DVD has special test patterns and audio calibration signals that will help to optimize your HDTV for the special conditions of your viewing room, and it will do it in under a half hour. Well worth it’s $20 price tag. But you can get 80% there by drilling into your TVs setup menu and selecting “cinema” or “movie” mode rather than “dynamic.”

If your PS3 doesn’t happen to belong to the first generation PS3s that came out, then it’s not compatible with what some would deem to be the apex of console games, the gallery of PS2 titles.

Though there would seem to be no end to your generational console gap plight, Sony’s new KDL-22PX300 LCD TV manages to include a fully working PS2 inside magnanimous base. And if the PS2 plus DVD player doesn’t satisfy your resolution needs, there are four HDMI ports that let you plug the TV into a 720p source.

There’s an optional wireless dongle for content streaming, and Sony’s Bravia service working over Ethernet.

Availability for the KDL-22PX300 is currently restricted to the UK, and the cost is around $300.

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Still holding out on that 3D TV purchase so you can buy one from Goliath Sony?  Well, wait no longer.  The consumer electronics manufacture has finally made all of their 3D sets available for pre-order and they’ve got a ‘wizard’ to help you determine what model is just right for you.  The 40-inch HX800, the lowest end model, starts at $2,099.99, while the highest end, the 60-inch XBR-LX900 goes for a cool $4,999.99.

According to SonyInsider Sony will throw “in a couple of free 3D movies – Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs and an IMAX Deep Sea as well as give you 4 3D games for your PS3: Pain, WipEout HD, Super Stardust HD, MotorStorm Pacific Rift (if you already own those games, you will be prompted to download a patch that will enable the 3D goodness).”  As with all 3D tvs you’ll need a 3D source, such as a Blu-ray player or gaming system.

Expect most models to start shipping July 15th.

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Bringing the Etch-A Sketch into the modern era, the Boogie Board Paperless LCD Writing Tablet will be simply awesome in the hands of anyone who likes to doodle or take notes.  The tablet is only 1/8 of an inch thick and measures in at 8.8 x 5.6 inches (223.52 x 142.24 mm).

The Tablet uses a pressure-sensitive LCD writing surface that will display text and pictures of different thickness levels depending on how hard you press on the screen.  To erase, just press the iPhone style Home button and the slate is magically wiped clean.

Included is a stainless steel telescoping stylus but you can literally use just about anything to make a valid impression on the Boogie Board.  Also, the sealed battery should last for the life of the projected 50,000 erases the Boogie Board is capable of.

Priced at $30, none of the links on the product page bring you to the actual item so I can’t speak to its availability unfortunately.  Also in the works is a recordable version that will have flash memory and USB connectivity so you can save your work that will be priced at $50.

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Today I’m going to introduce you to a truly awesome gadget that you can’t possibly get your hands on before Christmas unless you know somebody or can shell out epic bribes.

We’re talking about the eDGe, and this little beauty is worth the $490 you’d shell out for it for one very good reason: it’s a netbook and an e-reader.  All at once.  That’s right, it’s BOTH.

It’s WiFi enabled and looks vaguely like a Nintendo DS that you hold constantly upright, like an actual book.  It runs on Google’s Android system, joining a growing family of same, and can serve all the functions of both a netbook (send email, instant messages, surf the web, run apps, write notes and so on) and an ereader (it’s got a 9.7 inch E-ink e-paper display on one side and a 10.1 inch LCD screen on the other, just so you know what side gets what)

Their creator, Virginia’s Entourage Systems, has started taking preorders for the devices, so you can sign up for them now.

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Would you pay $8000+ for a 40-inch LCD TV, even if it was uber cool and sleek?  Hell no!  But for some reason B&O thinks you will…well, thinks someone with an ass load of moola will.  The BeoVision 10 LCD TV measures 40-inches in size, has a 120hz refresh rate, rocks a full HD picture, a built-in speaker system and a brushed aluminum frame.  Yup, that’s all they’ve got to offer for what is the equivalent price of a decent car.

Worthless video after the ‘leap’

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So in case you haven’t heard, Californian gadget buffs, there’s a push on in Sacramento to ban certain types of big screen TV that use too much energy.  Of course, by “certain types”, I mean roughly a quarter of all TVs in production today and every single plasma TV over sixty inches.  Needless to say, the people are not happy about this, and small businesses are firing back also, but perhaps the worst news came today with a simple pronouncement from Wired Magazine’s Gadget Lab that declared that such a law would be useless within two years, as “energy hogging TVs” would be gone by then anyway, thrown over in favor of LCD and “greener” TVs.

Basically, California’s planning to blow a bunch of money it doesn’t have to make a law it can’t enforce that’ll be rendered moot in two years anyway when the kind of TV it would ban can’t be found on the market.

Way to go, California legislature!  Best start checking the want ads–come November I’d be plenty of you will be run out on a rail.

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It’s really, REALLY, hard to find a camera any more without an LCD display, so I was definitely shocked to find the OneShot camera, a camera so tiny that it’s about the same size, length and width, as your thumb.

There is no LCD display here.  No slots for flash memory, either.  But it apparently somehow manages to not only come with face detection, but also never need batteries.  This camera actually recharges like some of those flashlights you see–all you have to do is shake it.

The OneShot seems to not only run on a dynamo but also offers no expansions in memory.  This may be one of the weirdest cameras I’ve ever SEEN.

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If you’ve got a hundred and seventy five thousand dollars handy, and you really want incredible definition in your movies,  then JVC’s newest offering, the OLA-RS4000, might be exactly what you need.

It premiered at the CEDIA Expo in Atlanta, and is a ten megapixel LCD projector that can show movies on four screens simultaneously in full HD or WUXGA resolution.

This is of course a downright amazing projector, and considering how it’s priced it had really better be.  In fact, some might even say that this is overkill, but most of them will probably be shouted down by the eager fan boys desperate to get their hands on one of these even though there’s no way they can afford one.

And here’s one final bit of good news– they won’t even come out for another month yet, so you have plenty of time to line up that second through fourth mortgages on the house so you can afford one.

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Countries without borders would probably be a political nightmare, but when it comes to LCD TVs it’s aesthetic bliss.  LG’s newest sets, announced at this year’s IFA conference, boasts high refresh rates, ultra high contrast ratios and as alluded to a borderless design.

First up is the SL9000 and 9500 (42-inch and 47-inch).  It rocks a 3,000,000:1 contrast ratio, a 2.9cm slim body, 100hz refresh rate, 1920×1080 resolution, Bluetooth, a USB 2.0 input for viewing media and LEDs lined along the edge, which gives it that slim and trim body.  It’s younger sibling, the SL8000 (32, 37, 42, 47”) is slightly fatter at 4.5cm but has a higher refresh rate of 200hz.

The flagship of bunch is the LH9000, which is available in a 42-inch and 47-inch size.  It lacks the Borderless design, but it’s completely LED backlit which explains its massive 5,000,000:1 contrast ratio.  It too has a 200hz refresh rate and all of the above features.

At this time LG hasn’t announced a launch date or price, but were hearing they’ll arrive sometime in October or November.

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Asus has been nailing it on the computer front and in an attempt to swing to the fences they have announced a new line of LCD monitors that the company says “is inspired by the binary state, incorporating a series of contrasting elements like the numbers 1 and 0, straight lines and circles, and black and white into an ultra-slim monitor”.

Crackpot marketing slogans aside, the Designo MS Series LCD Monitors, which come in 5 sizes – MS246H/D, MS236H/D, MS226H, MS227N , MS202N/D – top out the specs with a 1920×1080 resolution, 50,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio, 2ms response time, 250 cd/m2 brightness and a set of touch sensitive LED buttons. Check out the specs list below for a full run down, but the the 22-inch and 20-inch include a lower rez with the 20-inch tacking on an additional 3ms to the response time.

There’s no word on a price or launch date, but these look tasty enough for the holiday shopping aisle.

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We’re already big fans of the MIMO’s USB monitors, so it should come as no surprise as we wax lyrical about their next iteration, the MIMO 710-S and 720-S.   This iteration, though, offers up a more aesthetically pleasing clam shell design and a rotatable stand that can be flipped closed to protect the screen during transport.  Spec wise were looking at a 7-inch 800×400 resolution, 500 cd/m2 brightness, USB input and some touchscreen capabilities for the 720.  While the 710-S is up for pre-order with a price tag of $150, the touchscreen version’s price remains a mystery.

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Toshiba churned out a set of new LCD photo frames today.  Available in an 8-inch and 10-inch flavor, both frames include FrameChannel’s content service, which enables users to link not only their favorite photo, music, video and social network accounts, but view content from a variety of news outlets and program personalized weather, traffic and sports.

Specs wise the frames include built-in WiFi, touch sensitive controls and an accelerometer that automatically rotates photos and uploaded video to the correct orientation.

Both frames will be available this August and start at $179.99.  The 8-inch frame will be available in white (DMF82XWU) and black (DMF82XKU), while the 10-inch (DMF102XKU) is available in black only.

Full release after the ‘leap’

Toshiba Brings High Style and Innovation Home With New Digital Media Frames Featuring Wi-Fi(R) Connectivity

Through its partnership with FrameChannel(R), Toshiba’s Digital Media Frames deliver digital personalized content including weather, news, sports and photos
NEW YORK, July 20 /PRNewswire/ — ‘House Beautiful Magazine’s Kitchen of the Year’ – Toshiba America Consumer Products L.L.C. (“Toshiba”), a market leader in home entertainment products, today announced cutting-edge advancements for today’s connected home. Taking photo sharing to new heights, Toshiba’s Digital Media Frames deliver real-time information through its partnership with FrameChannel(R), such as personalized weather, traffic, and sports scores as well as music and video to any room in the connected home.

Toshiba is creating a new trend-setting product category with its new Digital Media Frame models. Picture the possibilities of a fun, interactive product that not only displays photos but also makes it possible for users to automatically share priceless memories with friends and family anywhere in the world thanks to FrameChannel(R). Simply set up a FrameChannel(R) account and upload images or link favorite photos, music and videos from popular sites like Flickr(R), Photobucket(R), and Facebook(R). Friends and family can stay updated with new photos when their frames are connected to the account.

“Toshiba is dedicated to creating innovative and entertaining products to enhance the needs of today’s connected home,” said Jodi Sally, Vice President of Marketing, Digital A/V Group. “Through Toshiba’s partnership with FrameChannel(R), our new Digital Media Frames allow the user to not only display and share photos, but also customize their frame with personalized digital content, all in one sleek package.”

Not Just a Photo Frame

The feature-packed channels available through Toshiba’s FrameChannel(R) partnership can be customized to an individual’s passions. Currently there are over 1000 free channels to choose from in 19 categories with selections like People.com, Men’s Tennis, 3-Day Forecast, Stock Quotes and Facebook(R), to name a few. Users can subscribe to their favorite channels and their Toshiba Digital Media Frame will automatically update with real-time information.

“FrameChannel(R) was created to provide a wide range of personalized content to the next generation of digital devices,” said Alan Phillips, co-founder and CEO of Frame Media. “With over one thousand current channels, FrameChannel(R) subscribers can find virtually anything they’re looking for and Toshiba’s new Digital Media Frames take this market to the next level with their intuitive interface and great looking design.”

In a true function meets fashion manner, Toshiba’s tradition of high-gloss design and brilliant screens adorn the frames; Toshiba’s Digital Media Frames offer rich, vibrant, high-resolution screens that make photos pop with crisp color. A tilt senor automatically adjusts to view photos in portrait or landscape formats when the frame is turned on. Easy-to-navigate home screens boast touch sensitive controls that light up when pressed. Home screens are customizable with a calendar, clock and streamed online feature channels to match personal interests and hobbies.

The new Digital Media Frames were announced at House Beautiful Magazine’s Kitchen of the Year in New York City, an event celebrating the intersection of dining, entertaining and design. Kitchen of the Year is an ideal venue to showcase how Toshiba’s Digital Media Frames can seamlessly bring engaging content to every room of the digital home.

Toshiba’s Digital Media Frames come in two sizes – 8-inch frames available in black (DMF82XKU) or white (DMF82XWU) with an acrylic front finish and eye-catching reflective trim and black 10-inch frames (DMF102XKU) offering a striking faceplate design and a slim profile.

Pricing and Availability:

Digital Media Frames

White 8-inch Frame, DMF82XWU (available August 2009, MSRP $179.99)

Black 8-inch Frame, DMF82XKU (available August 2009, MSRP $179.99)

Black 10-inch Frame, DMF102XKU (available August 2009, MSRP $229.99)

If there was a Moore’s Law for monitors the EVGA dual-LCD InterView System would be the most recent result.  From old school CRTs to conventional LCDs, this new phase in LCD evolution is set to hit the market soon.

The InterView features two very thin, 17 inch, rotatable LCD displays, fixed into a single desktop stand. The desktop stand base comes with 3 USB ports, a built in camera and microphone. In some ways, it looks like a laptop, with an elevated wide screen display.  The displays have 1,440 x 900 resolution, enough for meetings and presentations. The ability to rotate 180 degrees horizontally is one of its features that I like most,  but what is coolest about this features is that the screen auto re-orientates itself when turned! The monitors also comes with dual keyboard and mouse input, allowing for each monitor to be controlled separately. But keep in mind that this set up requires a dual VGA card to run both screens from one machine.

Even though the design is striking it’s not for everyone. Gamers, graphic artists and investment bankers are likely to find the most use from this innovative set up. With a $650 price tag it’s not likely that you will be seeing to many of these flying off the shelf at back to school sales.

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I love it. At some point in the next few years the line between TV and Internet machine will be significantly blurred. Adding to the haziness today is Sony. They’ve announced that their Internet Video-capable BRAVIA TVs and those with the Internet Video Link module will be able to stream Netflix’s 12,000+ movies and TV shows. Like the current Xbox system as well as the Roku player, users will need to create their Instant Queue using a computer, but since the Xbox is set to release an update to their Netflix player that allows users to add movies on the fly, what’s to stop Sony from adding the very same feature in the future, aside from the lack of keyboard. Expect the Netflix feature to hit a Sony TV near you this fall and keep your fingers crossed for some PS3 integration.

Release after the ‘leap’

LOS GATOS, Calif., July 9, 2009 – Netflix, Inc., (Nasdaq: NFLX) the world’s largest online movie rental service, today announced a partnership with Sony Electronics that will enable Netflix subscribers to instantly watch movies streamed from Netflix on Sony’s BRAVIA Internet Video-capable HDTVs and on previous BRAVIA models compatible with Sony’s BRAVIA Internet video link module.
In the fall, Netflix members on an unlimited plan can use the Sony BRAVIA Internet Video-capable HDTVs to instantly watch more than 12,000 movies and TV episodes streamed from Netflix.

Sony is the latest consumer electronics (CE) company to partner with Netflix. Other CE companies partnering with Netflix are Microsoft (with the Xbox360), LG Electronics, Roku, Samsung, TiVo and VIZIO.

Netflix members pay as little as $8.99 a month for unlimited streaming from a library of more than 12,000 choices and unlimited DVDs by mail from a library of more than 100,000 DVD titles in more than 200 genres.

“Sony has been a world leader in consumer electronics for decades,” said Netflix Chief Executive Officer Reed Hastings. “We are proud to include Sony Electronics among our CE partners who continue to provide new and exciting ways for Netflix members to instantly watch movies and TV episodes in their living rooms on their TVs.”

It’s not secret that Vizio has become the 500 pound gorilla in the room.  They went from being perceived as the Costco ‘cheapo brand’ to the best selling flat panel TV manufacturer in the last few years.  And now they’re stepping up their game by integrating a number of Internet Apps into their soon to be released high performance XVT HDTV range.  The WiFi enabled sets will be able to stream content from Amazon Video On Demand, Blockbuster On Demand, Showtime, Vudu, Netflix, Pandora and Rhapsody and access web content on sites such as eBay, Facebook, RadioTime, Revision3, Rallypoint Sports and Twitter.  The sets will also support Adobe Flash and Yahoo’s Widget engine to access additional Internet related apps and more robust content.

Available in sizes ranging from 32 to 55-inches, the 2009 Vizio XVT TV line up will also include a robust Bluetooth remote control with a full slide out QWERTY keyboard that should make navigating the the wide array of Internet apps a breeze.  Vizio has also managed to squeeze in 120hz and 240hz refresh technology as well as TruLED and Smart Dimming features (select models) to produce an even better picture.

Expect select sets to arrive this July with others rolling out in September, October and November.  Pricing starts at $749 but check the press release after the ‘leap’ for the full price and release break down.

- Flagship Extreme VIZIO Technology, “XVT Series” advances television’s state of the art with NEW TruLED(TM) with Smart Dimming(TM) and 240Hz SPS(TM) (Scenes per Second) in 42″, 47″ and 55″ sizes

- Select Models of VIZIO XVT Series also include VIZIO Internet Apps “VIA”(TM) feature with Wireless Internet enabled content (42″, 47″ and 55″ sizes)

- Slim Line(TM) FULL HD 1080P 120Hz LCD HDTVs to come in 32″ and 37″ sizes

- All models are energy efficient, meeting and exceeding Energy Star 3.0 requirements

IRVINE, Calif., June 23 /PRNewswire/ — VIZIO, America’s #1 HDTV and Fastest Growing Consumer Electronics Company, has unveiled details for its Fall 2009 Extreme VIZIO Technology, (XVT) series lineup, with 8 new models ranging in sizes from 32″ to 55″. The comprehensive range includes cutting-edge technologies like 240Hz scenes per second, TruLED(TM) with Smart Dimming(TM) backlight technology, VIZIO Internet Apps (VIA(TM)) feature and high-style Slim Line(TM) profile 120Hz LCD HDTVs. All of VIZIO’s 2009 televisions are energy efficient, with each earning and exceeding Energy Star 3.0 qualifications by as much as 20%. Products are scheduled to ship throughout summer and into Fall 2009, with several already in-store or due to hit shelves soon.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090623/LA36692)

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090204/LA66605LOGO)

“Our 2009 line of Extreme VIZIO Technology, (XVT) series truly advances performance, function and form for our customers with unequalled value,” says Laynie Newsome, VIZIO Co-Founder and VP Sales and Marketing Communications. “Extremely fast 240Hz SPS(TM) Technology coupled with TruLED(TM) and Smart Dimming(TM) provide first in class picture quality, our VIA(TM) Connected HDTV feature enables ‘easy-chair’ access of internet content and our new 120Hz Slim Line(TM) HDTVs are perfect in the most popular sizes to enjoy their design and appreciate their style. This power packed line up of VIZIO XVT series televisions incorporates the latest technology for consumers at excellent values.”

Superior Performance Meets Stylish New Designs

This year’s Extreme VIZIO Technology (XVT) series again advances VIZIO performance with a Full HD 1080p lineup featuring 240Hz SPS(TM) (Scenes Per Second) models using Smooth Motion(TM) technology in sizes 42″, 47″, 55″ LCD with two models incorporating both TruLED(TM) and Smart Dimming(TM) backlight technology. VIZIO is also releasing new models of 32″ and 37″ 120Hz Slim Line(TM) stylish designs. In all models, VIZIO has integrated USB video inputs that are enhanced and offer high quality 1080p video playback, along with Mega Dynamic Contrast Ratio(TM) of up to 2,000,000:1 that makes for incredible black levels and almost three-dimensional imagery. All XVT series televisions include an advanced user interface control with picture in picture and picture on picture functionality as well as universal learning remote controls.

Superior TV audio is provided by SRS Labs’ TruSurround(TM) HD which enhances clarity and produces surround sound without external speakers, and TruVolume(TM) which eliminates annoying volume fluctuations when switching channels or during commercial breaks.

SRS
TruSurround
New “XVT” Series Models and Features              HD/
Model          Description         VIA    HDMI   SRS       In-       MSRP
TruVolume  store

SV320XVT -     32″ 1080p 120Hz
Thin Line      Full HD LCD HDTV          3   Yes/Yes  September   $749.99
SV370XVT -     37″ 1080p 120Hz
Thin Line      Full HD LCD HDTV          3   Yes/Yes  September   $849.99
SV421XVT       42″ 1080p 240Hz SPS
Full HD LCD HDTV          4   Yes/Yes  July      $1,199.99
SV422XVT       42″ 1080p 240Hz SPS
Full HD LCD HDTV    Yes   4   Yes/Yes  November  $1,199.99
SV471XVT       47″ 1080p 240Hz SPS
Full HD LCD HDTV          4   Yes/Yes  July      $1,499.99
SV472XVT       47″ 1080p 240Hz SPS
w/Smart Dimming
Backlight TruLED    Yes   4   Yes/Yes  October   $1,699.99
VF550XVT       55″ 1080p 120Hz
Full HD LCD HDTV          5   Yes/Yes  Now       $1,999.99
VF551XVT       55″ 1080p 240Hz SPS
w/Smart Dimming
Backlight TruLED          5   Yes/Yes  September $2,199.99
VF552XVT       55″ 1080p 240Hz SPS
w/Smart Dimming
Backlight TruLED    Yes   5   Yes/Yes  December  $2,199.99

VIZIO Internet Apps (VIA(TM)) — Connecting to the Future of Television

Delivering unprecedented choice and control of web-based content directly to the television with just one button push and without the need of a PC or set-top box, VIZIO’s VIA(TM) Connected HDTV feature offers viewers the most convenient access to the widest range of top Internet content and services – all while simultaneously watching traditional TV broadcast or recorded video, for truly the ultimate experience in couch surfing.

The VIA(TM) Connected HDTV feature includes built-in wireless (802.11n dual-band) and wired networking, a customized Bluetooth universal remote control with sliding QWERTY keyboard for easy thumb-typing, and interactive setup video to guide users step-by-step to easily connect their VIZIO TV and customize the remote to control their other attached CE source devices.

VIZIO’s VIA(TM) Connected HDTV feature incorporates multiple technologies and software services to enable a unique experience that hides all of the complexity from viewers. One such technology is the Yahoo! Widget Engine, which provides an open platform that allows a new class of Internet services, called TV Widgets, to thrive in the TV environment. VIZIO’s platform also includes support for the Adobe(R) Flash(R) Platform for the Digital Home, an optimized implementation of Flash technology that enables developers and content providers to deliver HD video, rich applications and other Web content to Internet-connected televisions, set-top boxes, Blu-ray players and other devices in the digital home.

Previously announced content and service providers who are building VIZIO Internet Apps (VIA(TM)) in 2009 include: Accedo Broadband(R), Amazon Video On Demand(R), Blockbuster On Demand(R), Flickr(R), Netflix(R), Pandora(R) and Rhapsody(R). With today’s announced agreements with eBay(R), Facebook(R), RadioTime(R), Revision3(R), Rallypoint Sports(R), Showtime(R), Twitter(R) and Vudu(R) VIZIO’s Internet Apps content is by far the category’s most comprehensive and compelling.

About VIZIO

VIZIO, Inc., “Where Vision Meets Value,” headquartered in Irvine, California, is America’s HDTV Company and Consumer Electronics Company. In 2007, VIZIO skyrocketed to the top by becoming the #1 selling brand of flat panel HDTVs in North America and became the first American brand in over a decade to lead major categories in U.S. TV sales. Since 2007 VIZIO HDTV shipments remain in the TOP ranks in the U.S. and are again #1 in Q1, 2009 with over 20% market share. VIZIO is committed to bringing feature-rich flat panel televisions to market at a value through practical innovation. VIZIO offers a broad range of award winning Plasma and LCD HDTVs including the new XVT series. VIZIO’s products are found at Costco Wholesale, Sam’s Club, Sears, Walmart, Target, BJ’s Wholesale, and other retailers nationwide along with authorized online partners. VIZIO has won numerous awards including a #1 ranking in the Inc. 500 for Top Companies in Computers and Electronics, Good Housekeeping’s Best Big-Screens, CNET’s Top 10 Holiday Gifts and PC World’s Best Buy among others. For more information, please call 888-VIZIOCE or visit on the web at www.VIZIO.com.

The V, VIZIO, XVT, VIA, TruLED, 240Hz SPS, Slim Line, Smooth Motion, JAVA, Where Vision Meets Value names, phrase and symbols are trademarks or registered trademarks of VIZIO, Inc. All other trademarks may be the property of their respective holders.

It’s probably fair to say that the LCD Photo Frame business has reached a laggard level of adoption – even my girlfriend’s 60 year old parents have one in their kitchen.  Today, Kogan added to the clutter with the introduction of their 8-inch LCD photo frame.  It sports a 8-inch 800×600 LCD and the always useful WiFi to display what is an endless array of photos via email, RSS feeds and the popular social networking sites.  They’ve even got an iPhone app that allows easy uploading of photos and they’re reports that you can get the all encompassing Twitter on this thing.  It includes a remote that stores neatly in the stand.  Available July 10th for about $135 (listed at $169 AU).

Personally, I prefer Conan’s ‘Twitter Tracker‘ to stay abreast of celeb Twitter news.

[via PCAuthority]

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Until now, all of the USB monitors we’ve laid our eyes on have been no larger than about 10-inches.  Samsung’s latest, the LD220, which I assume is 22-inches in size, includes a D-Sub and USB video input making it ideal for laptops, which often have no more than one video port to spare.  No word on a price or street date, but some of the other specs include a 5ms response, 300 cd/m2 brightness and 30,000:1 contrast ratio.

Update: Looks like LaptopMag played with these in January and says that the 22-inch sports a 1920×1080 resolution and thanks to  Samsung’s Ubisync can daisy chain up to 6 monitors.

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