3D TV Reviews

Samsung UE32F6400 3D Smart TV Review

2013-07-29T08:34:00.001-07:00

Type: 32-inch 3D Full HD TV with web connected Smart TV features

Price as reviewed: Around £600

We've seen the flagship 55-inch F8000 3D TV whopper from Samsung, and now we venture into more affordable territory with the 32-inch F6400. With many of the same connected Smart TV features of its big brother, can it impress in the same way? Read our full review to find out!

Design:
While not quite as dazzling as the flagship F8000 models with their slimline bezels and low-clearance stands, the F6400 Samsung TVs still look very attractive.

At 49.5mm thick, it's a fairly plump set by today's super-slim standards, but not so much to make wall mounting unsightly or impractical. With the stand attached, that depth jumps to 264.8mm, but again that's not a depth that even a smaller TV cabinet couldn't handle. A black glossy bezel of a uniform size just over a centimetre sits around the screen, with the edges finished with a clear perspex for a reserved, stylish finish.

For the F6400, Samsung have reverted back to their four-pronged chrome stand, what we at Tech Digest affectionately call the alien foot. It still looks great, and it's more stable than the curved arc stand that ships with the flagship models even with it's ability to swivel a little, though admittedly is a bit more "in your face" than the mostly hidden arc stand.

Though 3 HDMI ports, 3USB ports and the antenna are mounted on the right hand side of the rear of the screen, composite, LAN and a fourth HDMI port, along with power supple, go directly into the back of the screen, which may cause a few cable tidying headaches if using all ports when wall mounting.

Connections:

It's good to see 4 HDMI inputs on a smaller set at an affordable price, alongside an array of USB ports. Freeview HD only here though, which may rile those hoping to get a Freesat HD tuner too.

Component In (Y / Pb / Pr) x 1
Composite In (AV) x 1 (Common Use for Component Y)
Digital Audio Out (Optical) x 1
Ethernet (LAN) x 1
HDMI x 4
RF In (Terrestrial / Cable Input) X 1
USB x 3
Headphone x 1
Scart x 1
CI Slot x 1
IR Out x 1
Built-in Wi-Fi
2D Picture Quality:

The UE32F6400 has a standard 1080x1920 Full HD 1080p resolution, and performs above and beyond the picture quality we'd expect from a TV this price.

Out of the box the UE32F6400's Movie picture mode doesn't look half bad, and while it's still not at an enthusiast's level of picture perfection, ample image tweaking options (including white balance and green and red tint controls), will let you calibrate it just how you like it.

As with the F8000, Samsung's improved the backlight consistency for the F6400, and it makes a marked difference to the overall picture quality. With deep blacks and rich, detailed and accurate (once tweaked) colours, there's no problem with light leakage or image clouding with the latest models, with the blacklight and edge-lit algorithms working in tandem to really enhance the overall contrast of the image, and pull the most detail possible out of dark, shadowy scenes.

The screen's sharpness sees images really pop in high-definition, and firing up a Blu-ray disc lets the screen really let rip, offering up great detail for what these days (in the age of giant LCD living room panels) could be considered a second room or bedroom set.

Motion clarity on the presets is a little too aggressive for our liking, and you'll want to dial it back a bit with a custom setting unless you want to suffer from slightly watery movement. Once adjusted, fast action scenes move with little perceptible judder, and it's a very pleasant set to view movies and sport on as a result

As you'd expect, HD content looks the best on the F6400, but with the screen size here not gigantic, SD content looks perfectly fine too. The upscaling capabilities aren't quite as impressive as on the F8000, with some jagged edges appearing where they wouldn't on equivalent HD content. But with a screen this size a decent distance away, it's less noticeable anyway. Keep in mind that SD content on the larger F6400 models may suffer as a result.

3D Picture Quality:
The F6400 uses active shutter 3D technology, and it performs well for a TV this size. Of course, with a 3D visuals, you're looking to bag as big a screen as possible to keep the 3D effect immersively encompassing your peripheral vision, but for a 3D gamer sat up close to the screen, the effect is still pretty good.

However, the forced motion processing which impressed so much on the F8000's 3D visuals doesn't work quite as well here, introducing significant motion interpolation that can hinder the depth effect. It's possibly a processing side-effect of the low-powered F6400, using a dual-core system rather than the F8000 quad-core array. Even with the Motion Plus setting set to off, it was still present, and was only defeated by switching on the Game Mode, itself introducing a lot of judder. Which looks better is up for debate, and neither is perfect.

Two pairs of 3D glasses come with the set (the same design that's a standard across all this year's 3D models from Samsung), and they're very light and comfortable, with the watch-battery that powers them sitting in a snap-down panel over the bridge of your nose. Ideally we'd prefer bigger lenses to help us from peeking out of the immersive 3D visuals, but the ones on offer here are large enough to sit relatively comfortably over a pair of prescription glasses.

Sound:

The UE32F6400 suffers from the usual shoddy audio that the majority of flatscreen TVs seem afflicted with.

Though 3D sound options are available, the down-firing 10W stereo speakers sound hollow and tinny, lacking any real punch, though doing a good job of keeping voices to the fore.

As ever, our advice is to pair the screen up with a soundbar or home cinema surround unit, the sad price we have to pay since leaving the bulk of CRT screens behind us.

Web Connected Smart TV and EPG features:
Packing in both Wi-Fi connectivity and an Ethernet connection, the F6400 has access to many of the Smart TV bells and whistles of its pricer counterparts. Though there's no built-in webcam or mic, putting Skype video calling out of the question as well as the so-so motion controls, you can still use the microphone built into the second of the two supplied remotes to interact with the TV screen.

The F6400 shares the same radically overhauled Smart TV interface that we reviewed in the F8000, so aside from a few pertinent omissions, this next section is basically the same as when we reviewed the pricer set.

As well as connecting up with your household's other smart devices (which we'll talk about in the " Remote Controls and Smartphone Apps" section of this review), Samsung have given the interface a drastic makeover, increasing the homescreen count from one to five.

These homescreens each focus on different aspects of the TV's capabilities. The first is dedicated to live TV, offering a picture-in-picture view of the channel you're currently watching, as well as recommendations based on your viewing habits showing similar shows as thumbnails surrounding it. Access to the Guide, Timeline and Recorded TV (shows are stored on a connected USB device) sit on the bottom.

The second screen focuses on On Demand TV and movie streaming services, and again offers recommendations based on your viewing habits, improving over time. As it stands, it can be confusing figuring out which service the recommendation comes from (it's a pain to have the premium Acetrax service pop-up when we're only looking for Netflix content), and though a cool feature, it'd benefit from being able to limit the sources the Samsung guide trawls through.

A third screen offers social feeds, aggregating Twitter and Facebook accounts into one place, and giving priority to video content shared on each site that can be played back on the TV. Also present here (once you've accepted the option to install it) is a Skype app, though it's severely limited without a built-in webcam.

A fourth screen allows access to music, video and photos shared on your network or a locally connected device, displayed in all their glory on the big screen. Recorded TV shows can again be accessed from here too.

A final fifth screen offers a grid-like interface for accessing dedicated apps, covering everything from health and fitness videos to Spotify, a web browser (which is among the best we've tried on a TV), and a great selection of video services on offer including Netflix, LoveFilm, BBC iPlayer and iTV Player, as well as Samsung's own 3D channels. A surprisingly robust app store lets you add more apps to this hub, including TV-optimised versions of popular mobile apps like Angry Birds

It's an intuitive layout that can be controlled in a variety of ways, but the whole experience suffers from the use of a slower dual-core processor. While the F8000 has a quad-core processor, the F6400's dual-core means navigating the Smart TV menus (well, all menus on the screen in fact) seem a little sluggish by comparison. Without having tested the two TVs in such close proximity we perhaps wouldn't have noticed it at all, making it a minor grumble, but it's a point where the pricer set's premium value becomes clear.

As seems Samsung's standard this year, the UE32F6400 comes with not one, but two remote controls.

One is a standard remote with rubber buttons, including shortcut keys for accessing Smart TV features, as well as playback controls for videos and ARC-connected HDMI devices. It's comfortable and sensibly laid out, and Samsung have sensibly removed the rarely-used "Family Story" shortcut button. It's a shame that there's no dedicated button for accessing aspect ratio, leading to a lengthy trawl through menus to get to it, and the same goes for the Game Mode. Also missing is the backlight, which featured in last year's flagship set's remote, though arguably it's battery draining excess anyway.

The second remote control is smaller and more squat, and is identical to that which comes with the F8000 except that it has a black finish compared to brushed silver finish of the more expensive TV's remote. It features far less physical buttons in favour of a touch panel. It works surprisingly well, particularly when using it like a laptop trackpad for browsing the TV's web connected features. It also features a built-in microphone, meaning you can use the TV's voice-activated controls without shouting across the room, or over the volume of the set itself. However, it's not as instantly familiar an experience to use as the standard remote, and, just like last year, we still found ourselves using the regular remote more often than the touch-enabled one.

While Samsung's motion control system isn't present here, Android and iOS apps can hook up the screen for some second screen functionality. With them you can stream video from the TV tuner to a tablet or smartphone, control the TV from an app or share content from the phone to the TV. Unfortunately, there's no single all-encompassing app yet that covers all features, meaning you've got to use a handful in order to get to all the features. iOS apps are still missing a few features, but Samsung promise to add more features as time goes on. All in, the tablet/smartphone controls are more useful than the gesture and voice counterparts at this stage.

Verdict:

Samsung's 3D TV range scales nicely this year, with this inexpensive 3D Smart TV retaining many of the very cool features of its more expensive stablemates. 2D performance is excellent, and 3D performance fair. But the real star of the show here is the Smart TV platform, of an incredibly high quality and one that would have come with a massive premium just a few short years ago. If you're looking for a web-connected set that won't break the bank and let you dip into 3D thrills from time to time, this is a great value set to invest in.
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Panasonic TX-L42DT65B Review

2013-05-04T04:10:00.001-07:00

Panasonic’s assault on the LED TV market continues with the TX-L42DT65B – the 42in model within the Viera DT65 series – that we’re reviewing today. In case you’re wondering, the UK-exclusive DT65 shares nearly identical specifications with the DT60 which the rest of Europe gets: the change in numerical suffix apparently reflects not only the set’s premium status, but also restricted availability through authorised dealers.

Within the Japanese TV manufacturer’s ever-expanding lineup of LED-lit LCD televisions, the Panasonic DT65 sits merely one rung below the flagship WT65/WT60 series. Besides this 42-inch version, three other screen sizes are available, namely the 47-inch Panasonic TX-L47DT65B, the 55-inch TX-L55DT65B, and the 60-inch TX-L60DT65B. This review will deal with the baby of the bunch (and probably the most popular, given the smallish average British home size), then.

Of course, there’s a significant change in display technology (and by extrapolation, the underlying LCD panel) between this year’s and last year’s Viera DT series. Because of a decision by Panasonic to adopt passive 3D across its entire 2013 LED LCD range, the TX-L42DT65 is equipped with FPR (film-type patterned retarder) polarized 3D LCD technology provided by LG Display, instead of the active-shutter glasses (ASG) system found on last year’s DT50. With this in mind, let’s see what the TV is capable of!

Design

Upon unboxing the TXL42DT65 and inspecting the accessories, we can’t help but feel that silver is the order of the day – the designers at Panasonic HQ must have received a memo declaring this to be the new black. First, the slim bezel is beautifully chiselled and finished in gleaming silver, which may appear a touch reflective in a brightly-lit viewing environment. This is matched by the highly polished V-shaped, swivel-capable stem that supports the television on a brushed metallic – yes, you’ve guessed it – silver rectangular base.

Even the two supplied remote controls are silver affairs. The first is a traditional one that sports large legible keys and can be backlit; while a secondary touchpad controller – featuring an inbuilt microphone and an innovative “trigger finger” button – aims to complement the impressive array of Smart TV functionalities including voice control on the Viera DT65.

The TXL42DT65B ships with 4 pairs of polarized 3D glasses, which is double the number of active-shutter eyewear included with this year’s Samsung 3DTVs, and Panasonic’s own active 3D plasmas.

Calibration

To get an idea of how accurate the Panasonic 42DT65 can be out of the box, we switched [Viewing Mode] from the default of “Normal” to “True Cinema“, and measured away.

Greyscale

Pre-calibration RGB tracking and delta errors (dEs)

The TV didn’t fare too badly here, although blue channel was underfilled, causing on-screen images to appear a touch too warm. A quick trip to the [White Balance] submenu (which houses the 2-point WB controls) sorted this out – we didn’t even need to do much tweaking to the 10-point controls (accessible via the [More Detailed Adjustment] option) to obtain what we would say is an excellent result:

Post-calibration RGB tracking and dEs in [Professional1] mode

Delta errors (dEs) were suppressed to below 3 (widely considered to be the human perceptible limit), ensuring that greys remained tint-free which, believe it or not, is a key element for accurate colour reproduction. Near-black areas – transmissive display technologies like LED LCDs cannot render true blacks on a per-pixel basis – took on a purplish shade, which is a common trait of IPS (in-plane switching) panels.

Gamma

Perhaps to draw attention away from the not-so-deep black level (a known weakness of IPS LCD panels), Panasonic’s engineers seemed to have tweaked the default gamma on the Viera TX-L42DT65B such that brighter portions of the video appeared darker than they should be. This creates a punchier image, but can look slightly unnatural due to uneven tonal transition.


Pre-calibration gamma tracking (avg 2.45)	Post-calibration gamma tracking (avg 2.25)

Greyscale calibration improved (but did not completely eradicate) the issue. Since the DT65′s black level measured above 0.1 cd/m², we lowered our target gamma from the 2.4 we usually aim for (this is the reference stipulated by ITU for flat-screen HD studio monitors used in a dark room, but then their blacks are quite a bit better than 0.1cd/m²!) to 2.2, so that shadow detail was not crushed. In case you’re wondering why we didn’t take advantage of the 10p gamma controls on offer to flatten the tracking, that’s because we noticed sporadic posterization in real-world viewing with their use.

Colour

We found red to be undersaturated on our Panasonic TX-L42DT65 review sample, not only at 100% saturation point, but also at 25%, 50% and 75% points which CalMAN 5 now lets us track. Blue also suffered from a similar problem at sub-100% saturation points.

Pre-calibration CIE chart including saturation tracking

[Colour Management] to the rescue. Panasonic’s HSL-based (hue, saturation, luminance) CMS (colour management system) is effective, but there’s a fair bit of interaction between the parameters (for example, adjusting luminance will affect saturation to a degree, and vice versa) so care must be exercised. As per our current workflow, we prioritised getting colour luminance/brightness/intensity spot-on to wipe out any decoding error (not that there was much in the first place):

Post-calibration colour luminance (coloured bars=targets; black bars=measured values)

… and then gently used the [R-Saturation] and [B-Saturation] sliders to minimise red and blue inaccuracies respectively across the 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% saturation tracking points, while also using other controls to touch up the secondary colours. Trying to correct the slightly deviated RGB hues at 100% saturation would unfortunately also skew the sub-100% colour points, so we decided to leave them be since these hue errors were undetectable in real-life content.

Post-calibration colour saturation tracking

Benchmark Test Results

Dead pixels	None
Screen uniformity	Mild “dirty screen” effect
Overscanning on HDMI	0% with [16:9 Overscan] set to “Off“
Blacker than black	Passed
Calibrated black level (black screen)	0 cd/m² (LEDs shut off)
Calibrated black level (ANSI checkerboard)	0.156 cd/m²
Black level retention	Auto-dimming with full black screen
Primary chromaticity	Very good
Scaling	Excellent
Video mode deinterlacing	Effective jaggies reduction
Film mode deinterlacing	Passed 2:2/576i & 3:2/480i with [Film Cadence Mode] on
Viewing angle	Very good for an LCD; washout occurs after 60° off-axis
Motion resolution	900-1080 with [Intelligent Frame Creation] on; 300 off
Digital noise reduction	Defeatable
Sharpness	Defeatable edge enhancement
Luma/Chroma bandwidth (2D Blu-ray)	Full luma; full chroma with [1080p Pixel Direct] engaged
1080p/24 capability	No judder in 2D or 3D
Input lag (high-speed camera)	33ms compared to CRT TV
Leo Bodnar input lag tester	36ms with [Game Mode] engaged
Full 4:4:4 reproduction (PC)	Yes, with [1080p Pixel Direct] engaged

Power Consumption

Default [Normal] mode	49 watts
Calibrated [Professional1] mode	38 watts
Standby	<1 watt

Picture Quality

If you’re familiar with the different characteristics of various types of LCD panel technology, then you’ll know what to expect with the Panasonic TXL42DT65B which uses an IPS panel. Bearing that in mind, first let’s talk about this television’s Achilles’ heel: at 0.156 cd/m², its native black level was relatively bright compared to VA-based LCD displays (such as Samsung’s Series 7 and Series 8 LED TVs, or Panasonic’s own 42E6 model), let alone plasma TVs from these two companies that are capable of supremely deep blacks.

To be fair, the mist of greyness that pervades where it should be black was only apparent when watching predominantly dark scenes in a dimly-lit viewing environment. The presence of moderate-strong ambient light (i.e. during daytime) or some bright elements on screen went a long way towards deflecting from the less-than-impressive black-level response – we actually found the TX-L42DT65 very watchable under such conditions.

With that out of the way, it’s mostly good news when it comes to the Panasonic DT65′s picture performance. The Japanese TV manufacturer has developed a reputation for delivering high-quality video processing, while knowing when to hold back on any tinkering urge, so that already pristine HD detail can shine through unblemished. That’s exactly what we got on the Viera TX-L42DT65B, with first-rate standard-definition handling (the set even passed our Bridget Jones: The Edge Of Reason PAL DVD torture test with flying colours) and judder-free 1080p/24 Blu-ray playback among the virtues that brought a smile to our face. Of course, a lot of credit needs to go to Panasonic’s generous provision of useful calibration controls, which helped us achieve highly accurate greyscale and colours on the TXL42DT65.

As with most edge LED televisions, a mild “dirty screen” effect (most noticeable during panning shots) was unavoidable due to the way LEDs mounted along the borders are required to illuminate the whole screen with the aid of light guidance plates. Motion quality was clean (another strength of IPS technology) without any sign of low-tone motion smearing that can afflict VA panels. Engaging [Intelligent Frame Creation] would bump motion resolution from the baseline LCD level of 300 to in excess of 900 lines – we certainly advise setting it to “Min” for video-based content to boost the clarity of moving objects. In the past we’ve found Panasonic’s motion-compensated frame interpolation (MCFI) technology to exhibit less glitches than similar systems implemented by rival TV brands, and our 42-inch DT65 sample remained true to this trend.

IPS panels are revered too for their wide viewing angles (at least within the LCD circle), a trait that was immediately apparent on the Panasonic TXL42DT65B. Colours held on to their saturation as far as 60° off-axis before any significant washout occurred, although blacks – which were not great to begin with – became brighter earlier than that. Either way, this is a notch better than LED TVs that use VA-type LCD panel.

Since the L42DT65B uses an FPR polarized 3D LCD panel sourced from LG Display, we already knew what we’re getting in the third dimension based on our experience withprevious 3DTVs featuring the same technology: bright extra-dimensional images that are free of flicker, low on crosstalk, and deliver bags of depth. All three frame rates (50hz, 60hz, 24Hz) were handled impeccably without judder in 3-D mode – another testament to Panasonic’s video processing prowess.

Our sensitive eyes could pick up dark horizontal scan lines through the passive 3D glasses – an inevitable side effect of the polarized filter/lens – from as far as 6 feet away. Obviously sitting farther away from the screen can make the scanlines/ lessened vertical resolution dissolve away, but then so would the tri-dimensional detail and immersiveness.

Another thing to note with passive 3D televisions including the Panasonic DT65 is that the vertical viewing angle is fairly limited – watching the screen from anything more than 15° above eye level would result in an intolerable amount of ghosting/ double images. This is of particular importance for owners who wish to enjoy three-dimensional content on their wall-mounted TX-L42DT65 – make sure the TV is installed at eye level.

Conclusion

Panasonic has worked its magic on the TX-L42DT65B to make the best of an IPS LCD panel whose strengths (wide viewing angles, no motion smearing) and weakness (less-than-impressive blacks) are common knowledge. Video processing for standard definition and 3D content is excellent, and the Viera DT65 – like most of the company’s non-entry-level HDTVs this year – can be calibrated to within an inch of its life, owing to their engineers’ deep understanding of what constitutes an accurate image, coupled with the inclusion of a comprehensive array of advanced calibration controls.

The TX-L42DT65 is really only let down – as all IPS panels do – by its black-level response, which makes it more suitable as a bright-room television than for critical viewing in a dimly-lit viewing environment. Had Panasonic paired its TV-making know-how with an LCD panel capable of producing deeper blacks (such as the VA one used on the TX-L42E6B), the result might have been spectacular, although the company would probably have to reverse its stance of “only passive 3D on LED TVs”. Perhaps next year?

As things stand, the TXL42DT65B’s stylish design, accurate images, easy-on-the-eye 3D and excellent Smart TV platform earn it a spot in the “Recommended” category, even though those who are seeking the best value for money are better served by the ET60 series which delivers essentially similar picture quality at a lower price.

No Ads On Google Glass

2013-04-20T02:53:00.001-07:00

Developers working on apps for Google's smart glasses have been told they will not be allowed to place advertising within the device's display.

The newly-published terms and conditions for developers working on Glass also prohibit companies charging for apps.

The glasses, which have a five megapixel camera and voice-activated controls, have started to be shipped.

The first devices will go to developers and "Glass Explorers".

Google held a competition earlier this year inviting potential users to come up with ways to use the device, while developers have been eager to be among the first to try out the technology.

As part of the announcement, Google also gave the first official details of the device's specifications.

The bone conduction transducer allows the wearer to hear audio without the need for in-ear headphones - sound waves are instead delivered through the user's cheekbones and into the inner ear.

The company promises a battery lasting for "one full day of typical use".

Its display is the equivalent, the company says, of looking at a 25in (63cm) high-definition screen from eight feet away. The device is able to record video at a resolution of 720p.

It has 16GB on-board storage, and connects with other mobile devices via Bluetooth and wi-fi.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-22166419

Looking for a Sony 4K TV for your living room?

2013-04-13T17:42:00.000-07:00

Have a spare five grand laying around? Starting April 21, you can use that cash to invest in one of Sony's 4K Ultra HD televisions, which will be joined this summer by a media player capable of streaming content to them.
Sony announced pricing and availability for its upcoming 4K (3840 x 2160) Ultra HD products at the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) trade show Sunday, which is now underway in Las Vegas.
The 4K Ultra High Definition TV sets will be available in two sizes: A 55-inch model XBR-55X900A for $4,999.99 and a 65-inch model XBR-65X900A for $6,999.99. There's no word on international pricing or the fate of the 56-inch prototype the company showed off at CES 2013.
As part of the same announcement, Sony Pictures Home Entertainment also introduced a new line of "Mastered in 4K" Blu-ray discs, optimized for 4K but also compatible with existing Blu-ray players and HDTVs.

Summer of 4K
A Sony press release confirmed availability for the FMP-X1, a $699 4K Media Player that will hit stores this summer bundled with 10 feature films and video shorts presented in "true 4K resolution."
As previously announced, Sony will introduce a paid video-on-demand service this fall dedicated to serving up 4K titles from the parent company's vast library, as well as other "notable production houses."
Sony's 4K television sets will be available to order online and at retail starting April 21, bundled with three "Mastered in 4K" Blu-ray discs (while supplies last). Those titles are Spider-Man (2002), Ghostbusters and Angels & Demons.
Curious what the fuss is about? Starting today, six Sony Store locations - three in California, as well as Houston, Las Vegas and New York - will begin in-store demoes of both true 4K as well as upscaled video from other sources.

Minox mints mini 24K gold-plated camera

2013-04-13T09:42:00.000-07:00

Collectors of exotic gadgets might want to take a peep at the Minox miniature digital camera, freshly available in a swank 24K gold-plated tone.
The tiny camera literally fits in the palm of your hand with dimensions of 2.9 inches by 1.8 inches by 1.7 inches and a paltry weight of 4 ounces. While the German manufacturer calls it a "thoroughly modern digital camera," however, the specs reek of yesteryear.
This small shooter packs a 5.1-megapixel CMOS sensor with a 2-inch color LCD. It comes with a detachable optical viewfinder, and there's an option out there for a wide-angle lens. Speaking of optics, the lens is a 9.0mm (42mm in 35mm format), and the hardware offers a 4x digital zoom.
Video capture is weak, as there's only a sole option of capturing 320x240 AVI clips (up to 60 seconds). Thankfully, the mini-shooter has a generic mini-USB port and a replaceable lithium ion battery.

View the Original article with pictures!

Best cheap digital TV deals with 3D channels

2013-04-09T03:24:00.001-07:00

Customers who have 3D TVs at home are in for a treat – there is no need to break your piggybank to get the freshest three-dimensional content. Here are our picks of the best digital TV deals which give you access to 3D channels.

Sky+ Entertainment Pack & Broadband Lite & Talk Weekends
If you order this great digital TV bundle today you get Sky TV half price for 6 months. This exciting cheap deal also includes a free HD ready Sky+ box which will give you the ability to view content on demand and enjoy catch up TV for up to seven days, not to mention Sky’s very own 3D channel packed with beautiful feature films and documentaries all in stunning 3D!

Sky+ Entertainment Extra Pack (with 2TB Box) & Broadband Unlimited Fibre & Talk Weekends
This great digital TV deal includes Sky’s most powerful set top box ever: the 2TB box (Terabyte). A terabyte is roughly 2,000 hours of music recorded in high quality. This means that the digital TV possibilities are endless; enjoy on demand content, stunning HD and immersive 3D channels, catch up TV among other exciting features. This cheap digital TV deal lets you be in charge: you can record, rewind, forward or pause live broadcast. As with the previous deal, if you order it now, you can get Sky TV half price for 6 months!

Is digital TV with 3D channels a package for me?
If you are not sure whether 3D is something you should get, why not ask our independent experts? Simply call on 0808 256 6606 and our friendly team will help you compare, find, sign up to or even switch to a cheap digital TV deal that’s right for you.

Pay as you go Sky Sports comes to Now TV

2013-04-06T11:51:00.000-07:00

Sports and tablets, together at lastRelated storiesTalkTalk adding 10,000 YouView customers a week with free box dealPaywalls, packaging and streaming - the two-tier internet is already hereNow TV: what is it and how do you get it?
Sky Sports has landed on Sky's internet-based Now TV, meaning you can watch premium sporting fixtures without having to pay a monthly fee or install a satellite dish on the side of your house.
It'll set you back £9.99 for 24 hours of access to all six Sky Sports channels, so you can pick and choose what sporting dates you're particularly interested in.
Because it's a web-TV service, you can watch your PAYG sport on Xbox 360, desktop computers, iOS devices and a selection of Android handsets.
Quids pro quo
There are surprisingly few caveats - you don't need to sign up to the £15 a month Now TV Sky Movies pass, you just pay the £9.99 for a day's access as and when you want to - although we'll admit that £9.99 is a bit steep unless you get some pals over and make a day of it. Especially when you consider that a month's worth of Sky Sports on Sky TV will cost you £21.
But if you're sporting mad (but not mad enough to already have a Sky Sports subscription), the news will be welcome - Sky has live Premier League and Champions League matches, all 19 Grands Prix, all 10 Ashes Test matches, three of golf's four major tournaments and exclusive coverage of ATP Tennis.
For the full low-down on Now TV head on over to our comprehensive guide to the on-demand service and see how it measures up to its sports-free rivals Lovefilm and Netflix.

Samsung's massive S9 4K TV up for pre-order this month for $40K

2013-04-06T03:51:00.000-07:00

Despite some very nice plusses, $40K is a little to rich for our bloodRelated storiesSamsung's 85-inch 4K TV gets predictably eye-watering price tag3D with glasses is dead and 4K won't sell, says HBO tech chiefToshiba rejoins the UHD TV party with L9300 series

When Samsung unveiled its massive range of S9 Ultra HD 4K TVs at CES earlier this year, it conceded that the 95- and 110-inch models would never actually go into production - they were just for show.

Given how much we assumed it would cost, we kind of doubted the 85-inch version would ever sit on store shelves either, despite what Samsung said.

It turns out we were only half-wrong; Samsung announced Wednesday that the 85-inch S9 will become available for pre-order in the U.S. on Samsung.com later this month.

For all that screen real estate, you expect a price tag as the TV itself - try $39,999 on for size. This is not going to be a display for the masses.

Apple iTV to get 4K upgrade, could still launch this year

2013-04-05T19:51:00.000-07:00

4K? OKRelated storiesTV market is 'Apple's to lose' says ex-CEOApple seeking software engineer to lead 'next generation' Apple TVNew Apple iTV speculation puts Sharp in the picture

File this one under "more possible Apple nonsense" but talk of the long-rumoured Apple iTV has begun again, pegging the TV set to arrive by the end of 2013 with 4K Ultra HD in tow.

New whispers from the ever-questionable Digitimes suggest we could be seeing a 3840 x 2160 display from Apple at the end of 2013 or the start of 2014 depending on component availability. Apple is reportedly looking at an LG Display for the Ultra HD television.

The familiar 'supply chain sources' also say it will come with voice and motion control as well as an internet connection, though we can't say that the latter is of any huge surprise.

TV, or not TV, that is the question

Coinciding with this rumour, renowned Apple analyst Gene Munster has told Bloomberg that he still thinks Apple will release the iTV by the end of the year, adding there is "no question whether it's a set-top box versus a TV, it's an actual TV".

That's all very well but does it actually mean anything? Munster has been vocal on the iTV for some time, and while we're taking all of these rumours with a hefty scoop from the salt jar, it's certainly not unlikely that Apple is getting ready to launch its next new product.

He also posited that Apple's iWatch won't be appearing until 2014, giving Apple time to focus on taking over the TV world.

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How 3D Television Technology Works

2013-04-05T11:51:00.000-07:00

- There is no question that you may be aware of the latest trends in modern electronics: 3D TV. From when people experience a 3D movie in theaters, people have been considering to see a 3D movie in the relaxation of their own homes. 3D technology innovation to grow at a rapid pace. There are a variety of technological innovations used to improve the TV and allows consideration to see in 3D. Several technological innovations are more expensive than others, while others are easier to build. Before 3D TV manufacturers provide to the public, companies should consider the advantages and disadvantages of any particular technological innovation.

There are three main ways to develop a 3D television:

Lenticular see: This innovative technology has been designed by the famous company Philips. This way of technological innovation gives individuals the opportunity to see 3D without the need for 3D glasses. It can attract visitors who may not like the glasses and think they look ridiculous. Lens in the TVs that use lenticular images give a different view for each eye. The left eye will finally get a different picture of that image into the viewer's right eye. A drawback of this way of resolution 3D images is that TVs have limited viewing position. Therefore, it is difficult for some visitors to sit in different areas to be able to see the film in 3D.

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First Ultra HD player for the home goes on sale

2013-03-23T05:35:00.000-07:00

Blu-ray no longer top dog in home cinemaRelated storiesWhy 4K ultra-high definition display technology is great for the PC3D TV is dead, replaced by 4K, says BBC controllerSamsung's 85-inch 4K TV gets predictably eye-watering price tag

The company behind the Ultra HD/4K cameras responsible for the likes of The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, Spider-Man and House of Cards has launched the world's first Ultra HD capable machine for the home – and there's not a disc drive in sight.

Promising a BBC iPlayer-on-iPad style download service, the Redray 4k Cinema Player goes on sale this month for around £950 to become the first commercially available Ultra HD source. It could effectively see the end of both Blu-ray and even the whole idea of the shiny disc itself.

"If you go around and ask people who are touching the industry – like we are and all the consumer electronics companies – they would probably concur with me that there's not a lot of viability for physical media anymore," says Ted Schilowitz, 'leader of the rebellion' at Red Digital Cinema and evangelist for all things 4k, though he admits that Blu-ray might not be dead just yet.

"Whether the companies that still live in that world choose to put their last hurrah out in 4k is yet to be determined."

Banking on downloads

Not that Red is banking on downloads for the Redray, which can also read Ultra HD files – in the MP4 format – from both USB drives and SD Cards. It can also upscale from SD and HD to Ultra HD.

The Blu-ray Disc Association has yet to ratify a new specification for Ultra HD – also known as 4K – but even if it did, manufacturers would then have to sell a third generation of Blu-ray player. After poor sales of 3D Blu-ray players, that seems unlikely.

Red's download service is due to start this month with Odemax as the only confirmed content provider, though Schilowitz confirmed to TechRadar that Red is in talks with the 'usual suspects' to offer Ultra HD versions of major studio releases alongside independent films and remasters of classics.

"There are lots of veins of 4K content," says Schilowitz. "All will have a place on this platform."

Schilowitz couldn't confirm which companies Red is talking to, but the current suppliers of movie downloads – such as Netflix, Amazon and Apple – could be involved. Netflix showed-off 4K streaming on Samsung's stand at CES 2013, though that was using the new HEVC format.

Another blow for plasma TVs as Panasonic eyes an exit

2013-03-22T21:35:00.000-07:00

Panasonic's plasmas: soon to be an endangered species?Related storiesBye bye plasma: is this the end for the original flat TV tech?Panasonic dropping TVs for iPad screens?10 best 46 and 47-inch TVs in the world today

Panasonic may stop making plasma televisions altogether as it looks to restructure its struggling TV division.

The news comes from Japanese newspaper Nikkei, which went so far as to claim that Panasonic has already vastly reduced its plasma production. However, the paper hasn't cited any concrete sources so it's not clear where the information originated.

The paper reckoned that Panasonic is set to make less than half of its 2009/2010 TV income by 2015 - hence the pull away from plasma, which Nikkei reckons will happen 2014.

Mulling it over

Panasonic isn't exactly batting the rumours away: "The content of the report is not something announced by Panasonic. Regarding the growth strategy for the TV business, we are looking into a variety of options, but nothing has been decided at the moment," a spokesperson told us.

Reading between the lines, that comment certainly makes it sound as though Panasonic is having a good think about palming off the plasma.

But it doesn't exactly jive with what Fabrice Estornel, Panasonic's TV head in the UK, told us in February:

"Maybe we accept that the entry level on plasma is becoming more a niche market, but there are still lots of people who are really into picture quality and home cinema

Ultra HD, All you need to know!

2013-03-22T13:40:00.002-07:00

Today's 1920 x 1080 resolution Full HD TVs present us with an image of around 2 megapixels, but a new generation of screens are coming that deliver an 8 megapixel image from hi-res cameras.

With new Ultra HD TVs arriving this year from the big TV brands, it could soon become a format for both broadcast TV and Blu-ray.

What's the difference between Ultra HD, 4K, 4K2K, Quad HD, 2160p and DCI?

Nothing - it's all just semantics of an industry in flux. The technology used to be referred to as 4K, but it now looks likely to be known as Ultra High Definition, or Ultra HD (UHD). These Ultra HD TVs have a resolution of 3840 x 2160 so offer unprecedented picture clarity and detail. It also makes watching in 3D both more comfortable and more immersive, certainly, though as we buy bigger and bigger TV screens, Ultra HD resolution will become a must-have.

With an Ultra HD TV of 84 inches exactly four times larger than a 42-inch HD TV, it's possible that, as a stop-gap, the first wave of Ultra HD TVs will push multi-screen TV rather than the new resolution. But as we inch towards larger TVs the use of Ultra HD resolutions will enable us to maintain - or only slightly increase - the pixels per inch (PPI) count we already have.

How big is an Ultra HD TV?

So far it's been monster Ultra HD TVs all the way, with Sony's 84-inch 84X9005 and LG's 84-inch 84LM960V leading the way alongside the now-a-bit-old Toshiba 55ZL2, a 55-inch TV whose real claim is glasses-free 3D TV (though there's more where that came from, this time from Philips).

Don't forget the Panasonic TH-152UX1W, a 152-inch plasma that was the first television to boast Ultra HD resolution. Expect 2013 to see a flurry of new Ultra HD TVs at almost acceptable prices, though some will remain monster-sized - like the 84-inch Toshiba 84L9300.

Smaller Ultra HD TVs in 2013

Thankfully, they're getting smaller - and slightly more affordable. The first half of 2013 will see the launch of the 58-inch Toshiba 58L9300, 65-inch Toshiba 65L9300, 55-inch Sony KD-55X9000A and 65-inch Sony KD-65X9000A.

Samsung's delectable 55-inch S9 Ultra HD LED TV - rumoured to cost US$37,900 - will follow later, but are we jumping the gun? After all, OLED TVs are just coming through from LG, and CES 2013 was awash with stunning combinations of both Ultra HD and OLED in prototype form - check out these 56-inch Ultra HD OLED TVs from Sony and Panasonic. These TVs are both fruits of a joint R&D effort by the two Japanese corporations, though we've a soft spot for Samsung's luscious Curved OLED screen, too.

Do I need an Ultra HD TV?

Best Smart TV platforms

High definition comes in two flavours: 720p (HD ready) and 1080p (Full HD), both of which offer more picture information than the standard definition formats. The more pixels that make up an image, the more detail you see - and the smoother the appearance of curved and diagonal lines. Ultra HD just takes that on to the next level.

A high pixel count also enables images to go larger before they break up, which suits the trend to bigger TVs. Ultra HD is already making big inroads into the world of digital cinema; almost all major Hollywood movies and TV shows are filmed in 4K - or even 5K.

Of course, perceived picture resolution is as much about viewing distance as resolution. What's the real difference between 720p and 1080p? The answer is about two metres. Increase the pixel density and you can sit closer without the pixel grid becoming obvious; a 2160p image - or Ultra HD - enables you to sit 1.6m from the screen.

Some engineers dispute that you can see a difference between 2K and 4K on any screen less than 100-inches; go larger and the subtle nuances that make up a 4K picture certainly become easier to appreciate.

Can I buy an Ultra HD home cinema projector?

Yes. The first genuine Ultra HD consumer product to hit the streets was theSony VPL-VW1000ES in 2012, a home cinema projector that borrows technologies originally developed for the brand's commercial digital cinema projectors. Indeed, the VPL-VW1000ES conforms to the Digital Cinema Initiative (DCI) specification, which uses a slightly different resolution (4096 x 2160 pixels) than Ultra HD TVs.

Not to be confused with JVC's DLA-X95R, DLA-X75R and DLA-X55R '4K branded' projectors, which actually deliver a Full HD picture but use pixel-shifting panel technology (called e-shift2) to produce a more textured and detailed image, the Sony VPL-VW1000ES has a native UHD 8.8 million pixel SXRD panel, to deliver true Ultra HD resolution.

The Sony VPL-VW1000ES can accept Ultra HD content over HDMI and display it natively, as well as up-convert any incoming source.

What is Super Hi-Vision?

Best TV

There's another spanner in the works in the shape of Super Hi-Vision, an 8K format created by Japan's national broadcaster NHK. It was trialled extensively at the London 2012 Olympics by the BBC, but doesn't appear to have much chance of becoming a bona fide format just yet. It's certainly one to watch; at double the frame rate of HD (at 120fps) and with a 7680 x 4320 pixel resolution (that's around 32 megapixels), Super Hi-Vision demos have featured stunning 22.2 surround sound, too, thanks to twin subwoofers each the size of a small car.

Technically Super Hi-Vision also comes under the umbrella of the Ultra HD specification, which could store-up problems for future; how will anyone be able to explain the difference? Super-Ultra HD, anyone? Mega HD?

Will Ultra HD ever be broadcast on TV?

Technically it already is; Eutelsat Communications launched the first Ultra HD demo channel in Europe in January 2013, on its EUTELSAT 10A satellite. In the UK, the BBC has plans to film some documentaries with 4K equipment in 2013, though it's actually trialled Super Hi-Vision - or 8K - broadcasting as recently as the London Olympics.

Just as Planet Earth was one of the first programmes to be shown in HD, theBBC's Natural History Unit have been handed the task of filming Survivalin Ultra HD.

South Korea currently leads the way in Ultra HD broadcasting; its KBS Kwanak Transmitter uses DVB-T2 architecture (the tech behind Freeview HD in the UK) to send an Ultra HD signal compressed using HEVC encoding.

A six-month trial of the same tech in the US is scheduled for 2013 that will attempt the broadcast of Ultra HD TV signals in the Baltimore area, while atMobile World Congress 2013 a Spanish telecoms company, Abertis, conducted an experiment to broadcast Ultra HD TV pictures using DVB-T2 and an 84-inch Ultra HD TV.

Meanwhile, the 2014 World Cup Final from Brazil will be shown in Ultra HD to satellite viewers in Japan, though that country may attempt Super Hi-Vision broadcasts as early as 2016 or 2018.

Will Blu-ray support Ultra HD discs?

Probably, yes, thanks to that new compression codec called HEVC, though the Blu-ray Disc Association (BDA) has yet to ratify anything.

The good news is that there is Ultra HD content already available in the vaults of the Hollywood majors. Increasingly movies are mastered at 4K resolution, both for commercial distribution and restoration projects. Hollywood has also begun shooting movies in Ultra HD and beyond.

Peter Jackson's The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey was shot on RED Epic digital cameras that are capable of 5K resolution, while Sony's 4K-capable F65 camera is commonly used in film and TV, too. Many US TV dramas are already filmed with one of these cameras, including Made In Jersey, Justified, Save Me and Masters of Sex, according to The Hollywood Reporter, as well as ER, Criminal Minds and Justified.

Quite whether studio bosses actually want this level of picture quality in the hands of consumers remains to be seen. Naturally Ultra HD Blu-ray discs would also require a new generation of BD hardware; so-called 4K-ready Blu-ray players including the new Sony S5100 and Samsung BD-F7500 machines - due for launch in spring 2013 - are only able to upscale regular Blu-ray into Ultra HD-quality, and almost certainly won't play the yet-to-be-invented new Ultra HD discs.

How can I get Ultra HD films onto my Ultra HD TV?

In the absence of shiny discs, the first generation of Ultra HD TV owners will have to rely on 'content delivery systems'. Sony will supply with its new 4K TVs a server containing seven native 4K movies - titles TBC - though heavily compressed downloads from Sony (in summer 2013) and others looks to be the next step.

Destined to be the first 4K player to go on sale, the Redray 4K Cinema Player will cost US$1,450 when it launches in spring 2013. Equipped with a 1TB hard disk, this machine can play 4K content stored on an SD card or USB slot, too - such is the file compression on offer - though it's networked and can stream 4K video from a central server, Lovefilm Instant/Netflix-style.

These two innovations aside, the Ultra HD YB market will be mostly about upscaling for some time to come, and the savvy buyer will carefully consider how good a particular Ultra HD TV is at taking a standard or high definition signal and blowing it up onto a big screen. From the demos we've seen of Blu-ray being upscaled to Ultra HD, the big brands seem to have put a lot of work into this; they all look amazing.

When will Ultra HD become standard?

Best Blu-ray players

The floors of CES 2013 were packed with them, but it could be a difficult birth. With arguments and a lack of industry standards on displays, broadcast and playback of Ultra HD material, the introduction of these cutting-edge TVs will prove complex in the extreme.

Introducing an Ultra HD TV isn't like adding LED backlighting to an LCD screen. It's about orchestrating a seismic shift in the broadcast and entertainment infrastructure, not to mention rewriting the consumer electronics handbook.

Currently the only devices to offer Ultra HD play-out are ultra high resolution PC graphics cards, which typically use a quartet of SDI or HDMI outputs to deliver 8MP of video.

There are also myriad disagreements about what exactly Ultra HD displays and equipment should offer in terms of the exact colour standards, frame rate, compression codec and broadcast technology.

In fact, Ultra HD doesn't yet exist - it's a logo-free collection of guidelines that manufacturers should adhere to. Once they're signed, sealed and agreed and a delivery mechanism - 4K Blu-ray, or 4K downloading - along with a tweaked version of HDMI, is all in place, it's possible that existing Ultra HD TVs won't be up to the task. Who'd be an early adopter?

What about Ultra HD for photographers?

The picture's brighter for digital photographers. The PlayStation3 now displays digital still images at 4K resolution over HDMI (how about a PS4K, anyone?), while Panasonic has been busy prepping prototype displays aimed at image-makers. As well as its 4K resolution 20-inch TV, Panasonic recently presented an identically-sized 4K tablet aimed at designers, photographers and architects.

So despite the excitement in the world of TV, a lack of agreement throughout the industry means that the first enthusiasts to benefit from Ultra HD technology could be photographers, and not cinema enthusiasts.

However, manufacturers have already shown that they think the sweet-spot for Ultra HD TV sits between 55 and 65 inches; isn't that the size you'd like your next TV to be? With a couple of games consoles, some Blu-ray players capable of spitting out Ultra HD resolution images, and a BBC UHD trial channel, we're convinced that within a few years most TV buyers won't be able to resist the temptation of making sure their purchase is at least future-proofed to Ultra HD.

And today's future-proofed TV is tomorrow's cut-price commodity... though is that what they said about 3D TV?

Source: http://www.techradar.com/us/news/home-cinema/high-definition/ultra-hd-everything-you-need-to-know-about-4k-tv-1048954?src=rss&attr=all

Rovio catapulting Angry Birds cartoon to the masses March 17

2013-03-22T13:35:00.000-07:00

A fresh shot of anger every weekRelated storiesCan Rovio achieve the impossible and make a good movie spin-off game?Angry Birds Star Wars soaring in NovemberNative Instagram app may never make it onto BB10

The Angry Birds phenomenon will not stop rolling on as Rovio has announced plans to air "Angry Birds Toons," a series of animated shorts based on the game, through its own video distribution channel.

Starting March 17, anyone with a variation of the Angry Birds app (regular, Star Wars, etc.) will be able to watch the episodes directly from a new channel within that app on their iOS and Android smartphones and tablets.

"Angry Birds Toons" are also slated to appear on various on-demand entertainment channels around the world on March 16, but the concept of distribution through a gaming app is certainly new and untested waters.

There will be 52 episodes (one new episode airing every week for a year), with users able to access the videos through a new button on the Angry Birds homescreen, which will arrive in an update next weekend.

1.7 billion slammed

The real kicker though is just how far and wide the grasp of Angry Birds has spread since its inception in 2009.

If you can believe it, Rovio CEO Mikael Head revealed the various AB apps have been downloaded 1.7 billion times, making in-app distribution all that more attractive.

"We've long wanted to tell our fans the story of the Angry Birds and the Bad Piggies, to introduce their personalities and their world in detail," Hed said in a statement.

"We're delighted to introduce all this through our new channel, with easy and instant access to the stories in the palm of your hand."

With over 1.7 billion downloads, we can reach a far wider and more engaged global audience than traditional distribution would allow."

Rovio partnered with Comcast, Samsung and Roku in the U.S. to air the latest adventures in the saga of those crazy birds and piggies, as well as international providers like Children's Channel (Israel), TV2 (Norway) and FOX8 (Australia).

There was mention of deals with Activision, Sony Pictures, Paramount Pictures and BlackBerry, but there were no details on what those agreements might mean.

Get 5 free issues of tech. - no obligation!

tech. is the essential weekly iPad magazine from the makers of TechRadar. This week: Your iPad is gaming's future. This week's issue of tech. is out now.

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Samsung UN46D8000 3D LED HDTV Every Bit As Good

2013-03-07T12:14:00.000-08:00

All of the Smart TV from Samsung ar the art deep for entertainment, The Samsung UN46D8000 3D LED HDTV sizes 46 Inch. For a commitment strongly in the development of 3D TV to reach the highest image quality and complete connection.

The Samsung UN46D8000 46 Inch 3D LED HDTV has occurred with any modern design, the capabilities of the art by Samsung One Design bezel is slender as come for visual impression of more screen, less frame and Samsung's cinema-quality 3D technology brings realism to be displayed in 3D movies and TV programming. buy a 3D TV from Samsung is definitely worth it.

Two pairs of 3D glasses included in boxSamsung Smart TV3D HDTVFull HD 1080p resolutionAuto Motion Plus 240Hz with Clear Motion Rate
I saw this 3D TV when I walk into a department store and I decided to buy it on the same day. When TV came up with one word that I say Wow! and now I have to get more information from Samsung's website, where it was felt that the motivation cost for me for purchase of Samsung TV in this year, because I have not found any problems. (I probably would not use it much).

The black level is wonderful. For the 3D effect are cool and I have to leave this is my first 3D TV, I saw a film in 3D in some theaters but I've never had that experience at home. For features that are included with this TV is great, I like the added NAS support, it works really great. I have a Synology NAS and when I connect it at the first time on my home network the TV detected my NAS and listed it as Synology. I would little comment about DLNA, it is no User Interface in graphic art or pictures for the movies, however the titles show will work just fine.

Pros: The level of black color and normal HD programs are crisp and clear, it does not make me tired eyes for watch it, with a small bezel making it perfectly compatible with the wall of my house. The features for it to be perfect and many others.

Cons: Exceptions are the remote, I want to remote control like iPhone, I think the keyboard is still too small for me. I want this more than a little bit port connection whether it is HDMI, USB or Optical port.

However, the overall picture of all of this 3D TV. I was very happy with it and I think that within 1 to 2 years, I still get the fun of it, certainly. I give it a full five star rating.

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3Doodler is a $75 3D-printing pen eagerly awaiting your Kickstarter funding (hands-on)

2013-03-07T04:14:00.000-08:00

In April of last year, former MakerBot COO Samuel Cervantes launched the Solidoodle, a $500 3D printer. We were a bit taken aback by the price point -- after all, his former company's product had seemingly set the standard for consumer-facing 3D-printer pricing at around $2,000. We're hoping you've got both hands firmly clutching your hat when we tell you that the 3Doodler, a 3D-printing pen from the crew over at Wobbleworks, is going to run a whopping $75 at launch -- and heck, if you get in early on the company's recently launched Kickstarter, you'll be able to snag one for $50.

Before we go any further, however, let's get some things out of the way. For starters, it's best to take the 3D printer thing with a grain or two of salt. Calling the 3Doodler a 3D pen is a bit like calling a high-end ink pen a 2D printer. The device is actually quite simple, but pretty brilliant. It essentially takes the heated extrusion head off a 3D printer and incorporates it into a standalone device. A single piece of plastic (ABS or PLA, for the more environmentally minded out there) is threaded through the back, fed through the pen and comes out melted through the tip. Yes, like its 3D printer brethren, it works a bit like a hot glue gun.

Gallery: 3Doodler is a $75 3D printing pen eagerly awaiting your Kickstarter funding

3D Televisions The Future

2013-02-22T07:33:00.000-08:00

- As usual with technological innovation, there is the latest, most up during service, and must have the latest items from the kit. This seasons have come by way of 3D TV, which has taken the world's attention, and proved that the display is set to compete a little big screen, by adapting technological innovations that have long been available even in the cinema.

Everyone who has seen a 3D movie in theaters will tell you it is an extreme experience, especially with scary movies or action, and can enhance the viewing experience. When placed in front of your own side, the 3D technological innovation can actually produce the same affect? Some disputes can be, to watch the best of the relaxation of your own home, 3D TV besides covering can have a tremendous impact.
3D Televisions Future factor
3D Televisions Future , But there are some drawbacks to the pattern, and certainly one of them are the price factor, the price of regular 3D TV around 2000, and many companies have said you have to pay for the glasses independently. This will includes the purchases of some glasses live view screen, which costs about 100 and is operated by lithium batteries.

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Samsung F8500 LED TV will hit the UK in March

2013-02-21T23:33:00.000-08:00

Not sure what to watch on the box? Well next month Samsung will start selling a set that'll recommend what you might like, based on your viewing habits.
Known as S-Recommendation, the feature is part of the new Smart Hub user interface, found on Samsung's flagship F8500 LED TV, which will hit the UK in March.
The set was unveiled at CES last month, but this is the first we've heard of a UK release date. We've contacted Samsung for a price, and will update this story when we hear back.
S-Recommendation will scour broadcast TV, video-on-demand, apps, social content, and anything you've downloaded to your personal devices to find something suitable.
It'll have Siri-style skills too, so it'll recognise what you're saying and find the relevant show or film, meaning you don't have to type. Which should save valuable telly-watching time.
"Magnum" design
The F8500 is quite a looker, with what Samsung calls its "premium Magnum design". Basically, the TV frame and stand are a single structure, with a naturally-curved back made of the same material.
The new Smart Hub features five panels: OnTV; Movies and TV Shows; Photos, Videos and Music; Social; and Apps. The user interface also works across tablets, so you can schedule and watch shows on your portable device.

3d Tv Vizio E3D320VX 32-Inch Reviews

2013-02-21T15:33:00.000-08:00

Vizi0 E3D320VX 32-Inch 3D TV Reviews - Vizio 32 "3D HDTV is a meeting of the theatrical movie category at home and very cost effective for all. If you want a meeting at the home theater 3D, VIZIO E3D320VX 32-Inch Class Theater 3D LCD HDTV is one solution.

When you see a 3D movie theater, you are given a pair of 3D glasses. If you experience a relaxed and glasses lightweight and portable (like sunglasses), then take home spouse (if allowed), because they do entirely with the series of 3D Passive Theater Vizio TV (not active battery Vizio series of 3D glasses). This is a remarkable change by Vizio, and others such as LG, to draw the 3D movie lovers to get the same meeting at home, and will encourage countless numbers to consider 3D Theater is easy to use.

VIZIO E3D320VX 32-Inch Class Theater 3D LCD HDTV Review
Bring home the 3D movie! A Vizio 32 "LCD HDTV 3D Theater presents a 3D-style cinema with a lightweight and portable, battery-free glasses you can use at home or in cinema 3D Theater showing crystal-clear, flicker-free 3D with the 3D image is lighter than traditional. Includes 2 pairs 3D glasses., so you can discuss the fun with friends and family, this is a review of the VIZIO E3D320VX 3d you can consider before buying a VIZIO E3D320VX 32-Inch Class Theater 3D .

VIZIO E3D320VX 32-Inch Screen size

If you are on the fence with this TV just buy it. 3D is the best on the market and has an excellent screen dimensions. If you consider that their TVs offer a larger 42-inch and 47 inch designs of the same TV for not much more. I really like this TV and cons are nothing compared to the pro.

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Samsung's 85-inch UHD TV coming this spring, yours for just £35,000

2013-02-21T07:33:00.000-08:00

Samsung has revealed it will be launching its gigantic Ultra High Definition S9 television in the UK within the coming months, making it the first set of its kind to be widely available in Blighty.
The 85-inch, 4K display was launched at CES 2013 last month and is almost ready for distribution across the continent, according to Samsung, which has promised a spring release in Europe.
However, as one would expect, any ultra-early adopters are going to have to part with a serious wedge in order to reap the benefits of that extra screen resolution.
The TV will cost €40,000 in the Eurozone, which translates to around £35,000 in proper money, although an official UK price is yet to be confirmed.
Make some space for a 110-incher
Samsung also confirmed on Monday that a 110-inch version of the S9 is on its way later this year as it seeks to lead the way in the UHDTV space.
The company will be up against the likes of Sony, Philips and Toshiba, who all revealed 4K offerings at the Las Vegas tech extravaganza in January.
The uniquely-shaped television is set in an artist's easel-style frame and will come loaded with Samsung's new Smart Hub connected TV interface, which prioritises online viewing over traditional viewing.
As there's very little (read; none) Ultra High Definition content available to buyers at the moment, the Samsung S9 offers an upscaling engine that brings current HD content up to the new resolution.
The 'easel' frame also contains the S9's sound system, which offers an equivalent audio experience six-times greater than a typical TV, thanks to the three-way 2.2 channels of 120 watt sound.

Panasonic TX-P55VT50

2013-02-19T12:48:00.002-08:00

Pros

Sensational 2D and 3D pictures
Gorgeous design
Mostly good online system

Cons

Pictures not especially bright, especially with 3D
Panasonic's own ST50 series offers stiff competition
Touchpad remote is flawed

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Review Price £2,399.00

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Key Features: 55in plasma TV; Active 3D playback; Two 3D glasses included; Dual core processing; Smart TV online and multimedia features

Manufacturer: Panasonic

Panasonic TX-P55VT50 - Design and Specs

The arrival of any new flagship plasma TV from Panasonic is usually a reason to rejoice. But this year we’re feeling even more enthused than usual at the sight on our test benches of the brand’s new 55in flagship, the P55VT50.

For starters, it looks gorgeous. Over recent years Panasonic has veered between conservative and downright dull with its TV designs, yet its P55VT50 picks up beautifully from where its recently reviewed P50ST50 left off. Its bezel is remarkably slender – trimmer, indeed, than that of the Samsung PS51ES8000. Also, the black frame is offset delightfully by a glinting metallic trim around its extremities.

The Panasonic P55VT50 is rather less trim on its rear than many LCD TVs, but as we’ve said many times before, you look at a TV’s front, not its back. So a few cm of extra rear needn’t matter in the slightest if the picture quality coming out of the TV’s front justifies it.

The P55VT50’s connections are as comprehensive as you would expect of a modern flagship TV, including four v1.4 HDMIs, a D-Sub PC port, built-in Wi-Fi for online and DLNA streaming, plus three USBs for playing back multimedia files and recording from the built-in tuners.

Freeview and Freesat are go
These tuners unusually embrace both Freeview HD and Freesat HD, meaning you should be able to get HD broadcasts no matter where you live.

Having already reviewed the cheaper P50ST50, a good way to start looking into the Panasonic P55VT50’s specifications is by tracking down how it improves on the already strong spec of its cheaper sibling.

First up is the aforementioned design, which is even nicer than that of the also-glam P50ST50. Next, the P55VT50 employs dual-core processors while the P50ST50 did not. This creates a number of knock-on differences. For instance, it lets you multitask - as in, have open simultaneously multiple applications, with simple switching between each app.

It also boosts the power and speed of the TV’s video processing - resulting, most notably, in a world-first ‘2500Hz’ Focussed Field Drive claim. The P50ST50, by comparison, ‘only’ had 2000Hz, while LG and Samsung’s 2012 plasma screens top out at 600Hz.

The Panasonic P55VT50’s stronger processing engine allows it to produce a remarkable 24,576 steps of gradation too.

It also adds Panasonic’s highest-quality screen filter beyond the ST50’s spec, to deliver an apparently even richer black level performance. Next, the Panasonic P55VT50 boasts the endorsement of the THX quality assurance group - for both 2D and 3D - while the P50ST50 does not. And the P55VT50 delivers four HDMIs and three USBs rather than the three and two respectively carried by the ST50s.

Free 3D glasses
Finally, unlike the P50ST50, this TV ships with two pairs of 3D glasses and a second ‘touchpad’ remote control included for free.

It’s a relief to find the 3D glasses, though our enthusiasm for the touchpad remote is tempered by the distinctly hit and miss experience we had with the same device when reviewing the Panasonic L42WT50.

Indeed, it only took a few minutes of experimentation with this remote to convince us that we still don’t like it much. The circular shape and small size of the touchpad just don’t fit comfortably with the screens you’re using it to navigate, and tapping the pad to select an option feels unnatural and unresponsive.

As a result, if you have an Android or Apple portable device, we strongly recommend that you download the free Viera Control App for that not only provides a much more satisfying touch-screen control experience but also allows screen sharing with what the TV is showing.

AQUOS XL series HD - Moth-Eye Technology

2013-02-15T14:41:00.001-08:00

Sharp may look like it's in trouble, but that's not stopping it bringing new displays to the market, including the announcement of the AQUOS Quattron 3D XL TV line. The LED-backlit LCD panels are the first to feature Sharp's Moth-Eye technology, designed to reduce glare and pump out bright colours, as well as a deep black colour. The company's 'four primary colour' tech is to a certain degree responsible for the rich output, which places a yellow sub-pixel in with the standard R, G and B. All the panels run at 1,920 x 1,080, as you would expect, models a 10 million to 1 contrast ratio and use five speakers to deliver audio.

Vuzix’s Wrap 1200AR Glasses = 3D Augmented reality for $1,499

2013-02-15T14:33:00.001-08:00

First V uzix shifted to a more Google Glass-esque set of smart glasses at CES in January, but now it looks like it's not about to abandon the more traditional wrap-around headsets it's been producing on an annual basis. The company's latest product is the Wrap 1200AR, which is a lot like its cousin the: Wrap 1200VR headset, but with a focus on augmented reality instead of virtual reality. That means you'll get two (VGA) cameras situated on the front to capture stereoscopic video of your surroundings, along with a pair of displays (852 x 480 each) to view that video -- augmented or otherwise -- in 3D. As with the Wrap 1200VR, the glasses also come fitted with head-tracking technology, however, they don't come cheap. These will set you back a hefty $1,499, and are available to purchase now now.

Sony Bravia KDL40EX720 40-Inch 1080p 3D LED HDTV

2013-01-23T05:50:00.003-08:00

Sony Bravia KDL40EX720 40-Inch 1080p 3D LED HDTV

The Bravia KDL40EX720 was unveiled a little over a year ago and it has become one of the leaders in the high-definition and 3D markets. That's right, the KDL40EX720 is not only an HDTV that whose native resolution is a dead giveaway that this is a high-definition device - 1080p - but it is also an active 3D device whose 240 Hz resolution means that you get some of the finest 3D on the market.

Not only that, though, the standard 1920 by 1080 resolution means your 2D video will be excellent, as well with brilliant colors and a wide range of contrast that makes whites seem whiter and blacks seem blacker.

However, when you pair the KDL40EX720 with a pair of active shutter glasses, you are stepping into a whole new world of video. For starters, note the delivery speed of the video, 240 Hz, or four times the speed of standard LCD displays. The way it works is this: Each image is delivered twice to each lens of your shuttered glasses. At the right moment, the active glasses actually turn off all video to one eye, while delivering enhanced video to the other eye. It is done so quickly that you don't notice it, although in 120 Hz systems it might be possible.

At this moment, though, the eyeglass lens that had been shuttered dark is turned back on and your other eye is delivered an enhanced video so that you have what is termed a "total immersion 3D experience." To put it another way, supposed you were watching a movie such as the "Lord of the Rings: Return of the King." If you have seen the film, you probably remember some of the more startling scenes where giants swing their axes narrowly missing the heroes as hordes of ghostly soldiers engulf the capital in the climactic battle. With the Bravia, you would actually see the hordes of soldiers rush past you at the enemy as they ran from the field. And, in the climactic scene, you would see a deliriously happy Golum holding his prized "precious," not realizing he is falling to his doom with the ring. The 3D is so real you feel you are there.

That perhaps is why the 40-inch LCD KDL40EX720 is such a hit with video aficionados. Not only that, though, you also have a number of inputs and outputs that allow you to use the KDL40EX720 as a video device for any Bravia-compatible electronic gear. For example, if you have a Bravia-compatible Blu-ray player and want to play a 3D movie and its stereo audio tracks on it, all you do is slip in the HDMI connector and the KDL40EX720 delivers crisp, clean video.

That perhaps more than any other items is the key to the Bravia KDL40EX720. When you are in 3D mode, the video figures are sharp and the whites seem to be a bit brighter (as in 2D mode) while the blacks are multi-shaded.

The Bravia KDL40EX720 is made for streaming media and is not only network-centric as it can act as a WiFi node for other devices, or, it can simply act as part of your home WiFi network. You can also pickup video from more standard interfaces such as the built-in Ethernet interface of the USB 2.0. Indeed, the Bravia actually has one HDMI output for so that you can actually chain devices, but it also has three HDMI inputs as well as composite a component video output

The Bravia is not only WiFi-ready, it is also internet ready and with the proper add-ons from Sony, you can set up the Bravia KDL40EX720 to handle Skype photo conversations with others as a picture-in-picture device.

As you can see, this is quite a device and we could go on for pages describing all its features. The best thing for one to do to find out exactly what the Bravia can do is obtain one and put it to whatever tests one wants, we're sure it will pass.

Difference between Active 3D and Passive 3D

2013-01-21T23:53:00.003-08:00

Passive 3D

Passive 3D glasses

The alternative is passive 3D, as seen on TVs such as the LG 47LM670 and Panasonic Viera TX-L32ET5B. These TVs have a polarising film over the screen, which separates the image into left and right types. The glasses, which are also polarised (like the lightweight type you use in the cinema), filter out the unwanted image and let only the correct image through.

As you'll see only half of the image in each eye, 3D content won't be shown in full HD 1080p resolution.

Pros: Cheap, lightweight glasses
Cons: Lower resolution images

Active 3D

Active 3D glasses

Active 3D is used on models such as the Sony Bravia KDL-32EX723,Samsung UE55ES8000 and Panasonic Viera TX-P42XT50B. The active 3D glasses that you wear synchronise with the TV via a wireless signal and rapidly blink on and off like a camera shutter, playing back full 1080p images to the right eye and the left eye at a rate of 50 frames per second. This means that picture quality is often better than that of passive 3D.

The glasses need a power source to switch on and off (either a small battery or via a USB charge) and, as a result, are expensive. Some 3D TVs come supplied with a pair (or two) of active 3D glasses, but extra pairs cost from around £40. The glasses will work with that specific brand of TV only.

Pros: Full 1080p image for each eye
Cons: Expensive, clunky glasses