VIZIO XVTPRO580CD
Dear Gary:
In your January/February 2010 Issue #146, under New Equipment, "VIZIO unveiled an ultra-widescreen HDTV with a 21.9 (2.33:1) aspect ratio, which is close to the traditional 2.23:1 theatrical projection format." Further on, the announcement states no pricing or release date other than later this year.
Since then, I've seen nothing more. A recent email to VIZIO came back with the reply there are no current plans to release this model. However, it was written in a way that made me think the representative had never heard of this set, let alone a release date.
I'm holding off updating my current set on hopes VIZIO will bring this to market. Have you heard anything that would give me hope?
Carl King
Editor-In-Chief and Publisher Gary Reber Comments:
VIZIO stated at the 2011 International Consumer Electronics Show that they would introduce later in 2011 two new Cinema HDTV LED-lit models that support 21:9 Cinema aspect ratio with Theater 3D and VIZIO Internet Apps. The sets are claimed to render flicker-free and brighter images than conventional 3D technologies currently in the market. By utilizing a circular polarized filter, the burden of 3D processing is built into the HDTV, allowing Theater 3D eyewear to be free of the batteries and shutter mechanisms inherent in Active Shutter 3D TVs. Each Theater 3D model supports a wide selection of 3D formats to ensure compatibility across Blu-ray, broadcast, cable, satellite, and gaming. This includes Frame Packing, Side-by-Side, Top and Bottom, plus SENSIO® HiFi 3D and the RealD Format. VIZIO Internet Apps (VIA) offers content through the Internet in Cinema mode from top brands including: Amazon Video On Demand, Facebook®, Flickr®, Netflix, Rhapsody®, Pandora®, Twitter, VUDU®, and Yahoo!® TV Widgets, as well as several new apps recently released, including: Fandango®, iMemories®, MediaBox, My-Cast®, TuneIn Radio, Web Videos, Wiki TV and Yahoo Fantasy Football. This feature allows users to simultaneously browse Apps while watching 16:9 Full HD content without compromise in resolution or a change in size.
Cinema HDTV models will be available in 50- and 58- inch class sizes. VIZIO also demonstrated a 71-inch class model at their private CES showcase at the Wynn Hotel. No further information is available, such as pricing or release date, though the sets are expected to ship this year.
You can E-mail Widescreen Review @ editorgary@widescreenreview.com