November 4, 2008
Format Replacement



By Gary Reber

I have been thinking about the evolution of entertainment formats from the standpoint of the performance-appreciative enthusiast.

The CD replaced the photograph LP.  The audiocassette never quite equaled LP performance and has virtually disappeared. The DAT format, while equal if not superior to CD, never enjoyed wide adoption. LaserDisc was the original optical disc performance format, succeeded by DVD. LaserDisc has disappeared completely, as well as DAT. LPs are now a viable niche, collectors’ format. CD is still strong but is in the process of becoming relegated to a niche, collector’s format due to high-resolution (and low-resolution MP3) downloads. DVD-Audio has disappeared, while SA-CD remains a niche stereo and multichannel format supported by small, independent labels. HD DVD is now non-existent, with Blu-ray Disc™ the successor of the DVD. Blu-ray Disc offers the performance-appreciative enthusiast the greatest promise for optimum-performance master video and discrete lossless multichannel audio. Broadband delivery of 1080p video and lossy multichannel digital audio can’t yet equal Blu-ray’s performance, but it may come in the future. As a format, Blu-ray has the capability to always deliver superior performance and engaging enhancements!

Blu-ray has much to offer performance-appreciative enthusiasts, such as master quality 1080p video, discrete 7.1-channel lossless digital audio, and exceptional 3-D and motion code delivery. When properly installed and set up, there is no other in-home delivery format that can equal Blu-ray’s performance.  
 
Gary Reber
Editor-In-Chief & Publisher
Widescreen Review



Tags: - editor's couch - - Blu-ray - - 7.1-channel - - 1080p - - 3D - - SA-CD - - DVD-Audio -