Every year, the consumer electronics market has its own buzzword. This year, it’s undoubtedly “3D TV” — and it’s pretty darn cool. But it’s also a bit confusing. Do you still need glasses? Yes. Will the new 3D TVs work with regular TV shows? Yes. Is there any 3D content? Yes and no. We’ll explain what all the fuss is about, let you know what features matter and give you a guide to what’s available today (or coming soon) in the 3D HDTV market.
Not Your Great Grandfather’s 3D
3D has actually been around in film since the 1800s, when it was better known as Stereoscopy. Over 100 years later, we’ve simplified the name to 2 characters (3D) and also improved the methods for delivering it. At the end of that rainbow of colored paper glasses, we have 2010: The year that high-quality full high definition 3D TV finally arrives in consumers’ homes.
Before you start firing off angry emails or forum posts, yes — we know 3D has been a reason to fire up the Jiffy Pop for quite some time now. Back in the late ’70s, we distinctly remember getting a pair of 3D glasses at Burger King for a UHF broadcast of Creature Double Feature in 3D. Flash forward to 2009, when Dreamworks helped SoBe Lifewater standout amongst Super Bowl commercials by adding a little 3D. Even NBC dished out a supersize promotion for a very special, very in-your-face episode of the spy dramedy Chuck. More recently, studios have been attaching a 3D component to Blu-ray releases. Just over the past few months, we’ve checked out Coraline, The Final Destination and even the Jonas Brothers.
So the technology is out there, although these afore-mentioned applications of 3D technology for home use are, for the most part, not all that great. These gimmicky pieces are displayed in Anaglyphic 3D, which uses two offset images on the screen at the same time, color-shifted to create a 3D effect. They also require the glasses that most people associate with 3D, sporting two different colored lenses. Normally one lens is red and one is cyan — a fancy shade of blue — though there are some variations.
Many TV broadcasts, DVD and Blu-ray releases have used this format, simply because there were no other options. And if you haven’t noticed, it’s not very effective. Colors tend to be inaccurate and images are generally fuzzy. Basically, the 3D effect is hit or miss and prolonged use can lead to headaches.
Must-See 3D
Headaches, you say? Sign us up! While that and two or more hours wearing 3D glasses might not sound too enticing, there is one important thing to know: The technology has gotten a lot better.
Manufacturers are in the process of creating a new wave of Full HD 1080p HDTV sets, which can also produce 3D images. Those models will use alternate frame sequencing technology with active shutter glasses to produce 3D effects from both movies and TV broadcasts. Panasonic is including one pair of glasses with their 3D TV models, and Samsung is offering a 3D starter kit with two pairs of active shutter glasses and a Blu-ray 3D movie to those who purchase Samsung Full HD 3DTV models along with a Blu-ray 3D player. Others will be selling their 3D-enabled components a la carte. These new examples of 3D TV at home quite simply blow away anaglyphic 3D and can provide a realistic and immersive 3D effect in full high definition detail without excessive eye strain.
Many 3DTV sets are available now and others will be coming out over the next few months. As much as we love the idea of a great big new 3D-enabled HDTV, there is little content available today to support new at-home 3D technology. Blu-ray 3D players are coming this month (March) and titles have been announced from Sony Pictures, Twentieth Century Fox, Disney and Dreamworks to be released this spring. 3D animation titles, such as Monsters vs. Aliens, Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs and Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs, will be among the first Blu-ray 3D titles released.
It may be easy to scoff, but these releases will look much different than what we’ve seen to date, except perhaps in theaters. In late 2009, the Blu-ray Disc Association announced a final specification for Blu-ray 3D. That spec allows every 3D-enabled Blu-ray player (including the PlayStation 3, with an upcoming firmware upgrade) to deliver full HD 1080p video images to each eye, regardless of your display type — as long as the display itself also supports 3D. However, just because everyone has agreed on one spec doesn’t mean all displays play nice together. In other words, Samsung glasses will work with Samsung displays, not your friend’s Panasonic plasma. [editor's note: See XPand's recent announcement on their plans for universal 3D glasses that work with all manufacturers' 3D TV displays].
Other content will be coming from ESPN as they launch the new ESPN3D channel and boadcast the World Cup of Soccer (or “football” depending on where you live). Discovery Channel, Sony and Imax are collaborating on a 3D HD channel to go live in the near future. And three new channels are scheduled to be launched this summer from DIRECTV, in partnership with Panasonic. It may take some time, but eventually there will be a rich offering of 3D content to display on your new 3D TV.
For now, however, these 3D-enabled models also happen to make excellent 2D TVs. The high frame rates and faster panel response rates of the new Full HD 3D LED TVs from Samsung as well as Panasonic’s new short stroke plasma phosphors in their Full HD plasma models make these TVs among the best on the market for watching traditional 2D content. Also, Samsung offers a real-time 2D-to-3D conversion feature for adding a 3D effect to traditional 2D shows and movies. It’s not as good (nor as dramatic) as watching real 3D content, but it will give you something to watch while you’re waiting.
Getting a headache yet? We shall soon see. Although we don’t expect everyone to run out an upgrade to a 3DTV, those willing to make the leap won’t have to froth much longer. Here is what TV manufacturers are planning to offer this year for 3D enthusiasts.
LG
In January, LG announced that its 55- and 47-inch class LE9500 sets would be the first 3D-ready units for the company. The name has been changed to the LX9500, but the features remain the same. Both sets sport THX Display certification and a THX Bright Room setting, which tweaks the picture perfectly for those with a lot of ambient light.
Boasting a super-slim cabinet depth (.92 inches!) and a narrow bezel width of 8.5mm, both models also include TruMotion 480Hz technology, wireless broadband-ready capabilities, two USB ports, and are even wireless HD-ready. Each also offers direct access to LG’s own NetCast platform, which offers content from Netflix, Skype, VUDU, YouTube, Napster, and Yahoo! Widgets.
- 47LX9500 47-inch 1080p 480Hz 3D Ready LED Edge-lit LCD HDTV (MSRP: $4300) – Buy it on Amazon
- 55LX9500 55-inch 1080p 480Hz 3D Ready LED Edge-lit LCD HDTV (MSRP: $5400) – Buy it on Amazon
Similar to the 9500s, the LX6500 Series includes 3D and NetCast features. However, the 6500 models have a 8,000,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio and a 240Hz refresh rate. Also, these models do not include THX certification or the Magic Wand remote.
- 47LX6500 47-inch 1080p 240Hz 3D LED Plus LCD HDTV (MSRP: $2699) – Buy it on Amazon
- 55LX6500 55-inch 1080p 240Hz 3D LED Plus LCD HDTV (MSRP: $3499) – Buy it on Amazon
The upcoming LEX8 and LEX9 models will also offer 3D capabilities, but details are still rather sketchy on these ones. Exact model numbers are pricing are not available currently but will be added when we get them.
- LEX8 (Price TBA, Coming in 2010)
- LEX9 (Price TBA, Coming in 2010)
Mitsubishi
According to Mitsubishi, the company has actually been cranking out 3DTVs since 2007. How they will bring these up to compatibility with the newly adopted Blu-ray 3D and broadcast 3D standards is not yet clear, but the company has stated that they are committed to easing the transition for existing customers. And they aren’t messing around with their latest models, either. Earlier this year, the company announced the massive 82-inch WD-82837. Boasting nearly four times the screen size of a 42-inch flat-panel, this is the largest mass-produced 3DTV to date.
The 1080p DLP unit also boasts plenty of features for that mammoth set. Just a few include Mitsubishi’s 6-color processor, Smooth 120Hz Film Motion technology, PerfectColor, and four HDMI inputs. It also features the ISF’s ccc Advanced Calibration Mode, as well as NetCommand, which combines both older and newer A/V products under one controller.
In case you aren’t ready to have 3D take over your life (or living room), the 837 series also comes in 65- and 73-inch sizes.
- WD-65837 65-inch DLP TV (MSRP: $2099) – Buy it on Amazon
- WD-73837 73-inch DLP TV (MSRP: $2799) – Buy it on Amazon
- WD-82837 82-inch DLP TV (MSRP: $4999) – Buy it on Amazon
In April 2010, Mitsubishi added seven new 3D TVs for 2010, which span across three new series. Aside from Brilliant/Bright/Natural and Game Modes, HDMI-PC compatibility, and MDEA’s exclusive 6-Color Processor, each unit blasts 16-speaker 5.1-channel Dolby Digital surround sound. All those are standard on the 638 series, which also includes three HDMI connections (with CEC).
- WD-60638 60-inch 3D DLP TV (MSRP: $999) – Buy it on Amazon
- WD-65638 65-inch 3D DLP TV (MSRP: $1299) – Buy it on Amazon
- WD-73638 73-inch 3D DLP TV (MSRP: $1799) – Buy it on Amazon
The 738 series has all the above, with StreamTV Internet Media and Immersive Sound Technology. StreamTV’s service includes content from VUDU, Pandora, Flickr, Picasa, Facebook, and more. Other 738 perks include a USB jack for 802.11 support, Smooth120 technology, video calibration features, and a universal remote.
- WD-60738 60-inch 3D DLP TV (MSRP: $1399) – Buy it on Amazon
- WD-65738 65-inch 3D DLP TV (MSRP: $1799) – Buy it on Amazon
- WD-73738 73-inch 3D DLP TV (MSRP: $2399) – Buy it on Amazon
- WD-82738 82-inch 3D DLP TV (MSRP: $3799) – Buy it on Amazon
The 838 Diamond series has all of the above, as well as Bluetooth A2DP audio streaming, a Center Channel mode, surround channel outputs, a subwoofer output, ISFccc video adjustments, NetCommand, and a wired IR input. These three units also add one extra HDMI jack.
- WD-65838 65-inch 3D DLP TV (MSRP: $2199) – Buy it on Amazon
- WD-73838 73-inch 3D DLP TV (MSRP: $2799) – Buy it on Amazon
- WD-82838 82-inch 3D DLP TV (MSRP: $4499) – Buy it on Amazon
Mitsubishi made its most recent 3D TV announcement in June, when they debuted the L75-A91. This 75-inch entry into the LaserVue line features 3D features, as well as the LaserVue/DLP light engine, and four HDMI-CEC inputs. Brand new features include a Cinema Color mode and StreamTV, which adds on-screen access to services such as VUDU, Flickr, Facebook, and others.
- L75-A91 75-Inch 1080p LaserVue 3D HDTV (MSRP: $5999) – Buy it on Amazon
Panasonic
Earlier this year at CES, Panasonic was showing off a 152-inch 3D plasma. It also made an appearance at the Olympics. Don’t start moving out the couch just yet, though. The company hasn’t said they will actually start selling these (tease!). However, they have launched plenty of 3D plasmas this year.
Just announced, the GT25 Series has a total of two models. Both feature a 1080p image, as well as THX display certification and 600Hz Sub-field Drive technology. Like many Panny sets, both of these have VIERA Image Viewer and VIERA Link. Neither unit has wireless features out of the box; you’ll need to plug an optional adapter into the set’s USB port. You’ll want that connection, though, since each unit packs in VIERA CAST. This delivers internet-based content (currently 2D) from Amazon Video on Demand, Bloomberg News, Fox Sports, Netflix, Pandora, and Skype, among others.
- TC-P42GT25 42-inch 1080p Plasma TV (MSRP: $1699.95, Coming in August 2010)
- TC-P50GT25 50-inch 1080p Plasma TV (MSRP: $2099.95, Coming in August 2010)
Announced earlier this year, the TC-P50VT20 and TC-P50VT25 each run 50 inches, with the TC-P54VT25 coming in at 54, and the TC-P58VT25 is the 58-incher. The flagship, however, is the TC-P65VT25 65-inch model. Each set comes with one pair of Panasonic active shutter 3D Eyewear to get your eyes popping right out of the box.
The company also boasts faster plasma phosphors, a 600Hz sub-field drive, and VIERA Link support (HDMI-CEC). Of course, these sets also feature VIERA CAST content.
- TC-P50VT20 50-inch 1080p Plasma TV (MSRP: $2499.95, Best Buy in-store exclusive)
- TC-P50VT25 50-inch 1080p Plasma TV (MSRP: $2599.95) – Buy it on Amazon
- TC-P54VT25 54-inch 1080p Plasma TV (MSRP: $2999.95) – Buy it on Amazon
- TC-P58VT25 58-inch 1080p Plasma TV (MSRP: $3399.95) – Buy it on Amazon
- TC-P65VT25 65-inch Plasma TV (MSRP: $4299.95) – Buy it on Amazon
Samsung
Samsung came into March came like a lion, announcing a huge assortment of 3DTV models and supporting gear in various shapes and display types. When the smoke cleared, we got info on three lines of Full HD LED TVs, six plasmas, and one LCD line — all of which are compatible with 3D content including Blu-ray 3D.
The one common element each of the sets has is Samsung’s Internet@TV service including Internet apps. This on-screen web-based service provides instant access to content from Netflix, Pandora, Twitter, VUDU, and other partners.
Ranging from 40 to 65 inches, the LED models all fall under the C7000, C8000 and C9000 Series. Each one features wireless connectivity via Allshare, a Real240Hz refresh rate and a built-in 3D processor, which can also render 2D content into 3D in real time. Distinguishing features include Precision Dimming technology for the C8000 (a variation of local dimming for edge-lit LED/LCD models), and Samsung’s Touch of Color frame for select models. Also, the C9000 Series will come packing a 3-inch color touchscreen remote, which includes a QWERTY keyboard, earphone jack and Twin View for watching TV or a Blu-ray DVD titles on the remote or TV at the same time. No more missing that key play when you take a much needed bathroom break during the big game! The other models can have the remote for another $350, but without the Twin View features.
For plasma fans, six of the eight models in the C8000 and C7000 Plasma Series will sport 3D features. The 7000 series models feature Clear Image Panel technology, and a built-in 3D processor that can convert 2D content to 3D in real time. In addition to these features, the 8000 series boasts Real Black Filter and Motion Judder Canceller, as well as CinemaSmooth technology for enhanced film playback and the Touch of Color bezel design. Last, but not least, the 750 Series will be Samsung’s only 3D LCD offering — at least for now. Sporting Real 240Hz technology, this 46-inch unit will also convert 2D to 3D in real time (just like its LED and plasma brethren).
If you’re looking for something a bit more affordable, you’d probably never consider a 3D plasma. However, Samsung is changing that with the PN50C490. The unit ditches the IPTV features, but does offer 3D and a 1366×768 resolution package that can be had for under $1000.
In case 3D isn’t enough to sweeten the deal, Samsung is offering a welcome package with HDTV purchases for a limited time. Buy a Samsung 3D HDTV along with their Blu-ray 3D player, the BD-C6900, and you’ll the a free 3D Starter Kit, which includes a Blu-ray 3D version of Monsters vs. Aliens and two pairs of Samsung 3D Active Glasses:
- Free Starter Kit and Free Blu-ray 3D player with purchase of select Samsung 3D TVs on Amazon
Samsung 3D LCD TV:
- LN46C750 46-inch 1080p 240Hz LCD TV (MSRP: $1699.99) – Buy it on Amazon
Samsung 3D LED TVs:
- UN40C7000 40-inch 1080p 240Hz LED TV (MSRP: $1999.99) – Buy it on Amazon
- UN46C7000 46-inch 1080p 240Hz LED TV (MSRP: $2599.99) – Buy it on Amazon
- UN55C7000 55-inch 1080p 240Hz LED TV (MSRP: $3299.99) – Buy it on Amazon
- UN46C8000 46-inch 1080p 240Hz LED TV (MSRP: $2799.99) – Buy it on Amazon
- UN55C8000 55-inch 1080p 240Hz LED TV (MSRP: $3499.99) – Buy it on Amazon
- UN65C8000 65-inch 1080p 240Hz LED TV (MSRP: $5999.99) – Buy in on Amazon
- UN46C9000 46-inch 1080p 240Hz LED TV (MSRP: $5999.99) – Buy it on Amazon
- UN55C9000 55-inch LED TV (MSRP: $6999.99, Coming Soon)
Samsung 3D Plasma TVs:
- PN50C490 50-inch 720p Plasma TV (MSRP: $1099.99) – Buy it on Amazon
- PN50C7000 50-inch 1080p Plasma TV (MSRP: $1799.99) – Buy it on Amazon
- PN50C8000 50-inch 1080p Plasma TV (MSRP: $2099.99) – Buy it on Amazon
- PN58C7000 58-inch 1080p Plasma TV (MSRP: $2699.99) – Buy it on Amazon
- PN58C8000 58-inch 1080p Plasma TV (MSRP: $2999.99) – Buy it on Amazon
- PN63C7000 63-inch 1080p Plasma TV (MSRP: $3499.99) – Buy it on Amazon
- PN63C8000 63-inch 1080p Plasma TV (MSRP: $3799.99) – Buy it on Amazon
Sony
Boasting a Monolithic Design Concept and LED backlighting, Sony is putting its 3D HDTVs under the BRAVIA line. The company says that the line consists of a whopping 38 models, so we’re not listing all of them here. However, these models basically fall under three series, with sizes ranging from 22 to 60 inches.
The LX900 series offers 3D out of the box, via Sony’s own active shutter glasses and a built-in 3D transmitter. The LX900′s four models feature a 1080p image, built-in- Wi-Fi, Motionflow PRO 240Hz technology, and Sony’s new OptiContrast panel, which cuts down on distracting light in and around the room. Another super-cool feature is Intelligent Presence Sensor, which actually detects if your bathroom break has gone on a little too long, automatically dimming the backlight. If you don’t come back, it will shut down after a short period.
The HX909, HX900 and HX800 series are all 3D-capable, but you’ll need to buy the glasses and transmitter separately. All three series do 1080p,with Motionflow PRO 240Hz technology, LED backlighting and a USB Wireless-LAN adapter (sold separately).
Other features for all include DLNA support, BRAVIA Internet Widgets and BRAVIA Internet video content.
Sony LX900 3D Series:
- XBR-40LX900 40-inch BRAVIA (Price TBA, Coming in Summer 2010) – Pre-order from J&R
- XBR-46LX900 46-inch BRAVIA (Price TBA, Coming in Summer 2010) – Pre-order from J&R
- XBR-46LX900 46-inch BRAVIA (Price TBA, Coming in Summer 2010)
- XBR-52LX900 52-inch BRAVIA (MSRP: $3599.99) – Buy it on Amazon
- XBR-60LX900 60-inch BRAVIA (MSRP: $4499.99) – Buy it on Amazon
Sony HX800 3D Series:
- KDL-40HX800 40-inch BRAVIA (MSRP: $1699.99) – Buy it on Amazon
- KDL-46HX800 46-inch BRAVIA (MSRP: $2199.99) – Buy it on Amazon
- KDL-55HX800 55-inch BRAVIA (MSRP: $2699.99) – Buy it on Amazon
Sony HX900 3D Series:
- XBR-46HX900 46-inch BRAVIA (Price TBA, Coming in Summer 2010) – Pre-order from J&R
- XBR-52HX900 52-inch BRAVIA (Price TBA, Coming in Summer 2010) – Pre-order from J&R
Sony HX909 3D Series:
- XBR-46HX909 46-inch 3D-Ready 1080p 240Hz BRAVIA LED LCD HDTV (MSRP: $3499.99) – Buy it from SonyStyle
- XBR-52HX909 52-inch 3D-Ready 1080p 240Hz BRAVIA LED LCD HDTV (MSRP: $3999.99) – Buy it on Amazon
Toshiba
Earlier this year, Toshiba announced its ZX900 CELL TV will come in 55- and 65-inch sizes. The heart of the unit is the CELL Broadband Engine, which promises the same type of processing that’s used in PCs and gaming consoles. Using a Frame Sequential System, the system delivers 240Hz in 2D mode and 120Hz for the right eye and 120Hz for the left eye in 3D mode. It also boasts TriVector 2D to 3D Conversion, which promises to pump any 2D content up to 3D, all in real time.
Other features include a 1080p image, KIRA2 dimming technology, and Net Resolution+, which helps compress some of that Internet noise. Also, KIRA2 technology features dimming possibilities for 512 controllable zones. Also, a 1TB hard drive and built-in Wi-Fi support is a nice perk if you are playing around with Toshiba’s partners, which include Netflix, VUDU, CinemaNow, Pandora, and more.
- ZX900 CELL TV (Price TBA, Coming in late 2010)
VIZIO
VIZIO is no longer the bargain brand. OK — they still offer some great sets at great prices, which makes us anxious to see what the XVT Pro Series will sell for. This is the company’s entry into 3D, and it will come in 47-, 55-, and 72-inch sizes.
All three models include SENSIO 3D and 480Hz SPS Smooth Motion technologies, built-in Wi-Fi, SRS StudioSound HD audio, and Smart Dimming circuitry to control hundreds of zones of LEDs. Also, each set will provide additional content through VIZIO Internet Apps (VIA), as well as a Bluetooth remote with sliding QWERTY keyboard. Another nifty feature is Wireless HDMI, which uses an adapter and receiver to eliminate the need for HDMI cables for up to four sources.
- XVTPRO470SV 47-inch LED TV (Price TBA, Coming in August 2010)
- XVTPRO550SV 55-inch LED TV (Price TBA, Coming in August 2010)
- XVTPRO720SV 72-inch LED TV (Price TBA, Coming in August 2010)
In June, VIZIO announced three new 3D TVs: the 55-inch XVT3D554SV, the 47-inch XVT3D474SV, and the 42-inch XVT3D424SV. All three include full HD 3D. The big difference is that the 42-incher features Razor LED backlighting with Smart Dimming, while the other two are part of the TruLED with Smart Dimming series. The trio also features 480Hz SPS high frame rate with Smooth Motion technology, with the 47- and 55-inch models throwing in integrated 802.11n WiFi, as well as an integrated WirelessHD receiver.
- XVT3D424SV 42-inch 3D 480Hz RazorLED TV (Price TBA, Coming in Q4 2010)
- XVT3D474SV 47-inch 3D 480Hz TruLED TV (Price TBA, Coming in Q4 2010)
- XVT3D554SV 55-inch 3D 480Hz TruLED TV (Price TBA, Coming in Q4 2010)
