Video Asylum

Posted by Audiophilander (A) on June 18, 2007 at 15:01:00

In Reply to: RE: Blockbuster picks Blu-Ray as HD video rental source. posted by oscar on June 18, 2007 at 12:36:08

... for both formats.

I have a totally different take on this, and I don't see any reason for nervousness among early adopters of either format. First of all, Blockbuster no longer drives the software rental market like they once did in the hey-day of over the counter rental (first on VHS; then DVD). A lot of the current market share has been taken up by Net-flix (mail order) and PPV (especially for HD delivery of recently released movies), not that Blockbuster has opted out of these newer delivery systems.

As the two formats compete it's becoming apparent that both are going to make *some* progress due to lowering prices and the onset of dual format players. Blockbuster is relying on the fact that Blu-ray is the format favored by most sudios because it offers more vigorous copy protections and dedicated region coding as part of it's codec, but I suspect the primary reason for Blockbuster's enthusiastic support of Blu-ray is the Durabis coating which provides greater scratch resistance.

OTOH, long term it wouldn't surprise me if Blockbuster hedges their bets because it's far from clear that SONY can meet quality expectations and lowered costs while supplying sufficient product.

FTR, I don't care which format prevails because I plan on buying a dual format player and buying my favorite movies whether they're issued on Blu-ray or HD. My own personal preference is for the best of both worlds: 1080P capable software medium which is 1) inexpensive, 2) NOT region restricted, and 3) durable [scratch-resistant]. Other than that both camps can roll around in the mud as long as they like. :o)

AuPh