Home Theater

Sony, Discovery and IMAX to Film World’s First Native 3D War Documentary Series

by Sohrab Osati | Apr 19, 2011 | 5 comments

Sony has made it very apparent that they are here to stick with 3D and that they are in it for the long haul. During CES 2011, the electronic giant unveiled a massive new lineup of high definition televisions, with 16 out of the 27 new Bravia models for 2011 being 3D and costing just over a $1,000. That’s not all though, as the company which owns Sony Pictures and PlayStation understands that without content, any format is doomed. In edition to their new 3D lineup of televisions, Sony also announced many new Cybershot camera’s that are able to capture 3D still images for a little over $200 and will introduce in May a Bloggie 3D for $250 which is able to film in 3D.

Still, the company knows that home made 3D content which is very important to the adoption of the standard is only part of the puzzle. That’s why besides releasing 3D movies in theaters such as the Green Hornet, Sony, in partnership with IMAX and Discovery has launched their own 3D channel called 3net for DirecTV subscribers which offers 3D content around the clock. With this partnership in full swing, the trio now want to film the worlds first native 3D war documentary series and have already begun principal photography. The documentary which is titled The Civil War 3D will transport viewers back in time, retelling the war’s most pivotal moments both on and off the battlefields from the unique perspective of both sides in the historic conflict. Sony hopes to release the mini series in Fall of 2011.

“Shooting in native 3D gives us the unique ability to bring an entirely new level of depth and emotion to this epic time in history with groundbreaking storytelling that simply hasn’t been possible until now,” said Cosgrove. “As well, THE CIVIL WAR 3Dseries further reflects our ongoing mission to provide the kind of immersive in-home 3D experience available nowhere else on television.”

[via PR Newswire]

Sony’s 2011 3D Bravia Prices Reveled (NX720, HX820 and HX929)

by Sohrab Osati | Mar 28, 2011 | 16 comments

During the month of May, Sony is planning on unleashing the majority of Bravia televisions that we got to see during CES 2011 and now, we finally have prices to accompany these sets. The pricing structure is as follows, starting with the KDL-NX720:

46″ KDL-46NX720 $2,099
55″ KDL-55NX720 $2,899
60″ KDL-60NX720 $3,499

The series then continues with the KDL-HX820:

46″ KDL-46HX820 $2,599
55″ KDL-55HX820 $3,399

Lastly is Sony’s flagship lineup, the XBR-HX929:

46″ XBR-46HX929 $2,999
55″ XBR-55HX929 $3,799

The only unknown at this point is the 65″ XBR-65HX929 which is set to ship in August 2011 and frankly, this is the one I’m most interested in. Currently I own a 60″ Sony SXRD and the idea of downsizing to a smaller TV is frankly not in the cards while a bigger TV is something I’m willing to save for. If you are looking for a little more detail on Sony’s 27 new 2011 Bravias, checkout our previous coverage where we go over all the different series and features. What do you think about these new prices and which series would you consider to purchase?

[Via 3D-Display-info]

Veronica Belmont Tells You Why to choose a Blu-ray Player Instead of a DVD Player

by Sohrab Osati | Mar 26, 2011 | 18 comments

With the United States starting to peak its head out of recession and towards recovery, Sony believes that this is a great time to remind consumers about Blu-ray and why the format is superior over DVD. Although Blu-ray has done well as a format, capturing on a weekly bases, 20-30% of packaged media sales, the format was released and hit with the global recession. As consumers started to tighten their wallets, the first things to take a hit were more premium offerings like Blu-ray. Now, with the help of Veronica Belmont, Sony is once again reminding consumers what Blu-ray has to offer and it’s not just better video and sound. Having started purchasing Blu-ray movies before I had a Blu-ray player in anticipation of picking up a PS3 a few months later at launch time, a few years later and I’m currently 300+ strong in my Blu-ray collection with my eyes shifting towards a 3D collection. How about you? Are aboard the Blu-ray wagon? If not, what’s holding you back?

Hit the jump for Veronica’s video.

Sony to Release New X-Reality PRO Engine Bravia 3D HDTVs in Japan

by Sohrab Osati | Mar 18, 2011 | 14 comments

Sony is set to release six new 1080p 3D Bravia models for Japan, which all feature Sony’s new X-Reality PRO engine. The three series include the HX920, HX820 and the HX720 and all will come in both a 46-inch and a 55-inch size format. Starting with the flagship model HX920, this 3D Bravia will include:

Motion Flow XR960 Panel
LED Backlight
WIFi
Monolithic Design
Web Apps (Facebook Connect, VOD, YouTube, Skype)

The series is then followed by the HX820:

Motion Flow XR480 Panel
LED Backlight
WiFi
Monolithic Design
Web Apps (Facebook Connect, VOD, YouTube, Skype)

The series will then finish off with the HX720:

Motion Flow XR480 Panel
LED Backlight
Web Apps (Facebook Connect, VOD, YouTube, Skype)

If some of these specs seem familiar, that’s because we actually got to see all of these new 3D models during CES 2011. For US fans, don’t feel left out as these new series will be making it state side during the Spring.

Sony Would Like Developers to Consider PlayStation Move and 3D Support

by Sohrab Osati | Mar 17, 2011 | 0 comments

Sony has been on the forefront of cutting edge with the PlayStation 3, creating a device that, unlike previous PlayStation units and other consoles on the market, can be expanded upon and offer new features that even those who bought the PlayStation during its launch can enjoy. Over the last 9 months, the PlayStation 3 has been updated via software to allow for 3D games and movies. Shortly after that, Sony also released the PlayStation Move, which continues to be the most advanced and precise motion sensor gaming attachment on the market. In order to show consumers and other developers the capability of these new technologies, Sony has taken it upon itself to offer these advacements in some of the hottest games of 2010 and 2011. Titles such as Gran Turismo 5, LittleBigPlanet 2, Killzone 3, MotorStorm Apocalypse and the upcoming Uncharted 3, Socom 4 and Infamous 2, will all support native 3D. Current titles on the market such as LittleBigPlanet 2, Killzone 3 and again the upcoming Socom 4 and soon to be released Move Heroes game, featuring some of PlayStation most well known characters, like Jak & Dexter, Ratchet and Clank, and Sly, will support PlayStation Move on top of native 3D.

Now, Sony wants developers outside of the Sony family to leverage these PlayStation 3 features and incorporate them into their games to offer a more unique and rich environment for the players.

“Whenever we come out with new technology, whether it’s Move or 3D, there is always the request that goes out to the [development] teams that says, ‘Hey it would be great if you could implement it.’ We know that adds to the layer of not only the marketing message we have access to but it also adds to the availability of different Sony channels that we can broadcast our message out to,”

Sony has gone on record and states that in no way or shape is it requiring developers to offer these. Instead, it wants them to look at games like Killzone 3 which has been said to be one of the best looking games ever created on the PlayStation 3 which also offers the most native and natural Move experience while still implementing 3D. The point here is that developers can add these features to their game without worrying about tapping out the PlayStation 3 or the need to sacrifice quality.

Hit the jump for a full list of PlayStation Move and 3D-supported games.

Vudu Streaming Comes to All 2011 Sony Blu-ray Players

by Sohrab Osati | Mar 16, 2011 | 2 comments

Following in the footsteps of the PlayStation 3, which received Vudu streaming early this year, Sony and Vudu are teaming up to bring this video streaming to all 2011 Sony Blu-ray players. Via a system update, not only will owners of the 8 Blu-ray players get access to 1080p footage in 5.1 Dolby Surround Sound, but they will also have access to Vudu’s growing library of 3D movies. Hit the jump for an official press release.

Sony Pictures Announces The Green Hornet on Blu-ray, 3D

by Sohrab Osati | Mar 8, 2011 | 7 comments

Sony Pictures Home Entertainment is set to release The Green Hornet on Blu-ray and Blu-ray 3D on May 3rd. As mentioned, the movie will come in two different packages. A single edition Blu-ray and 3 disc Blu-ray, Blu-ray 3D and DVD.

Special features include:

Filmmakers’ Commentary
Jay Chou Audition
Double Barrel
The Green Hornet Cutting Room (BD-exclusive)
“Awesoom”-Gag Reel
“Trust Me” -Director Michel Gondry (BD-exclusive)
Writing The Green Hornet
The Black Beauty: Rebirth of Cool
PS3 Theme (BD-exclusive)
The Stunt Family Armstrong (BD-exclusive)
Finding Kato (BD-exclusive)
The Art of Destruction (BD-exclusive)
movieIQ (BD-exclusive)

[Via Blu-ray.com]

Sony to Release 4 New AV Receivers in Spring, Native 3D Support, Start at $230

by Sohrab Osati | Mar 8, 2011 | 6 comments

Who said that Spring cleaning had to be limited to just your floors and blinds. Instead, take this Spring as a time to clean out your old AV equipment and upgrade to something with full 3D, iPhone and DLNA support with a reasonable starting price of $230. During CES 2011, Sony showed off an extensive lineup of televisions. Making great strides on prior year, all new 2011 Sony 3D Bravia’s will lose their 3D transmitter bar for a built in functionality. In order to help adoption of this standard, starting this year, Sony will also be expanding their 3D offering to 16 out of their 27 televisions, with a starting price of a little over $1,000, making it much more accessible then before. With those TVs set to launch in the near future, Sony is also taking the time to upgrade their AV Receivers with 4 new models, the STR-DN1020, STR-DH820, STR-DH720, and the STR-DH520. Hit the jump for full specs, as well pricing and official press release.

Sony Bravias to Display Two Different 3D Images on the Same Set

by Sohrab Osati | Feb 22, 2011 | 8 comments

As much fun as online multiplayer can be, nothing beats having a friend or two over to play some multiplayer games. For those of us who grew up on gaming , the PSone and PS2 era, as well as the N64 had games like Goldeneye and Twisted Metal, which were centered around a group of friends playing the hell out of a game. Some games would offer LAN support, but that required multiple TVs and consoles. Instead, most games offered split view on the same screen. Of course, no matter if you had a 27-inch TV or a 60-inch set, you couldn’t help but have a wandering eye at times, especially if you kept getting snipped in the head or tripped on one too many proximity mines.

With advances in television engines and 3D offerings, Sony is looking to change this in their future Bravia televisions. The guys over at Pocket-lint had the opportunity to get a demo by Mick Hocking, senior director for SCEE and director of World Wide Studio’s 3D Stereoscopic Team in London, where two players were able to play Killzone 3 on the same PS3 and on the same Bravia 3D TV, without actually seeing each others screen. With this new technology, each player is able to get the entire screen, dedicated to them as if they were on a separate television with no quality loss.

In order to achieve this, each player had to sit at a particular angle and look towards the screen while somebody sitting in the middle would see a blurred image of the two. The concept and idea behind such a technology is limitless as people have been fighting over the wandering eye and the end game results from it for years. And now, maybe you can finally watch your Lakers while the missus watches What Not to Wear. Though still in development, what makes this exciting is that Sony was able to show this with currently available devices like the PlayStation 3 and Killzone 3 which shipped today and not rely on specific demo materials. What do you think would be the best time to enable a dual video mode? Let us know.

[Via Pocket-lint]

Sony Releases 3D Projector VPL-VW90ES

by Sohrab Osati | Feb 13, 2011 | 4 comments

We’ve told you before about the upcoming Sony SXRD 3D Projector with the mind blowing 150,000:1 contrast ratio. With the projector out now, you can expect a $9,999 price tag on this unit. For the home theater enthusiasts, this will be your first real taste of 3D via a projector in the household. Remember, while the price might seem high to those who traditionally only purchase LCDs, this price is normal for those with higher-end systems and projectors. Sony is also doing another first and that is to include all of the custom install materials needed in which they are labeling as part of their “Elevated Standard” brand. Just as a reminder, here are some specs:

1080p
3D Ready (no 3D transmitter bar required)
Two 3D Glasses
240hz
150,000:1 contrast ratio
1,000 ANSI lumens brightness
22db0 fan noise (insanely low)

Sony also took this time to introduce the VPL-VWPRO1 SXRD which is part of their new 2D projector lineup. With a higher brightness than its 3D brother (1,300 ANSI lumens) the new VWPRO1 does carry a lower contract ratio of 85,000:1 and obviously lacks 3D. Look for an early October release with a $3,400 price tag.

Hit the jump as always for a full press release.

Sony’s 3net 24/7 3D Channel Launches on Feb. 13th on DirecTV

by Sohrab Osati | Feb 10, 2011 | 2 comments

Making good on its promise of delivering more content, Sony, in partnership with IMAX and Discovery, is launching their 3D channel called 3net. Scheduled to go live at 8 p.m. this Sunday night on channel 107, this will be the 3rd available 3D channel on DirectTV, next to n3D and ESPN 3D. The channel will currently be available on DirecTV but Sony has indicated that they wish to bring this 24/7 3D channel to as many providers as possible. Sony’s plans for 3net are to provide the “largest library of native 3D entertainment content in the world by the end of 2011“. The channel plans to kick things off with:

China Revealed (8:00 pm)
Into the Deep (9:00 pm)
Forgotten Planet (10:00 pm)

Sony plans to feed 3D TV owners with a new 3D show every night at 9 p.m. for the month of February. You can see the official press release from Sony after the jump.

Sony Pictures Announces Faster on Blu-ray

by Sohrab Osati | Feb 3, 2011 | 1 comment

Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has announced a March 1st Blu-ray release date for Faster, the action movie staring Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. You can pre-order the film from Amazon.

Special features include:

Alternate ending with director’s introduction
Deleted scenes with director’s introductions
Criminals and Cops: The Cast of Faster
Weapons and Wheels: The Guns, Cars and Stunts of Faster
Bank heist animatics
PS3 Theme
movieIQ+sync

Hit the jump for an HD movie trailer and plot synopsis.

Sony Makes $887 Million Net Profit in Q3, Sees Rise in Sales in Most Divisions

by Sohrab Osati | Feb 3, 2011 | 0 comments

Sony has just announced their Q3 Holiday results with ¥137.5 billion (approximately US $1.68b) operating income and a total of $887 million in net profit. Compared to 2009, this is actually down by nearly 6% though this is mostly due to a 5% stronger yen and not an actual reflection of the companies performance. Sony’s Consumer, Professional and Devices division dropped 47 percent to ¥26.8b ($327.3m) as margins have shrunk, thanks to the global recession, factored with already fierce competition between rivals like Samsung and LG. On the other hand, Sony’s Networked Products and Services (which includes the PlayStation brand) saw a dramatic 134% jump to ¥45.7b ($559.78), helping offset the decline of the consumer products.

The good news for Sony is that in midsts of all the woes mentioned above, the electronic giant was able to raise unit sales in almost all divisions compared to 2009. Bravia sales were up 2.5 million, totaling 7.9 million. Video cameras was able to sell only .1 million more, an expected decline with most portable devices now having some form of video capturing method built in while Compact Digital Cameras saw a 1 million unit sales increase. The now profitable PlayStation division saw the PS3 lose .2 million units compared to the 2009 Q3 but is ahead of 2009 sales. The PlayStation 3 saw a total of 13 million unit sales in 2009 while the company now sits at a healthy 15 million units sold and still has another quarter to go. The same cannot be said for the PlayStation Portable which saw sales slip .6 million units, down to 3.6 million units. Now in its 11th year, the PlayStation 2 still managed to sell 2.1 million units, on par with the year prior.

Software sales on the other hand were a completely different story with sales raising both on the PS3 and the PSP. PlayStation 3 software sales were up an amazing 10 million units, with 57.6 million pieces of software sold. The PSP, though down in hardware sales also saw an increase in software consumption with a 1.5 million unit increase to sit at 16.5 million units of software sold. The PS2 on the other hand took a big hit, seeing a 5.9 million unit drop, down to 5.3 million.

[Via Sony]

Sony TVs and Blu-ray Players Gain Opera Browser

by Sohrab Osati | Feb 1, 2011 | 38 comments

Brought up during the 2010 CES and come to fruition during CES 2011, Sony continues to stick to its promise of making sure that the majority of its fleet is connected to the web. From their 2011 lineup alone, Sony will be offering 22 of their 27 TVs with internet connectivity, allowing them to access services such as Sony Music Unlimited Streaming Service and Video on Demand: Qriocity, as well as Netflix, Pandora, HuluPlus, Amazon Video on Demand, YouTube, Slacker Internet Radio, Crackle, Blip.tv. If you still want more, Sony engineers will agree with you as they plan to add the Opera browser to those 22 Bravia sets and select Blu-ray players. Though details are still slim, the Opera browser will be based off the latest SDK backbone which includes standards like HTML5 but no native Flash support which probably means better performance, a thought process that Apple shares and agrees with.

[Via Opera]

Sony Cybershot HX9V Leaked, Offers 16X Optical Zoom!

by Sohrab Osati | Jan 28, 2011 | 1 comment

So here is a late friday leak for you. If you’ve been considering getting a compact camera but have always been turned off by their low optical zoom factor which usually sits around 5x with some higher end models giving you 10x, Sony’s upcoming Cybershot DSC-HX9V will have the cure for your blues. This tiny pocket sized camera is capable of offering 16 megapixel with 16X optical zoom which is quite different then digital zoom which takes away from your picture quality. This high level zoom, mixed with a Sony G Lens and Exmor R CMOS means that your pocket camera can not only deliver beautiful photos, but handle them in low light situations as well, making it great for vacations when you don’t care to take a DSRL with you. The camera is rumored to record in 1080p at 10fps but we have yet to verify that. Now hit the jump for additional details!