Take a look at the photo below. Notice anything? It’s a little blurry, but what you’re looking at is an end-cap at a Wal-Mart store which has 18 Toshiba A2 HD DVD players selling for $198! Yes, that’s the same player which was selling for $399 back in April, and currently retailing for $299.
This photo originally came from the AVS Forum where the person who took the picture says that these players are scheduled to start selling all over the nation on November 3rd. Some Wal-Marts are already selling them as people have confirmed, and it’s reported that each store will get 18 units to start with.
So what does this mean for HD DVD? I’ve read some comments saying that this is “rock bottom” and that everybody should get one while it lasts. Others are happy that a name-brand player is so affordable. Will this ultimately help HD DVD in their battle with Sony’s BluRay? If the recent release of Transformers on HD DVD is any indication, the answer is no. Despite the fact that sales of Transformers on HD DVD have been outstanding, BluRay is still selling more discs.
Sources: Engadget and BetaNews
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Booo HD-DVD
Go Blu-ray!
I think this is just a short-term surge that HD-DVD is enjoying. When Paramount’s exclusive deal ends with the HD-DVD camp and Transformers goes on sale on Blu-ray (which I’m really really hoping for) then Blu-ray will start to really dominate.
At this price, I may have to buy me a HD-DVD player. The only thing helping Blu-ray is Disney, if they ever go neutral then that may be the end of the war with Blu-ray losing…..
I just don’t see the need right now for Blu-Ray or HD DVD player. I guess that is because I don’t have an HD-TV and don’t intend on getting one anytime soon.
I have an HD TV however I do not see the need to get either Blu-Ray or HD DVD right now. I have a DVD player that upconverts and it does a good enough job that I can wait and see what format wins the “format wars”
I think it’s doubtful that one format will actually beat out the other. I think what’s going to happen is we are going to start seeing players that support both formats. Although VHS did beat out Betamax some time ago, so it is possible that one will topple out on top.
I’m surprised to hear you say that Max — you being Transformers #1 fan and all!
I’m pretty sure the price is going to make it very tempting for a lot of people!
I wouldn’t buy it from Walmart if they had it for $50.
HD DVD! True HD Format 1080i! More affodable! More Movies!
It doesn’t really matter to me where I buy it, all I care about is the brand/company who makes it.
I’m not really partial one way or another yet. Blu Ray has a pretty good selection though.