There Can Be Only One

I've put together a list of reasons why HD-DVD should be the chosen format for anyone interested in high-definition movies. I'm a big supporter of the format and I think it's the most logical choice. I believe that in order for both formats to survive, HD-DVD should be used for movies while Blu-Ray could be used for storage. As it goes right now, this unnecessary format war is hurting everyone involved.

1. HD-DVD players are much less expensive than Blu-Ray players. Sony's first stand-alone Blu-Ray player costs $999. Stand-alone HD-DVD players debuted at around $499 and a very good quality HD-DVD drive accessory is available for the Xbox 360 for $199.
2. HD-DVD movies have been out-selling Blu-Ray at a ratio of 11 to 1.
3. Most releases on the HD-DVD format have consistently demonstrated better picture quality than Blu-Ray due to its useage of the superior VC1 encoding technology.
4. HD-DVD discs can be manufactured in the same factories that make standard DVD movies. Blu-Ray discs require all new technology that is both costly and less efficient.
5. There are approximately seven times more HD-DVD players than Blu-Ray players in homes around the country.
6. HP, who originally sided with Blu-Ray at the outset, has now jumped sides and will soon be offering a $100 HD-DVD drive upgrade for their media center PCs. By comparison, Sony's Blu-Ray VIAO solution weighs in at $749.
7. When you look at Sony's history with introducing new formats to the masses, they've basically failed with almost every attempt. From Betamax to Mini Discs to UMDs, their track record is less than stellar.
8. Many people are viewing the PS3 as sort of a "trojan horse" in that Sony is using it to force Blu-Ray players on consumers whether they want it or not. Sony will tell you that the PS3 is a gaming system but what they are more concerned with is that it's a Blu-Ray player. When asked, the majority of consumers say they would have preferred that the drive be offered as an optional accessory like the HD-DVD is for the Xbox 360.
   

Experts say that unless one format is chosen, they both will very likely fail. I hope to see HD-DVD embraced as the new standard for high definition movies by studios and consumers alike.

(sources: Digital Trends, HD Now)