When CDs became available, I switched to digital from analog, when HDTV became available I started with HD-DVD and then moved to Blu-Ray. When 1080p HDTVs came out I moved to 1080p from 780p/1080i. I am definitely not a Luddite and usually consider myself an early adopter. . . BUT
My next HDTV will probably be a local dimming LED/LCD tv but it will NOT be
3D. My new A/V receiver has 1.3a HDMI and NOT 1.4. I tried viewing several 3D setups in the stores but simply do not believe anything is gained dramatically and some things are actually lost visually/ergonomically. Progress is good, but progress is not ineluctable. RIP - 3D!
Great post; I do have a few comments to add.
First, almost all LED/LCD HDTVs and high-end plasma's are 3D capable TV so you can't find a high-end HDTV without getting a 3D HDTV.
Early adopter's do pay a premium and future product generations typically yield product improvements. But early adopters enjoy the advanced technology as soon as they become available. So a/v enthusiasts understand what they are getting into and accept the consequences in exchange for the pleasure of enjoying the technology advancements as soon as these advanced products become available.
I was not in favor of 3D when I heard it was being integrated into high-end flat panels and soon on front projectors. However, now that I've experienced some quality 3D cinematography I strongly endorse it for occasional use with content that can benefit by this very nicely advanced Stereoscopic technology.
At our HDTV flat panel shoot-out we're demonstrating some 3D content and the audience will have Universal 3D glasses so they can easily scan the shoot-out wall without having to change glasses to evaluate the 3D performance of each panel.
3D is not designed for all content, but when properly implemented it adds depth and perception in a natural way that truly adds to the viewers experience.
-Robert