Now this question is strictly from a video stand point; therefore I am asking for the videoholics on this one.
I have been using a HTPC (home theater personal computer) to run my DVD's for the past year with stunning quality. The up conversion is easily manipulated with ffdshow and the quality is better than--yes better than--the high definition signal from TNT-HD or HBO HD. The largest benefit that I had gained over these cable HD channels was the ability to manipulate the aspect ratios and no artifact when the picture gets "too busy."
Considering I am using Panasonic PT AE900U (720p), I am wondering I or anyone else in my situation would gain benefit to purchasing a HD-DVD player.
I am having issues with the fact that it is limited to 1080i, despite the fact that they had the ability to use 1080p. They figure only a handful of people own a screen capable of 1080p at this time. Therefore when the number of household with a 1080p screen increase, they will have to "upgrade." It's a money thing! You should also know that they have the ability to block everything over 540p limiting the full capacity to the digital connection (i.e. the later DVI's and HDMI's). That means if you use component...you will not get the full capacity. (Not sure if this is going to be a big deal yet)
If I were to "upgrade" I would lose the extensive aspect control that I have currently with Zoom player and ffdshow. Not to mention the cost of the discs...and blu-ray is going to be more expensive.
That said, I should say the sound digital DTS and Dolby Digital. The new player will be moving to the upgraded digital sound.
What does everyone think?
If you don't have an HTPC, you have been missing out. HTPCnews.com
To all that have made the purchase and had an HTPC running their DVD's let us know if it is a big upgrade.
