Why Go HD When You Can Go 3D?

[Hooch Tan]

<div class='os_post_top_link'><a href='http://www.maximumpc.com/article/reviews/acer_h5360_3d_video_projector' target='_blank'>http://www.maximumpc.com/article/re...video_projector</a><br /><br /></div><p><em>"The projector itself has two weaknesses: Most significantly, its native resolution is 1280x720, versus 1920x1080. That matters most when you&rsquo;re watching Blu-ray movies, because they look so much better splashed across a wall-size screen at 1080p. On the other hand, the limited resolution becomes something of a perverse benefit when it comes to gaming, for reasons we&rsquo;ll explain in a moment."</em></p><p><img src="http://images.thoughtsmedia.com/resizer/thumbs/size/600/dht/auto/1278526542.usr20447.jpg" style="border: 1px solid #d2d2bb;" /></p><p>3D is hot.&nbsp; If one was to believe all the claims that manufacturers made, life is boring without 3D.&nbsp; It really makes me wonder how I was able to live life before 3D.&nbsp; Like HD, I believe that 3D does have a time and place, but it will not provide a benefit to all situations.&nbsp; On top of that, the cost of going 3D adds a noticable dent to your wallet.&nbsp; For those that are into the cutting edge and want a jump on 3D technology, it is good to see manufacturers like Acer making more projectors capable of giving you the experience as while you could develop your own hack with two projectors, it takes a lot more effort and time with probably no real savings in money to go your own route.&nbsp; Any 3D fanatics out there?&nbsp; Is the extra investment really worth it?</p>

[Reid Kistler]

Any 3D fanatics out there? Is the extra investment really worth it?


IMHO: Not Yet. :D


Certainly, there is a class of home theater purchasers for whom Price is almost literally Not A Factor. If you have money to burn, a 3D HT will currently give you bragging rights over the Average Joe - but provides precious little advantage beyond that, given the paucity of 3D programming & movies.

And, as with most new technologies, the price / performance ratio for 3D is poor: "New & Improved" sets are already being announced, and, given recent trends in HT components, will almost certainly be more aggressively priced than current ones are.

Look at what has happened to the prices of HD TVs, Blue Ray players, and even Blue Ray DVD's: RIGHT NOW, 3D is mostly an attempt by the manufacturers to restore some of profits they have lost on "traditional" (!) HD equipment. (Much as 3D Theatrical Movies are Primarily an attempt restore Profits to that industry!)

So, if you believe that it is your DUTY as a Consumer to support the profit levels of the major 3D players, by all means run out and pick a system up! :rolleyes:

If, OTOH, you believe that it is your Duty to Spend Limited Household Funds Wisely, then recent history suggests waiting a while before taking the 3D plunge.

Of course - as noted - if your Household Funds are NOT limited, spend away! :cool: