What Is 3D Television?
So you thought 3D was new at the movies, now we have 3D in your own home.
You have maybe already seen a 3D movie. Perhaps you thought Monsters vs. Aliens was decent entertainment but the 3D was a bit of a gimmick? Or maybe like everybody you were stunned by the rich and detailed 3D world of Avatar.
3D TV Is More Than Movies
Well 3D TV is about movies at home in 3D, but it’s more than that too.
The program makers want to make other programs a more immersive experience for us too. Now nobody is going to watch re-runs of old soaps in 3D no matter how big a fan. But picture the National Geographic channel exploring far away lands in 3D, or flying over landscapes just like a bird.
And sports are right at the forefront of this revolution too. Many of us will be watching our teams play in 3D this year, whilst sat in comfort at home on our sofa. It will not be quite the same as ‘being there’ but it actually is just that bit more atmospheric.
I?»¿s It Just A Gimmick?
If it is, then the gimmick is already here. The program makers are already providing programs in 3D. You can already get 3D movies at Amazon on Blu-ray DVD.
So What Do You Need To Watch 3D TV?
You need a new 3D TV. An existing TV cannot produce the sophisticated 3D effect you’ve seen at the movies. You will also need special 3D glasses. The unsophisticated plastic ones from the movies will not work, you need the ones made for your 3D TV set. Then you need something in 3D to watch. This could be programs broadcast by Sky, Freesat or your cable provider, or movies on 3D Blu-ray DVD.
And yes, it seems you will need a special 3D DVD player too. It’s not yet clear how recording 3D programs will work so watch our for PVR / Recorder reviews as software upgrades may be sufficient.
Is 3D Worth It?
In time it should be. But most of us are unlikely to upgrade any of our equipment now, particularly our new HDTV, for once in a blue moon 3D watching at home. Specially as we can enjoy a better 3D experience at the movie theaters.
But the next time you need to buy a new TV it’s likely most or even all TV’s will have 3D built in. Making it something that’s included rather than an extra to buy.