Blu-Ray High Definition DVDs: A Simple Guide to Understanding

If my recollection is correct, it has been almost 2 years since HD-DVD gave up its effort to be the format of choice in the delivery of high-definition DVD's (Toshiba gave up the fight in February, 2008). Since then, we have seen quite an explosion in the availability of movies on Blu-Ray disc and we have even seen the price of Blu-Ray players and movies drop quite significantly.

So this Christmas you might be wondering if it is time to make the investment in a player and start a library of Blu-Ray discs. But you're wondering what is so great about BR discs? There are many benefits to Blu-Ray, some of which you might not be concerned with (i.e. storage capacity, greater interactivity) but there are two primary benefits that movie lovers will be excited about:

First, BR delivers up to 6x better picture than a standard definition DVD does. And the progressive scanning that encompasses BR, as opposed to an interlaced format, means that the image will stay sharper during motion and will be a smoother overall picture.

Additionally, the audio of a BR disc is much better than a standard DVD. Standard DVD's use a lossy audio format-meaning that some of the quality is lost from the original source. BR disc are a lossless format, which provide superior quality audio.

Other questions you might ask before purchasing that first player:

What do I need to watch Blu-Ray movies?

Two items. First, a high-definition television is paramount--you cannot watch any HD without a television. And secondly, a BR player (Sony's Playstation 3 will also play BR discs). Connecting your player to your television with an HDMI cable will provide better quality than other connection methods.

I have a DVD that upscales to 1080p-will it look as good as a BR disc?

No. Upscaling DVD simulates 1080p by doubling the number of lines being displayed on your HDTV. Since the content on the DVD is not high-def, it will not match the picture quality and clarity of a true BR disc.

Can I play my regular DVD's on a Blu-Ray player?

Yes, you will be able to play your standard definition DVD's on a Blu-Ray player but you cannot play Blu-Ray discs on a regular DVD player.

Are Blu-Ray movies available as 'Full Screen'?

No. BR movies are delivered in the original theatrical aspect ratio (aka widescreen). Since your HD television is a widescreen format, your movies will generally fill the screen. However, some films may have originally been presented in a ratio that is "wider" than the 16x9 ratio of your television, which will necessitate black bars at the top and bottom of the image.

At McKenna Video Services, we’re all about service – and that means listening to what matters to you. The next time you visit, I’d be happy to hear about your high-def and Blu-Ray experiences.