JLo

Two competing (and incompatible) high-*definition DVD formats are beginning to hit the market. There’s HD DVD, introduced by Toshiba and supported by movie studios including Universal and HBO; and Blu-ray, led by Sony and backed by Disney and others.

Home-entertainment history suggests that only one format will be left standing. That’s what happened in the VHS vs. Betamax battle, the 1970s videotape-format fight in which consumers who invested in the latter format were left with obsolete tapes and players. Even if both high-def DVD formats survive, most movies will be available in only one or the other. A few major studios--so far, Warner Bros. and Paramount--will offer titles in both. But no combination HD DVD/Blu-ray players are currently available. True movie buffs will have to buy both HD DVD and Blu-ray equipment.

Biyun

It will be interesting to see how the battle will play out between the two competing brands. I just hope those that get stuck with the loser won't have to dump it like people did with their Betamaxes years ago.

tiggapooh

Yeah, that really sucked. I got caught with a betamax. We really didn't have that much money in the first place, and then have soemthing like that happen. Major rip off.