Home Theater Tech Talk: Why BLU-RAY and Rapid Refresh Rates Should Be in Your Present Rather than Your Future

Home theater technology is ever-changing and improving. For those searching for the best of what is available, the best in the DVD format is arguably Blu-Ray. With all the attention on high definition, often within the same breath is a reference to Blu-Ray. Since Blu-Ray seems to have won the DVD format, the technology behind it deserves a mention for home theater consumer to understand the advantages of Blu-Ray in comparison to other DVD formats.

The technological advantage of Blu-Ray over other DVD formats is found in its output image. Blu-Ray does put out a 1080p image. The price, however, makes Blu-Ray a luxury item for some home theater owners. As the technology becomes more prevalent, the prices for Blu-Ray players and products continue to decline. One challenge for those who prefer Blu-Ray for their home theater entertainment is the limited availability of content. For those starting the home theater system process, it is recommended to invest in the Blu-Ray player rather than start with a standard DVD, or high def DVD, and decide to upgrade in the near future. Although the price is initially higher, the technology is better; and if the upgrade is in your eminent future it is best to take the plunge rather than purchasing two devices.

The obvious reason for purchasing the Blu-Ray player over any other standard or high definition DVD player is the image and sound quality. If the investment has been made in the big screen TV, speakers, and home theater space, to cut corners with the system player is illogical and ill-advised. The Blu-Ray player does produce as superior an image as any up-converted DVD device. What seems to be the most promising news on the horizon is the ability to download content to different consoles that have the capability to store downloads in a high definition format.

On another technological note for home theater buffs is the discussion of refresh rates. Of particular interest is the difference between a 60Hz refresh rate and 120Hz refresh rate. The 120Hz TVs are currently the hot commodity in the world of home theater; but the real advantage of getting 120Hz refresh rate TV is still a mystery to many home theater owners. To simply the technology, the increased refresh frequency goes back to the notion of 720p and the accompanying ability to handle rapid motion better. Occasionally, if you are watching a high speed car chase or a sports action, you will see some degradation, or pixilation, in small sections of the screen. The higher refresh rates or higher frequencies are expected to adapt with little interruption to the viewer. As is the case with Blu-Ray, the technology is relatively new and the prices on the machines that incorporate the more rapid refresh rates tend to be very high. For those who are more patient, and frugal, waiting for system improvements may be a more penny-wise decision. But, if a good deal is to be had on the higher frequency set, the investment is like one that will be enjoyed for months and years to come.

Both Blu-Ray and rapid refresh rate technologies address the up-and-coming end of technology. Neither has been perfected, and improvements are inevitable. For those home theater owners who enjoy being the first to own the latest and greatest, these two system additions will fulfill the need for higher quality audio and video without necessarily breaking the bank.