Samsung’s New 3DTVs a Dazzling Spectacle

Samsung Electronics NZ’s retailer and media roadshow is underway for its 2010 range of HD- and 3DTVs.

Even though stock has been in stores for the past two weeks, the company is only just starting to brief retailers and journalists on the new technologies.

Putting the cart before the horse like this risks consumers being turned off by ineptly set up shop demos.

But if demonstrated in the right lighting conditions with optimal calibration, the 3D impact of Monsters vs Aliens on Samsung’s flagship 3DTV is an eye-popping, jaw-dropping revelation.

Even though 3D content is scarce for the home – indeed, it’s limited to the copy of Monsters vs Aliens Samsung is bundling with its TVs – Samsung is betting on being first to market the technology in its TVs, Blu-ray players and home theatre systems.

“We are confident that by being first-to-market with the best integrated technology and approach, we have the best opportunity to capitalise on the market anticipation and continue to strengthen our leadership in 2010,” Samsung’s director of marketing Rachael Cotton-Bronte says.

The LED 7000 range of TVs and the BD-C6900 Blu-ray player are being rolled out this month, with other Samsung 3D products (LED 9000, LED 8000, LCD 750, PDP 7000, HT-C6950W) due over the next couple of months; TV prices range from $3,999-$9,999 while the Blu-ray player retails for $699.

The TVs’ built-in 3D processors and emitters are compatible with multiple 3D standards, including half- and full-HD resolution formats, and have “auto-conversion technology” that renders 2D content to 3D in real time with the push of a button.

All of the 3D models have a built-in Ethernet connection, wireless-ready capabilities, and Internet@TV, for accessing the world’s first HDTV-based application store, Samsung Apps. Apps in New Zealand include YouTube, Twitter, Skype, Accuweather, Getty Images, Picasa, History App and gaming applications.

Cosmetics-wise, Samsung’s new LED range has narrower bezels, brushed metal frames in silver and black, four-legged quad stands, and a new brushed titanium crystal design scheme with chrome edging.

Samsung offers three models of 3D glasses: battery and a rechargeable in two sizes, for kids and adults. At launch, two sets of glasses are being included with every TV purchase; additional sets cost from $149.