3-D televisions aren't special TVs used exclusively to watch 3-D images, Consumer Reports explains.
They're regular high-definition LCD and plasma TVs with an extra feature: a 3-D mode.
They display regular 2-D programming just like any set but can be switched into 3-D mode when you want to watch 3-D content from a Blu-ray disc or TV channel.
Like most new technologies, 3-D capability was initially expensive, but prices of 3-D TVs have dropped and are sure to decrease further this year.
At some point, the premium over a regular TV might be so small that it will be worth considering a 3-D model even if you don't plan to use that feature.
rates 3-D TVs
In its first-ever Ratings of 20 3-D TVs, Consumer Reports found that some of the best performing 3-D TVs were among the best overall HD performers.
The Panasonic VT20 (Viera TC-P50VT20, $1,800) and VT25 (Viera TC-P65VT25, $4,300, and Viera TC-P54VT25, $2,500) plasma models were among the best HD sets that Consumer Reports has ever tested.
In addition to excellent HD performance, they displayed the least ghosting with 3-D programming and achieved the highest overall scores in the 3-D TV Ratings.
Overall, most 3-D sets were excellent or very good for HD.
The 3-D LCD models displayed realistic 3-D depth, but visible ghosting detracted from the 3-D effect.
The Sony 3-D TVs (Bravia XBR-52HX909, $3,600; Bravia XBR-60LX900, $4,500; Bravia KDL-46HX800, $1,700; Bravia XBR-46HX909, $3,150; and Bravia XBR-52LX900, $3,600) were best among the LCD models, but only when the viewer's head was perfectly level.
In general, plasma sets exhibit less ghosting, which is when double images are visible even when wearing the special 3-D glasses needed to see 3-D images.
In addition to rating HD and SD picture quality, viewing angle and sound quality, Consumer Reports' Ratings included a score for 3-D effect and identified how many pairs of glasses come with each model.
Other considerations
with 3-D TVs
•3-D glasses are required: Current 3-D TVs require active-shutter glasses, which can be both uncomfortable and pricey, generally costing $130 to $150 a pair.
Some 3-D TVs come with one or two pairs, but others don't come with any. Consumer Reports is beginning to test the first passive 3-D TVs, which use lightweight, inexpensive, polarized 3-D glasses, similar to those available at movie theaters. You don't need glasses for regular 2-D content.
•3-D content is still limited: But more content, both 3-D Blu-rays and 3-D broadcasts, is on the way.
Dozens of new 3-D Blu-ray titles are expected in coming months, and current 3-D channels such as ESPN 3D and DirecTVs n3D will soon be joined by 3Net, a 24/7 3-D channel from Discovery, Imax and Sony. HBO and Vudu also recently added 3-D content.
•When to buy: 3-D TVs make the most sense for early adopters or those who don't mind paying more for a new technology, or for those who are in the market for a TV and want to future-proof their purchase.
Those looking for the absolute best HD performance should also consider a 3-D model, even if they don't plan to use 3-D immediately.
A 3-D TV is also an option for photo and video enthusiasts who expect to purchase a 3-D camera or camcorder, and who would like to look at these images on a larger screen.
But those who don't need a new TV or who aren't dying for the 3-D experience should bide their time, as they likely will be rewarded with lower prices, more 3-D content and perhaps less-expensive, more comfortable glasses.
Whether buying now or later, it's important for consumers to try out 3-D before buying a TV to make sure they are comfortable with the viewing experience.
Consumers Union Inc.
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