Combo Discs

I've never despised the combo disc format for HD DVD and I think HD DVD definitely has the right idea for their plans. Even though the discs are roughly five bucks more expensive, I've never been displeased with it. I find myself lending out these titles to friends to watch on standard def, while I can enjoy it on my own HD player. It's useful and welcome to our library because there will always be people without a HD setup. Obviously, the HD DVD group is targeting users transitioning from standard to high definition. All of their Hollywood hits on Universal have been combo discs, and it's pretty clear that they want those to purchase these than the other version.

But, it definitely still needs improvement. With HD DVD finally solidifying their details of a triple layer disc, that only requires a downloadable hardware update, no longer will we be plagued by the horrifying flipper discs. With one layer dedicated to the DVD, and two layers for the HD DVD, it is a weapon to be feared. I've heard of problems, even though I've personally never encountered any problem whatsoever, but they are out there. Browsing through forums, you will find a handful of threads dedicated to troubleshooting these discs (which often recommend boiling the disc or a hardware update).

With three major film studios siding with HD DVD, they have a viable strategy to attack the crowd. It would be wise of Universal, Paramount, and Dreamworks to stop production of standard definition DVDs and focus on these combo discs. This would be a solid attack on transitioning users as well as the current HD market. But still in the question is the cost of these pricey products.

So what now? Is this what they should do? Yes. Obviously Blu ray has made a bigger penetration into the mainstream market, but HD DVD can make a solid counter-strike with the upcoming Transformers HD DVD and other exclusives in order to grasp that group.

Lower the cost. Screw flipper discs. Focus on HD DVD combo format.

We will all be happier.