3D Television – is it worth it?

I’ve always been a big fan of 3D. The first time I saw it was Jaws 3D back in the 80’s. I thought it ‘was off the charts’. And that was when you had the blue and red plastic glasses. And as the technology has progressed I have been a regular down at the IMAX. Space Station 3D and Magnificent Desolation: Walking on the Moon 3D being my favourites.

And then came Avatar. Well that was from the top drawer. So, when I heard that 3D was coming to the TV, I thought ‘I want in. Big time.’ So, I have just purchased a SAMSUNG 50" Full HD 3D Plasma TV. And for a new technology, the price was very reasonable. I paid £1600 at Curry’s including the specs. And that is what I paid several years ago for a 50” 2D plasma. So firstly, you can’t complain about the price.

So, I bought a copy of Avatar 3D. What a fantastic experience. I was very impressed. Obviously the screen is smaller, but the depth, feel and speed of the action was actually as good as the IMAX. But of course you’re in your front room! Good 3D envelops you, transporting you to the heart of the film. And at home, there’s no-one to break the illusion. No clowns crunching popcorn. No groups of youths passing M & M’s to each other. No acne faced teenagers whispering sweet nothings. And no rails from the seating area in your line of sight. It’s pure escapism. Prada.

We’ve heard the good points. What about the bad points?

Well content is the big problem at the moment. There really isn’t much, unless you’re a gamer. However, SKY will be broadcasting some channels in 3D this autumn. And sport is going to be the big driver for this technology. I saw a demonstration at the Gadget Show earlier in the year and once you’ve watched the football or boxing in 3D – there’s no going back – it’s all about 3D.

That doesn’t mean you’ll never want to watch 2D TV again. Some things lend themselves better to the extra dimension. And 3D is pretty involving. I’ve found myself quite tired and a bit drained after watching it for a couple of hours. It makes your brain work overtime constructing the pictures, whereas 2D is a much more passive experience. And that means that you’re always going to want to watch Eastenders in 2D. It’s tiring enough watching people shout and argue for 25 minutes as it is.

So, should I buy one?

If you have the spare dollars, then – yes. Buy one. Or at least persuade one of your friends to buy one. That way you can go around to their house, watch the football in 3D, eat their crisps, drink their beer and leave them to clear up the mess when you’ve left. Thinking ahead. That’s why they pay me the big dollars!

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