It seems like all of the HDTV shows we watch have ended for the season, so we're clearing out the divvers and watching alot of Netflix. While the world of HDTV may not be terribly exciting right now, we still have a ton of stuff to talk about. One of our favorites, 1080p, is back. We get into two-way communication and finish with HDMI 1.4. Enhancements in the new HDMI spec include Ethernet networking, audio return channel, 3D capability, improved performance and new connectors.
As always, good show guys ... but I have to speak up about one thing: 1080p vs. size vs. distance.
I'm growing weary of those who say "1080p is no good in sizes under x inches". While that may be true as a general rule, it is still a very personal decision. You said in the podcast that it is a function of screen size, source material, and viewing distance ... but you're forgetting one very important factor: the viewers visual acuity.
I happen to be blessed with 20/10 eyesight, and can definitely tell a difference in 1080 vs 720 on smaller screens, even at relatively long viewing distances. My first HDTV was a 55" 1080i CRT RPTV that we viewed at a distance of 25 feet (2.5x the CVD). And I could still tell a difference in 720 and 1080.
My point is this: Even with 1080 and small screens, you still need to allow for the fact that an individual viewer may in fact be able to tell a difference. Stick with you're rule: "Get what looks best to you, for your budget".
