Texas Instruments' 3D-DLP logo

• DLP, Plasma, LED and LCD 3D technologies
• "Full 3D" vs. "3D-Ready"
• 3D Glasses for the new 3D-TV's

Samsung's 3D-Ready logo

The pro's and con's of Plasma vs LED vs DLP is nearly the same for 3D video as for regular 2D video. I would suggest that you research and choose your 3D-TV set based on regular 2D TV viewing. However, if cost is a concern I recommend taking a close look at Mitsubishi's line of DLP 3D televisions.

In my opinion the Mitsubishi line of DLP 3D televisions give outstanding 3D performance and present an excellent value for new 3D shoppers. For example, compare these two models, both available at Amazon.com at the prices advertised on this date:

• Mitsubishi WD-60638     DLP         60-Inch 1080p 3D-TV    61 lbs. $998
• Panasonic TC-P58VT25 Plasma   58-Inch 1080p 3D-TV   142 lbs.  $3599 !

Another advantage of DLP TV's: DLP's are known to be as clear and bright after 10 years as on their first day. But DLP 3D-TV's have a disadvantage when it comes to 3D. DLP 3D-TV's use "3D-Ready" electronics as opposed to the newer "Full 3D".

Most new 3D models advertise "Full 3D" capability. There are many different formats for 3D video. A "Full 3D" television will accept any of these formats, including the highest resolution available: 1080p field sequential 3D. For a good explanation of the 3D video formats check out this excellent article at PRACTICAL-HOME-THEATER-GUIDE.

If you own or purchase a Mitsubishi DLP 3D-TV do not worry. Mitsubishi sells an inexpensive converter box (model 3-DA1) so that your DLP-TV will accept any 3D formatted video. Additionally, most PC's and 3D Blu-Ray players will convert 3D-DVD movies to the DLP's "3D Checkerboard" format without need for the converter.

• Satellite and cable 3D broadcasts do not use full 1080p 3D format. Don't expect to detect any more 3D clarity on a "full 3D" set while watching 3D TV channels.
• The only 3D-DVD titles currently available are low-detail animated titles (e.g. "Monsters vs. Aliens"). Again, don't expect to detect any more 3D clarity watching this genre.
• Video in full, 1080p formatting is rare and will probably be a long time coming.
• When using Playstation 3 to watch 3D-DVD's you will only obtain top-bottom formatted 3D even with a 1080p DVD.
• The difference in clarity between full 1080p and 1080i checkerboard 3D is barely noticeable to most viewers.

All 3D television makers offer high quality 3D shutter-glasses for viewing 3D. There are two drawbacks: 1) these glasses are very expensive and 2) you are forced to purchase from your TV's manufacturer. At $150 per pair for example, you will have to spend $600 to purchase 4 extra pairs of 3D glasses. Additionally, Sony 3D glasses will not work viewing 3D on a Samsung, LG glasses will not work with Panasonic's, etc.

Here is where you can obtain real cost savings from owning a DLP "3D-Ready" TV. All Mitsubishi and several Samsung models allow you to use your own 3D emitter and glasses. If your 3D-TV has a 3-pin VESA sync connector (as shown at left) you can purchase any of 3DFlightSim products. 3DFlightSim offers 3D glasses for as low as $19.95 each.