You’ve heard about it, you’ve waited for it, now it’s here: DVD. First the good news: it works. Very well.
In case you’ve missed the hype, DVD is either the next big step in optical data storage or the next big media white elephant. This ultra-infodense CD can hold about eight times as much text, audio, and/or video as today’s optical disc.
Most controls will be familiar to movie fans. The Toshiba SD-3006 DVD player I tested has a solid freeze-frame, as well as fast forward and rewind that shoot you through the movie at up to eight times normal speed. It can also hold as many as eight audio channels and 32 subtitle tracks.
Now the bad news: there isn’t much product yet. Many studios are waiting to see how the market shakes out. The other drawback is that you can’t record with it – yet. The long and short is: yes, DVD works, and no – unless you’re a gadget or video freak – you shouldn’t buy one. Wait a year. Prices will drop, and either more studios will join the jamboree or DVD will be headed for the Dead Media Museum.
Toshiba SD-3006: US$699. Toshiba: (800) 631 3811, +1 (201) 628 8000.
This article originally appeared in the October issue of Wired magazine.
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