Those of you hoping that 3D TV would go away in 2011 probably were not planning to buy a VIZIO. The manufacturer just announced 22 models of Theater 3D HDTVs, ranging from 22 to a whopping 71 inches in size.
About a week ago, we reported on VIZIO's first Theater 3D HDTV, the 65-inch XVT3D650SV. These new models ditch active-shutter technology in favor of circular polarized 3D technology. Theater 3D TVs support a variety of 3D formats, including Frame Packing, Side-by-Side, Top and Bottom, SENSIO HiFi 3D and RealD. However, they boast a brighter, better performance and a more comfortable viewing experience, using lightweight, battery-free glasses. Depending on the model, up to four pairs will be included with the purchase price of the TV, and should be usable in your local 3D theater as well as at home. VIZIO plans to work with Oakley on other eyewear options.
Sadly, the 71-incher seems like it's for display purposes only -- at least for now. Although the company has announced the set, it's not listed on the official lineup of releases for 2011 (see below). You should, however, be able to find something that you like, since there are 21 other models planned for the year.
Depending on the model, some Theater 3D TVs will feature VIZIO's Edge-Lit Razor LED technology with Smart Dimming in 32 zones. Others will have Full Array TruLED backlighting with Smart Dimming, offering 120 zones across the display.
VIZIO's M and XVT models also include SRS TruSurround HD and SRS TruVolume audio technologies. Other sets will feature SRS StudioSound HD, which has optimized audio presets and a built-in EQ toolset.
All Theater 3D TV models will include built-in 802.11n Wi-Fi and VIZIO Internet Apps (VIA) features. VIA features on-demand content from Netflix, Amazon Video On Demand, VUDU, Pandora, Facebook, Flickr, Rhapsody, Twitter, Yahoo! TV Widgets, and many more. The XVT3D476SV and XVT3D556SV are also part of VIZIO's new VIA Plus line, which incorporates Google TV, as well as integration with the newly announced VIA Phone and VIA Tablet. All of those additional services are easily accessible through VIZIO's unique Bluetooth remote (optional on some models), which features a QWERTY keypad.
VIZIO has yet to announce pricing or release dates for any of its new Theater 3D TV models. However, there are a few additional details on each one in the chart below.
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