H D - S E N S E I

A view on HD DVDs by Gary W. Tooze

 

Introduction: Hello, fellow Beavers! I have been interested in film since I viewed a Chaplin festival on PBS when I was around 9 years old. I credit DVD with expanding my horizons to fill an almost ravenous desire to seek out new film experiences. I currently own approximately 4600 DVDs and have reviewed over 3000 myself. I appreciate my discussion Listserv for furthering my film education and inspiring me to continue running DVDBeaver. Plus a healthy thanks to those who donate and use our Amazon links.

Although I never wanted to become one of those guys who focused 'too much' on image and sound quality - I find HD is swiftly pushing me in that direction. So be it, but film will always be my first love and I list my favorites on the old YMdb site now accessible HERE.  

Gary's Home Theatre:
Samsung HPR4272 42" Plasma HDTV
Toshiba HD-A2 HD-DVD player (firmware upgraded)
Sony DVP NS5ODH SD-DVD player (region-free and HDMI)
Harmon Cardon DD/DTS receiver
Ascent (main) + Boston Acoustics (centre, rear, subwoofer) speakers (5.1)

Gary W. Tooze

 

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Nature's Colors [HD DVD & SD DVD Combo]

 
Concert Hot Spot  (USA)
Review by Gary W. Tooze

Concert Hot Spot  (USA)
1.78:1 1080p
1:17:55
Audio: Dolby Digital Plus 5.1, True HD 5.1 LPCM
Subtitles: none (there is no dialogue)
Extras: none
Released: February 27th, 2007
HD-DVD case
15 chapters

Product Description: This High Definition 1080i video release is accompanied by the world's greatest and most recognizable music-from Bach to Beethoven - Ravel to Debussy-all in True HD and Dolby Digital Plus Surround. From Bora Bora to Africa, from the Midwest to the Pacific Coast, from Costa Rica to Bali, from Hawaii to Arizona, from the Rocky Mountains to the Redwood Forest-this is Nature at it's most colorful and beautiful. Track listing: Clair de Lune * Debussey Canon in D * Pachebel Dawn From Peer Gynt * Grieg Moonlight Sonata * Beethoven Eine klei Nachtmusic * Mozart Piano Concerto #21 * Mozart Air for the G String * Bach Allegro from Spring * Vivaldi Jesu Joy of Man's Desiring * Bach Fur Elise * Beethoven Allegro from #5 * Schubert Habanera from Carmen * Bizet Waltz of the Flowers * Tchaikovsky Allegreto Non Troppo * Mendoelssohn Bolero * Ravel...

NOTE: Reverse side of disc compatible with standard DVD players.

 

Video: I'm really writing this review in response to some mediocre ones that I have read on the web in regards to this product. I couple of years ago I stated how much I enjoyed a Japanese DVD called 'Beautiful Nature with Bach', reviewed HERE.  Nature's Colors has actually replaced it as, probably, the most played DVD in my household. The image quality is strong in my opinion. It is all moving scenes - no still photography. The entire 77 minutes doesn't have 100% spellbinding cinematography but it has more than enough to sate me - most of scenes have beautiful luminous colors and excellent detail - very few compression problems. Close-ups shots are particularly defined. I hope the screen grabs below can give you a hint of the quality.

Now I should state that I am no expert on this particular DVD concept - this (and Beautiful Nature with Bach) are the only ones I own, so some others may be even better. My only point being is that I am very satisfied with this DVD. It looks and sounds wonderful with only minor weaknesses!

This is a 'Combo' DVD meaning the SD version is also available on the opposite side.

 

Screen Captures*

 

 

 

 

 

 

* HD image derived from a digital camera - depending on the system the DVD image will probably look superior.

Audio: has the option of two tracks - Dolby Digital Plus 5.1 and True HD LPCM. The latter, if I understand correctly, called LPCM - can move up to 7.1 but there isn't a great difference between 5.1 and 7.1 from what I have been told. Anyway it is an option for audiophiles who have support for this feature. The 5.1 sounded clear and defined - nothing extravagantly special but it did the job very well for my crusty ears.

Extras: None

Menus

BOTTOM LINE: I suppose everyone has different expectations but I enjoy this HD-DVD very frequently (like now as I am writing). I love the classic music in it and never tire of the DVD although I rarely just sit and watch it straight through. It also seems to have the bonus of relaxing my young boys before bed or if they are playing in the room. I'm happy that I own it. Others may expect more but everyone I have shown it to loves it.

 

 

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