Richer Sounds & Which 3D TV Guide

Which Home Cinema Guide

There’s no question that 3D TV is the technology that manufacturers and broadcasters are keen to push as the next big thing.

There are two types of 3D TV, which are named based on the type of glasses they use.

Active Shutter 3D is so called as the glasses are synched with the TV by an infrared signal, which actively blocks off the image in each eye at 50 frames per second. This tricks the brain into seeing a 3D image.

Passive 3D uses much cheaper polarising glasses, which work by filtering light so that each eye sees a slightly different image, thus creating the illusion of depth. These are the same type of glasses you’ll find in the cinema when watching a 3D movie.

Of the two, Active Shutter tends to produce more detailed images, as each eye receives a Full HD view of the screen. With Passive 3D, you get a reduced resolution, though the sense of depth can work equally well with either technology.

The downside to Active Shutter glasses is that they tend to be heavier to wear, which can be less comfortable for a long viewing experience. As Active Shutter glasses can cost between £50-£100 each, it’s worth considering how many pairs you may need to buy, or if the TV will come with sufficient glasses for you and your family or friends. Passive glasses usually cost less than £5, so can be a better option for children or if you’re watching 3D content in a large group.

3D is at its best when viewed directly on, but this might not be convenient depending on the layout of your room at home. Some TVs cope better with being viewed at various angles than others, but always keep in mind the likely seating positions in your living room.

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