LATEST ADDITIONS

New developments in video displays are cropping up almost faster than we can keep up with them. Many have been exclusive to flat panel LCD and plasma sets. The once-dominant rear projection models are now relegated to the low end of most manufacturers' lines. Yes, there are RPTVs with dynamic irises, LED backlighting, and creative color adjustments, but these refinements are usually reserved for the few high-end models still on the market.

Shame on you, RadioShack. And you too, HH Gregg, FYE, Fred Meyer Stores, Ultimate Electronics, and Boscov's. You've been selling analog televisions without adequately warning consumers that these sets are about to become obsolete with the end of analog broadcasting on February 17, 2009. That's why the Federal Communications Commission has just slapped you with $96,000 in fines. Not much, admittedly, but it's a start.

Samsung sent over information earlier today confirming its plans for its next-gen disc players throughout this year. The BDP-2400 Blu-ray Disc player has been officially "removed from the 2007 Holiday Line-up," but the BD-UP5000 Duo HD Blu-ray/HD DVD combi player remains on track for a mid to late December debut.

I've talked a bit recently about my reference surround speakers and receiver and signal sources. That may leave a few droolers (you know who you are) wondering what cables I use.