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09/08/2012 05:00 AM

Tech beat: 4K TVs

Remember the phrase "don't shoot the messenger" because the resolution on high definition TV is about to pale in comparison to a new class of television sets: 4K TVs. Adam Balkin tells us more.

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Think of the greatest high-definition TV set, complete with bells and whistles and 3- images. That TV is no longer cutting-edge.

The next generation of sets hoping to do away with HD is already slated to hit shelves, as LG, Panasonic and Sony have all just unveiled so-called 4K TVs.

"4K is four times the resolution of HD television, what we know as full HD television, and that's going to give you a much more immersive experience," says Ray Stanley of Sony. "You can sit much closer to the television set, makes you feel like you're actually inside the movie or sporting event or concert or whatever it may be. It really makes you feel like you're there."

While there will be that initial struggle that HD and 3D faced of not enough content shot in 4K to fully take advantage of the set, the TVs do up-convert HD content to the 4K look and many Hollywood films are now being shot in 4K.

This technology has the potential to make HDTVs somewhat obsolete, but some experts do not believe it will be similar as going from standard definition to high definition.

"HD isn't going away by a long shot but this gives a new option for people who want really large screen sizes. That's where its niche is," says Greg Tarr of TWICE Magazine.

Keep in mind, 4K TVs are also 3D and have screens around 84 inches. They will start going on sale by the end of this year and the price for the initial round of sets will be just over $20,000.