Jumping on the 3D TV bandwagon is far from cheap for the average consumer. Besides having to splash out on a 3D-ready HDTV display, there are still the prices of related 3D equipments – such as additional pairs of compatible 3D glasses for family and friends, plus a 3D source like a 3D Blu-ray player – to contend with. Backed by results from from polled surveys and focus group studies, industry analysts generally agree that the steep combined cost of these 3D-capable devices is a significant factor that puts the public off embracing 3D technology.
Recognising that deeper discounts are required to stimulate 3D TV uptake, several UK consumer electronics retailers have put together 3DTV bundles at discounted prices. Dixons Retail group is the latest to join the act: as advertised in TV commercials, the company is selling the Samsung PS50C680 50-inch 3D plasma TV, a Samsung BD-C5900 3D Blu-ray player, and 3 pairs of Samsung SSG-2100AB 3D glasses… all for a quid shy of £1000.
The 3D TV package can be purchased from Dixons Retail’s network of more than 450 Currys and PC World retail stores nationwide, or from the currys.co.uk or dixons.co.uk online websites. Those ordering online can obtain even more discount by entering voucher code 60BACK (saving a further £60) on the Currys website, or TV40 (saving a further £40) on the Dixons website, bringing the total price down to £939 and £959 respectively.
Phil Samuels, category director for Consumer Electronics at Currys, was adamant that his company’s 3D TV bundle delivers the most value-for-money for consumers among the high street retailers. He also explained the angle from which the company wants customers to perceive their 3D TV purchase: fundamentally a HDTV with outstanding 2D picture quality, but with extra 3D capabilities thrown it for future-proofing.
With 3D content seemingly on the rise following the official launch of the Sky 3D channel, and the imminent arrival of Call of Duty: Black Ops which will feature a 3D game mode, this sub-£1000 3D TV package deal from Dixons Retail may just persuade those who were sitting on the fence to make the plunge.
