Topic: Wii Q? Random Babbling here...

[UncleBob]

Take a Wii.  Add a DVD Player to it.  Now, add an HDMI port.  Now, add up-conversion for standard DVDs (perhaps Wii game output, if possible?).  Now, have Tobshiba make it (like Panasonic did with the Panasonic Q).  Now, add HD-DVD to it.

Ideally, Tobshiba would end up selling these at a loss ($350-$500?), but then, they'd probably still fly off the shelves (what are standard Wiis going for on eBay right now?)... but could this be the thing that lets HD-DVD strike deep into the heart of Sony and Blu-Ray?

Discuss.

[Kairon]

If it ups Wii Production, I'm all for it.

[Infernal Monkey]

Nah, Wii's awesome because it's simply one console unlike 360 and PS3 which offer more versions than an iPod.

[BlackNMild2k1]

Even though I can't afford it I would buy it.
But it better be a JPN/US compatible machine(not that I play imports or anything, just that it would probably have to be imported like the Q)

[UncleBob]

Quote
Originally posted by: Infernal Monkey
Nah, Wii's awesome because it's simply one console unlike 360 and PS3 which offer more versions than an iPod.

Until the Wii is released in Jet Black, Princess Pink, Navy Blue, Crimson Red, Special Edition Pikachu Yellow...

[Kairon]

Quote
Originally posted by: Kairon
If it ups Wii Production, I'm all for it.

[Infernal Monkey]

I would so buy a Pikachu edition if his foot became the Wii remote, unlike the power button like the N64!  

[Rhoq]

I already own a Toshiba HD-A2. I wouldn't have a need for 2 HD DVD players.

[UncleBob]

But up converted Wii Graphics?

[Rhoq]

Quote
Originally posted by: UncleBob
But up converted Wii Graphics?

I'm not sure how much better up converting would enhance the graphics on most of the current Wii library. As with DVDs, I assume it would all depend on the quality of the presentation prior to the up convert. Let's be honest here, besides Zelda, SMG and RE:UC what other games would really benefit? Developers have been extremely lazy with the Wii and a lot of the games have been quite fugly. No amount of upscaling would change that.

BUT - To address your idea, I think a $299 price point for an HD DVD Wii is feasible. Despite Blu-ray fanboys claiming otherwise, I believe a few weeks back Toshiba revealed that they are in fact making money on most of their HD DVD player sales (with the exception of the recent Wal-Mart and BestBuy sub $100 sales), I believe it costs approximately $150 to manufacture the current line-up, which MSRPs for $299 and up (but the HD-A3 can be purchased for about $200). Doesn't is cost less than $100 for Nintendo to manufacture each Wii?

UB - while we're on the topic, do you know if the A2 will be on sale for $98 again during Friday or Saturday's "secret" sales at Wal-Mart. A co-worker of mine is looking to pick one up. It's nice to see Toshiba actively doing what they can to gain market share during this most critical time in the HDM war. I've had my A2 since February (bought it for $350, while it was still retailing for $500) and love it.

[vudu]

Quote
Originally posted by: Rhoq
I already own a Toshiba HD-A2. I wouldn't have a need for 2 HD DVD players.

You also already own a Wii.  I don't think this product is really for a consumer like you.

[UncleBob]

I doubt you'll see the A2s on sale again (this season, that cheap, at Wal*Mart, at least......

Unfortunately, my store didn't even get any.