If you’re crazy for sports, you’re going to be crazier for sports in 3-D.
That’s the assumption behind the deal between Comcast and ESPN announced Wednesday, bringing a new 3-D sports network to digital-cable customers.
Starting with soccer’s World Cup next month, the goal is to deliver more than 100 events in “next generation 3-D” in the first year.
ESPN 3D will sign on the air June 11 with the first 2010 FIFA World Cup match, South Africa vs. Mexico.
The channel will feature up to 25 World Cup matches, as well as college football and NBA games.
Comcast is the first cable operator to sign on to distribute ESPN’s new network. Earlier this year, Comcast offered the Masters golf tournament in 3-D (still available on demand), a much slower-moving 3-D spectacle.
While 3-D is grabbing headlines and TV manufacturers insist 2010 is the year of 3-D, cost is a factor for consumers.
Consumer Reports says 3-D models start at $1,700; bigger sets loaded with bells and whistles run as high as $6,000 to $7,000.
The shutter glasses alone, which alternate images between the left and right lens to simulate 3-D viewing, cost roughly $150 a pair. They work best directly in front of the set, which makes group gatherings for sports viewing tricky.
And the 3-D experience comes with a warning. According to PC World, “3-D TV is not for the drunk, tired or pregnant.” Manufacturer’s warnings similarly state if you’re a teenager or a senior citizen, you shouldn’t necessarily be watching 3-D.
Joanne Ostrow: 303-954-1830 or jostrow@denverpost.com
