I was curious to see what a “Superbit” (high bit rate SD) movie would look like on my XA2.
A little history here, first:
Sony marketed the “Superbit” DVD format back around 2001-03 as a way to view SD DVD at higher (improved) bit rates. To use the higher bit rates, the “extras” on most DVD’s were eliminated in order to give the increased bit rate more room. The sound was also improved utilizing Dolby 5.1 Surround and DTS surround. Both modes sound great. The end result was an improved picture, some quite dramatic, with quality audio.
“Lawrence of Arabia” was my first purchase ($10 bucks, new). The intro sound I chose was DTS, 5.1 surround. Absolutely killer! The picture was absolutely stunning at 1080p up converted on my XA2. If you are a “Lawrence” fan, “Superbit” is the best way to currently view the best picture (Oscar) of 1962!
I’ve since purchased a number of other Superbit titles, with the end result being a near HD quality picture/sound/experience. Pretty cool…
Sony discontinued the “Superbit” titles in 2003, as they did not want it to compete against their Bluray format. (Thanks, Sony…)
While “Superbit” is not “HD”, it can give you a tremendous viewing experience if you have a decent SD upconverting DVD player to take advantage of the improved bit format. My HD XA2 fills this need really well. Check out the “Superbit” titles on Amazon. They are CHEAP!