Does anyone know if a new version of Avia or Digital Video Essentials is planned? I'm planning on purchasing but just wanted to know if a 16:9 version or anything like that is coming.

THanks

Never heard of any rumor on a new Avia or DVE. However, DVE is mastered in HD, so it is a matter of time before they would release a new version of DVE for HD, probably when the HD format war settles, I guess.

The only thing that a 16:9 version would let you do is check the geometery settings, which you probably shouldn't be doing unless you are a trained professional anyway (change the settings).

DVE is a 16:9 reference disc (hence the title "Digital" Video Essentials, as opposed to the previous "VE" release). There are also 4:3 reference materials on DVE, but it's primarily geared for widescreen sets. I believe the latest Avia is also "16x9 friendly", but I don't know for sure.