My thoughts:

The format that will win is almost certain to be 'Blu-Ray'.

The reason has nothing to do with technical superiority, quality of audio or video information or availability. It's far simpler than that.

The marketing people will be able to sell a funky product called 'Blu-Ray' in far greater numbers than something called 'HD-DVD'. When you're hyping something up, a cool name is one of the most important factors, and 'Blu-Ray' scores over 'HD-DVD' in this area. Also, HD-DVD can be seen as just a more expensive DVD - whereas people will see Blu-Ray as a new technology and will be more willing to pay for it, especially if the marketing guys get their act together!

Cheers,

David

596, 551 (pre-amp), 557,
Martin Logan Clarity, Rega P25, Lehmann 'Black Cube'