Blu-spec CD: Sony's New Audio Format Based on Blu-ray

Earlier today Sony announced a new audio format, Blu-spec CD. As the name implies it is based on Blu-ray digital video technology. It hasn't been made clear, but according to the initial press release--very roughly translated from the original Japanese--the format complies with the standard for conventional CDs, meaning that Blu-spec CD discs should work in any CD capable device, along with I'm sure, any Blu-ray player. How it manages this has yet to be fully explained, but I'm sure this is on the way.


So, why the new format? I'm assuming the idea is that the new format features higher quality audio than allowed through the existing CD technology--perhaps when played through an appropriately 'Blu-' device--although I haven't seen this confirmed anywhere. Also, I'm sure that Sony likes the idea of the possibility of hooking consumers on a format tied to their Blu-ray technology, but that is not limited to a Blu-ray or Blu-spec compatible device. Regardless, until we hear more on the format all I can think of at this moment is history.

Compact Discs were an outgrowth of Laser Disc technology. Oh yeah, Laser Disc. Did you ever know anyone who actually owned laser discs? The quality was fantastic, but the only place I ever actually watched them was at school or the library--yes being tight with the AV dept paid dividends--since organizations were the only consumer groups that could afford to collect them. Because of this cost Laser Disc technology went the way of the dodo, leaving us with its audio cousin the CD. Interestingly the public relatively quickly accepted the high cost of CDs (at their release CDs cost around $13-$14 vs. the same recording on vinyl costing about $8-9). This price jump was sold to the public as temporary but of course never returned to pre CD price points, but that's another story. As I sit here writing, I've just received an email advertising a "Blow out" sale of Blu-ray titles from Warner Bros. None on the list are cheaper than $14.95. I'm still waiting for Blu-rays to get to a true bargain price (<$12) and until they do my collection won't grow much, and my PS3 is only being used for video games. I'm down with that but wonder if history will repeat itself in some way? Part of the Blu-spec press release noted indicates that 60 audio titles will be launched in Japan beginning December 24th priced at $25. These will include classical music recordings like Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9, assorted rock classics from groups like Aerosmith and the Byrds and jazz classics like Miles Davis’ Kind of Blue. Sounds to me like Sony has the audiophile crowd covered here, but at $25 per recording I have to wonder who else will be on board and again, why the new format? Although I hope I'm wrong, all I can foresee at this point is a sad little collection of Blu-spec CDs keeping my sad little collection of Blu-rays company.