We've all been wanting real numbers on the market penetration of both formats, and Toshiba shed some light at this morning's press conference.

Shane Buettner posted a Blog late last night about Pioneer's new technology, designed for richer colors, good performance in various lighting environments, deeper blacks, improved video processing, and smooth handling of motion. At the press conference, they announced that new Pioneer plasma designs (42", 50" and 60") incorporating these improvements will appear in stores in Summer 2007. Photos were not available (the photo printed here is of the current model, and odds are it will look similar). And since no specific mention was made of the Elite line, presumably the technology will be made available in all Pioneer models.

Toshiba not only provided more details on its recently released second gen HD DVD players, the HD-A2 ($499) and HD-XA2($999), it shocked the throng of press by announcing the HD-A20, a $599 1080p player that will be available later this year.

Datacolor is promoting their Spyder TV hardware and software by providing FREE hands-on training classes at the Sahara Hotel (Suite 2244) at 10AM and 2PM daily. Spyder TV products are designed to automate and simplify video setup for the end user seeking the best possible picture from his or her display. Calibration essentials include optimizing all user controls both with and without DataColor instruments. Nearly every display technology is represented. Instruction is provided by Gregg Loewen and Michael Chen, two of the most experienced ISF calibrators in the world. More advanced instruction with Spyder TV Pro and ColorFacts software is also being provided for installers and industry professionals.