Toshiba Announces 3rd Generation Players

As the hi-def wars rage into their second year, Toshiba has announced the release of third generation models for all their HD DVD players.

The cheapest of the three, the entry-level HD-A3 ($299), will have 1080i output, while the other two players - the HD-A30 ($399) and the HD-A35 ($499) - will be capable of 1080p output.

Additionally, the HD-A30 and A35 allow users to play movies back at the 24 frame per second rate - the rate native to actual film. Both also feature "CE-Link" which allows users to turn on their player and television set at the same time.

The more expensive HD-A35 also includes "Deep Color" support for HDMI; 5.1 channel analog; and high bit rate 7.1 audio.

All models are due in stores sometime in October.