There’s nothing worse than throwing in your favorite movie and watching it half way through only to have it skip and freeze at the most critical point. At this point you would go and try to clean the disc, only to find deep scratches that could only be repaired by buying a new one. VenMill believes they have found the method to repair these scratches with their system called OptoClear, which will be implemented into the Skip-Away. OptoClear works by heating the metal of the DVD until it is malleable. When pressure is applied to the now bendable disc, the scratches are smoothed to a disc like new. The whole process is finished with a light polish to make it all sparkly clean.

The Skip-Away, which will be released in June, will allow home users to complete this whole method in the comfort of their own homes. Aside from its repair mode, the Skip-Away also has a cleaning mode to make those damn stray fingerprints disappear. Sadly, Blu-ray discs will not be able to use the OptoClear system because of its thinner metal coating. HD-DVD’s on the other hand, do work. The Skip-Away will be available for around $250 with replacement polishing pads costing $20 each. — Andrew Dobrow

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Sharp Japan has announced its 6x blue-violet laser capable of burning double dual sided Blu-Ray and HD-DVD discs. The diodes which emit the laser are planned to begin mass production in May with an output of 210 mW, which puts this laser as the world’s most powerful. The device could be used in the ever expanding market for HD-DVD 1080 pixel recorders. The diode also has a life of 10,000 hours of service. A unheard of amount of time for a typical laser burning diode.

Sharp says that the 6x laser is not the end. In 2008, Sharp says an 8x will be released and a 10x for 2009. Blu-Ray might be a passing fade, but we think HD-DVD is here to stay and will continue to be all the rage until ruled obsolete. The technology for LCD TV’s and HD recorders are at an all time high and are still rising. This new laser marks a landmark for HD progress. — Andrew Dobrow

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Sony’s new Bravia XBR is a massive 70 inches of pure LCD madness. With a super high def resolution of 1,920 pixels by 1080 pixels, not only is the XBR absolutely gigantic, but as high definition as your gonna get right now. Now might be a good time to wipe the drool from your chin.

The Bravia Engine Pro engine, which takes non-HD programs and converts them to a higher quality picture, will also be included. Not only Blu-Ray and HD-DVD systems will make this kitty purr. DVD players will look just as fantastic.

With the XBR’s 178 degree viewing angle, reflections and darkness won’t ruin the LCD for large groups. The XBR can be viewed in good quality in most of all sitting angles, instead of only receiving great picture from the center seat.

Of course, the XBR has a price tag as large as its 70 inch size. A awe inspiring $33,000 will be needed to purchase your own when it hits stores next month (or you could buy a used luxury car). Is it worth it? You be the judge. — Andrew Dobrow

Sony Bravia XBR 70 inch LCD [Newlaunches]