C|Net Has An Excellent Technology Primer on 3D Equipment...

Sometimes there is an article posted that challenges the 3D depths to which I would go and this is one of them. Excellent content and comparison journalism here between the new Dolby 3D technology and the current mainstay, Real D. Check out this outstanding review on C|Net News.

For the record I welcome the Dolby camp into the foray, but still lean toward the Real D solution due to the MUCH cheaper glasses (a huge component in the acceptability of the 3D technology) which in turn lends itself to branded, personable, take home 3D glasses. I do not want to wear someone else's glasses even if they have been "washed".

I believe we are first generation with this new technology and further developments will bring a balance between pragmatic needs and the consumer's fickleness. Stay tuned for more details soon on the technology from various camps, including the Cameron/Pace Fusion System in use for "Avatar".

POST UPDATE: Theaters considering the options have to weigh several concerns, among them financial. Dolby 3D sells its equipment for about $18,500, whereas Real D rents it for about $20,000 a year. But Dolby 3D's complicated glasses cost about $50 each to 50 cents for Real D's disposable plastic ones. Dolby 3D can use ordinary white movie screens, but not necessarily the largest ones; Real D needs special $5,500 silver screens to be installed but can use larger ones, permitting more audience members to watch a single screening.
Source C|Net News