UPDATED: In addition to the flaws listed below, the DVD case literally just fell to pieces in my hands. I opened the case to put the DVD in and the hinge on the back of the case split in two, making the case absolutely useless. Prior to the case falling apart, I noticed that the DVD doesn't seem to want to stay securely fastened once inserted in the case. This has all occurred within 48 hours of my receiving this item. All in all, I've decided to return this product as it's not worth the money.
Here's my original review:
I have to say I am disappointed in the quality of the DVD, it's case, and the materials on the disc. I rented the first Avia DVD years ago and it was useful, even without the color filters. The menus in this version are definitely better, in that they are more user friendly and easily accessible. Honestly though, if you own or have access to the original Avia DVD, don't bother purchasing this one.
The tests seem the same as in the first version. The audio tests are exactly the same (the background video used in this version's audio tests is different, though). The video tests seem the same, but the explanations aren't as detailed; you have to listen to one of two actors explaining briefly what the test does, if you don't already know. As another reviewer pointed out, the information for the tests isn't as thorough as it was on the first Avia DVD. The info seems streamlined and edited down.
There is a "bonus" materials section, but the features are really weak: some raw footage of a NASA launch (which doesn't use any surround sound, but it looks nice), three Dolby Digital ads -- thankfully in surround sound, and a list of credits.
The legendary Avia color filters are single thin strips of plastic, sandwiched between pieces of tissue paper, all of which is hidden inside the folded 2 page chapter guide located in the front of the case. Avia didn't bother to spend the money to put the filters in a plastic holder or even a cheap cardboard frame, so that all 3 filters(red, green, and blue) could be handled more easily and would be less likely to be lost or damaged. That is not really on par with paying $40 for this kind of product, in my opinion.
Similar to the experience of another reviewer, my DVD case is damaged and not because of shipping. The clear plastic cover slip is coming unglued from both the front and back panels of the case. This was with normal handling of the case and was present as I carefully unwrapped the protective plastic wrapping from the DVD. What's the point of protecting something that's falling apart? Again, I expect a little bit more from a DVD that I paid $40 for.
Finally, the info presented by the two actors feels rushed; it sounds like it was thrown together to simply fill time and cover all the current buzzwords and, at points, it feels a little condescending. Anyone spending money on a calibration DVD probably understands the basic concept of surround sound, which is exactly the information you're provided -- the sound surrounds you. The dialogue and instructions tend to be monotonous and very "talking point"-esque, in that they don't sound natural. It's not the way I would try to explain some of the concepts and techniques to a non-technical friend.
Overall, as I said, I'm disappointed with this purchase since it doesn't seem to be an improvement over the original at all.
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