I agree. The DVD is one of the best I've seen. I'd rank it up there with North by Northwest, which I think it the best looking DVD available.
I wouldn't waste my money on the BR copies, but I read an interview with Peter Jackson (do not recall where) where he stated how disappointed he was with the theatrical version transfer to BR and that he was personally going to be involved with the extended version transfer. This is also why it is coming out so much later than the theatrical version.
A few friends are already planning a LOTR day in my HT as soon as I get these.
