I do not own any type of AV calibration disk... I think it is time for me to get one.

I heard the HD-DVD version of DVE basically has no instructions and you must use the standard DVD side to get any explanation.

Any thoughts on which one is better for AV calibration?

Should I wait until Jan when the new Avia comes out on DVD?

I wonder if they have anay plans for release on HD DVD...

I would get the DVE, the audio section is much better than the Avia, IMO. I have the newer DVE and Avia and am waiting for Avia II. DVE HD content is in 1080P/24, 720P/24 or 720P/60 and has Dolby true HD and Dolby Digital Plus. I do not have a HD player yet so I can not comment on this portion of the dvd, but the SD is quite good and informative and as I said the Audio section is much better than Avia's. DVE has full spectrum sweeps and 15hz-300hz buzz rattle tests. The Avia is a little too basic, IMO.

cool- the hd dvd/ standard dvd combo disk for DVE is 19.95 from amazon. Supposedly the SD side has all of the explanation and test patterns, but the HD DVD side has no explanation, just test patterns.

Avia II will be $35 from amazon when it comes out in jan.

I have the new Avia II and it works great. The DVE has always been difficult for some per lack of instruction.

According to Ovation, the manufacturer of Avia, Avia II is "available now". Maybe they're fibbing cuz, indeed, both Amazon, Tower, and others say "pre-order" for a January release. Maybe the first run sold out and they are awaiting the second. All I know is I've had a copy of Avia II on my shelf since October.

If you are an owner of the original Avia Guide to Home Theater DVD, you can upgrade to Avia II at the special price of $25.00 plus $8.00 for shipping and handling at Ovation.com. But Tower will be selling it for $31.91 shipped (best price I could turn up with a cursory search), while Amazon will have it for $34.99 shipped.

However, I prefer DVE to Avia. I like it's audio section and test patterns. YMMV. Navigating through DVE is a bit more difficult, but once you've got it figured out, and assuming you are able remember how to do it between uses (that's my problem ), the navigation isn't that difficult.

Terzaghi, just get both as I did, the Avia is better for the video section, at least in the explanation of what, why and how things are done and is easier to navigate as Jack eluded to. Once I watched the Avia, I could then use the DVE disc very easily albeit whith some fumbling through their menu structure.

The DVE HD is a good disk. You have to watch the SD side for the tutorial as the HD side just has test patterns and audio set up. Also, if you select 1080P, you will not see all the test patterns. It is a PITA to navigate.

I prefer AVIA, but it is dated. I'm looking forward to the new one on BR so I can calibrate my BR player, if it ever ships. I suppose I should just call Ovation and order it direct.