I'm confused on what streams 4k to a 4k TV. It seems like it's only the TV itself at this point. Is this correct?
currently there really is not anything that does 4K. They are working on an update to bluray to give the higher resolution, but I wonder if they are really going to do this. Considering that film to many of the movie theaters is not even in 4k.
So shy of a few demo disks and such.. you are correct. it currently is rather pointless
Not entirely true. There are some youtube streams that are 4K, and I believe Netflix has a few things as well. How you get them ON to the TV is another question, of course...
The higher end Amps, are using Qdeo and the likes for up conversion. But currently only from HDMI to HDMI conversion.
The Marantz 009 series claims to up convert analog to 4K as well.
Sony also has a 4K video service. But I'll be waiting for the new UHD Blu-rays to start coming out before even looking at getting into 4K.
Our Dish DVR shows that we can watch some streaming movies in 4K, but like the YouTube and Netflix, streaming is still not as good as a downloaded digital version or a media based option for 1080p HD, so in 4K it probably isn't that great on a monster TV without native content.
The streaming providers mainly have upscaled video, the same thing that a 4K TV can do, but upscale, even with great algorithms behind it, still isn't "true" 4K.
SO it is a mixed bag from 4K content, HOWEVER, 4K TVs tend to have better imaging technology in them for better colors, contrast, black levels, etc. So a "4K" TV should be the best option for watching 1080p HD, upscaled or not.
Some of the trade publications out there (in print or online) have said that for a little while now that the best quality TVs seem to be 4K TVs even if not watching 4K content.
The in store models of 4kUHD have really bright detailed pictures around 900 for a 40 inch.(Samsung)