First there were 3D LCDs, now we’ve got a 3D plasma in the lab, and yesterday Mitsubishi announced the arrival of 3D DLP TVs with huge screen diagonals. Although the prices vary widely depending on the exact size, some models are surprisingly cheap.

April 9, 2010 — Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America (MDEA) has published details of its 2010 range of 3D TVs. Available with 60-, 65-, 73-, and 82-inch screen diagonals, the TVs use DLP technology (see box below) and require viewers to wear active shutter glasses.

Other features found in the various series include built-in 5.1-channel sound bars (only the 838 series), multimedia streaming via PC networks, and StreamTV technology. The latter allows users to access online libraries of entertainment content and applications such as Flickr and Facebook. The TVs can also display news from the Associated Press or New York Times, for example.

MDEA is releasing three new 3D TV series: The cheapest, the 638 series, lacks streaming technology and internet access, but includes a 60-inch model, the WD-60638, for just 1,199 USD (about 800 GBP) — very cheap for a 3D TV. The 738 series, which offers more sophisticated video processing and is the first to offer StreamTV and network playback, begins at 1,399 USD (900 GBP) for a 60-inch model.

The 838 series offers StreamTV, network playback, and a 5.1-channel soundbar, and comes in 65-, 73-, and 82-inch screen diagonals. By the time you reach the WD-82838 (the 82-inch 838-series model), the price climbs to an imposing 4,499 USD (about 2,900 GBP). Mitsubishi hasn’t yet announced UK pricing and availability.