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RCA Selectavision SFT100W (CED)

RCA Selectavision SFT100W (CED)

RCA finally launches their videodisc system, a format called Capacitance Electronic Disc (CED). The player goes for $500 and the discs in the $20 range. The first title to roll off the presses is Race For Your Life, Charlie Brown (1977).

Laserdisc Is Rolled Out Nationally

After having tested their laserdisc system in several U.S. cities for almost two years, MCA and Philips roll out their laserdisc system nationally. This comes just in time for Christmas, and several months before RCA’s own videodisc launch.

MCA Dramatically Increases the Cost of their Laserdiscs

During the test roll out (with several more cities added), MCA realizes that it was actually costing a lot more to press the discs than initially thought. All the discs are given a 50% – 60% price hike. This move taints videodisc’s reputation, making the...
Magnavox Magnavision HR-8000 / Discovision (Laserdisc)

Magnavox Magnavision HR-8000 / Discovision (Laserdisc)

MCA and Philips do a soft launch of the Magnavox Magnavision HR-8000 Laserdisc (or laservision) player ($695). Its only made available at three authorized retailers in Atlanta, Georgia. Whereas Philips supplied the players (through their American subsidiary,...