the problem of providing higher-resolution audio on a disc that can still be played on conventional CD players. DualDiscs took the approach of using a double-sided disc to provide the necessary backwards compatibility; hybrid SACDs are a one-sided solution that instead use two layers: a conventional CD layer and a high-resolution layer. Hybrid SACDs claim a higher compatibility rate with conventional CD players than DualDisc, because hybrid SACDs conform to Red Book standards. However, a SACD or SACD-capable DVD player is required to take advantage of the enhanced SACD layer. With a DualDisc, consumers could use their existing DVD player to hear surround mixes. (DVD-Audio capable players are required for higher-resolution audio, if present.) In 2005, it was estimated that 75% of households in the United States have at least one DVD player. Criticisms There are numerous criticisms about DualDiscs, ranging from size to DualDiscs being more fragile than conventional CDs. Manufacturer warnings A number of electronics companies such as Lexicon, Marantz, Mark Levinson, Onkyo, Panasonic, Pioneer, and Sony (both its Computer Entertainment and Electronics divisions) issued statements warning consumers about possible problems with playing DualDisc titles on their equipment. These warnings ranged in severity from DualDiscs simply not working with the equipment to actual damage to the disc and/or equipment. Meridian Audio, Ltd., on the other hand, issued a statement that "no harm or damage whatsoever" would be caused to the player or the disc if DualDiscs were used on their equipment, but noted that their players with DVD drives would not reliably play the CD layer. Legal controversy There was some controversy surrounding the DualDisc format, as Dieter Dierks, the inventor of the DVDplus specification, claimed that DualDisc technology is in violation of his European patents. This delayed the release of DualDisc titles in Europe, with them eventually hitting European shores in September 2005. The first British artist to announce a DualDisc release of his album was Sony/BMG recording artist Will Young. See also List of DualDisc releases DVDplus Total HD SACD HDCD References Surroundablog, August 26, 2004 The Online Reporter, Issue 446, May 28-June 3, 2005 Billboard, 2005-05-19 International Herald Tribune, 2005-03-21 USA Today, 2005-04-25 Columbia ISA DualDisc Guide High Fidelity Review, 2004-11-02 RedBook CD Audio specifications, November 1991 (pp. 3) European Patent Office External links Official Website DualDisc licensing Audiovisual introductions in 2004 Audio storage Certification marks DVD Video storage Products introduced in 2004