Let the hive mind of Engadget get that for you.
"I've found myself using my PC for a lot of conversations lately, and I'm also considering recording a podcast to share with anyone who will listen. There are tons of USB headset / microphones out there, and I'm hoping someone has some solid recommendations based on experience. I'll consider both headsets and standalone mics, by the way, but I'd like to keep the bill under $100 if possible. Help!"
I think Sony is credited with the format simply because it is the largest of all the other companies and packs a better punch when bringing new standards to the market. Sony is the unwritten standard that all electronics are compared to so if they are coming out with a new high definition player and format, it must be good because it is Sony. This is the reasoning that most people have.
From a retail standpoint, I think this format can not loose, they have too many manufacturers backing it and movie studios putting out new releases. With the PS3 coming in a few months, Sony will have more BRD players sold by Christmas than Toshiba will have sold all year.