High Def Disc Players Review

[gparris]

Blu-ray players:


Panasonic DMP-BD65/85K
Cons:
1 GB memory for downloads must be purchased separately
No analogue 5.1/7.1 audio outputs
Somewhat slower than other Blu-ray players
Drop down for SD card insert
Pros:
Excellent DVD playback and BD playback
Wi-Fi built in for access BD Live, UTube, Pandora, Netflix (BD65K is Wi-Fi Ready)
Dolby TRUEHD and DTS-HD MA internal decoding
Dolby TRUEHD and DTS-HD MA bitstream output for AVRs that decode
VIERA cast technology for videos and photo share
Profile 2.0


Sony PS3 and "Slim"
Cons:
It is a game-player first, BD player second, may be different for HT folks not used to gaming consoles
Bluetooth remote optional, game controller maybe difficult for some to use to play BD discs
Bluetooth-only remote operation not usable for Universal remotes that use IR only; Exception: Harmony remote using one PS3 port.
No analogue outputs for those with older AVRs for advanced audio output
Decodes advanced audio codecs internally-only, no bitstream output for external decoding on AVRs
NOTE: Newest PS3 "SLIM" has bitstream ability for AVR decoding of advanced audio codecs, fewer inputs, no back off switch, fewer indicator lights, dull finish
Generates a good deal of heat - limits its use in more confined areas like HT racks
Pros:
Fast loading, great interface with optional remote.
Great picture and audio.
Slot loading, no tray.
BD Profile 2.0/3D available
NOTE: Newest PS3 "SLIM" has lighter, smaller footprint, uses less energy
Dolby TRUEHD and DTS-HD MA internal decoding for PCM HDMI output.
Gaming as an added bonus!


Sony BDP-S370
Cons:
No external 5.1 or 7.1 analogue audio output jacks
No 1 GB memory, must purchase separately, could be a problem with newer BD's
Must do upgrade to 3D capability
Panel controls somewhat difficult to use
Pros:
Slim, lightweight design, faster loading than previos models
Internal Dolby TRUEHD and DTS-HD MA decoding
Internet Wi-Fi ready
Dolby TRUEHD and DTS-HD bitstream output for external AVR decoding
Profile 2.0

Sony BDP-S470
Cons:
Still lacks 1 GB memory for playback or newer BD's
Panel controls somewhat difficult to use
Must download the 3D app
Pros:
3D ready
Dolby Digital TRUEHD decoding, DTS-HD MA internal decoding, including bitstream out for AVRs that decode
BD-Java capability 2.0
WiFi- ready for wireless connectivity for upgrades and BD-Live interactivity, including Netflix, Pandora and others.

Sony BDP-570
Cons: Price higher than other comparable BD players in Sony line (but you get more value).
Rated slightly less (Very Good) in BD playback in video-based content, excellent in film based (movies) content.
No 7.1 analogue outputs
Must download the 3D upgrade
Panel controls somewhat difficult to use
Pros:
Faster loading than the PS3
Dolby TRUEHD and DTS-HD MA internal decoding
Dolby TRUEHD and DTS-HD MA external bitstream output for AVR decoding
3D ready, download availalble
INCLUDES 1 GB memory for downloadable content and better BD playback
Eject button on remote is back again
Wi-Fi built in
SD card access without drop down panel
Supports BD profile 2.0

Sony BDP-S770
Cons: Price higher than other comparable BD players in Sony line (but you get more value).
No 7.1 analogue outputs
Pros:
Faster loading than the PS3
Dolby TRUEHD and DTS-HD MA internal decoding
Dolby TRUEHD and DTS-HD MA external bitstream output for AVR decoding
3D is loaded already, no need for download
INCLUDES 1 GB memory for downloadable content and better BD playback
LIGHTED REMOTE
More solid design and feel, better front panel controls
INCLUDES 3D Blu-ray Movie
Wi-Fi built in


LG BD550
Cons:
No Wi-Fi built in
No 5.1/7.1 analogue audio outputs
No optical digital output for older AVRs
No SD card slot, check for ability to upgrade memory
Pros:
Dolby TRUEHD and DTS-HD MA internal decoding, bitstream output for both codes to AVR
Excellent DVD upscaling

LG BD570/590
Cons:
No mention of analogue outputs
Neither is 3D capable
Pros:
Dolby TRUEHD and DTS-HD MA internal decoding
Bitstream audio output to AVR
Wi-Fi built in on both
250GB on 590 for saving available content
Excellent DVD upscaling


Samsung BD-C5500
No external 5.1 or 7.1 analogue audio output jacks
No 1 GB memory, must purchase separately, could be a problem with newer BD's
Not 3D ready
Samsung BD players have had reported worse-than-average record in quality
Pros:
Internal Dolby TRUEHD and DTS-HD MA decoding
Internet Wi-Fi ready, setup for streaming and BD live
Dolby TRUEHD and DTS-HD bitstream output for external AVR decoding
Profile 2.0


Samsung BD-C6500
Cons: Not 3D ready
Samsung BD players have had reported worse-than-average record in quality.
Pros:
Dolby TRUEHD and DTS-HD MA internal decoding
Dolby TRUEHD and DTS-HD MA external bitstream output for AVR decoding
Has 7.1 analogue outputs
Includes 1 GB memory for downloadable content and better BD playback
Wi-Fi built in for Netflix, etc. access
BD profile 2.0

Samsung BD-C6900
(Same features as the above C6500, only different appearance)
Cons:
Pricier than most, you pay a premium of the 3D capability
Pros: 3D ready

[Gregg Lengling]

Stuck!pyth No problemo!

[gparris]

Thank you!:wave:

[waterhead]

Stuck!pyth No problemo!

AHA! A Monty Python fan!

[gparris]

Added several other models to the original listing, including the LG player Combo player, which has had mixed reviews in avsforum.

It is currently available at Best Buy and Circuit City, among others.:D

[SRW1000]

There's also the 360 HD DVD addon, which is the cheapest option if you own a 360.

Scott

[SRW1000]

And the Toshiba HD-XA1, which is discontinued, but can be found online for around $400.

Scott

[gparris]

Added the last two items, thank you SRW1000 :wave:
(If there is any other "Con" to the HD-DVD addon to XBOX, let me know.)

[kevbeck122]

For the 360 add on some cons are:
Analog output only (1080p over VGA if your TV supports it); rumored 360 v2 has HDMI
All audio is downconverted to DD5.1 (could be a positive if that's all your receiver can handle)

Otherwise picture is excellent and load times are fast.

[Den Mayer]

I have a pile of 1280 by 1520 CD JPEG digital photos..... (About 1 meg per pic)

On my PC, JPEGS look nice; on my SD DVD at 480i they look
pretty bad as a slide show.

Buy running this same CD JPEG slide show through an HDMI or DVI

HD DVD or BluRay, will the JPEG CDS reveal a high quality HD picture????

What's the cheapest way to upgrage the CD JPEG HD viewing??

[gparris]

The specs on the players do not reveal your format's playback, I could be wrong.

I would archive the data and transfer it to a HD-DVD recorder or Blu-ray burner, possibly on the new Sony VAIO computer if these are equipped that way by now.

[Den Mayer]

Correction on my HDTV CD slide Show JPEG Format................

JPEG file size is ~ 1 MB JPEG format is 2048 by 1536

Question is how do I get HDTV picture Quality on this

slide show CD data via a HD OR BluRay or ? player, IF possible??

I will use DVI or HDMI cables.....

[gparris]

Added the new Toshiba HD-DVD player to list.
See: http://www.ultimateavmag.com/hddiscplayers/0107toshhda20/

[SRW1000]

Added the last two items, thank you SRW1000 :wave:You're welcome. I'm glad to see this thread.

If anyone sees any local deals on high definition players, can they be posted here? I really want to get one, but my wife and I have settled on a limit of $250.

That only leaves the Xbox add on, but I'm not sure I'd be happy with the audio.

We're at the beginning of a very exciting time, especially since NetFlix and Blockbuster rent out high-def versions at no added cost.

Scott

[gparris]

This thread was made a sticky, not a discussion thread, it is primarily as an information thread for high def players-only.

You can link back to this thread when shopping or comparing player types and availablity at your favourite stores.

Discussion about formats, discounts and the like should be in new thread(s), thank you.

[Blitzburgh]

Added the last two items, thank you SRW1000 :wave:
(If there is any other "Con" to the HD-DVD addon to XBOX, let me know.)


It is not a PS3....lol

PS3's :rock:

[gparris]

Quote: "It is not a PS3....lol "

Gee, thanks for the constructive and helpful posting.:rolleyes:

The HD DVD add on continues with the newer version of the XBOX 360, though it is not available as a built-in HD DVD drive like the PS3.
Seems as though Microsoft does not want it that way, still.:confused:

(IMO, maybe if HD DVD does not survive, this could become a problem so it is still an addon device-just a possiblity.)

FYI, lets keep this thread to adding new product listings-only...thank you.

[Mark Strube]

It should also be added that the Xbox 360 drive provides no digital video output - only component or VGA. (Until the new deluxe 360 is released.) Also, there's currently a bug where it kills the dynamic range on any Dolby Digital Plus track, leaving it sounding very flat. It converts all the other sound formats just fine, however. There's supposedly been an update on its way, but that's been claimed since last year, so I wouldn't count on it being too soon.

[gparris]

Thanks for the input, I will see if that can be edited in somehow.;)

[gparris]

The high-def disc format player listing has been updated today.
Though this thread is not a place for discussion, it is more of a place for updating the listings given and constructive suggestions.
If I have missed any currently-available products or have something that needs to be changed, any constructive comments will be appreciated...thank you.;)

[gparris]

Just added more high def DVD players to the list with updates on others.

Seems like high def players are here to stay with more features, more models and lower prices - check out the first page of listings!:wave:

[Cheesehead Dave]

Sony PS3
Cons:
Bluetooth-only remote operation not usable for Universal remotes that use IR only

I picked up one of these (http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/22/nyko-introduces-bluwave-ps3-remote-ships-ps3-charge-base/) and was able to get it to work with my Harmony remote; the codes were already in there, so there was no manual programming needed.
Pros:
You can now use your universal remote to playing DVDs with your PS3.
Can be had for $15.

Cons:
Takes up one of the USB ports with the dongle.
If plugged in when you start up the system, gets assigned as controller #1.

[gparris]

I picked up one of these (http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/22/nyko-introduces-bluwave-ps3-remote-ships-ps3-charge-base/) and was able to get it to work with my Harmony remote; the codes were already in there, so there was no manual programming needed.
Pros:
You can now use your universal remote to playing DVDs with your PS3.
Can be had for $15.

Cons:
Takes up one of the USB ports with the dongle.
If plugged in when you start up the system, gets assigned as controller #1.

Thanks, I did the update to this listing.:wave:

[gparris]

For tracking what releases are out, what their features are and stats as to what is offered on both, I have some links some might find useful:
http://www.blu-raystats.com/index.php?OrderBy=Audio for Blu-ray
AND
http://www.hddvdstats.com/index.php for HD DVD

Sometimes if you are about to get a player, you wonder as to which of its features are the most useful to have and based on the stats of the discs given in these links, you can decide for yourself.;)

[RLJSlick]

Great info THANKS!!

[bubbaridesfast]

I have a lot of PAL format dvd's. Does anyone know if any of the HD-DVD or Blu-Ray players can play both PAL and NTSC like alot of $35 SD dvd players now can?

[RLJSlick]

http://www.engadget.com/2007/10/25/wal-mart-selling-toshibas-a2-hd-dvd-player-for-199/

[gparris]

I have a lot of PAL format dvd's. Does anyone know if any of the HD-DVD or Blu-Ray players can play both PAL and NTSC like alot of $35 SD dvd players now can?

Tried checking, cannot locate any information.
- If that is all you're going to want to play are PAL DVDs, keep your old $35 DVD player hooked up.;)
HD DVD players are region free, unlike BDs from what I have read, so these can be a better bargain that way, besides the new pricing (see engadget link).:D

[bubbaridesfast]

I wish it was that simple but you are familiar with the WAF right? I currently do not have a PAL capable player and only have room for 1 dvd player in this (small) old house.

I hope to be able to remedy all by getting a new player one day capable of everything. It makes no sense that all dvd players can't play both PAL and NTSC, in Europe it is a requirement I'm told which is partially why the really cheap players here do (simpler to just distribute 1 version of a product).

I currently edit the IFO files in PAL dvd's to "trick" my Sony into thinking the disc is NTSC. Of course this is only possible when burning a dvd. But I have to do this for dvd titles not available with an NTSC version.

Thanks for the engadget link, nice to see price drops but I'll still be on the format fence unless the combo players really drop. I was burned once on a $1100 Beta machine.:mad:

I was reading the owners manual online for that Toshiba HD-DVD player and it shows it is NTSC only on page 69:mad: :mad:

[gparris]

Note: I have updated the listings again for the high def disc players.

IF there is anything to add or any constructive comments, please post...thank you!:wave:

[vertigo]

HD-DVD players:

Toshiba HD-XA2]
Cons:
More costly than the list price of HD-A2
NOW DISCONTINUED - See A35 model
Pros:
Offers 1080p output
HDMI 1.3 support
Backlit remote
Better DVD upconverting ability than the HD-A2
Analogue 5.1 outputs for AVRs without HDMI inputs



The XA2 does offer Bitstream audio via its latest firmware update.

[gparris]

Today I added and changed the high-def disc player listings, bringing the BD players list to the top, adding and deleting as I felt was necessary.
If anyone wants me to add a BD player I missed to the list of the BD players or offer any constructive additions to the current listings, please reply...thank you!:wave:

[mr.kstr70]

Best Buy offering $50 gift cards for anyone that purchased a HD-DVD player from them. Only certain models apply, see link.

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp;jsessionid=STXP05M4GB15XKC4D3HFAHI?id= pcmcat147600050717&type=category

[brewtownska]

To add to that Best Buy info, I can also confirm if you bought a player via the Best Buy For Business website, you will get the $50 rebate. I called BBFB to ask that question yesterday and they assured me that they were covering both sites.

Mike

[flash]

I read that BB will give you credit for ALL HD DVD equipment and movies. They would not disclose how much they will credit but something is better than nothing. From what I read, they aren't even asking people to return the players!

.......now if Wally World would do the same thing...... at least I was able to get a great up converting player for $95.

[gparris]

UPDATE: The Sony BDP-S300 offers Dolby TRUEHD internal decoding, finally, as promised with a software update.

A bit late, but for those who have the player already and didn't buy the 350 model, you are set, at least for Dolby TRUEHD.
See:http://www.engadgethd.com/2008/09/02/bdp-s300-firmware-4-20-adds-dolby-truehd-support-finally/

BTW, I was a a Wal-Mart recently and saw the price of $249 for this model, similar to the SONY Outlet in Pleasant Prairie, too, along with BD's priced at $19.94.:D

[gparris]

-I just did an update of the Blu-ray players as newer models are coming in the next month of so, but only for the newly-added models that are $399 and below.
The trend in the newer models is internal DTS-HD MA decoding vs. just bitsteam output to newer AVRs, WiFi connectivity, Profile 2.0, better DVD upscaling, slimmer profiles and faster load times.
As for the DTS-HD MA internal decoding in the newest BD players, this is long overdue, as many of the newer BD releases are in DTS-HD MA than ever before.

[gparris]

Another update of the current "crop" of Blu-ray players as found in many stores done today.
While there are some not included (Sharp, Insignia), I tried to list the best or better models within a comparable price range.

[gparris]

I did another update on the newer BD players out there on store shelves that are in the $250-or less price range.
While there are cheaper ones out there, many may not offer what is now considered more mainstream, like internal decoding of Dolby TRUEHD and DTS HD Master Audio and BD profile 2.0.
The "new rage" is 3D capabilty, but you can pay a lot more for this feature.
Other trends are:
- 7.1 analogue outputs are available on fewer BD models.
-Wi-Fi capable or built in Wi-Fi for internet access and features like Pandora and Netflix are becoming standard.
-1 GB internal memory standard, important when you are playing more recent Blu-ray Discs and the disc takes what seems to be forever to load (or never does), without it.