Archive for January, 2010

Sony BDP-N460 Blu-ray Disc Player (Black)

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Sony BDP-N460 Blu-ray Disc Player (Black)
 
Manufacturer: Sony
Customer Rating:
 
List Price: $249.99
Sale Price: $195.00
Availibility: Usually ships in 24 hours
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Product Description

Experience Blu-ray Disc movies in Full HD 1080p quality with stunning HD sound that supports enhanced audio formats including Dolby TrueHD and dts-HD Master Audio. You can also play and upscale your DVDs to near high definition. Connect to the internet and instantly stream thousands of movies, videos, music and more from Netflix, YouTube, Slacker and other leading content providers with the Sony BDP-N460 Network Blu-ray Disc player.

Product Details

  • Plays Blu-ray Disc movies in Full HD 1080p
  • Instantly streams online entertainment from leading providers
  • Upscales DVDs to near high definition
  • BD-Live ready
  • Dolby TrueHD and dts-HD Master Audio decoding

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Customer Reviews

Love it
 
Review Date: October 21, 2009
Reviewer: Sean Solo, Lexington, KY USA
I wanted a Blu-ray player for two main reasons, 1) to watch Netflix on my TV, and 2) to watch Star Trek: The Original Series (Enhanced) on Blu-ray. I returned an LG BD 390 because a stupid icon kept popping up every time an "alternate angle"/enhanced scene appeared during an episode. This was many times during each episode. It's only on the screen for a few seconds, but you can't turn it off. Contacted LG and they said you can't turn it off and they weren't planning a firmware update to fix it - unacceptable. So now I have the Sony and I am thrilled. No more icon, and I like the option of turning off other icons like "play" and "pause". I think the load time is fine - fast enough for me. I'm anxious to get the Netflix firmware update to try that out. I don't need a wireless Blu-ray as I have wired my basement to get more reliable video streaming. I am very satisfied with this player.

Update as of 11/11/09 - Netflix enabled! Works beautifully so far. Watched a bit of "The Office". Video quality very good. My TV says it was 1080p - cool. I'm guessing that most of the Netflix content will be standard def., though. I watched a few minutes of Enemy Mine and the quality was OK - about like Netflix is on my computer. I'm getting pretty spoiled by hi-def. video after watching Blu-ray movies. Anyway, Netflix is easy to do. Just add movies to your Watch Instantly queue (on your PC), and they're there on TV. Brilliant.
Sony BDP-N460: The PS3 Replacement
 
Review Date: October 20, 2009
Reviewer: J. Ledbetter, Texas
This player is everything the PS3 should be, just without the games. The PS3 was a constant annoyance with the Bluetooth remote, poor game choice, and the lack of any service such as Netflix (the PS Network seemed to have a rather limited selection)... So I decided to liquidate the system and get back in the blu-ray player market.

When this unit loads up, you might think that it is a PS3--the menu is almost exactly the same. The relevant difference is the video options. This is where that laundry list of online video service providers is found. What a list! If all this player could do was play Netflix, it might not be such a compelling player--but it does a lot more than that. What convinced me to buy this unit was it's ability to play Amazon On Demand. It seemed ironic to me that this was not originally an advertised feature on Amazon's website. I had to do some research to verify this capability. In fact, it was a deal-maker for me.

If the PS3 did everything this player does, then I would say to pay a little more and enjoy the near-zero load times and wireless--but it doesn't. Not even close. The PS3 is currently locked into Sony's limited first-party services. This player hopefully signals the future for players, by adding every provider available.

Pros:
- Bravia sync (if you have a compatible Sony television)
- TONS of providers
- Load times are nominal
- Firmware updates were quick out of the box
- Excellent up-conversion of DVD titles
- Lights on player are not at all distracting (and can be adjusted)

Cons:
- Even though I am 1080p resolution, the xcross (system) menu looks low-res.
- Netflix is "coming fall 2009", so there will be a wait on that for now

So far this player highly recommended!

UPDATE: As of 11/11/2009, Netflix is now available. Works flawlessly!
Great Player
 
Review Date: October 27, 2009
Reviewer: Guy in NYC, New York, NY USA
I finally bit the bullet and went blu with this player, my first blu experience. It was extremely easy to set-up out of the box (reminder that you'll need to purchase an HDMI cable separately) and integrate into my system -- and there was no problem networking via a network cable and router into my existing ISP (you'll also need to purchase a network cable separately if you need one). I haven't yet gone wireless so cannot comment on those capabilities. The system upgrade process via the network connection was also easy to set-up and activate. I found the operating manual to be particularly lucid -- rare with most electronics. Immediately downloadable were Youtube content and dozens of other internet channels. It is true that Netflix is tantalizingly "Coming Fall 09" -- but there are hundreds and hundreds of movies already available via download from Amazon, including a huge assortment of HD titles. The overall picture quality has been superb from bluray discs -- and the upconverting on regular DVDs seems significantly better than my existing upconverting DVD player. Loading time is very, very quick -- there have been no stalls or quirks in audio or visuals in loading any of the dozen or so discs that I currently own. As a first time blu ray user, this player has performed flawlessly thus far and it seems to deliver exactly what it promises!
Sexy, Amazing Entertainment
 
Review Date: November 20, 2009
Reviewer: I. Randolph S. Shiner, Del Mar
I received the player this afternoon; by this evening, I had hooked the whole thing up to my Denon receiver with 6.1 surround and was not only amazed with the quality of the upconversion of DVDs (Yellow Submarine - perfect) and audio output, though I have no Blu-ray discs yet. What sets this unit apart from any other piece of A/V equipment I have ever dealt with is the nearly complete integration with the internet, though I do wish there were more choices for internet video offered, as for example Hulu and probably some others. Regardless, the setup of the player itself was very simple, the online setup of my Netflix account -- once I did the firmware upgrade that was easy as anything -- as well as the video quality of the movies that are there is all very, very good. Indeed excellent. The setup of my Slacker and Amazon VOD accounts were likewise very simple. While Netflix is not perfect HD, what I sampled tonight is perfectly watchable. I've read elsewhere that people are dissatisfied with the remote. Get over it. It serves its purpose well. The fact that it's missing an eject button only means that you have to insert each disc one at a time, which requires a trip to the player either way, to put it in or take it out. It's not that big a deal and those who quibble about that are just quibbling over nothing. That it "feels cheap" is also ridiculous. It's a remote, for God's sake, not Lenox china. This is an amazing player out of the box and I can't imagine spending 6x the money and being any happier with this purchase. And I hate Sony for all the usual reasons people hate Sony. Albeit a little less after this evening's experience. Good on them. Great machine. Well done. I can't wait for Wall-E in Blu-ray.
Sony got it right with this one
 
Review Date: December 2, 2009
Reviewer: SeS, USofA
I was about to buy a Roku player for Netflix streaming when I saw this. So, Netflix and more services built into the internet capability, allows for software updates, Bluray native DVD playback - seemed like a good alternative for under $200. Almost too good to be true.

But it's not too good to be true- it's great.

Setup was a breeze - only issue for me was that I had to restart my cable modem in order for the 460 to be recognized. After a few verifications through Sony and netflix, my cue popped up, I was able to log in to Netflix and my instant cue was right there. Tried out both SD and HD content and both streamed smoothly and the HD content looked fantastic. It took about 10 minutes to go from powering on to getting the first streamed content. I didn't even crack the manual.

For those reviewers having issues with internet service playback, I wonder what your bandwidth is? I use comcast, and they recently upgraded their service (was at 6 MBPS and now at 12MBPS - all I had to do was reset my cable modem). Speakeasy speed tests typically show my speed in the 7-10MBPS range. We used to have ATT/bellsouth, and we could only get 2MBPS - if you have "high-speed" service at home, you might want to test that or consider upgrading. I would think that a service that gives you 5MBPS+ would make this thing run smoothly. Less than that and you might get some lag/delay. And I probably should try it at peak neighborhood bandwidth time (occasionally it will drop to 3MBPS), try streaming a HD selection, and see what happens.

Very quiet (some players just hum too much when they are running), the on screen software is almost Apple mac-like in its ease of use, all the setup and options are very clear. Remote is simple and controls volumes and inputs on my Sony TV with no setup (why they didn't put channel up/down on this remote baffles me - if they did, then I could ditch the TV remote-not a big deal). Cool features during DVD playback like a display showing bandwidth use, NPR and streaming radio service, and other internet content I just have no idea what it is. Let's only hope their partnership with these services stays solid and that they are able to expand to others if/when they happen. The load time is very fast, but note that this is an option that you turn off and on. If it's on, it draws more power when it's off to ensure the fast load time. Even with it off, you are looking at 25 seconds. I'd rather have that than know I'm sucking power for 22 hours each day I'm not using the thing.

I've had mixed success with Sony stuff (it's either great or a lemon that you return, it seems), but this is a great product. Highly recommended. Let's hope it is durable and stays solid. Now, if Sony would only come out with this model in a DVD recording version, with a VHS combo unit, and firewire capability, they'd have me buying that too.

LG BD 370 Network Blu-ray Disc Player

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LG BD 370 Network Blu-ray Disc Player
 
Manufacturer: LG
Customer Rating:
 
List Price: $249.95
Sale Price: $269.95
Availibility: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
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Product Description

Blu-ray Disc Player w/ BD-P, Netflix HD, YouTube, CinemaNow Full HD 1080P Output via HDMI, DVD 1080p Up-conversion.

Product Details

  • Blu-Ray Player with NetCast for YouTube
  • BD-P NetFlix HD BD live
  • Full HD 1080p output via HDMI with Cinema mode at 24 or 60 frames per second USB Media Host
  • Superior audio performance with 7.1 channels with Dolby Digital Plus & TrueHD & dts-HD
  • Quick boot with instant tray opening

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Sony BDP-S360 1080p Blu-ray Disc Player

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Sony BDP-S360 1080p Blu-ray Disc Player
 
Manufacturer: Sony
Customer Rating:
 
List Price: $199.99
Sale Price: $139.99
Availibility: Usually ships in 24 hours
Free Shipping Available
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Product Description

The Sony BDP-S360 Blu-ray Disc player provides a movie experience worthy of your HDTV. Plays Blu-ray Disc movies in Full HD 1080p quality and upscales the quality of your DVDs. Supports BD-Live technology to download bonus interactive entertainment on select movies. Supports Dolby TrueHD and dts-HD audio codecs for up to 7.1 channels of high-definition sound. With QuickStart Mode your movies will start approximately six seconds from the moment you turn on the player.

Product Details

  • Blu-ray Disc player with Full HD 1080p output for Blu-ray Discs and upconversion of standard DVD video to 1080p
  • BD Live capable for accessing bonus content from BD-Live Blu-ray Discs via Ethernet port connected to your home network
  • 24p True Cinema capable lets you watch films at their intended 24 fps (frames per second); Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD
  • Outputs: 1 HDMI, 1 component, 1 composite, 1 analog audio (2-channel), 1 digital optical audio, 1 digital coaxial audio, 1 Ethernet
  • Includes remote control and composite AV cable; measures 16.9 x 8.1 x 2.2 inches (WxDxH)

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LG BD 390 Network Blu-ray Disc Player

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LG BD 390 Network Blu-ray Disc Player
 
Manufacturer: LG
Customer Rating:
 
List Price: $299.95
Sale Price: $489.99
Availibility: View Product Availability
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Product Description

Blu-ray Disc Player w/1GB Memory, 7.1 discrete analog output, BD-P, Netflix HD, YouTube, CinemaNow Full HD 1080P Output via HDMI, DVD 1080p Up-conversion.

Product Details

  • Networked Blu-ray Disc player connects to Netflix and YouTube streaming video without a computer via Ethernet and Wi-Fi (802.11n)
  • Full HD 1080p output for Blu-ray Discs and upconversion of standard DVD video to 1080p
  • BD Live capable for accessing bonus content from BD-Live Blu-ray Discs; Dolby TrueHD/Digital Plus and DTS-HD; 1 GB built-in memory
  • Outputs: 1 HDMI, 1 component, 1 composite, 1 analog audio (L/R), 1 digital optical audio, 1 digital coaxial audio, 1 discrete 7.1 channel audio
  • Includes remote control and component AV cable; measures 17 x 2.2 x 10.9 inches

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Panasonic DMP-BD30K 1080p Blu-ray Disc Player

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Panasonic DMP-BD30K 1080p Blu-ray Disc Player
 
Manufacturer: Panasonic
Customer Rating:
 
List Price: $399.99
Sale Price: $349.95
Availibility: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
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Product Description

Blu-ray means incredible full-HD images, breathtaking sound and 5x the data capacity of DVDs. Now Blu-ray means something else too: an entirely new movie-viewing experience, made possible by Final Standard Profile, which adds features never seen before, like four Picture-in-Picture modes including Enhanced Commentary (from directors and actors), Backstage Pass, Peek Behind the Animation and Audio Mixing.

Images So Real, You Feel Like You're in the Picture
Combining a PHL Reference Chroma Processor with advanced P4HD (Pixel Precision Progressive Processing) imaging technology, UniPhier — the Precise Digital Video processor — reproduces crisp, natural colors that are extremely faithful to the original movie. It does this by up-sampling the color information in decoded video signals, while the super high-speed P4HD up-converts content recorded in 480i/p, 720p or 1080i format to 1080p by correctly generating each pixel according to information drawn from up to 60 surrounding pixels. The image motion of each pixel is then categorized into one of 16 levels, from stationary to super fast. Image quality is further enhanced by Diagonal Processing, which creates smooth, sharp diagonal lines, and 3:2 Pull-Down, which optimizes the processing accordingly for film or video making the images look natural and lifelike. In addition, the DMP-BD30's HDMI output is Deep Color compatible, with 4,096 steps of gradation for even smoother, finer-quality images that meet Hollywood's stringent demands, so you can experience movies just the way they were meant to be experienced.

Incredible Sound Completes the Hi-Def Experience
With Precise Digital Audio, Blu-ray's beautiful images are complemented by exceptionally pure, accurate sound thanks to Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD. UniPhier's advanced processing capability decodes these audio signals with high precision and outputs them in bitstream form with no degradation. It also brings re-mastering to Blu-ray for the first time, which compensates for data lost during the compression process creating a fuller, richer sound.

HD Networking with SD Card
The convenient SD card slot on the DMP-BD30 allows easy viewing of hi-def videos and photos on your HDTV. Videos shot with a Panasonic HD camcorder are output in their original 1920x1080 resolution, while still images taken with a Panasonic Lumix digital camera are up-converted and output in 1920x1080 resolution1.

One-Touch Control from Your TV's Remote
With EZ Sync HDAVI Control, you can control your Blu-ray Disc player — and all your home theater components — with your TV's remote2. Simply press the EZ Sync button and select "BD Player" on the menu screen; the BD player's menu will be displayed and you can begin playback.

Product Details

  • Final Standard Profile Blu-ray Player (BD-ROM Profile1 version 1.1)
  • 1080p output: 24p/60p via HDMI v1.3 with Deep Color
  • Up-conversion of standard DVDs to 1080p Playback
  • Dolby True HD Decoder, DTS/DTS-HD High Resolution/Master Audio Decoder
  • Pixel Precision Progressive Progressing for HD

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Panasonic DMP-BD60 All Region Zone free Blu-Ray DVD Player. To play PAL DVDs you must have a PAL TV or Multi System TV
 
Manufacturer: Panasonic
Customer Rating:
 
List Price: Varies based on product options
Sale Price: $269.99
Availibility: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
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Product Description

This Region free version of the Panasonic DMP-BD60 features state-of-the-art technologies for superb picture and sound quality with high-definition Blu-ray Discs. This powerful region free blu ray dvd player can output video in full-HD 1080p resolution and at a film-faithful rate of 24 frames per second. Just connect it to a compatible HDTV, and you'll enjoy smooth images with extraordinary depth and detail. SD Card Slot Also plays VCD, SACD, DVD-Audio, DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+R, DVD+RW, MP3 on CD-R/CD-RW, JPEG Plays Blu-ray high-definition discs with selectable output resolution of 1080p signals available through HDMI only or 720p/1080i signals available through HDMI or component video. plays DVD-Video, DVD-R & DVD-RW, and DVD+R & DVD+RW plays high-def AVCHD files on home-burned DVDs plays MP3 and JPEG files recorded to DVD plays CDs Selectable 720p/1080i/1080p video up-conversion for DVD (upconverted video available through HDMI output only) built-in audio decoding for Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, DTS, and multi-channel uncompressed PCM 7.1-channel bit stream audio output via HDMI BD-Java interactive capability BRAVIA Theatre SyncTM for control of compatible Panasonic TVs and components via HDMI HDMI digital output (combines video and multichannel audio with HDCP copy protection) HDMI version 1.3 with x.v.Color support 1 set of A/V outputs (composite video, S-video, and component video) stereo and 5.1-channel audio outputs coaxial and optical digital audio outputs motorized front panel Built-in Dolby Digital, dts, decoders with 5.1 analog outputs 24/96 compatible digital outputs - optical and coaxial Enhanced Convenience: 216MHz/12-bit video D/A conversion for high picture quality 192KHz / 24BIT Audio D/A Conversion Audio equalizer and 3D reverb

Product Details

  • Plays All Blu Ray Zones: A, B, C & All-Region DVDs: Region 0-6
  • To play PAL DVDs you must have a PAL TV or Multi System TV
  • Future-ready color technology: The Region free Panasonic DMP-BD60 supports new X.V.Color technology. Built-in Dolby Digital
  • Full HD 1080/60p with 24p Cinema Video Output. SD Card Slot
  • Also plays DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+R, DVD+RW, MP3 on CD-R/CD-RW, JPEG

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Panasonic DMP-BD30 - Multi Region Blu Ray PAL/NTSC DVD Player Via HDMI For Worldwide Use - 110V/240V
 
Manufacturer: Panasonic
Customer Rating:
 
List Price: Varies based on product options
Sale Price: $379.00
Availibility: View Product Availability
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Product Description

Multi Region/Region Free version of the Panasonic DMP-BD30 features state-of-the-art technologies for superb picture and sound quality with high-definition Blu-ray Discs. Product Description Blu-ray means incredible full-HD images, breathtaking sound and 5x the data capacity of DVDs. Now Blu-ray means something else too: an entirely new movie-viewing experience, made possible by Final Standard Profile, which adds features never seen before, like four Picture-in-Picture modes including Enhanced Commentary (from directors and actors), Backstage Pass, Peek Behind the Animation and Audio Mixing. Combining a PHL Reference Chroma Processor with advanced P4HD (Pixel Precision Progressive Processing) imaging technology, UniPhier(R) - the Precise Digital Video processor - reproduces crisp, natural colors that are extremely faithful to the original movie. It does this by up-sampling the color information in decoded video signals, while the super high-speed P4HD up-converts content recorded in 480i/p, 720p or 1080i format to 1080p by correctly generating each pixel according to information drawn from up to 60 surrounding pixels. The image motion of each pixel is then categorized into one of 16 levels, from stationary to super fast. Image quality is further enhanced by Diagonal Processing, which creates smooth, sharp diagonal lines, and 3:2 Pull-Down, which optimizes the processing accordingly for film or video making the images look natural and lifelike. In addition, the DMP-BD30's HDMI output is Deep Color compatible, with 4,096 steps of gradation for even smoother, finer-quality images that meet Hollywood's stringent demands. With Precise Digital Audio, Blu-ray's beautiful images are complemented by exceptionally pure, accurate sound thanks to Dolby(R) TrueHD and DTS-HD(TM). UniPhier(R)'s advanced processing capability decodes these audio signals with high precision and outputs them in bitstream form with no degradation.

Product Details

  • The Multi Region DMP-BD30's top-notch video performance is largely due to the Blu-ray Disc format itself.
  • Playback of Blu-Ray DVDs PAL or NTSC from ANY ZONE. Plays PAL/NTSC All-region Blu-Ray DVDs on a PAL or multi-system TV only.
  • Through HDMI Connection it works with all the TVs(PAL/NTSC). Without HDMI, it will only work with a Multi-System TV.
  • SD Card Slot. Also plays VCD, SACD, DVD-Audio, DiVX, DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+R, DVD+RW, MP3 on CD-R/CD-RW, JPEG
  • Selectable 720p/1080i/1080p video up-conversion for DVD (upconverted video available through HDMI output only)

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Panasonic DMP-BD35K 1080p Blu-ray Player

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Panasonic DMP-BD35K 1080p Blu-ray Player
 
Manufacturer: Panasonic
Customer Rating:
 
List Price: $299.95
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Product Description

Amazon.com Product Description Panasonic's two new slim, BD-Live compatible, feature-filled Blu-ray players, the DMP-BD35 and DMP-BD55, offer cutting edge technologies focused on producing the ultimate movie-viewing experience.

front viewThe BD35 and BD55 both feature an HD Audio Decoder (Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital Plus and DTSTM-HD Master Audio Essential), delivering 7.1-channel surround sound through a 7.1-channel receiver equipped with an HDMI terminal. The DMP-BD55 features high-end audio components and can also output analog signals for 7.1-channel sound, so even receivers that are not compatible with HDMI can produce the newest 7.1-channel surround sound.

Both models are equipped with an SD Memory Card slot that makes it easy to transfer images from an HD camcorder or digital still camera that uses SD Memory Cards and are compatible with Panasonic’s VIERA Link function so they can be operated by the VIERA HDTV remote control.

The combination of a Panasonic Blu-ray player, Home Theater audio system and a VIERA HDTV converts the home entertainment experience into a true-to-life cinematic experience. Consumers can now view and enjoy movies the way the film maker intended -- in stunning High Definition video and audio – right from the comfort of their own home.


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True-To-Life Colors with PHL Reference Chroma Processor Plus

The PHL Reference Chroma Processor Plus video processor was developed after more than 15 years of collaboration between Panasonic Hollywood Laboratory and professional cinema studios in Hollywood. With PHL Reference Chroma Processor Plus, users viewing content on Blu-ray Discs enjoy crisp, vivid colors that are extremely close to the original.  A high-precision 4:4:4 function creates video signals in which each pixel of the signal from the Blu-ray Disc is color-compensated, so when the player is connected to a Panasonic VIERA HDTV, the colors are even sharper and more vivid.


UniPhier System

UniPhier is a Panasonic-created system LSI developed by applying 45-nanometer processing to a consumer product – a world’s first.  This single-chip integration technology also contributes greatly to the BD35’s world's slimmest height of 49mm.


Blu-ray Video Features

More Picture

1080p compared to 480iSee Everything Your HDTV Can Show You with Full HD.

6 Times the Picture Data on DVDs
See everything your HDTV can show you. Blu-ray Disc's Full HD 1080p resolution produces over 2 million pixels per frame to produce a razor-sharp picture with unmatched depth and clarity that takes full advantage of the capabilities of today's 1080p HDTVs. That's six times the picture data contained on DVDs, which are encoded at only 480p.

24p True Cinema Video Output
Most of all Hollywood movies are shot at 24 frames per second, and Blu-ray Disc movies are mastered at 24 frame per second. Blu-ray Disc Players can output films at 1080/24p for a true film-like experience at home, as well as 1080/60p for more traditional HDTV sets on the market.

Backwards compatible and Upscaling
All existing Blu-ray Disc players will play your standard DVD collection without a problem. And with built-in 1080p video upscaling, they'll look even better.


More Space
Blu-ray Disc has 5x more storage capacity than DVD, which allows more content to fit on the disc. The extra storage capacity also means more room for special features like inline navigation, Bonus View, interactive games, deleted scenes, director commentary and more
Navigate to special features, other scenes, or settings without leaving the content you are watching.
in movie navigation
Bonus View lets you watch special features and commentary inline without leaving the movie.
bonus view

More Bits

more bitsIn the digital world, picture quality is not just about resolution, but also about bit rates. The higher the bit rate, the more data that is processed, typically resulting in higher video quality. DVDs have a maximum video bit rate of about 10 megabits per second (Mbps). In comparison, Blu-ray Disc is capable of video bitrates up to an incredible 40 Mbps. The bottom line, higher bit rates allow for the least amount of data compression for HD video that looks closest to the original video source.


BD-Live

BD-Live screenshotBoth the BD35 and BD55 feature BD-Live compatibility which enables users to connect to the Internet to download images, subtitles and other data, and take part in interactive activities and multi-player games linked to bonus cinema content found on Blu-ray Discs.

BD-Live is a Blu-ray feature that enables you to access  special content via an internet-connected Blu-ray player. Because it's not coded into the disc, BD-Live content is always updated, always fresh. With BD-Live, your Blu-ray disc is different every time you view it.

Check out the latest previews,  download special scenes, exclusive features and ringtones, and participate in online communities or games.

As BD-Live continues to grow and expand, even more features will become available, customizing features and content to your location or preferences.


Life-Like Surround Sound

The BD35 and BD55 both feature an HD Audio Decoder (Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital Plus and DTSTM-HD Master Audio Essential), which supports the 7.1-channel surround sound newly adopted in Blu-ray Discs.  Users can enjoy 7.1-channel surround even with systems that do not support HD Audio -- as long as the DMP-BD35/55 is connected to a 7.1-channel receiver equipped with an HDMI terminal. The DMP-BD55 can also output analog signals for 7.1-channel sound, so even receivers that are not compatible with HDMI can produce the newest 7.1-channel surround sound by simply connecting to the DMP-BD55.


Dolby TrueHD, Dolby’s next-generation lossless technology developed for high-definition disc-based media, delivers tantalizing sound that is bit-for-bit identical to the studio master.

  • Delivers enthralling studio-master-quality sound that unlocks the true high-definition entertainment experience on next-generation discs.
  • Offers more discrete channels than ever before for impeccable surround sound.
  • Compatible with the A/V receivers and home-theaters-in-a-box (HTIBs) of today and tomorrow.
  • Dialogue normalization maintains the same volume level when you change to other Dolby Digital and Dolby TrueHD programming.
  • Dynamic range control (Night mode) enables you to customize audio playback to reduce peak volume levels (no loud surprises) while experiencing all the details in the soundtrack, enabling late-night viewing of high-energy surround sound without disturbing others.


The Panasonic BD55 goes a step further with a high-end audio design and components. Thanks to a 192kHz 24bit audio digital-analog converter and high quality insulators, electrolytic capacitors, copper-foil film capacitors and ultra-low-impedance electrolytic capacitors, the DMP-BD55 delivers the same kind of exciting surround effect and lifelike ambience as today's finest cinemas. The DMP-BD55 can also output analog signals for 7.1-channel sound, so even receivers that are not compatible with HDMI can produce the newest 7.1-channel surround sound by simply connecting to the DMP-BD55.


HDMI Features

x.v Color

Standard RGB Color Profile
RGB Color Range
xvycc Color
xvYCC Color Range
Standard RGB color space allows the display of a portion of the colors that are viewable to the human eye. The next generation "xvYCC" color space (Extended YCC Colorimetry for Video Applications), or "x.v. color" for shortactually offers  an available range of colors that exceeds what human eyes can recognize.
  • Next-generation "xvYCC" color space supports 1.8 times as many colors as existing HDTV signals
  • Lets HDTVs display colors more accurately
  • Enables displays with more natural and vivid colors

Deep Color
deep color eliminates visible color banding So, where x.v. color expands the available range of colors your HDTV can display, Deep Color increases the number of colors your HDTV can display within that range, for smoother transitions from color to color.
  • Lets HDTVs and other displays go from millions of colors to billions of colors
  • Eliminates on-screen color banding, for smooth tonal transitions and subtle gradations between colors
  • Enables increased contrast ratio
  • Can represent many times more shades of gray between black and white


Connectivity

Both models are equipped with an SD Memory Card slot that makes it easy to transfer images from an HD camcorder or digital still camera that uses SD Memory Cards. Simply insert the SD card into the DMP-BD35/55 and it plays AVCHD-format video images or JPEG stills in full 1920 x 1080 resolution on your flat panel HDTV.  The DMP-BD35/55 can also play slide shows, complete with background music.

The DMP-BD35/55 models are also compatible with Panasonic’s VIERA Link function so they can be operated by the VIERA HDTV remote control.

Inputs/Outputs
  • HDMI
  • Component Video Out (Y, PB, PR)
  • Video Out
  • 2ch Audio Out
  • Digital Audio Out : 1 optical
  • SD Memory Card Slot
  • Ethernet for Network



Specifications

VIDEO

PHL Reference Chroma Processor : Yes
P4HD (Pixel Precision Progressive Processing for HD) : Yes
Precise Pixel Generation : Yes
16-Level Motion Detection w/ Pixel-Based Motion Adaptive : Yes
Diagonal Processing : Yes
3:2/2:2 Pull-Down Progressive Processing : Yes
i/p Conversion for 1080p 3 Playback : Yes
Up-conversion to 1080p 4 Playback : Yes
Video D/A Converter : 148.5MHz/12bit
Progressive Scan : Yes
Digital Noise Reduction : 3D-NR/Integrated NR
1080/24p Playback : Yes
Deep Color : Yes
x.v.Color : Yes
Picture Mode : Yes (Normal/Soft/Fine/Cinema/User)
Picture Adjustment : Yes (Brightness, Color, Contrast, Sharpness, Gamma Correction)

s

Audio D/A Converter : 192kHz/24bit
Dolby Digital/Dolby Digital Plus Decoder : Decode and Bitstream output
Dolby True HD Decoder : Decode and Bitstream output
DTS/DTS-HD High Resolution Audio Decoder : Decode and Bitstream output
96kHz Surround Re-Master : (for all formats)
Advanced Surround (V.S.S.) : Yes
Night Surround Mode : Yes
Dialogue Enhancer : Yes
Dynamic Range Compression : Yes
Audio S/N : 115dB
Dynamic Range : 100dB

CONVENIENT

Super Hi Speed Scan : Yes
Audio/JPEG Navigation Menu : Yes
VIERA Link (HDAVI Control 3) : Yes

INPUT/OUTPUT

HDMI: Support features: Deep Color, x.v.Color, High Bit Rate Audio
Component Video Out (Y, PB, PR) : Yes
Video Out : Yes
7.1ch Audio Out : No
2ch Audio Out : Yes
Digital Audio Out : 1 optical
SD Memory Card Slot : Yes
Ethernet for Network : Yes

FORMAT

BD-ROM Playback : BD-Live
BD-RE / BD-RE DL : BD-MV (BD-RE version3), BDAV (SESF), JPEG (HD)
BD-R/BD-R DL : BD-MV (BD-R version2), BDAV (SESF)
DVD Playback : DVD-Video
DVD-RAM Playback : DVD-VR, JPEG (HD), AVCHD
DVD-R/-RW/-R(DL) 1 Playback : Yes
+R/+R(DL)/+RW Playback : DVD-VR, AVCHD
CD, CD-R/-RW 2 Playback : CD-DA, MP3 (CD-R/-RW only), JPEG (HD) (CD-R/-RW only)
SD Memory Card : AVCHD, JPEG (HD)

POWER

Power Source : AC 120V, 60Hz
Power Consumption : 20W (approx)

DIMENSIONS

Dimensions (H x W x D) : 1 15/16' inches by 16 15/16 inches by 9 13/16 inches
Weight : 5.7 lbs

Product Details

  • Blu-ray Player; BD Live
  • Home Theater audio system and a VIERA HDTV converts the home entertainment experience into a true-to-life cinematic experience
  • VIERA Link: Operate with your VIERA Remote Control
  • SD Card Slot
  • 7.1-channel surround sound.

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Panasonic DMP-BD70V Blu-ray Disc/VHS Multimedia Player
 
Manufacturer: Panasonic
Customer Rating:
 
List Price: $399.95
Sale Price: $429.95
Availibility: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
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Product Description

Panasonic's DMP-BD70V combines a high quality image with enhanced networking functions, including Panasonic's VIERA Cast internet functionality for enjoying online entertainment from YouTube, Amazon VOD, and more. Play back your favorite Blu-ray discs, VHS tapes, CDs, DVDs and more, and enjoy up-conversion to 1080p with formats of lower resolutions. The DMP-BD70V also lets you take advantage of 7.1 channel Blu-ray surround sound, and enhances the sound quality of CDs and other sources.

A high quality image with enhanced networking functions
Click to enlarge

PHL Reference Chroma Processor Plus
Developed in collaboration with Panasonic Hollywood Laboratory, this high image processing technology reproduces clear, vivid colors that are faithful to the original film.

High-Def Audio
Recognizing that audio is important to the overall entertainment experience, Panasonic's three 2009 Blu-ray Disc players feature a high definition audio decoder (Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio Essential) to take advantage of the exceptionally high quality 7.1 channel surround sound now integrated in Blu-ray Discs.

96kHz Surround Re-Master
This function enhances the sound quality of CDs and other sources, and even improves the quality of the multi-channel audio data on Blu-ray Discs and DVDs.

View rear connections
Click to enlarge

Full-function remote included
Click to enlarge

Format-Friendly
The DMP-BD70V distinguishes itself as the world's first dual deck VHS-Blu-ray player, providing the consumer with a video product that features multi-format playback allowing the user to play VHS, CD, DVD and 1080p high definition Blu-ray Discs. The BD70V allows for premium 1080p up-conversion for all video formats.

VIERA CAST
VIERA CAST technology is now available in Panasonic's 2009 Blu-ray players. The internet enabled technology lets the consumer access the internet without the need of either an external box or a PC and enjoy entertainment from sites like Amazon VOD, YouTube, Google's Picasa Web Album, Bloomberg and more. The DMP-BD70V also includes an SD Memory card slot and USB slot, so you can view and share both digital still images and HD video recorded with an HD camcorder in the AVCHD format.

4:4:4 Technology
In order to produce the ultimate picture quality, Panasonic's Blu-ray players employ high precision 4:4:4 signal technology, which working in tandem with PHL Reference Chroma Processor Plus processes each pixel of the Blu-ray Disc video signal in the horizontal direction, to compliment vertical direction processing. P4HD (Pixel Precision Progressive Processing for HD) is another technology that contributes to the superior picture quality of the Blu-ray players. P4HD processes more than 15 billion pixels per second and applies the optimal processing to every pixel. Panasonic's Blu-ray players further utilize 16-level motion detection to categorize the image motion of each pixel into one of 16 levels; diagonal processing to detect diagonals and correct the pixels accordingly; 1080p up-conversion to up-convert content recorded in the 480i/p or 720p format to 1080p. The Blu-ray players also provide 1080/24p output, thereby reproducing cinema images from a Blu-ray Disc and DVD in their original 24p form with no need for conversion. This allows the user to enjoy cinema images in the same format used in cinema with a 1080/24p compatible TV.

Lower Power Consumption
Panasonic's 2009 Blu-ray players use Auto Power Stand-By, a function that automatically turns off the player when you return to TV operation using the VIERA Link menu. In addition, the Stand-by Power Save automatically turns off the player's Quick Start function. When VIERA is turned on, Quick Start also turns on. In addition, the development of the UniPhier single chip LSI makes it possible to pack an entire video signal processing circuit onto a single chip. This helps lower power consumption, reduces the number of parts needed and allows for a more compact design.

What's in the Box
Panasonic DMP-BD70V, Remote control (batteries included), A/V cable, Power supply cord

Rent or Buy more than 50,000 Titles from Amazon Video On Demand

Rent or Buy more than 50,000 Titles from Amazon Video On Demand With Amazon Video On Demand (available only in the U.S.) , Panasonic customers can now instantly watch more than 50,000 commercial-free movies and television shows, including hit new releases and the latest episodes available in HD.

avod logo
Using an intuitive interface, order movies right from their couch and enjoy instant playback without waiting for lengthy downloads or annoying commercials. Prices start as low as $.99 and no subscription fee is required
find
Find
Choose from thousands of movies and TV shows by browsing the Amazon Video On Demand store (U.S. only) on your Panasonic Blu-ray Disc player or TV. Access and add to your virtual collection of purchases via Amazon Video On Demand’s Your Video Library and re-watch anytime on your Panasonic Blu-ray Disc player, TV, your PC or Mac and other compatible devices.
rent or buy
Rent or Buy
Renting and purchasing titles is a snap with the power of Amazon’s 1-click purchasing. Order new release movies and the latest TV shows right from your couch and you’re watching within seconds. Prices start as low as $.99.
watch
Watch
Enjoy Amazon Video On Demand’s high quality video right from your Panasonic Blu-ray Disc player or TV. Videos playback instantly, without waiting for a download. Purchases and rentals are added to Your Video Library and stored online by Amazon so you can conveniently watch them again on your Panasonic Blu-ray Disc player, TV, PC or Mac, and other compatible devices.

Product Details

  • Blu-ray Disc/VHS combination player with SD memory card slot and USB
  • Multi-media capability allows for convenient playback and up-conversion of content from any media storage format--VHS, DVD, CD and more
  • 7.1-channel lossless audio decode and bit-stream output for exceptional sound
  • VIERA Cast internet functionality for enjoying online entertainment from YouTube, Amazon VOD, and more
  • Intelligent auto standby for more efficient power usage

Video Reviews

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Customer Reviews

Finally, is it? Once again, everyone. The Xbox 360 is the market the next generation of games, is for one year. Now its two competitors, the Playstation 3 and Nintendo Wii here. Not speculation on speed. No payment on memory. Now we can look and see exactly how you compare against each other.
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