Although I already have a section devoted to all the available Blu-ray Disc players available in the U.S. here, I still get asked frequently what the best Blu-ray Disc player is to buy this holiday. While no one player is right for everyone, it's good to have some basic information before you head into the stores.
Option 1: Sony PS3 (40GB for $399 or 80GB for $499)
Although it's primary function is playing videogames, Sony's PS3 does an excellent job at it's second-duty... playing Blu-ray disc and DVD movies. It can output PCM and decoded Dolby TrueHD audio via HDMI, and should be getting an update soon for Profile 1.1 (ie, PIP) functionality.
Who it's for: Gamers, tehnophiles, anyone who wants all the features now and in the future
Who should avoid it: Those who hate the idea of a videogame system as their movie player, those who want full remote integration with their home theatre, and anyone needing multichannel analog audio outputs
Option 2: Panasonic BD30 ($499)
Panasonic's new BD30 is just now hitting stores, and wins the award for the first player to feature Profile 1.1 compatibility. Excellent video quality and bitstream audio output round out the fantastic package.
Who it's for: Those who want a full-featured player that's not a videogame system
Who should avoid it: Those with receivers that cannot decode Dolby TrueHD or DTS-MA, and need a player that can do that
Option 3: Pioneer Elite BDP-95HD ($999)
Pioneer's latest entry into the BD player market retains the previous generation's excellent video and build quality while adding bitstream audio output to compatible receivers. Though it lacks the new Profile 1.1 compatibility, the overall image and audio quality is second-to-none. As with other Pioneer Elite products, this player is only available at select retailers.
Who it's for: Those who want the absolute best video and audio quality from their Blu-ray Discs, and who don't mind the price
Who should avoid it: Bargain-shoppers; those seeking Profile 1.1 compatibility
Option 4: Discount Players ($399 or less)
This being the bargain shopping season, many will of course opt for one of the discounted BD players being advertised at stores around the country. While none of these players feature Profile 1.1 compatibility, they do allow playback of Blu-ray discs in full 1080p quality at unprecedented low prices. Prices as low as $330 or bundles including several additional free movies are common on these models this year. The models available in this discounted price range are the Sony BDP-S300, the Samsung BD-P1400, and the Sharp Aquos BD-HP20S. Among these, only the Samsung can bitstream out all HD audio codecs to compatible receivers, but video quality and other features are similar between these models.
Who they're for: Those looking for the best possible price on a Blu-ray disc player this holiday, or those looking to get a second BD player for another room in their house
Who should avoid them: Those seeking Profile 1.1 compatibility or more advanced audio and video processing found in higher end units.
I hope that helps those searching for the perfect Blu-ray Disc player for themselves or a loved one this holiday. Also, whatever Blu-ray player you get, don't forget to send in for your 5 free movies by mail!
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