The FW update will happen in early January. They are trying to release for Christmas.

http://www.samsung.com/us/system/consumer/product/2007/11/07/bd_up5000xaa/BD-UP5000.pdf

this from the samsung site PDF.

truehd already, dts-hd ma after a firmware upgrade, 5.1/7.1 audio outs, 8 channel uncompressed audio.

as long as it turns "on" when i press the button, this baby is mine.

I would like to bring one into NZ so I can use my NTSC discs I buy from Amazon (NZ Pal only) but we need 230/240v anyone know if thats possible with the USA version or where else can I get a dual voltage model?:confused:

will the 5000 also be able to send all new audio signals over bitstream for HDMI 1.3 receivers with on-board audio decoders of all new formats?

will the 5000 also be able to send all new audio signals over bitstream for HDMI 1.3 receivers with on-board audio decoders of all new formats?

Short answer is it should (DTS MA after firmware update). This though has been discussed previously I believe in this thread.

Is it confirmed that it will decode DTS MA after firware update ?

As an owner of a Marantz sr8500 receiver, I only have 7.1 analog outputs for high resolution audio. It looks like with the initial release of bd-up5000 I will be limited to the following:

1.) LPCM 5.1/6.1/7.1 over analog (absolute BEST,lossless and mostly on Blu-Ray)
2.) DD+ over analog (Better and 5.1-7.1)
3.) Dolby Tru_HD stereo(2 Channels only according to manual) over analogs or downrezed via optical/digital (still pretty good)
4.) DTS-MA downrezed via optical/digital (still pretty good)

Is this about right or have I missed something?

Of course, I'm hoping that future firmware upgrades will make 5.1 Tru-HD and DTS-MA available through analog as well. Is this a realistic possibility given what we know about the hardware??

The manual on samsung's site says: This Samsung Duo HD player (BD-UP5000)
supports only the BD-ROM Profile 1 version 1.0 specification. If you want to play later version discs, you may need to update player's firmware.

Not sure if this was posted yet. Are they saying that it'll be possible to upgrade to 1.1 via firmware?

bd-up5000 is available on amazon this morning for pre-order. $799 ships, after jan 15th.

bd-up5000 is available on amazon this morning for pre-order. $799 ships, after jan 15th.

Can you give a link please? I couldn't find it by search or category browsing.

Can you give a link please? I couldn't find it by search or category browsing.

Try here (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000VDG0UK).

bd-up5000 is available on amazon this morning for pre-order. $799 ships, after jan 15th.

2010 is after jan 15th too. ;)

Try here (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000VDG0UK).

Thanks, just what I needed.

Jan. 15 is a good date for me in all honesty, because there'll hopefully be a few reviews, and likely a firmware update (to support the Jan. 8th profile 1.1 Blu-Ray releases).

Thanks, just what I needed.

Jan. 15 is a good date for me in all honesty, because there'll hopefully be a few reviews, and likely a firmware update (to support the Jan. 8th profile 1.1 Blu-Ray releases).

Anyone know how the firmware update will be applied? Will it be via CD or can you download from the Web?

As an owner of a Marantz sr8500 receiver, I only have 7.1 analog outputs for high resolution audio. It looks like with the initial release of bd-up5000 I will be limited to the following:

1.) LPCM 5.1/6.1/7.1 over analog (absolute BEST,lossless and mostly on Blu-Ray)
2.) DD+ over analog (Better and 5.1-7.1)
3.) Dolby Tru_HD stereo(2 Channels only according to manual) over analogs or downrezed via optical/digital (still pretty good)
4.) DTS-MA downrezed via optical/digital (still pretty good)

Is this about right or have I missed something?

Of course, I'm hoping that future firmware upgrades will make 5.1 Tru-HD and DTS-MA available through analog as well. Is this a realistic possibility given what we know about the hardware??



I question this myself. If I purchased this player, I would need to use the 5.1 analog outs. From what you stated, I will only be able to get LPCM and DD+ through those analog outs? Everything else will get downrezzed through the optical?

That kinda sucks if true. I should just get an HDMI receiver and be done with it.

They MUST do 5.1 DD/DTS over optical/coax to meet Blu-ray and HD-DVD certification. Since I see both logos on that faceplate, I assume they're at least doing that part right. :¬)

Blu-ray and HD DVD Audio Explained (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Joshua_Zyber/High-Def_FAQ:_Blu-ray_and_HD_DVD_Audio_Explained/1064)




The bitstream is the raw compressed information; it just sends along the whole thing in its original form. However, if you set it to output as PCM or via analog, then the data gets interpreted by the player and it seems you'll only get 2.0.


From the link above:
"TrueHD is an optional format on Blu-ray."
"Support for TrueHD up to at least 2 channels is mandatory on all HD DVD players, but the majority will support it all the way to 5.1."

So I guess I see how they got away with the 2.0 channel thing... stupid for both formats to make the specs so lax!


If all is well with bitstreaming every format, I'm getting this player ASAP. My heart's set on a Reon, and I never planned on using PCM conversion or the analog outs anyway. I guess my fall-back option will be the XA2 and some bitstream-capable BD player.
From the Sound and Vision review if I got it right, DTS-MA will not work over analog since the player (after firmware update) will not decode DTS-MA it will just pass it...Do I have this correct? I have an 8 analog connection for my amp and will not get a new amp for awhile...So with 8 analog, after firmware update, what exactly will I be able to get? My understanding is True Dolby only. (I am not interested in core DTS,I am asking about MA) Is there a difference in the ability to get TrueD and DTS-MA by Bluray or HD-DVD? or since the machine only decodes Dolby, either format will only give True D over analog? Thanks for clarifying

I question this myself. If I purchased this player, I would need to use the 5.1 analog outs. From what you stated, I will only be able to get LPCM and DD+ through those analog outs? Everything else will get downrezzed through the optical?

That kinda sucks if true. I should just get an HDMI receiver and be done with it.
Well, according to the bd-up5000 manual online, you could get Tru-HD over the analog, but, it would only be two channels:(

I'm hoping (like with the toshibas and earlier Samsung BDs) that a firmware upgrade will allow full 5.1 lossless over analogs. From what I've heard, there are no hardware limitations for doing this in the player. But, then again, this is mainly wishful thinking (probably, unless someone corrects me one way or another).

No way am I replacing the sr8500 receiver- spent too much on it, it works really good, programmed it exactly the way it needs to work with the remote, etc...

As an owner of a Marantz sr8500 receiver, I only have 7.1 analog outputs for high resolution audio. It looks like with the initial release of bd-up5000 I will be limited to the following:

1.) LPCM 5.1/6.1/7.1 over analog (absolute BEST,lossless and mostly on Blu-Ray)
2.) DD+ over analog (Better and 5.1-7.1)
3.) Dolby Tru_HD stereo(2 Channels only according to manual) over analogs or downrezed via optical/digital (still pretty good)
4.) DTS-MA downrezed via optical/digital (still pretty good)

Is this about right or have I missed something?

Of course, I'm hoping that future firmware upgrades will make 5.1 Tru-HD and DTS-MA available through analog as well. Is this a realistic possibility given what we know about the hardware??

You're almost right.

1) PCM is the "best", but so are TrueHD and DTS-MA. All three are lossless, so the resulting audio is exactly the same. PCM has the advantage in compatibility, while TrueHD/DTS-MA have the advantage in storage efficiency (more space left for video).

2) Sounds like we will get full DD+ over analog.

3) Dolby TrueHD won't down-rez to optical/coax. DD+ will because it's built on top of DD, but TrueHD is an entirely different beast. So the player should switch to the DD/DD+ track if you try.

4) Like TrueHD, DTS-MA doesn't down-rez. The player should switch to the regular DTS track if you try.

From the Sound and Vision review if I got it right, DTS-MA will not work over analog since the player (after firmware update) will not decode DTS-MA it will just pass it...Do I have this correct? I have an 8 analog connection for my amp and will not get a new amp for awhile...So with 8 analog, after firmware update, what exactly will I be able to get? My understanding is True Dolby only. (I am not interested in core DTS,I am asking about MA) Is there a difference in the ability to get TrueD and DTS-MA by Bluray or HD-DVD? or since the machine only decodes Dolby, either format will only give True D over analog? Thanks for clarifying

I don't really know what the player will give. As for TrueHD and DTS-MA, they should sound identical. That's the whole point of lossless encoding. :¬)

Is there a difference in the ability to get TrueD and DTS-MA by Bluray or HD-DVD? or since the machine only decodes Dolby, either format will only give True D over analog? Thanks for clarifying

In pricinciple, if a format is decoded by the player it should be available either by HDMI in PCM form or via analog outputs. If a format is not decoded, it will be provided in core DD or DTS .

For example, the Pio Flagship 95HD player allows DTS-MA by HBR bitstream but not my PCM or analog.

It is my understanding that the planned 5000 update will bring DTS-MA including decoiding to the player. It's unclear if the update will expand the 2.0 TrueHD to 5.1 or 7.1 True HD potential.

I would hope that the manual actually has it wrong(as manuals often do) and that the player will be able to decode multi-channel TrueHD out of the box instead of only 2 channel.

this player must be able to decode TrueHD and DTS-HD MA internally and send it out via 5.1 analog for it to be of any use to me. Based on everything I've read, I'm confident that it will (although not until after some firmware upgrades).

Still waiting patiently.

I would hope that the manual actually has it wrong(as manuals often do) and that the player will be able to decode multi-channel TrueHD out of the box instead of only 2 channel.

The manual may be dated and the released version works better, but it goes out of the way to put the 2.0 caveat in there. It would have been an easier "mistake" to not address it at all :o

The manual may be dated and the released version works better, but it goes out of the way to put the 2.0 caveat in there. It would have been an easier "mistake" to not address it at all :o

Good point and definitely not good news if true. :(

Here is a link I found which talks about
the potential audio decoding of the
Sammy 5000..

See date September 14

http://crave.cnet.com/8300-1_105-1-0.html?keyword=BD-UP5000



Bob

In pricinciple, if a format is decoded by the player it should be available either by HDMI in PCM form or via analog outputs. If a format is not decoded, it will be provided in core DD or DTS .

For example, the Pio Flagship 95HD player allows DTS-MA by HBR bitstream but not my PCM or analog.

It is my understanding that the planned 5000 update will bring DTS-MA including decoiding to the player. It's unclear if the update will expand the 2.0 TrueHD to 5.1 or 7.1 True HD potential.here's the quote from the review in Sound and Vision
The BD-UP5000 has a formidable list of features, starting with dual-format playback that includes full HDi capabilities as well as BD-Java interactivity for Blu-ray. (Samsung says the player will be BD Profile 1.1-ready and will become compliant with this new standard pending a firmware upgrade to be issued by February.) You get onboard decoding for Dolby TrueHD lossless audio (and the ability to output a DTS-HD Master Audio bitstream for outboard decoding, also pending a firmware revision), optional 1080p/24 video output (the default is 1080p/60), and Silicon Optix HQV upconversion (via the Reon chip) for standard DVDs. It's a sleek-looking piece, too, with an uncluttered gloss-black faceplate. Aside from the power and disc-tray-open/close buttons, the only other controls to be found here are those for play, stop, fast-forward/reverse, and chapter skip.

So again,am I correct ,that by analog it seems there is outboard decoding and I will only get True Dolby not DTS-MA via analog? Thanks for reply...I know everyone is kinda in the dark until it is finally released and the firmware update is over with...I really hope DTS-MA and TD are available over analog...it buys me time to upgrade!

this player must be able to decode TrueHD and DTS-HD MA internally and send it out via 5.1 analog for it to be of any use to me. Based on everything I've read, I'm confident that it will (although not until after some firmware upgrades).

Still waiting patiently.
I am in the same boat with you... My post of S and V mag seems to indicate otherwise though...Bummer...we will never find another player that has 8 analog like this instead of only 6....Here's the quote again am I not reading it correctly?
The BD-UP5000 has a formidable list of features, starting with dual-format playback that includes full HDi capabilities as well as BD-Java interactivity for Blu-ray. (Samsung says the player will be BD Profile 1.1-ready and will become compliant with this new standard pending a firmware upgrade to be issued by February.) You get onboard decoding for Dolby TrueHD lossless audio (and the ability to output a DTS-HD Master Audio bitstream for outboard decoding, also pending a firmware revision), optional 1080p/24 video output (the default is 1080p/60), and Silicon Optix HQV upconversion (via the Reon chip) for standard DVDs. It's a sleek-looking piece, too, with an uncluttered gloss-black faceplate. Aside from the power and disc-tray-open/close buttons, the only other controls to be found here are those for play, stop, fast-forward/reverse, and chapter skip.

thanks for that link bob. izub, this is the kind of information i had referenced earlier.

"according to a Samsung representative, the new Samsung BD-UP5000 Blu-ray/HD DVD combo player will have onboard decoding for all high-resolution audio formats following a firmware update, including DTS-HD Master Audio. This is great news for high-def disc fans, as the BD-UP5000 would be the first player we're aware of that has onboard decoding for DTS-HD Master Audio, DTS's losslessly compressed soundtrack format. The same representative also confirmed that both Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio soundtracks can be output over the analog 7.1 outputs, which will be useful for audiophiles with older receivers."

now THAT'S what i'm talking about!

preoder at una call for 799, minus 25 dollar holiday discount

preoder at una call for 799, minus 25 dollar holiday discount

it's so funny that nobody bothers to check their copy.

almost every one of these information blurbs on this player still mentions "the BD-P2400" in the audio section (a now cancelled blu-ray player).

so nice to have vigilant editors.

it's so funny that nobody bothers to check their copy.

almost every one of these information blurbs on this player still mentions "the BD-P2400" in the audio section (a now cancelled blu-ray player).

so nice to have vigilant editors.

Most likely due to the fact that some of these articles were written when the 2400 was still coming out. Isnt there a lead (ready to go to print) of like a few weeks as far as articles go?

As far as the player goes I think I found the sweet spot with 1-call and 774$ w/ 3 day Fed Ex. The only question now is to buy the extended warranty now (though 1-call) or later from Samsung directly.

Is the Samsung BD-UP5000 going to be the first profile 1.1 player?

Is the Samsung BD-UP5000 going to be the first profile 1.1 player?

No, There will be others before it. Also, The BD-UP5000 is going to be 1.1 "ready", it will become 1.1 compliant after a firmware upgrade. We are hopeful here though that with the delays that it will be 1.1 out of the box.

No, There will be others before it. Also, The BD-UP5000 is going to be 1.1 "ready", it will become 1.1 compliant after a firmware upgrade. We are hopeful here though that with the delays that it will be 1.1 out of the box.

Thanks. So this player will have internet connectivity and a second video decoder? Also what are the other players coming that are profile 1.1?

In dual format land, the LG-BH200 is said to be profile 2 compatible (profile 1.1 already being possible).

In Blu-Ray player land, the Panasonic DMP-BD30K (http://www2.panasonic.com/consumer-electronics/shop/Video/Blu-ray-Disc-Players/model.DMP-BD30K_11002_7000000000000005702) supports 1.1 out of the box and is available now.

thanks for that link bob. izub, this is the kind of information i had referenced earlier.

"according to a Samsung representative, the new Samsung BD-UP5000 Blu-ray/HD DVD combo player will have onboard decoding for all high-resolution audio formats following a firmware update, including DTS-HD Master Audio. This is great news for high-def disc fans, as the BD-UP5000 would be the first player we're aware of that has onboard decoding for DTS-HD Master Audio, DTS's losslessly compressed soundtrack format. The same representative also confirmed that both Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio soundtracks can be output over the analog 7.1 outputs, which will be useful for audiophiles with older receivers."

now THAT'S what i'm talking about! So the 2 magazines contradict each other, although S and V actually had a player albeit a demo...I wonder why we can't get a straight answer about onboard decoding of DTS-MA and TDolby 2.0 ,or all channels...I hope you are right though, this would be the player for me!

I have one of the new onkyo hdmi 1.3 receivers. Will the samy pass true hd and other new sound formats over hdmi so the onkyo will show "true hd" on it's display? (as opposed to dolby digital etc) Sorry in advance if this has already been answered....

I have one of the new onkyo hdmi 1.3 receivers. Will the samy pass true hd and other new sound formats over hdmi so the onkyo will show "true hd" on it's display? (as opposed to dolby digital etc) Sorry in advance if this has already been answered....
Yes in order for those lights to appear on your receiver "bitstreaming" is required and this player is able to bitstream all of the audio codecs including DTS HD and Dolby TrueHD

Who gives a ****?

Is it really that big of a difference in sound?

Boy those guys are good at making money off of fools....

Preorder back up at Amazon. Same price as before. Ship date January 15, 2008.

Who gives a ****?

Is it really that big of a difference in sound?

Boy those guys are good at making money off of fools....

if blu ray and HD DVD are going to all that trouble to encode their discs with lossless audio tracks (no loss of quality from the master audio track), i'm not buying a disc player until it is capable of taking advantage of them, including sending them out via 5.1 analog to my not-so-new receiver ;)

Who gives a ****?

Is it really that big of a difference in sound?

Boy those guys are good at making money off of fools....

Have you heard a TrueHD track in all its wonderous glory?...

Judging by your post, you either have not heard one... or don't have the proper equipment... so let me put your mind at ease. The difference between the soundtrack on Batman Begins SD DVD vs the TrueHD track is NIGHT AND DAY!!!!

It's like listening to your home theater with ear plugs in... and then taking them out. Dynamics are DRASTICLY improved, clarity is off the charts... EVERYTHING is better. If you haven't heard it... you can't begin to understand.

Have you heard a TrueHD track in all its wonderous glory?...

Judging by your post, you either have not heard one... or don't have the proper equipment... so let me put your mind at ease. The difference between the soundtrack on Batman Begins SD DVD vs the TrueHD track is NIGHT AND DAY!!!!

It's like listening to your home theater with ear plugs in... and then taking them out. Dynamics are DRASTICLY improved, clarity is off the charts... EVERYTHING is better. If you haven't heard it... you can't begin to understand.

I have not heard the difference yet, but if it is like the difference between HD and analog/digital video then it will be well worth it. I remember when HD came out people would say just how much better is it? Well once you see HD you will know and understand just how much better it truely is. People should not make judgements until they have seen or heard both formats.

Yes in order for those lights to appear on your receiver "bitstreaming" is required and this player is able to bitstream all of the audio codecs including DTS HD and Dolby TrueHD

Thanks for the info. Guess I won't feel like a "fool" for buying one when they come out.....

if blu ray and HD DVD are going to all that trouble to encode their discs with lossless audio tracks (no loss of quality from the master audio track), i'm not buying a disc player until it is capable of taking advantage of them, including sending them out via 5.1 analog to my not-so-new receiver ;)

You've got my interest. Is there a dual player on the horizon capable of this?

i think that's why we're all here in this thread :D

I received my latest issue of Sound & Vision Mag, in it they have a early sneak peak look on the BD-UP5000. Although I must make clear that they clearly state in this early review that they received an preproduction model.


Here are a few things they mention about this player.



In regards to PROFILE 1.1........

- Samsung says the player will be BD PROFILE 1.1-ready & will become compliant w/ this new standard pending a firmware upgrade to be issued by Feb 08.



In regards to the HD Audio..........

- Onboard decoding for Dolby TrueHD lossless & the ability to output a DTS-HD Master bitstream for outboard decoding, also pending a firmware revision.

- Optional 1080p/24 video output (the default is 1080p/60).

- Silcon Optix HQV upconversion via the Reon Chip for standard DVDs.

- Player gives you 3 output choices in Audio Menu:

(1) PCM
(2) Bitstream (Rencode)
(3) Bitstream (Audiophile). The difference between the last 2 is that, when Rencode is selected, the Audio effects like Menu-Button sounds get mixed into the players Audio output.



In regards to Video performance......

- Video quality very good.

- Pic detail w/ HD Discs in both formats was excellent, & the same held true w/ standard DVDs.

- From a usability standpoint this player switched between various Disc formats in an effortless & transparent manner.

- Bootup time from intial pressing of Power button to seeing a Samsung logo on screen was 35 secs.




Plus:

- Consistantly sharp pics from all Disc formats.

- Smooth, mostly glitch free operation.

- Supports both HDi & BD-Java.

- Eliminates the need for 2 separate HD players.



MINUS:

- Audio in this preproduction model still work in progress

- Some issues w/ 1080p/24 Video output in our early sample.



Final thoughts is that they were impressed w/ this player despite some glitches w/ this preproduction model, which they say Samsung will iron out & fix before the final product is shipped. Player has "Amazing Promise!"

Thanks for the info. Guess I won't feel like a "fool" for buying one when they come out.....
I would ignore that poster

(2) Bitstream (Rencode)
[...] when Rencode is selected, the Audio effects like Menu-Button sounds get mixed into the players Audio output.

This would be the ultimate solution were it to happen, but the hardware isn't capable from what I understand (according to the specs on the SoC being used).

This would mean decoding to LPCM, muxin in a secondary audio (menu, PiP, etc) and then re-encoding it back to bitstream.

I think what the menu item is trying to allow you to select, is decoding to LPCM, with menu/secondary audio muxed in, and NOT re-encoded into a bitstream.

TMSKILZ, that article appeared online and was discussed in these threads a couple of weeks ago. Much of the information does not comport with the Samsung representative who spoke with CNET. We would all like to know the truth.

TMSKILZ, that article appeared online and was discussed in these threads a couple of weeks ago. Much of the information does not comport with the Samsung representative who spoke with CNET. We would all like to know the truth.

LOL, damn, I'm behind the times then. I thought it was useful. Thanks for the heads up Circumstances.

lol. we're all jonesing for this player, or information, or something...

I received a snail-mail advertisment from Crutchfield today that has a nice picture & description of the BD-UP5000 on page 21. :rolleyes:

Who gives a ****?

Is it really that big of a difference in sound?

Boy those guys are good at making money off of fools....

Obviously it bothers you. Don't be angry, one day you'll have one of those receiver's to.

No need to make posts like that man.

(2) Bitstream (Rencode)
[...] when Rencode is selected, the Audio effects like Menu-Button sounds get mixed into the players Audio output.

This would be the ultimate solution were it to happen, but the hardware isn't capable from what I understand (according to the specs on the SoC being used).

This would mean decoding to LPCM, muxin in a secondary audio (menu, PiP, etc) and then re-encoding it back to bitstream.

Why is this the ultimate solution? I don't see why we would want to re-encode the audio when we could simply pass along the modified PCM. Especially if the re-encode is lossy... that'd be downright nasty!


I think what the menu item is trying to allow you to select, is decoding to LPCM, with menu/secondary audio muxed in, and NOT re-encoded into a bitstream.

I'm confused here; isn't that what the PCM option is for?

Anyway, I don't feel anything is gained by having other audio mixed in, so I'll happily pick the "Audiophile" option.

Just got an e-mail from Amazon pushing my delivery date back to Jan 23-24 instead of Jan 8. I preordered this on Oct. 30. I hope this is the last of the delays.

On the Samsung page for the BD-UP5000 there is a "dealer locator" link -- I hadn't noticed it there previously. If you click on it and put in a zip code, it shows the stores within a radius.

Around me, it lists:

4 Best Buy's
4 Office Max's
4 Circuit City's
4 CompUSA's

within an 85 mile radius of me (Central Valley and Silicon Valley of California) for the BD-UP5000 (all say "call store" for availability).

But for people doing "shelf watching", the stores listed for your zip code would probably be the most likely brick-front 1st receivers.

Scott

Just got an e-mail from Amazon pushing my delivery date back to Jan 23-24 instead of Jan 8. I preordered this on Oct. 30. I hope this is the last of the delays.

I had the update or order will be cancelled. New date with 2 day is 17 Jan.

Why is this the ultimate solution? I don't see why we would want to re-encode the audio when we could simply pass along the modified PCM. Especially if the re-encode is lossy... that'd be downright nasty!




I'm confused here; isn't that what the PCM option is for?

Anyway, I don't feel anything is gained by having other audio mixed in, so I'll happily pick the "Audiophile" option.

The reason that you would want 'the other audio mixed in' is if you are watching a feature with PiP. If you are streaming the audiophile set, you will see the PiP video, but won't hear the audio.

The other thing that would be added are the menu beeps (and other options).

From what I have read, it wouldn't be encoded in lossey... it will decode the HBR audio, add the second track, and re-encode in into a 'new' HBR track.

Just got an e-mail from Amazon pushing my delivery date back to Jan 23-24 instead of Jan 8. I preordered this on Oct. 30. I hope this is the last of the delays.This date is well past the end of CES 2008. It will be interesting to see what plans some of the other A/V manufacturers may have to release dual format HD DVD players next year.

This date is well past the end of CES 2008. It will be interesting to see what plans some of the other A/V manufacturers may have to release dual format HD DVD players next year.

There was mention in an article at www.thedigitalbits.com mentioning a rumor that Onkyo may have canceled the release of their upcoming player in favor of a format neutral combo player.

One other format war (hardware) note: There are reports circulating online - which we're working to confirm - that both Onkyo's DV-HD805 and Venturer's SHD7000 are rebadged Toshiba OEM players (the Onkyo is reportedly an HD-XA2 with slight modifications for the enthusiast market, while the Venturer is reportedly an HD-A3). There are additional indications (http://www.hometheaterforum.com/htf/showthread.php?t=265340) that Onkyo may actually have cancelled its HD-DVD player in favor of releasing a dual-format Blu-ray/HD-DVD player in 2008 instead. Does anyone have further details or confirmation on this? Please let us know (mailto:billhunt@thedigitalbits.com).

It is my sincere hope that many of you waiting for a combo unit will hold off for the Onkyo. ...which will then leave a few Samsung units on the shelves for me to find. ;)

There was mention in an article at www.thedigitalbits.com mentioning a rumor that Onkyo may have canceled the release of their upcoming player in favor of a format neutral combo player.

One other format war (hardware) note: There are reports circulating online - which we're working to confirm - that both Onkyo's DV-HD805 and Venturer's SHD7000 are rebadged Toshiba OEM players (the Onkyo is reportedly an HD-XA2 with slight modifications for the enthusiast market, while the Venturer is reportedly an HD-A3). There are additional indications (http://www.hometheaterforum.com/htf/showthread.php?t=265340) that Onkyo may actually have cancelled its HD-DVD player in favor of releasing a dual-format Blu-ray/HD-DVD player in 2008 instead. Does anyone have further details or confirmation on this? Please let us know (mailto:billhunt@thedigitalbits.com).

It is my sincere hope that many of you waiting for a combo unit will hold off for the Onkyo. ...which will then leave a few Samsung units on the shelves for me to find. ;)

Onkyo did confirm that all units now shipped in Europe at least of the 805 are all that they are shipping, not sure about NA. I think it was a one off run but with the XA2 price dropping so much and people realizing that it is just a XA2 (with a missing Picture button and the A30 remote), Onkyo is going to move in a new direction and maybe that will be a combo. It may also be a new rebadge XA3 as joerod has an 805 with firmware not available to the general public with much quicker load times and some improvement in PQ. You can read all about it in the 805 thread.

Why is this the ultimate solution? I don't see why we would want to re-encode the audio when we could simply pass along the modified PCM. Especially if the re-encode is lossy... that'd be downright nasty!

I am confused by people's desires to have lossless primary audio while listening to secondary audio. If you're listening to secondary audio (PiP, commentary, etc), then the primary audio is not that important ... you're focusing on the secondary audio, not on the difference in quality b/tw the lossy and lossless sounds of a pin dropping in the background. IMO, a player should provide lossless options for primary-only audio and good-but-not-perfect-quality options for simultaneous primary and secondary audio.

Date first available at Amazon.com: April 18, 2005

^^^^ That is awesome!!! We've been waiting over 2 years!?!?!?!

The "first available" dates for all Amazon items are wrong more often than not. ;)

I am confused by people's desires to have lossless primary audio while listening to secondary audio. If you're listening to secondary audio (PiP, commentary, etc), then the primary audio is not that important ... you're focusing on the secondary audio, not on the difference in quality b/tw the lossy and lossless sounds of a pin dropping in the background. IMO, a player should provide lossless options for primary-only audio and good-but-not-perfect-quality options for simultaneous primary and secondary audio.

You know, that would be ok, except that you have dig into your player's menu to change this option back and forth. I just want to enjoy the experience in either case, and not have to reconfigure my player constantly to get what I want. Imagine, for example, having to go into your player's menu every time you need to switch between a disc with PCM, and a disc with DTS-HS MA.

Then there's the second part, which is that a vast majority of AV-philes still don't have HDMI 1.3a AVRs and don't really need it. I really am of the opinion that interconnects should stick to one universal standard, and LPCM looks like a winner to me. HDMI 1.3a and the Dolby/DTS decoding in the AVR is just a way for companies to make a quick buck by making you upgrade your components end-to-end, when it's the player that should be decoding it.

Will this player be able to play a BD disc, open the tray and swap in a HD-DVD disc, and play it back without rebooting or some such silly thing. I mean is it a seamless/smooth integration of the formats or just 2 software code bases bolted together?

Will this player be able to play a BD disc, open the tray and swap in a HD-DVD disc, and play it back without rebooting or some such silly thing?

I think the general understanding is that it will be able to swap media without any "hoop jumping". If I have to reboot it, when switching between an HD DVD version of 300, a BluRay version of Blade Runner, or a SD version of Scooby Doo (daughter's current fav), I wouldn't think it would stand much of a chance against the likes of the LG (which I have read can switch between media formats).

An earlier post alluded to having to dig down into the settings menu to change the audio encoding, but other than that, I am under the impression that functionality will be pretty much on par with products of similar type.

Just keep in mind that this is going to be a 1st general dual format player and with that comes the garbage you usually get with firrt generation products.

Just keep in mind that this is going to be a 1st general dual format player and with that comes the garbage you usually get with firrt generation products.

Actually it's a second gen, but the caveat remains on any initial release.

There was mention in an article at www.thedigitalbits.com mentioning a rumor that Onkyo may have canceled the release of their upcoming player in favor of a format neutral combo player.

One other format war (hardware) note: There are reports circulating online - which we're working to confirm - that both Onkyo's DV-HD805 and Venturer's SHD7000 are rebadged Toshiba OEM players (the Onkyo is reportedly an HD-XA2 with slight modifications for the enthusiast market, while the Venturer is reportedly an HD-A3). There are additional indications (http://www.hometheaterforum.com/htf/showthread.php?t=265340) that Onkyo may actually have cancelled its HD-DVD player in favor of releasing a dual-format Blu-ray/HD-DVD player in 2008 instead. Does anyone have further details or confirmation on this? Please let us know (mailto:billhunt@thedigitalbits.com).

It is my sincere hope that many of you waiting for a combo unit will hold off for the Onkyo. ...which will then leave a few Samsung units on the shelves for me to find. ;)

If they release a dual format player in 2008, it will probably be a rebadged Samsung BD-UP5000;)

Why is this the ultimate solution? I don't see why we would want to re-encode the audio when we could simply pass along the modified PCM. Especially if the re-encode is lossy... that'd be downright nasty!

I am confused by people's desires to have lossless primary audio while listening to secondary audio. If you're listening to secondary audio (PiP, commentary, etc), then the primary audio is not that important ... you're focusing on the secondary audio, not on the difference in quality b/tw the lossy and lossless sounds of a pin dropping in the background. IMO, a player should provide lossless options for primary-only audio and good-but-not-perfect-quality options for simultaneous primary and secondary audio.

I think you missed my point. When using secondary audio, the player must already decode the bitstream to PCM, then add the secondary audio. So why not send this augmented PCM over the HDMI (or analog outs)? What possible advantage does the re-encoding option offer??

Just got this message from Amazon " happy to inform you that the items you requested
( samsung 5000 ) are now available to order. Release date on Jan. the 15th.

If they release a dual format player in 2008, it will probably be a rebadged Samsung BD-UP5000;)

No doubt!! Onkyo needs to design its own unique, high quality player dual or not!

I think you missed my point. When using secondary audio, the player must already decode the bitstream to PCM, then add the secondary audio. So why not send this augmented PCM over the HDMI (or analog outs)? What possible advantage does the re-encoding option offer??

I fully agree. Options (1) and (3) should really produce a 100% identical result. I don't see why the re-encode option is there.
Even if you think your receiver should decode the HBR audio, with option (3) the receiver will only remove (decode) an obsolete "envelope" added by the player.
Only reason I could see is if there were receivers that cannot read LPCM, but can decode TrueHD etc. ... but I don't think there are any such.

now available for preorder at crutchfield's

any news if the player will be able to pass alle advanced audio codecs via bitstream to a HDMI 1.3 receiver with on-board decoding of TrueHD and DTS master?

any news if the player will be able to pass alle advanced audio codecs via bitstream to a HDMI 1.3 receiver with on-board decoding of TrueHD and DTS master?

After 70 pages to this thread, I wonder why nobody thought to ask that question....

After 70 pages to this thread, I wonder why nobody thought to ask that question....

:cool:

Interesting at the lack of mention of 2.0 upgradability even though it has as an ethernet port. I wonder if it will be too short on memory for a simple firmware upgrade to 2.0 or something else (yay for unfinished BD specs).
Honestly, I don't see it as big deal that a player is not profile 2.0. I'll buy the first solid profile 1.1 player that has a decent set of bells and whistles. I would have gone for the Panny BP30 if it didn't fail every upscaling test and the only reason I'm considering a dual mode player is that it might fit the bill.

By the way, the reason I'm not so keen on a 2.0 player (or on HD-DVD for that matter) is that it sounds a bit dubious hooking a player up to the Internet. In my opinion if profile 2.0 players become common somebody will find a way to hack into them from the Internet and then we the users will have to deal with player Internet security issues along with all the other HDM hassles.

By the way, the reason I'm not so keen on a 2.0 player (or on HD-DVD for that matter) is that it sounds a bit dubious hooking a player up to the Internet. In my opinion if profile 2.0 players become common somebody will find a way to hack into them from the Internet and then we the users will have to deal with player Internet security issues along with all the other HDM hassles.

You are kidding right?

By the way, the reason I'm not so keen on a 2.0 player (or on HD-DVD for that matter) is that it sounds a bit dubious hooking a player up to the Internet. In my opinion if profile 2.0 players become common somebody will find a way to hack into them from the Internet and then we the users will have to deal with player Internet security issues along with all the other HDM hassles.

If that is the case, aren't you afraid you computer is being hacked right now? Most knowledgeable people use firewalls or routers/switches with network address mapping to protect their internal systems.

You are kidding right?
No, just think about it for a bit. HD-DVD basically requires a small computer that runs a Microsoft OS. Similarly Blu-ray profile 2.0 has got a JAVA engine. What's to keep some hacker from finding a security flaw and turning HDM players on the internet into bot farms. Given that the for the average user the embeded controller chip and internet ports are inactive 99.5% of the time it would be a long, long time before anyone even knew such a thing was happening.

What about all those internet capable game consoles and cell phones?

......By the way, the reason I'm not so keen on a 2.0 player (or on HD-DVD for that matter) is that it sounds a bit dubious hooking a player up to the Internet. In my opinion if profile 2.0 players become common somebody will find a way to hack into them from the Internet and then we the users will have to deal with player Internet security issues along with all the other HDM hassles.

You are kidding right?

If that is the case, aren't you afraid you computer is being hacked right now? Most knowledgeable people use firewalls or routers/switches with network address mapping to protect their internal systems.

What about all those internet capable game consoles and cell phones?

No, just think about it for a bit. HD-DVD basically requires a small computer that runs a Microsoft OS. Similarly Blu-ray profile 2.0 has got a JAVA engine. What's to keep some hacker from finding a security flaw and turning HDM players on the internet into bot farms. Given that the for the average user the embeded controller chip and internet ports are inactive 99.5% of the time it would be a long, long time before anyone even knew such a thing was happening.

Do you trust your money to banks, which could be hacked, or bury it in empty mayonnaise jars in your back yard? :rolleyes:

After 70 pages to this thread, I wonder why nobody thought to ask that question....

I hope you're kidding.

This capability was inferred by the Broadcom chipset (http://www.broadcom.com/collateral/pb/7440-PB01-R.pdf) choice, mentioned in the original press release (http://presse.samsung.de/press_meldung.asp?id=1719&page=3&jahr=2007&kategorie=Alle&suchwort=) from August, and recently confirmed by the product manual (http://downloadcenter.samsung.com/content/UM/200711/20071120103100328_477A_BD-UP5000_XAA-BM_1119.pdf).

No one's asking the question because we already know the answer.

I hope you're kidding.

This capability was inferred by the Broadcom chipset (http://www.broadcom.com/collateral/pb/7440-PB01-R.pdf) choice, mentioned in the original press release (http://presse.samsung.de/press_meldung.asp?id=1719&page=3&jahr=2007&kategorie=Alle&suchwort=) from August, and recently confirmed by the product manual (http://downloadcenter.samsung.com/content/UM/200711/20071120103100328_477A_BD-UP5000_XAA-BM_1119.pdf).

No one's asking the question because we already know the answer.

He was just responding sarcastically to a question someone else asked. I thought that was pretty obvious.

Do you trust your money to banks, which could be hacked, or bury it in empty mayonnaise jars in your back yard? :rolleyes:
Sure, I use a bank but I don't bank online. I have two levels of firewalls, I run Linux and I work for a manufacturer of network security hardware.

Sure, I use a bank but I don't bank online. .

you do realize that all of your info is still stored electronically and that a huge amount of transactions are done electronically even if you write a paper check.

I'm looking at a Sony DVDirect VRD-MC5 which allows you to record video from a camcorder and digital photos from a camera or memory card to DVD without requiring a PC. It is capable of creating DVDs in Standard Definition and High Definition (AVCHD format). The VRD-MC5 features audio/video inputs on one side for direct connection of a camcorder, VCR, or DVR. On the other side, the VRD-MC5 is equipped with memory card slots for directly recording digital images onto DVD. The unit's 2.5" color LCD screen makes it easy to preview video or digital pictures.

AVCHD Dubbing: You can record HD video, recorded on a Sony High Definition Handycam (HDD/Memory Stick), onto a DVD by connecting it via USB cable. The AVCHD video stays in its native 1080i resolution during the transfer. The AVCHD format disc that is created can only be played on an AVCHD-compatible device, such as a Blu-ray disc player or Sony PlayStation 3 console.

Question:
Does anyone who is knowledgeable of the Sammy BD-UP5000 know if it will play HD (BluRay) home movies recorded on a Sony hard-drive camcorder and transferred to and produced on DVD with the Sony DVDirect VRD-MC5 with the AVCHD format as described above? Thanks.

Sure, I use a bank but I don't bank online. I have two levels of firewalls, I run Linux and I work for a manufacturer of network security hardware.

I'll bet you were pissing your pants during the millennium countdown. :p

I hope you're kidding.

This capability was inferred by the Broadcom chipset (http://www.broadcom.com/collateral/pb/7440-PB01-R.pdf) choice, mentioned in the original press release (http://presse.samsung.de/press_meldung.asp?id=1719&page=3&jahr=2007&kategorie=Alle&suchwort=) from August, and recently confirmed by the product manual (http://downloadcenter.samsung.com/content/UM/200711/20071120103100328_477A_BD-UP5000_XAA-BM_1119.pdf).

No one's asking the question because we already know the answer.

Why doesn't this do the newer audio formats? Any for the one it does (TrueHD) why does it only do it over 2 channels? (last sentence page 10 of manual)

Still no news on a European release date for the 5000?

I wonder why no European are talking about the samsung BD 5000? a release date or price etc.... I'm sure Europeans are'nt soo back ward after all. ( i'm in Holland) Any idea about an european release . Please throw some ligt.. Anybody out there...???

Why doesn't this do the newer audio formats? Any for the one it does (TrueHD) why does it only do it over 2 channels? (last sentence page 10 of manual)

Auuuggghhhh!!!! THIS doesn't do anything, yet. It's vaporware until it's released, and then it'll do what it can do then, and do what it can't when and if Samsung issues firmware updates. Complain about it's capabilities (or lack thereof) when and if it's in your HT.
Samsung released the 1400 without the "newer audio format" capability and a firmware update was out within a couple of weeks.

I wonder why no European are talking about the samsung BD 5000? a release date or price etc.... I'm sure Europeans are'nt soo back ward after all. ( i'm in Holland) Any idea about an european release . Please throw some ligt.. Anybody out there...???

All I know is that you folks got the Onkyo 805 in CHAMPAIGN colour, and I'm still jealous about that ;)

I wonder why no European are talking about the samsung BD 5000? a release date or price etc.... I'm sure Europeans are'nt soo back ward after all. ( i'm in Holland) Any idea about an european release . Please throw some ligt.. Anybody out there...???

+1 for Holland! :)

Kom maar op met die handel! :D

Auuuggghhhh!!!! THIS doesn't do anything, yet. It's vaporware until it's released, and then it'll do what it can do then, and do what it can't when and if Samsung issues firmware updates. Complain about it's capabilities (or lack thereof) when and if it's in your HT.
Samsung released the 1400 without the "newer audio format" capability and a firmware update was out within a couple of weeks.

Are you stipulating that I must BUY an $800 player that doesn't do what I (and many others here) want it to do in order to have your permission to discuss it here? If that's the case there should be no discussions of this unit whatsoever - good or bad- since no one here meets the following criteria: ...when and if it's in your HT....unless of course you are limiting the comments of non-owners to positive comments of the unit.

Just clarifying.:rolleyes:

Are you stipulating that I must BUY an $800 player that doesn't do what I (and many others here) want it to do in order to have your permission to discuss it here? If that's the case there should be no discussions of this unit whatsoever - good or bad- since no one here meets the following criteria: ...unless of course you are limiting the comments of non-owners to positive comments of the unit.

Just clarifying.:rolleyes:

I think the biggest issue is that many of the comments\questions have been anwsered before. Questions on the audio codecs infact very recently. What seems to be happening is that people are interested in this player hop in this thread(s) and without doing a search ask the same question that was asked just on the last page or 2 pages ago. All of recent information that is out is in here and when people get updates they post it.

Sure there is a lot of fustration of what we have seen heard so far, but really we cant say anything definitive (it does do this it doesnt do that) until the playre is released because as many of us are aware there has been a ton of information that is contradicted in one place or another.

THere are no rules saying your dissapointed of what youve seen and that IF this player doesnt do this then its a no go, but we cant count on anything difinitivley yet.

you do realize that all of your info is still stored electronically and that a huge amount of transactions are done electronically even if you write a paper check.

Even when you write a check, they scan the numbers at the bottom of the check (your ACCOUNT NUMBER and bank routing number) to verify that you have the correct funds (so that people can't kite checks).

+1 for Holland! :)

Kom maar op met die handel! :D

English, Baxter, you know I don't speak Spanish... LOL

Even when you write a check, they scan the numbers at the bottom of the check (your ACCOUNT NUMBER and bank routing number) to verify that you have the correct funds (so that people can't kite checks).


exactly. the OP is so worried about conecting a DVD player to a network yet he doesnt seem to have a handle on just how much of his precious info is already out there. he says he works for a manufacturer of network security hardware yet is worried about a DVD player.

I keep my money in a FULL mayonnaise jar underneath the porch at Funk and Wagnalls...

full of money, full of mayonnaise, or full of something else?

I keep my money in a FULL mayonnaise jar underneath the porch at Funk and Wagnalls...

Ahh...yes, but is it hermetically sealed???????? ;)

mason jars are much better for long term storage.

I think the biggest issue is that many of the comments\questions have been anwsered before.

Shack, or in English, right-o.

I think the biggest issue is that many of the comments\questions have been anwsered before. Questions on the audio codecs infact very recently. What seems to be happening is that people are interested in this player hop in this thread(s) and without doing a search ask the same question that was asked just on the last page or 2 pages ago. All of recent information that is out is in here and when people get updates they post it.

Sure there is a lot of fustration of what we have seen heard so far, but really we cant say anything definitive (it does do this it doesnt do that) until the playre is released because as many of us are aware there has been a ton of information that is contradicted in one place or another.

THere are no rules saying your dissapointed of what youve seen and that IF this player doesnt do this then its a no go, but we cant count on anything difinitivley yet.

Thanks! That was my point.;)

I'll bet you were pissing your pants during the millennium countdown. :p
Nah, Y2K was a tempest in a teapot dreamed up by a bunch of software consults to sell their services. Sure those bugs in old code needed to be found before 1/1/2000. But, an end to civilization if they all weren't caught??? Nah.

I think the biggest issue is that many of the comments\questions have been anwsered before. Questions on the audio codecs infact very recently. What seems to be happening is that people are interested in this player hop in this thread(s) and without doing a search ask the same question that was asked just on the last page or 2 pages ago. <snip>


I think it should be a forum rule if someone is going to start an official thread of a product, that the OP or first poster reserve the first two spots to provide highlight summary of what is known by editing their post and adding updates, this would accomplish two things:

1. Prevent repetitive questions, while being a great service to lazy searchers, and those that have to read repetitive posts.

2. Encourage only folks who have the time and willingness to start an "offical thread" of anything, while reducing the proliferation of duplicate threads.

Now that would be nice IMHO.

Then every 3rd post could be... read the first post....

i frequent several threads that are done just as john has suggested. its amazing how many times they have had to post "read the first post". its also amazing how many people say they did read it and didn't find the info when its clearly there.
i always make it a point to read at least the first page and last 2 pages of any new thread I'm posting to. in a huge thread that can still leave room for redundant questions but it does help.

My head hurts from all this confusion about audio. My question to you all is" WILL THIS PROCESS DOLBY TRUE HD & DTS HD THROUGH THE ANALOG OUTS OF THIS PLAYER?" My receiver only has analog in.:eek:

My head hurts from all this confusion about audio. My question to you all is" WILL THIS PROCESS DOLBY TRUE HD & DTS HD THROUGH THE ANALOG OUTS OF THIS PLAYER?" My receiver only has analog in.:eek:

I assume you mean "Will the UP5000 decode & transmit up to 7.1 TrueHD & DTS HDMA through the analog outputs?"

Do you mean out of the box or after firmware updates?

The last line of text in this page of the Manual suggests it's only stereo when decoding TrueHD:

http://img114.imageshack.us/img114/873/bdup5000pag10bi2.jpg

source: Page 10 of the BD-UP5000 Manual: http://downloadcenter.samsung.com/content/UM/200711/20071120103100328_477A_BD-UP5000_XAA-BM_1119.pdf

Somebody should contact Samsung about this... it must be an error.. :mad:

The last line of text in this page of the Manual suggests it's only stereo when decoding TrueHD:

http://img114.imageshack.us/img114/873/bdup5000pag10bi2.jpg

source: Page 10 of the BD-UP5000 Manual: http://downloadcenter.samsung.com/content/UM/200711/20071120103100328_477A_BD-UP5000_XAA-BM_1119.pdf

Somebody should contact Samsung about this... it must be an error.. :mad:

so is that via analog or bitstream?

The last line of text in this page of the Manual suggests it's only stereo when decoding TrueHD:

http://img114.imageshack.us/img114/873/bdup5000pag10bi2.jpg

source: Page 10 of the BD-UP5000 Manual: http://downloadcenter.samsung.com/content/UM/200711/20071120103100328_477A_BD-UP5000_XAA-BM_1119.pdf

Somebody should contact Samsung about this... it must be an error.. :mad:

I know what the manual reads but I've reads other specs that differ. It's a bit confussing. I've emailed Samsung and asked them to clear this up. It may take a day or two for them to get back to me if at all!

I would like a very clear statement from them as to whether the Dolby TrueHD and DTS HD MA signals will be fully decoded internally and converted internally (A/D) to output through the analog 7.1 jacks in full 7.1. Or at least decoded internally and output digitally through the HDMI in full 7.1.

I'm not holding my breath on the reply but who knows. I guess I'll see just how good their customer service is!

I know what the manual reads but I've reads other specs that differ. It's a bit confussing. I've emailed Samsung and asked them to clear this up. It may take a day or two for them to get back to me if at all!



I got back the pdf spec sheet from them. It was in a different format. No mention of bitsreaming over HDMI, or even a DTS-HD ADO answer.

Maybe you will have better luck.

I can also call 1-800-SAMSUNG

I got back the pdf spec sheet from them. It was in a different format. No mention of bitsreaming over HDMI, or even a DTS-HD ADO answer.

Maybe you will have better luck.

I can also call 1-800-SAMSUNG

I was hoping to get something in writing from them as it's difficult to keep posting "the Samsung rep told me" stuff. It would be nice to have it in writing once and for all but please try calling if you have time. At least we might have something more sure to go on! Then maybe they'll eventually email me too!

If the firmware update won't give us 7.1 ch. HDMI output of DD TrueHD and DTS HD MA then I would cancel my order with 1Call. I'm hoping that it will give us the full 7.1 HDMI plus do A/D out the analog jacks too!

Hi ALL,

I've been following all of the 5000 threads and its pretty certain I'm going to buy one as soon as I can. I'm not TOO concerned about the TrueHD and DTS-HD MA as I can't believe Samsung won't issue an update to address them. But my dumb question has to do with why is it so difficult for manufacturers to include the above support out of the box.

Its my understanding that both TrueHD and DTS-HD MA are both loss-less codecs and therefor somewhat akin to a Zip program that loss-lessly compresses any file into a smaller size and then Un-Zipping it results in exactly the same file, bit for bit. In Zipping the file there is a fair amount of processing to compress the file and usually there are options on trading off speed vs. compaction. The more compaction, the slower the process is.

However when Un-Zipping a file that is usually fairly quick no matter what the compaction factor was. It would seem that the expansion process is relative easy. If this analogy is correct then the TrueHD and DTS-HD MA processing should also be relatively easy. I would suspect that processing of lossy codecs could take MORE processing than for loss-less codecs since with the lossy codecs the processing has to synthesize the original data vs. loss-less codecs just have to regenerate the data.

So if the above is true then why is it so difficult to include this processing out of the box? Samsung is not alone as I believe Toshiba's DVD HD players also had to wait for an update to get this.

Lastly, as far as bitstreaming, this is just taking the data from the disk and sending it out the HDMI, and no data processing is needed other than some formatting. So again why is this so hard???!!!

Gerry

I was hoping to get something in writing from them as it's difficult to keep posting "the Samsung rep told me" stuff. It would be nice to have it in writing once and for all but please try calling if you have time. At least we might have something more sure to go on! Then maybe they'll eventually email me too!

If the firmware update won't give us 7.1 ch. HDMI output of DD TrueHD and DTS HD MA then I would cancel my order with 1Call. I'm hoping that it will give us the full 7.1 HDMI plus do A/D out the analog jacks too!

Well, this Samsung rep told me absolutely nothing. He was very upfront with me in that he said "I don't know anything about that model". He also said I may want to wait until it is released and take a look at it then before deciding.

Hi ALL,

I've been following all of the 5000 threads and its pretty certain I'm going to buy one as soon as I can. I'm not TOO concerned about the TrueHD and DTS-HD MA as I can't believe Samsung won't issue an update to address them. But my dumb question has to do with why is it so difficult for manufacturers to include the above support out of the box.

Its my understanding that both TrueHD and DTS-HD MA are both loss-less codecs and therefor somewhat akin to a Zip program that loss-lessly compresses any file into a smaller size and then Un-Zipping it results in exactly the same file, bit for bit. In Zipping the file there is a fair amount of processing to compress the file and usually there are options on trading off speed vs. compaction. The more compaction, the slower the process is.

However when Un-Zipping a file that is usually fairly quick no matter what the compaction factor was. It would seem that the expansion process is relative easy. If this analogy is correct then the TrueHD and DTS-HD MA processing should also be relatively easy. I would suspect that processing of lossy codecs could take MORE processing than for loss-less codecs since with the lossy codecs the processing has to synthesize the original data vs. loss-less codecs just have to regenerate the data.

So if the above is true then why is it so difficult to include this processing out of the box? Samsung is not alone as I believe Toshiba's DVD HD players also had to wait for an update to get this.

Lastly, as far as bitstreaming, this is just taking the data from the disk and sending it out the HDMI, and no data processing is needed other than some formatting. So again why is this so hard???!!!

Gerry

I remember reading somewhere that DTS MA was MUCH more intensive to decrypt than TrueHD. That is why even 1st gen HD DVD players can decode 5.1 TrueHD, but we still don't have ANY players that will decode DTS MA. I know that the Samsung 1400 will send bitstream, but I hadn't heard that it will decode it (but I haven't kept up with that model since the 5000 was announced).

The problem is in the decryption process. DTS MA requires a complex algorithm of some kind... and hardware manufactures are having a hard time getting it right, I assume. I really don't care about 'decoding' as long as it can bitstream... but I know that the majority is in the opposite boat.

I remember reading somewhere that DTS MA was MUCH more intensive to decrypt than TrueHD. That is why even 1st gen HD DVD players can decode 5.1 TrueHD, but we still don't have ANY players that will decode DTS MA. I know that the Samsung 1400 will send bitstream, but I hadn't heard that it will decode it (but I haven't kept up with that model since the 5000 was announced).

The problem is in the decryption process. DTS MA requires a complex algorithm of some kind... and hardware manufactures are having a hard time getting it right, I assume. I really don't care about 'decoding' as long as it can bitstream... but I know that the majority is in the opposite boat.

Just want to say heellllllllOOoooooo :) nice to see someone familiar around. Now get back to work :p

Nah, Y2K was a tempest in a teapot dreamed up by a bunch of software consults to sell their services. Sure those bugs in old code needed to be found before 1/1/2000. But, an end to civilization if they all weren't caught??? Nah.

Mmm, I did not notice people in the street and in general were increasingly less civil to each other, so I think they were right after all. :D

Samsung Says Dual Player Still on Track For December, at Reduced Price
December 05, 2007
Contrary to published reports, as well as its own Amazon.com listing, Samsung’s BD-UP5000 dual-format high-definition disc player is indeed on track to reach the market in “mid-to-late December,” a Samsung spokesperson told Dealerscope.

The spokesman added that the player “is shipping as we speak, and you will start to see it available at retail later this month.” In addition, the manufacturer-advertised price has been reduced to $799; it was originally announced as $200 higher, but was changed due to “recent activities in the marketplace.”

Samsung had been saying in recent weeks that the player would indeed be arriving prior to Christmas, but as of Tuesday afternoon the Amazon.com page (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000VDG0UK?tag=forwarcen-20&***********as3&creativeASIN=B000VDG0UK&creative=373489&camp=211189) still listed the product as arriving Jan. 15, 2008. Samsung had announced in July (http://www.dealerscope.com/story/story.bsp?sid=79153&var=story) that the BD-UP5000 would be delayed until the tail end of the holiday season.

In dual format land, the LG-BH200 is said to be profile 2 compatible (profile 1.1 already being possible).

.

I was looking at the Brocade BCM7440 SoC information, and it does say it has a software stack compatible with Blu-Ray Profile 2.0.



http://www.broadcom.com/products/Consumer-Electronics/Blu-ray-and-HD-DVD-System-Solutions/BCM7440

from the website - "The BCM7440 is supported with a complete reference design, the BCM97440, and a software stack that includes support for Blu-ray (Profile 1.0 and 2.0) and HD DVD HDi™ and Navigator."

Since the Samsung UP5000 uses this SoC, I would assume it COULD be compatible with BD 2.0. However, it all depends on what Samsung does.

Samsung Says Dual Player Still on Track For December, at Reduced Price
December 05, 2007
Contrary to published reports, as well as its own Amazon.com listing, Samsung’s BD-UP5000 dual-format high-definition disc player is indeed on track to reach the market in “mid-to-late December,” a Samsung spokesperson told Dealerscope.

The spokesman added that the player “is shipping as we speak, and you will start to see it available at retail later this month.” In addition, the manufacturer-advertised price has been reduced to $799; it was originally announced as $200 higher, but was changed due to “recent activities in the marketplace.”

Samsung had been saying in recent weeks that the player would indeed be arriving prior to Christmas, but as of Tuesday afternoon the Amazon.com page (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000VDG0UK?tag=forwarcen-20&***********as3&creativeASIN=B000VDG0UK&creative=373489&camp=211189) still listed the product as arriving Jan. 15, 2008. Samsung had announced in July (http://www.dealerscope.com/story/story.bsp?sid=79153&var=story) that the BD-UP5000 would be delayed until the tail end of the holiday season.

Interesting. Not that I doubt you, but do you have a source/link to this announcement?

Interesting. Not that I doubt you, but do you have a source/link to this announcement?

I thought the same thing..

http://www.dealerscope.com/story/story.bsp?sid=83287&var=story

Magnolia gave me a delivery date of December 31st yesterday afternoon...not in concrete but it's a good sign if they haven't moved it back yet.

I wonder now, if there is anything to the theory that Samsung was holding back release due to a resurgence of HD-DVD player sales.

Yesterday the Blu-Ray association announced something like 2.7 million Blu-Ray players sold in North America to date and now we see movement on this particular product?

Coincidence? :rolleyes:

^^^
i wonder who'll win the fight to claim a dual format player as a sale for there side:rolleyes: or will it count as a sale for both sides?:D

^^^
i wonder who'll win the fight to claim a dual format player as a sale for there side:rolleyes: or will it count as a sale for both sides?:D

...doesn't matter. One side will claim "hanging chads" and "voter confusion". ;)

...doesn't matter. One side will claim "hanging chads" and "voter confusion". ;)

Now that's rich! The old hanging chad game.

I would love to see some of the companies start changing the list prices online to $799 now. Maybe that will bring the discounted price down to somewhere in the $640, $650 range! Very cool!!!

I was hoping to get something in writing from them as it's difficult to keep posting "the Samsung rep told me" stuff. It would be nice to have it in writing once and for all but please try calling if you have time. At least we might have something more sure to go on! Then maybe they'll eventually email me too!

If the firmware update won't give us 7.1 ch. HDMI output of DD TrueHD and DTS HD MA then I would cancel my order with 1Call. I'm hoping that it will give us the full 7.1 HDMI plus do A/D out the analog jacks too!
A reasonable explanation of the TruHD limitation in the Manual is that it is referring to Optical output only. See http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=12407460#post12407460
Apparently TruHD has been described this way before, but, only applied to optical out, not Analog or HDMI...

A reasonable explanation of the TruHD limitation in the Manual is that it is referring to Optical output only. See http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=12407460#post12407460
Apparently TruHD has been described this way before, but, only applied to optical out, not Analog or HDMI...

Thanks! This helps and I hope is the true case here. Although I still hope that the firmware upgrade gives us both of the loseless audio formats out of the 7.1 analog jacks too!

"Originally Posted by doctorxring
If this unit is like my BD10AK, it will only pass TrueHD
through OPTICAL as two channel, because that is the
limitation of the connection.

It passes multichannel decoded via HDMI and analog.

But the statement in the BD10AK's manual about TrueHD
only being passed as 2 channel stereo caught me off
guard too. But this was as optical.

dxr"

How long before street prices take effect on a release of HW?

now available for preorder at crutchfield's

Not only that, but as per carljanderson at his dealerscope link showing the sugested msrp has been adjusted down to $779 and is what Crutchfield is selling it for, and furthermore Crutchfield is giving another 10% off for those who bought a new Samsung TV too :D ..so those people will get it for $719 ...sold !

I see a price of $799 at Crutch.

Quick question - with all the debate about the audio output for TrueHD, etc, can anyone provide me with some insight as to which received would be better to mesh with the BD-UP5000: the Sony DG910 or the Onkyo 605? They are both on sale right now, and I need to upgrade my current Onkyo (sr503 model from a few years ago). It looks like the DG910 has 3 HDMI in which would be convenient, but the 605 supports HDMI 1.3 so it can support TrueHD over HDMI in case the Samsung dual player does not support it over PCM...?

I'm a little confused about all the formats and issues here, so I appreciate some help :) I just want a nice new receiver to go with the forthcoming HD/BD player. I'm connecting to a 5.1 audio system with room for upgrade to 7.1 in the future, and to a 1024x768 Panasonic plasma (not 1080p).

thanks!
jason

I would take the Onkyo over the Sony any day of the week. You need to step up to the Onkyo 705 if you want to get 7.1 from 5.1 soundtracks.

I would take the Onkyo over the Sony any day of the week. You need to step up to the Onkyo 705 if you want to get 7.1 from 5.1 soundtracks.
Amen, I have the 605...only complaint is it runs a bit hot but nothing that's brought the house down. :D

I know some people earlier in the thread were wondering about DVD+R/+RW playback. I just went through the manual and found this on page 32. Bad news if this is true. If anyone has any contacts at Samsung it would be great to know if this is true.

Discs which cannot be played on this player.
• BD-R • BD-RE • HD DVD-R • DVD+RW
• DVD+R • DVD-ROM • DVD-RAM • CDV
• CD-ROM • CVD • CD-I • CD-RW
• Super Audio CD(except CD layer) • CDGs play audio only, not graphics.
Ability to play back may depend on recording conditions.
• DVD-R • DVD-RW (V mode) • CD-R
• The unit may not play certain CD-R and DVD-R due to the disc type or recording conditions.
Blu-ray/HD DVD is a new and evolving format. Accordingly, disc compatibility issues with new and existing
format discs are possible. Not all discs are compatible and not every disc will playback.
For additional information, refer to the Disc Type and Characteristics and Compliance and Compatibility Notice
sections of this Manual. If you encounter compatibility problems, please contact SAMSUNG customer care
center.
The unit cannot play CD-R and DVD-RW/-R recorded content such as divx, avi, mpg, mov, wma, mp3,digital
photo view(JPEG) file.

I wonder if they will be offering any free movies with this player? Anyone heard any rumors? 5 BDs and 5 HD DVDs would be great:D OK, I'd settle for 3 of each;) They should at least have one of each in the box.

I know some people earlier in the thread were wondering about DVD+R/+RW playback. I just went through the manual and found this on page 32. Bad news if this is true. If anyone has any contacts at Samsung it would be great to know if this is true.

Discs which cannot be played on this player.
• BD-R • BD-RE • HD DVD-R • DVD+RW
• DVD+R • DVD-ROM • DVD-RAM • CDV...........
Yup...that kills it for me.:mad::mad:

I know some people earlier in the thread were wondering about DVD+R/+RW playback. I just went through the manual and found this on page 32. Bad news if this is true. If anyone has any contacts at Samsung it would be great to know if this is true.

Discs which cannot be played on this player.
• BD-R • BD-RE • HD DVD-R • DVD+RW
• DVD+R • DVD-ROM • DVD-RAM • CDV
• CD-ROM • CVD • CD-I • CD-RW
• Super Audio CD(except CD layer) • CDGs play audio only, not graphics.
Ability to play back may depend on recording conditions.
• DVD-R • DVD-RW (V mode) • CD-R
• The unit may not play certain CD-R and DVD-R due to the disc type or recording conditions.
Blu-ray/HD DVD is a new and evolving format. Accordingly, disc compatibility issues with new and existing
format discs are possible. Not all discs are compatible and not every disc will playback.
For additional information, refer to the Disc Type and Characteristics and Compliance and Compatibility Notice
sections of this Manual. If you encounter compatibility problems, please contact SAMSUNG customer care
center.
The unit cannot play CD-R and DVD-RW/-R recorded content such as divx, avi, mpg, mov, wma, mp3,digital
photo view(JPEG) file.

This player will play 2CH audio CD's right???

I would have to imagine that CD and DVD-R playback are simply undocumented features. ;)

A reasonable explanation of the TruHD limitation in the Manual is that it is referring to Optical output only. See http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=12407460#post12407460
Apparently TruHD has been described this way before, but, only applied to optical out, not Analog or HDMI...

an analagous guide could be how the bdp1400 handles truehd. is it 2 channel or multichannel over the analogues ?

an analagous guide could be how the bdp1400 handles truehd. is it 2 channel or multichannel over the analogues ?
I think the bd-p1400 does multi TrueHD over the analogs and everything else except DTS-MA. It does everything bitstream including DTS-MA. So, all of this bodes well for the 5000.
Note: I got this info from looking at the bd-p1400 thread

player is "shipping as we speak"

http://www.dealerscope.com/story/story.bsp?sid=83287&var=story

player is "shipping as we speak"

http://www.dealerscope.com/story/story.bsp?sid=83287&var=story

howly cow!! BIG news!!!

What do you guys recommend...

I have a Pioneer Elite BDP-95FD that I bought 3 weeks ago from BB, and just ordered a Toshiba HD-A35 so I could play both formats. Is it in my best interest to return the Elite and A35 and purchase the 5000, or stick with what I've got? Does the Samsung lack any features of the 95FD or A35?

These are running through an Integra DTR-7.8 to a Pioneer Elite PRO-150FD if that helps.

Thanks

Drama

So far bad news...


The USA Site of Samsung has been updated with the BD-UP5000

True HD in 2 channel only so far and BD-J 1.0 only so far confirmed.

This is from the new Manual posted on 11-20-07

player is "shipping as we speak"

http://www.dealerscope.com/story/story.bsp?sid=83287&var=story

I'm anxiously awaiting the first real hands-on reviews. If Samsung can get this thing right, then I'm on board. If not, then I'll be buying separate players.

So far bad news...


I have a feeling that the manual is wrong on many points.

I am waiting to see what this unit actually does (either from here or in person) once it hits the streets.

I would think (hope ?) Samsung would not release a player touted as its high end player without bitstreaming the DTS-MA and MultiChannel TrueHD at a minimum. Internal decoding is a totally different issue (which I won't be too concerned with once I decide on a new receiver (Denon 2/3808, Yam 1/3800, or the Onkyo 805 (at $799 it may win)).

Maybe you guys all have links to this, but here are some photos I pulled from a Korean website, here:

http://www.enuri.com/search/Searchlist.jsp?searchkind=1&page=2&key=POPULAR+DESC&pagesize=50&factory=&nosale=OFF&chk_modelno=&cmd=imglist&sMinPrice=0&sMaxPrice=0&shopcode=0&shop_code=&from=search&first_search=NO&orgkeyword=HD+DVD&logkeyword=HD-DVD&in_keyword=&cate=0215&cate_name=undefined&redirect_flag=&search_gubun=&minprice=0&field_set=&detailkeyword=&modelno=0&price_gubun=detail&bFactoryBtnClick=false&m_price=&pre_price=&minpricesearch=0&maxpricesearch=6510000&minpricesearch_ex=&maxpricesearch_ex=&prevSearch=&cate_keyword=Y&layerfactory=&layerprice=&layershop=&c=enuri&keyword=HD-DVD

The pics were locked so I couldn't give you a direct link. Sorry. You can get them by clicking on the player photo and clicking again.

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd16/bassexpander/samsung2.jpg

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd16/bassexpander/samsung.jpg

In Korean, it says this (which you may not have fonts to display):

DTS-HD:
HD규격의 사운드 포맷으로, 기존 DTS포맷보다
고음질의 사운드를 재생합니다.
DTS디코더를 이용해서도 재생이 가능합니다.
포맷 자체적으로는 2048채널까지 지원되지만,
블루레이와 HD-DVD 규격에서는 7.1채널까지만
사용할 수 있습니다.


A lot of that is Korean that's over my head, but here is what Babelfish translator says:

"DTS-HD: The HD in sound format of standard, existing DTS format compared to it remakes a high-pitched tone question sound. The DTS it uses the decoder and remaking is possible. With format oneself until 2048 Channel it is supported, the blue ley this and 7.1 Channel it peels but it will be able to use from HD-Dvd standard."

My lady is not here to interpret, sorry.

I know some people earlier in the thread were wondering about DVD+R/+RW playback. I just went through the manual and found this on page 32. Bad news if this is true. If anyone has any contacts at Samsung it would be great to know if this is true.

Discs which cannot be played on this player.
• BD-R • BD-RE • HD DVD-R • DVD+RW
• DVD+R • DVD-ROM • DVD-RAM • CDV
• CD-ROM • CVD • CD-I • CD-RW
• Super Audio CD(except CD layer) • CDGs play audio only, not graphics.
Ability to play back may depend on recording conditions.
• DVD-R • DVD-RW (V mode) • CD-R
• The unit may not play certain CD-R and DVD-R due to the disc type or recording conditions.
Blu-ray/HD DVD is a new and evolving format. Accordingly, disc compatibility issues with new and existing
format discs are possible. Not all discs are compatible and not every disc will playback.
For additional information, refer to the Disc Type and Characteristics and Compliance and Compatibility Notice
sections of this Manual. If you encounter compatibility problems, please contact SAMSUNG customer care
center.
The unit cannot play CD-R and DVD-RW/-R recorded content such as divx, avi, mpg, mov, wma, mp3,digital
photo view(JPEG) file.

I'll let you know as soon as mine arrives and I try it out. I say that as I've played +R media on several players whose manual said they do no play that format, including Samsung. Personally, I think in many cases it is boilerplate they put in as a carryover from the days of -R/+R wars, and to keep them from having to test and support as many media formats. We'll see here pretty soon.

CHeers,

Doug

Another source that says the 5000 is 'In Transit': Hig-Def Digest

HERE (http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Dual-Format_Players/Hardware/Samsung/Samsung:_Dual-Format_Blu-ray/HD_DVD_Player_Now_Shipping/1240)

I am SOOOOO getting this for Christmas!

I'll let you know as soon as mine arrives and I try it out. I say that as I've played +R media on several players whose manual said they do no play that format, including Samsung. Personally, I think in many cases it is boilerplate they put in as a carryover from the days of -R/+R wars, and to keep them from having to test and support as many media formats. We'll see here pretty soon.

CHeers,

Doug

Doug, your hands-on report will be anxiously awaited on the +R question. If it don't play it, I can't use it. :( Isn't it kinda' dumb for them not to update their owner's manual if in fact they will play +R media?

THIS PLAYER IS SHIPPING AS WE SPEAK!!

http://hddvd.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Dual-Format_Players/Hardware/Samsung/Samsung:_Dual-Format_Blu-ray/HD_DVD_Player_Now_Shipping/1240

Great news indeed!!

Paul

Whos gonna be first to start an owners thread?

i just love races.

DTS-HD:
HD규격의 사운드 포맷으로, 기존 DTS포맷보다
고음질의 사운드를 재생합니다.
DTS디코더를 이용해서도 재생이 가능합니다.
포맷 자체적으로는 2048채널까지 지원되지만,
블루레이와 HD-DVD 규격에서는 7.1채널까지만
사용할 수 있습니다.

This translates to

DTS-HD

(DTS-HD) is one of the HD audio formats delivering higher quality sound than conventional DTS format.
You may also use legacy DTS decoder to decode the audio.
Even though the format supports up to 2048 channels, in Blu-ray and HD DVD, the output is limited to 7.1 channels.

heh! Ordered ! :)

heh! Ordered ! :)


From who?

Anything cheaper than $799.00?

I know some people earlier in the thread were wondering about DVD+R/+RW playback. I just went through the manual and found this on page 32. Bad news if this is true. If anyone has any contacts at Samsung it would be great to know if this is true.

Discs which cannot be played on this player.
• BD-R • BD-RE • HD DVD-R • DVD+RW
• DVD+R • DVD-ROM • DVD-RAM • CDV
• CD-ROM • CVD • CD-I • CD-RW
• Super Audio CD(except CD layer) • CDGs play audio only, not graphics.
Ability to play back may depend on recording conditions.
• DVD-R • DVD-RW (V mode) • CD-R
• The unit may not play certain CD-R and DVD-R due to the disc type or recording conditions.
Blu-ray/HD DVD is a new and evolving format. Accordingly, disc compatibility issues with new and existing
format discs are possible. Not all discs are compatible and not every disc will playback.
For additional information, refer to the Disc Type and Characteristics and Compliance and Compatibility Notice
sections of this Manual. If you encounter compatibility problems, please contact SAMSUNG customer care
center.
The unit cannot play CD-R and DVD-RW/-R recorded content such as divx, avi, mpg, mov, wma, mp3,digital
photo view(JPEG) file.

i don't remember if all this information was previously available at cnet, but it addresses some of your questions:

http://shopper.cnet.com/video-players-and-recorders/samsung-bd-up5000/4014-6463_9-32553618.html

click "show" next to "full specifications."

Anything cheaper than $799.00?

Wait a month.:)

How much persistent storage does this player actually have? 256MB/512MB/1024MB/etc...?
Can it utilize a USB memory stick to expand PStorage?

HeHe - If one were to burn an HD-DVD image on a Blu Ray burner, would it even play?

i don't remember if all this information was previously available at cnet, but it addresses some of your questions:

http://shopper.cnet.com/video-players-and-recorders/samsung-bd-up5000/4014-6463_9-32553618.html

click "show" next to "full specifications."

Doesn't really address our biggest questions, although it does list "MP3 decoding" as a feature. This is contrary to the huge list of "unsupported" formats in the manual, so hopefully it's not the only item that's wrong from that list.

just referring the OP to it, because it stated CD-RW, DVD-RW as supported, among other things.

I'll let you know as soon as mine arrives and I try it out. I say that as I've played +R media on several players whose manual said they do no play that format, including Samsung. Personally, I think in many cases it is boilerplate they put in as a carryover from the days of -R/+R wars, and to keep them from having to test and support as many media formats. We'll see here pretty soon.

CHeers,

Doug

Hi Doug, that would be great. I was thinking the same as you but I've never seen it stated in other manuals it wouldn't play DVD+R/+RW, it just never said they would. This is the first I saw it state the player wouldn't so I thought maybe it really won't. I've had one on preorder since 10-07 to use as a 2nd unit in another room but if it won't play these type of discs I'd just stick to my separate players.

Hi Doug, that would be great. I was thinking the same as you but I've never seen it stated in other manuals it wouldn't play DVD+R/+RW, it just never said they would. This is the first I saw it state the player wouldn't so I thought maybe it really won't. I've had one on preorder since 10-07 to use as a 2nd unit in another room but if it won't play these type of discs I'd just stick to my separate players.

I was hot to get one of these until I learned that it won't play DVD+R discs. :mad: I'm picking up a Sony BDP-S500 in the next couple of days as it will do what I want it to and play HD DVDs (AVC-HD delivers digital picture and sound quality comparable to that of High Definition, but on a DVD) made from my Sony HD hard disc camcorder. :)

The Korean Enuri site is currently down 2 hours for updates, but I swear I read yesterday that it claimed this player does play burned DVDs as well.

I'll copy/paste what it says when the site goes back up later today.

Here is a review in Korean, put up yesterday. Maybe our Korean translator can find some answers to the questions everyone has been asking. I do see REON in there, for one.:

http://blog.naver.com/ps3av?Redirect=Log&logNo=90025185899


Another blurb in English. I guess this does H.264, which is cool:
http://bookmarkshopping.com/235


Another blog in Korean about it:
http://blog.naver.com/hyojun82?Redirect=Log&logNo=150019964085

Here is a review in Korean, put up yesterday. Maybe our Korean translator can find some answers to the questions everyone has been asking. I do see REON in there, for one.:

http://blog.naver.com/ps3av?Redirect=Log&logNo=90025185899


Another blurb in English. I guess this does H.264, which is cool:
http://bookmarkshopping.com/235


Another blog in Korean about it:
http://blog.naver.com/hyojun82?Redirect=Log&logNo=150019964085

The English page above shows specs which show it will play DVD+R/+RW. Guess the best thing is to see what others report when they get the units. I'm still going to keep mine on order. Thanks again Doug for offering to report to us about this.

There really is no reason a dual format player shouldnt shouldnt play DVD A and SACD. Since I own a HD DVD and BD player I wont move to a single player until one comes which can play past format as well as new ones.

If I owned niether format this is the way I would go but in order for me to sell what I have and move to one it has to show some more value.

There really is no reason a dual format player shouldnt shouldnt play DVD A and SACD. Since I own a HD DVD and BD player I wont move to a single player until one comes which can play past format as well as new ones.

If I owned niether format this is the way I would go but in order for me to sell what I have and move to one it has to show some more value.
If it could just play dvd-a I would be happier (I only have 1 SACD but many DVD-As). I read somewhere here that the hardware SOC used in the 5000 is capable of doing this for, at least, DVD-A.

$799 at Ultimate Electronics, scheduled to arrive Dec. 18 in volume.

$799 at Ultimate Electronics, scheduled to arrive Dec. 18 in volume.


You wouldn't by chance be associated with Ultimate Electronics would you Mr. New Member? :rolleyes:

not on samsung's site as an authorized dealer from what i can see.

You wouldn't by chance be associated with Ultimate Electronics would you Mr. New Member? :rolleyes:

I don't detect skepticism, do I ? :)

I was expecting to find an outfit in Brooklyn but UE seems to be a big, multi-store outfit.

If it could just play dvd-a I would be happier (I only have 1 SACD but many DVD-As). I read somewhere here that the hardware SOC used in the 5000 is capable of doing this for, at least, DVD-A.

Looking at the Broadcom spec sheet of the 7440, the SoC CAN support DVD-A and SACD, although I can not find "Decode".

http://www.broadcom.com/collateral/pb/7440-PB01-R.pdf

Will Samsung support it? Probably not, but hey! That's why we will have an "Owners Thread" soon, right??? :) It won't be from me.

All I need to know is bitstream MA and T-HD, and will it support simultaneous A/V output from HDMI and Component/Analog Audio. I am sure there are time my wife will want to watch a movie that doesn't wake me up. I don't understand watching a movie w/o HT, but hey....

Today I cancelled my 10/26/07 $774.99 order due to the following reasons:

1) Pricing changes eliminate most if not all the advantage of an internet preorder (my 10% BestBuy coupon is good until the end of the month)

2) Less than a month away from CES and possible (likely) knowledge of other combo player plans

3) Possible lack of support for multi-channel Dolby TrueHD on analog outputs (according to manual)

4) Possible lack of support for BD-R, BD-RE and HD DVD-R (according to manual). This kills playing home HD movies doesn't it?

5) Possible lack of support for DVD+R & DVD+RW (according to manual)

6) General discomfort with evolving specs and the absence of P2.0 support.

7) Lack of DVD-A & SACD support

8) Possible incompatibility of future triple-layer HD DVD

9) Guess I'm still not ready to reward with my $$$ anyone for this ridiculous format war

#3 and #5 are the only things that concern me. If those fears are alleviated then I'll buy this player ASAP. :cool:

Gimp,

Why would anyone play a downgraded DVD+R on this puppy and show it in it's glorious 1080p resolution is beyond me. Perhaps you can shed some light here. All I know, is that when I throw an image from a DVD+R on my 96" screen from my 720p projector (soon to be 1080p) it looks terrible! Talk about lost of contrast, color and overall enjoyment of watching a film. When you copy, there's excessive degradation no? Heck, I don't even like regular DVD now, though I must say Ratatouille looked great, and I've got over 500 titles.

I want this player to perform well, not to be buggy out of the gate. I also really need for it to decode TrueHD via analog like my A1. If it does I'll get it.

That's essentially my primary concerns.

CES only announces upcoming products. What, you want to wait another 12 months for a duo?

Initial price was $999, now it's $799. That's cool.

Triple layer? All movies currently are fine.

Not ready to part with $$$. Why did you initially order?

I'm not trying to start anything, I'm simply giving you my perspective.

Gimp,

Why would anyone play a downgraded DVD+R on this puppy and show it in it's glorious 1080p resolution is beyond me. Perhaps you can shed some light here. All I know, is that when I throw an image from a DVD+R on my 96" screen from my 720p projector (soon to be 1080p) it looks terrible!

Well I have 400+ movies on DVD+R and they look beautiful on my 65" Mits.
Maybe you are doing something wrong when you make your DVD+R's
How does a store bought SD DVD movie look on your 96" screen?
My HD-A1 does a great job on DVD+R movies unconverted to 1080i.

CES only announces upcoming products. What, you want to wait another 12 months for a duo?


I thought the same about CES until the Panasonic BD30 came out a few months ago. Apparantly, it wasn't shown at either CES or CEDIA nor were there any preannouncements. It just showed up like an unexpected present under the Christmas tree. (seasonal metaphor :) )

Can't help but wonder if Panasonic might surprise us with a universal player.

It still comes down to performance and features.

If Panasonic does, I'd bet the bank it would be superior to dual units from LG or Samsung.

Well I have 400+ movies on DVD+R and they look beautiful on my 65" Mits.
Maybe you are doing something wrong when you make your DVD+R's
How does a store bought SD DVD movie look on your 96" screen?
My HD-A1 does a great job on DVD+R movies unconverted to 1080i.

My math maybe bad, but if I'm copying a dvd that has 6.1 GB to a 4.4GB there will be some info lost no? I don't think this should even be of dispute. There is a definite change in picture quality.

If Panasonic does, I'd bet the bank it would be superior to dual units from LG or Samsung.
Panasonic left a bad taste in my mouth with one of their "Premier" series boomboxes in the last decade. The tape deck became problematic shortly into its lifespan with playback being downright difficult and fast forward/rewind functions failing to work. Compare this with a Hitachi from 20 years prior that lasted a couple of decades. Also had a somewhat poor digital phone/answering machine from them even more recently that had pretty horrid voice quality for recordings. The Uniden that replaced it put it to shame. That said, I know you can't base an entire manuf's track record on a few duds. I have a Panasonic walkman and some PowerLine adapters that work flawlessly within the limits of the technology of course as well as a microwave that keeps on kicking!

I also own a Samsung LCD that is rather mint in quality as well, so I say it could go either way. ;)

does the Sammy 5k also send all the new audio formats as bitstream to a 1.3 receiver with on-board audio-decoders? (I KNOW the sammy will have many, and probably all, on-board audio decoders, but I want my Denon to do the decoding)

It will bitstream via HDMI, what most are questioning is whether or not it will PCM 5.1 or 7.1 via analog.

5) Possible lack of support for DVD+R & DVD+RW (according to manual)

7) Lack of DVD-A & SACD support



Gimp,

Why would you completely ditch you Oppo? I'm planning on keeping my Oppo for Up-Conversion and SACD/DVD-A and then getting a combo player for the next gen formats.

Just trying to keep it simple?

Well I have 400+ movies on DVD+R and they look beautiful on my 65" Mits.
Maybe you are doing something wrong when you make your DVD+R's
How does a store bought SD DVD movie look on your 96" screen?
My HD-A1 does a great job on DVD+R movies unconverted to 1080i.
Are you burning DVD+R DL or converting everything down to single layer? depending on the software, the title and length you can get some nasty compression. I do have some shorter movies that I burned to single layer and you can't really tell.

My math maybe bad, but if I'm copying a dvd that has 6.1 GB to a 4.4GB there will be some info lost no? I don't think this should even be of dispute. There is a definite change in picture quality.

You should be using Dual Layer DVD blanks to get a 1 to 1 copy.
They are only a few pennies more than the 4.7 gig blanks. PQ is worth the extra cost IMHO
If you buy a 25 or 50 disk spindle, you can get the cost down to $1.35 per disk.

Are you burning DVD+R DL or converting everything down to single layer? depending on the software, the title and length you can get some nasty compression. I do have some shorter movies that I burned to single layer and you can't really tell.

I never "Shrink it"
Most all SD movies these days are on DL DVD's. I only use Verbatim DVD+R DL blanks

It will bitstream via HDMI, what most are questioning is whether or not it will PCM 5.1 or 7.1 via analog.
If it doesn't, what's the point of the 7.1 analog outs??

I never "Shrink it"
Most all SD movies these days are on DL DVD's. I only use Verbatim DVD+R DL blanks
Actually, you could selectively drop all the adds, warnings, previews, extras, foreign languages, etc and take little or nothing out of the actual movie and fit it on a cheap 4.7 dvd-r. You may or may not be surprised by the extra stuff they put in there that you either don't want to see or have no interest in...

Actually, you could selectively drop all the adds, warnings, previews, extras, foreign languages, etc and take little or nothing out of the actual movie and fit it on a cheap 4.7 dvd-r. You may or may not be surprised by the extra stuff they put in there that you either don't want to see or have no interest in...

Just killing a language track (Spanish, French, Japanese, etc) can free up a gig or more.

My math maybe bad, but if I'm copying a dvd that has 6.1 GB to a 4.4GB there will be some info lost no? I don't think this should even be of dispute. There is a definite change in picture quality.

When I record off satellite with my Sony dvd recorder I always use DVD+R DL and use HQ setting. No signal loss as there isn't any compression. If you are only using DVD+R you will have compression so the video will not be as good. I haven't used DVD+R media since the DL came out.

If it doesn't, what's the point of the 7.1 analog outs??

I think we are all on board with that, but Samsung's documentation is leaving some doubt. It would be absolutely insane of Samsung to not support 7.1 PCM via analog, epsecially on a flagship universal player, but stranger things have happened. FWIW, if I had to lay money down right now, I would bet that 7.1 PCM via analog would be supported. Only time will tell...

Actually, you could selectively drop all the adds, warnings, previews, extras, foreign languages, etc and take little or nothing out of the actual movie and fit it on a cheap 4.7 dvd-r. You may or may not be surprised by the extra stuff they put in there that you either don't want to see or have no interest in...

If I do "movie only", most times it still will not fit on a 4.7 gig blank w/o some compression.
And I like 1:1 copies.
Lets not get this thread OT so, lets just hope that this player will play our DVD+R disks.

Why would anyone play a downgraded DVD+R on this puppy and show it in it's glorious 1080p resolution is beyond me. Perhaps you can shed some light here. All I know, is that when I throw an image from a DVD+R on my 96" screen from my 720p projector (soon to be 1080p) it looks terrible! Talk about lost of contrast, color and overall enjoyment of watching a film. When you copy, there's excessive degradation no? Heck, I don't even like regular DVD now, though I must say Ratatouille looked great, and I've got over 500 titles.


DVD+R looks pretty darn good on my 60XBR2 with an Oppo. and i see no degradation in PQ, no its not HD but it is pretty darn close, perhaps you need to hurry and get that 1080 projector. maybe you need a professional ISF calibration, or you could just be using the wrong program to make the copies.

My math maybe bad, but if I'm copying a dvd that has 6.1 GB to a 4.4GB there will be some info lost no? I don't think this should even be of dispute. There is a definite change in picture quality.

not if you use a program that splits it into 2 disc. or dual layer disc with a dual burner. and if you have a program that will remove all the unnecessary extras like i do most movies are only about 4GB. burn nothing but the widescreen movie and it will fit. leave out the extras, languages, previews and the full screen version.

not if you use a program that splits it into 2 disc. or dual layer disc with a dual burner. and if you have a program that will remove all the unnecessary extras like i do most movies are only about 4GB. burn nothing but the widescreen movie and it will fit. leave out the extras, languages, previews and the full screen version.

Guys can we keep this thread to the BD-UP5000 and get off burning discs, theres another section for that!

Guys can we keep this thread to the BD-UP5000 and get of burning discs, theres another section for that!

THANK YOU!!!!

Guys can we keep this thread to the BD-UP5000 and get off burning discs, theres another section for that!

What's it called?

What's it called?

It's called Home Theater Computers (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/forumdisplay.php?s=&daysprune=&f=26), but a keyword search or a look at the forum list should have easy enough.

What do you guys recommend...

I have a Pioneer Elite BDP-95FD that I bought 3 weeks ago from BB, and just ordered a Toshiba HD-A35 so I could play both formats. Is it in my best interest to return the Elite and A35 and purchase the 5000, or stick with what I've got? Does the Samsung lack any features of the 95FD or A35?

These are running through an Integra DTR-7.8 to a Pioneer Elite PRO-150FD if that helps.

Thanks

Drama

I thought about getting the same two players you have but decided on the Samsung 5000 because of its lower cost. However, I suspect your Pioneer blu-ray player is the best one on the market and will likely out perfrom the Samsung 5000. I would stick with what you have if money is not a huge object. You have a great Pioneer 60 plasma, you probably want the best signals you can get. The A35 and Pioneer should give you that. I would try to get a price match guarantee on the Pioneer blu-ray player because Tweeter now sells it for $850. Best Buy probably charged you $1,000. I believe Best Buy has a 30 day price match guarantee. If not, I would consider returning it to Best Buy and purchasing it at Tweeter.

If I were putting money down on 7.1 PCM support, it go something like this

Known: Player will ship with 2.0 TrueHD support
Guesswork: Within 60 days FW will update TrueHD to 5.1 Sometime in the next 6 months to 1 year, a FW update will add 7.1 DTS MA will take longer (if the past is any indication of the future)

Hopefully we'll know something this week when the first users get their hands on v.1. My bet is that it will do multi-chan TrueHD from analogs/bitstream (along with straight PCM and DD+) and that the manual was just referring to the digital outs with the stereo TrueHD(see previous posts and bd-p1400 history) .
Ditto with the DVD+R contoversy - it will probably play them IMO.
DTS-MA should come with the first F/W in early February.
Here's to being optimistic - my order is staying put with BBB...

http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/Firmware_Upgrades/New_Samsung_Blu-ray_Player_Unlocks_DTS-HD_Master_Audio/1012

the 1400, but, still... I don't see it available on the 1400 and not the 5000

Please forgive me if this has been answered already. It's a really long thread, and it's not easy sifting through more than 2000 posts. I'm strongly considering purchasing this player, but I want to verify one thing first. The player will most likely be paired with a receiver than can internally decode the new audio formats (i.e. Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD MA). Chances are, it will either be the Integra DTR-8.8 or the Denon AVR-4308CI. Given this fact, is there anything that I am potentially missing out on by going with the BD-UP5000 instead of two separate players?

Nobody will know 100% until the final player is out....but it is 99.99% likely that the 5000 will bitstream ALL codecs.

I own two separate HD players myself and would prefer them to be separate. I know one thing that at least if you have two players, if one player ends up in the repair shop you will still have the other player to watch movie on. ;)

I own two separate HD players myself and would prefer them to be separate. I know one thing that at least if you have two players, if one player ends up in the repair shop you will still have the other player to watch movie on. ;)

WOW! And here I've been running all of these years without a safety net! I've only ever had a single DVD player in my home theater at any one time. :rolleyes:

I'm going to have to run out and pick up a second unit just in case! :D

(sorry - couldn't resist)

I own two separate HD players myself and would prefer them to be separate. I know one thing that at least if you have two players, if one player ends up in the repair shop you will still have the other player to watch movie on. ;)

Only two? I have about 5 connected to my system plus 2 D-VHS players. But for the family room a dual player makes sense.

Hey guys, as an Aussie who is possibly interested in importing one over here (if not this, then possibly just get an A35 and a local PS3), has there been any information released as to whether this player will play PAL format SD-DVDs? I assume it will be region locked to region 1 (can always hope fora region free hack to come out later), but alot of my disks are "backups" *ahem* so no region issues with US DVD players, but they are PAL which may be a problem if it can only do NTSC (as is the case i believe with Toshiba HD-DVD players).

Also any info on whether it has a dual power supply (supporting 240V as well as 110V)? Otherwise i would need a step down transformer

Thanks for any info

WOW! And here I've been running all of these years without a safety net! I've only ever had a single DVD player in my home theater at any one time. :rolleyes:

I'm going to have to run out and pick up a second unit just in case! :D

(sorry - couldn't resist)

I think if you read some of the recent hd-dvd threads there seems to be a number of posters who have been having problems and sending them in for repair or simply returning them. I don't recall this many posts of problems with 2nd/3rd generation dvd players. I was going to do a BD30 + A35 or XA2, but hearing the hd-dvd problems with rental discs, I think it may worth waiting to hear how the Sammy will handle the rental hd-dvds.

I have the BD30+XA2 Combo, watch 2-3 movies from Netflix every week. I have had this combo a little over a month, before that I had an A2 for 6 months. I have yet to have a movie not play, I had a couple of glitches with the Sammy 1400 I had, before I returned it and got the BD-30, but I have yet to have a movie just not play.

I wanted the 5000, but just didn't want to wait, would have saved me some $ (XA2+BD-30 = ~ $900, + $100 for the HDMI switch so I could connect both in my Onk 605 (SAT TV takes the other HDMI)

I basically didnt want to wait for the 5000 to ship, and read about so many problems with the 1400 (even though I only had again a couple of small glicthes in the 5 movies or so I watched on it) and I was not convinced Samsung would get it right out of the chute, already you'll have to wait for a firmware update for some audio features.

I hope Sammy kicks ass with this player, I think it has all the features that people want for BD, HD-DVD, SD, I just didnt have the patience.

Very very happy with the BD-30+XA2 combo, formay nuetral is the only way to go

...snip... formay nuetral is the only way to go


:D

Ok I Have a great Plasma (Pioneer 100FD 1080p) and Good Reciver (Not HDMI) Tivo 3... All in a closet... But have yet to get a HD/Blu-ray Player... Still using a DVD Player... I am thinking of either the Samsung or this:


PS3 (399)
PS3 IR (50)
HDMI Switcher (99.95)
HD-DVD (HD-A2)
2 Opt to Coax Opt (49.90)


All this comes to a grand total of 849.95, which is a little more pricy than the Samsung, but I get a PS3 for Some Games and the Pciture/Music/Video Features (have a Wii,Ps2 in another room)... Note: but my TV and DVD is downstairs which I control through a harmony remote(RF) which works great but coax is eaiser to run downstairs

What would you do?


How noticable is the diffrence (real life) of 1080p and 1080i... When I bought the Pioneer I got a 1080i Plasma (Pioneer 5080) for free which I have in my basement... I could hook one of the players there for movies but would loose quality... Any Input?

Your plasma is 1080p, it is just that is only accepts up to a 1080i input. The Samsung has a lot more features than the PS3 and HD-A2....

Hey guys, as an Aussie who is possibly interested in importing one over here (if not this, then possibly just get an A35 and a local PS3), has there been any information released as to whether this player will play PAL format SD-DVDs? I assume it will be region locked to region 1 (can always hope fora region free hack to come out later), but alot of my disks are "backups" *ahem* so no region issues with US DVD players, but they are PAL which may be a problem if it can only do NTSC (as is the case i believe with Toshiba HD-DVD players).

Also any info on whether it has a dual power supply (supporting 240V as well as 110V)? Otherwise i would need a step down transformer

Thanks for any infoI would just weight if I were you because Australia can expect the BD-up5000 around Jan-Feb which will be 240v and
region free for SD DVD play back pal/ntsc + you will have A warranty....

I would just weight if I were you because Australia can expect the BD-up5000 around Jan-Feb which will be 240v and
region free for SD DVD play back pal/ntsc + you will have A warranty....
ah yes i hadnt even considered the possibility that it would be out here soon... too used to the likes of toshiba still not even having 3rd gen HD-DVD players out here yet, despite A35/EP35 being available elsewhere.

ANy ideas on australian pricing for the BD-UP5000 though? No doubt we will get screwed and be charged $2000 or something silly, eventhough its $899 USD in the states


Id still be interested to know whether the US BD-UP5000 can play PAL though

I would just weight if I were you because Australia can expect the BD-up5000 around Jan-Feb which will be 240v and
region free for SD DVD play back pal/ntsc + you will have A warranty....

Im in NZ and importing one from the States, I buy all my Bluray discs from Amazon as they have more than NZ and are way cheaper! I would have thought the HD DVD side would have played Pal standard DVD?

Im in NZ and importing one from the States, I buy all my Bluray discs from Amazon as they have more than NZ and are way cheaper! I would have thought the HD DVD side would have played Pal standard DVD?
well apparently with the US Tosh HD-DVD players A35 etc, they only do NTSC so thats why im asking about the samsung

I am in the same boat coming from AUS myself. The software is cheaper and there is more to choose from overseas so thats my main reason i would be looking at a US version player. But i too have the exact same situation as you scarecrow420. Got plenty of "backup" reagon free DVD's but all are PAL format.

I guess the only sure way is to have a DVD player a Blu Ray player and a HD DVD player ?????? But thats silly when it could all be in one nice little unit :) If only it did everything lol.

...format nuetral is the only way to go

I think at this point the difference between Blu-Ray and HD is academic. Neither format is going to win now that combo players are coming to market. It's not like it was with VHS and Beta where the two formats where mechanically different (cartridge size). Now the only difference, abstractly, is the way the media is written to the disc. I see more and more companies coming to market with combo players long before either side gives in and makes their films on the other guys media. As this trend continues, the media companies will become increasingly entrenched in their respective formats seeing no reason to switch to the others.

I think at this point the difference between Blu-Ray and HD is academic. Neither format is going to win now that combo players are coming to market. It's not like it was with VHS and Beta where the two formats where mechanically different (cartridge size). Now the only difference, abstractly, is the way the media is written to the disc. I see more and more companies coming to market with combo players long before either side gives in and makes their films on the other guys media. As this trend continues, the media companies will become increasingly entrenched in their respective formats seeing no reason to switch to the others.

I agree with you Philosophically - but unfortunately
many of these big companies are run by executives
where personal ego is more important than logic.

Therefore - except for small group of smart companies
who see the marketing opportunity to deliver a Combo
player and solidify their product in a Consumer's HD
Movie Player Shelf. I think it will take longer than you
think for these other ego centric companies to deliver
a Combo Player.

^You mean Panasonic and Sony? ;) We could put Toshiba in that list as well just to be balanced.

Unfortunately if companies start offering a lot of HD combo players, I fear it will only drag this format war out longer. At that point IMHO the only things that will decide the winner is if studios finally get tired of releasing dual formats. Or if one format is not selling enough and at that point the studios may just drop that format? I feel the dual format HD players will take the format war out of the hands of the consumer and place it in the hands of the studios. For now it is nice to be format neutral as I can buy any HD title that is released. I do however purchase most of my titles on Blu-ray and do not buy many titles on HD-DVD unless its one that is not on Blu-ray.

^You mean Panasonic and Sony? ;) We could put Toshiba in that list as well just to be balanced.

:D :D :D

I do however purchase most of my titles on Blu-ray and do not buy many titles on HD-DVD unless its one that is not on Blu-ray.

That same buying plan has been what I have
done for all of 2007. I think I only bought 3
HD-DVDs all year - the rest where Blu-Ray.

I'm format neutral - but I buy only the content
that I want to own for my library. And in that
area - Blu-Ray content has been more interesting.

Unfortunately if companies start offering a lot of HD combo players, I fear it will only drag this format war out longer. At that point IMHO the only things that will decide the winner is if studios finally get tired of releasing dual formats. Or if one format is not selling enough and at that point the studios may just drop that format? I feel the dual format HD players will take the format war out of the hands of the consumer and place it in the hands of the studios. For now it is nice to be format neutral as I can buy any HD title that is released. I do however purchase most of my titles on Blu-ray and do not buy many titles on HD-DVD unless its one that is not on Blu-ray.

If more combo players come to market, what does it matter to us if the format war continues? I see said format war as a "non-issue" to anyone with a player that is format neutral.

I agree with you in that I am also of the opinion that format neutral is the only way to go, making the format war null & void on the part of the consumer. Let the hardware & software manufacturers continue to fight it out for as long as they like!

The only downside is that we could spend additional $$ on a combo player only to have HD DVD fall apart and the supporting studios go Blu-Ray in which case we'd have a player (while still functional) with features that are not fully utilized (unless an enterprising collector were to take advantage of close-out prices on a departing format).

Cheers,
Spence

The only downside is that we could spend additional $$ on a combo player only to have HD DVD fall apart and the supporting studios go Blu-Ray in which case we'd have a player (while still functional) with features that are not fully utilized (unless an enterprising collector were to take advantage of close-out prices on a departing format).

Cheers,
Spence
At the same time, Blu-Ray could just as easily fall apart. I've heard rumors that the recent Independence Day release was postponed because the title wouldn't play on *any* standalones. Blame it on BD+ or the profiles. Regardless, it's not a good sign for a healthy format. Also, Paramount just won't crater tomorrow with the commitment they made back in August and Universal hasn't exactly shown any signs of budging, so I think the risk is minimal and it's only the BDA and most extreme and loudest PS3 fans (think bluray.com) that might make one feel a little jittery in picking up a DF player.

At the same time, Blu-Ray could just as easily fall apart. I've heard rumors that the recent Independence Day release was postponed because the title wouldn't play on *any* standalones. Blame it on BD+ or the profiles. Regardless, it's not a good sign for a healthy format. Also, Paramount just won't crater tomorrow with the commitment they made back in August and Universal hasn't exactly shown any signs of budging, so I think the risk is minimal and it's only the BDA and most extreme of PS3 fans that might make one feel a little jittery.

Yeah - and don't forget that Paramount-Microsoft conspiracy. :rolleyes:

:D fun times...I won't deny that I'm rooting for the underdog here while I await a decent DF player to appear.

That same buying plan has been what I have
done for all of 2007. I think I only bought 3
HD-DVDs all year - the rest where Blu-Ray.

I'm format neutral - but I buy only the content
that I want to own for my library. And in that
area - Blu-Ray content has been more interesting.
Blu-Ray seems to have more 6.1/7.1 titles and many times it's in uncompressed PCM. However HD-DVD seems to have much more interactivity built-in.
The interesting titles to me seem split right down the middle which is why I'm interested in the 5000. I have 8 hd-dvds right now(transformers,300,king kong,sleepy hollow,Battle of the Bulge, Terminator 3,Dream Girls,Phantom of opera) and 2 blu-ray(Spiderman and Crank). 3 Blu-ray are on order (Harry Potter Phoenix, Casino Royale, Terminator 1) and I'll buy 3 more Blu-Ray in the future (3:10 to Yuma, Hairspray and Master&Commander assuming the 5000 will do DTS-MA over analogs)

Just like UMD on the PSP (which no one can argue is successful) Sony can't let Blu-Ray die due to its link to the PS3. No matter what happens at least Sony movies will be available on Blu-Ray for the forseeable future. I am not trying to say that Blu-Ray is or will lose, just that Sony will not give up on it for at least 10 years when the lifespan of the PS3 is over. After a few years of the PS4 or whatever Blu-Ray can be re-evaluated.

Blu-Ray seems to have more 6.1/7.1 titles and many times it's in uncompressed PCM. However HD-DVD seems to have much more interactivity built-in.
The interesting titles to me seem split right down the middle which is why I'm interested in the 5000. I have 8 hd-dvds right now(transformers,300,king kong,sleepy hollow,Battle of the Bulge, Terminator 3,Dream Girls,Phantom of opera) and 2 blu-ray(Spiderman and Crank). 3 Blu-ray are on order (Harry Potter Phoenix, Casino Royale, Terminator 1) and I'll buy 3 more Blu-Ray in the future (3:10 to Yuma, Hairspray and Master&Commander assuming the 5000 will do DTS-MA over analogs)

BTW - When I say Blu-Ray seems to have more
interesting content - what I am referring to is
NEW MOVIES - not ones that I already own on
SD DVD and have already watched.

BOTH formats have lots of OLD content that has
been transferred - but I think Blu-Ray wins for
newly released content. That is why my buying
pattern for 2007 has been widely biased to Blu-Ray.

I forgot about the original Star Trek series exclusively on HD-DVD, although I'll probably check it out on Netflix first. It's old yes, but, it's getting great reviews for various improvements and a great HiDef experience.

If Warner joins one or the other side, it will definitely tilt the balance. Especially if it's Blu-ray since that'll put it on 70% of all HD titles then...

Let's not have this thread devolve into another Blu-Ray vs. HD-DVD debate. We're all here because we want a player that does BOTH FORMATS so let's keep the discussion focused on the 5000. Please!!!

Your plasma is 1080p, it is just that is only accepts up to a 1080i input. The Samsung has a lot more features than the PS3 and HD-A2....

According to this forum and the manaul my plasma does 1080p24f

Let's not have this thread devolve into another Blu-Ray vs. HD-DVD debate. We're all here because we want a player that does BOTH FORMATS so let's keep the discussion focused on the 5000. Please!!!

Agreed... I am not sure which way to go... the 5000 or 2 players... what I don't want is to buy movies (or rent) and they won't play in the player(s)...


Any news on shipping... I am waiting utill I can try one myself... any suggesting for which movies would be a good test so I can try then and if there are problems I can return the unit and get the 2 players?

I am in the same boat coming from AUS myself. The software is cheaper and there is more to choose from overseas so thats my main reason i would be looking at a US version player. But i too have the exact same situation as you scarecrow420. Got plenty of "backup" reagon free DVD's but all are PAL format.

I guess the only sure way is to have a DVD player a Blu Ray player and a HD DVD player ?????? But thats silly when it could all be in one nice little unit :) If only it did everything lol.

Foe us guys in NZ & Aus, you use one of these BD UP5000 + an Oppo region free, thats all you need!

the new LG Dual is out... where is the Samsung

http://www.engadget.com/2007/12/10/lgs-super-blu-bh200-hd-dvd-blu-ray-combo-player-now-availab/

If I wasn't so set on getting the Denon DVD-2500BT and I all ready did not own a HD-A1 and a BDP-S300. I might consider the Samsung if it was one of the best options out there, but there is no way, absolutely no way that I would buy an LG for any reason! I might as well sell my HT and get a LG TV, LG home theater in a box and a LG combo player, no no thanks. I would most likely revert to having no HT before I bought the LG. :rolleyes:

I would certainly consider a Samsung 1080p HDTV but again I have to pass on LG! Hell my Toshiba HD-A1 is ugly enough the LG makes my HD-A1 look like beautiful high end gear. And from what I am hearing the LG can not even pass DT-HD or DTS-HD MA via bitstream to a receiver, what good is it being a profile 1.1/hdmi 1.3 player ???

the new LG Dual is out...
...and still listed at $999! ;)

I expect we'll see something very soon.

the new LG Dual is out... where is the Samsung

http://www.engadget.com/2007/12/10/lgs-super-blu-bh200-hd-dvd-blu-ray-combo-player-now-availab/

Nice! The BH200 has a USB port. If that USB port could be used for DivX playback... :D

But I'm still going for the Samsung because I really want that Reon!! Besides, my modded Xbox 1 already does a decent job of DivX playback.

After reading some report... I don't think I will get the LG... They have had too many problems witht the 100 and slow for fixes... and I hear the DVD upscaling is horrable...


Have you heard anything about the 500 on old DVD... I have a lot of old dvd's and this is going to replace my current dvd player