Philips BDP9000 Blu-Ray Disc Player $599.00 at Amazon

Prices on 1st generation players are going to start dropping now that 2nd gens are being announced. If you have the cash, pick this one up, I recommend it, 1080p through HDMI, 5.1 analog outs, advanced video processing, great Blu-ray player for the price.

Wouldn't the PS3 20GB be a better chioce and also have more features?

Some people don't want to do the console thing though; I agree this is a good price for the player. This coming from a PS3 owner mind you.

Somebody told me this is the same hardware as the Samsung BD-P1000, but with a different skin. Can anyone confirm?

Does anyone here actually own one? I've been surprised at not seeing more reports/reviews on this unit.

I picked one up from the Amazon site for the 599.00 price and also opted for the free shipping which got here to me in NY in only two days time. I think from Harrisburg, Pa. if your thinking of getting one and you live in the surrounding states?

My experience with the unit so far is poor. While the disc Black Hawk Down looks so fantastic it starting skipping or stuttering about 100min. into the film which got so bad I had to discontinue watching. Today I contacted Philips customer support and they suggested that I download the firmware update from their website.

I will keep you all posted

Wow. Great price. I have had one for about 2 months now. It plays perfectly, never an issue. I also have the PS3. For what its worth in my eyes I think the picture is better with the PS3.

this is the same price as the Samsung (non-refurb) right?