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OFFICIAL "HELP ME CHOOSE A PLAYER" THREAD: Can't decide? Start HERE. - Page 469

post #14041 of 15128
10/10/12 at 7:11pm
Any recommendations for my very basic needs then?
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post #14042 of 15128
10/10/12 at 7:29pm
You can look at the Panny BDP-87. A basic Blu-ray player and although limited on Viera Connect features it does have Netflix and YouTube.
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post #14043 of 15128
10/10/12 at 8:34pm
I have a PlayStation 3 (first generation slim from 2009) that acts as my primary device for playing back DVD and Blu-ray movies. I'd say it does a pretty good job of upconverting DVD's. Of course, I can still see the difference between an upconverted DVD and a Blu-ray movie, but in the vast majority of cases I do not feel compelled to upgrade my DVD movies to Blu-ray. Although, in all fairness, I do live in a condo and cannot have a great sound system, otherwise that might be the tipping point in some cases.
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post #14044 of 15128
10/11/12 at 4:39am
Quote:
Originally Posted by The Mice View Post

I do live in a condo and cannot have a great sound system, otherwise that might be the tipping point in some cases.

I recently moved to a condo, and yeah, i get pisssed at times that i cant use my surround-sound system at a loud volume, but when i really want to listen to something at a loud volume, particularly music concerts, i just plug headphones into the receiver then i can crank it way up. Still not as nice though as not having to wear them and shaking the walls!!!!!
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post #14045 of 15128
10/11/12 at 8:11am
Quote:
Originally Posted by yankeeman View Post

I recently moved to a condo, and yeah, i get pisssed at times that i cant use my surround-sound system at a loud volume, but when i really want to listen to something at a loud volume, particularly music concerts, i just plug headphones into the receiver then i can crank it way up. Still not as nice though as not having to wear them and shaking the walls!!!!!


Definitely, much of my movie and concert viewing is done with headphones. In my case, I sometimes like hard rock and heavy metal concerts and have been known at times to crank the volume up on the headphones to almost insane levels! I would just LOVE to be able to experience the same with a surround sound system from time to time.
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post #14046 of 15128
10/11/12 at 12:04pm
You might consider inviting your neighbors to such an event.
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post #14047 of 15128
10/11/12 at 8:21pm

How to choose a good basic blu ray player?

I'm upgrading my home theater with a new Panasonic plasma 3d TV (P60GT50) and a new A/V receiver with HDMI 1.4. I also need a blu ray player that will play 3d, so would also be HDMI 1.4, and that's why I am asking here. What makes a Oppo player at $400 and up, better than say a Panasonic DMP-BDT320 for $140? I don't care about Netflix streaming and Hula, I just want to play Blu ray and standard CD and DVD discs. Of course, I want quality playback and fast loadup speeds, but I think that is about it. How do I know what is a fast loadup speed, anyway? If I have a A/V reciever with HDMI 1.4, I shouldn't care about 7.1 analog outputs, right? What am I missing by getting a cheaper player?

On a sidenote, I'm blown away by how physically small the new blu ray players are, compared to my old standard DVD player. How did they do that, or where have I been these last few years?
Edited by Rschissler - 10/11/12 at 8:26pm
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post #14048 of 15128
10/12/12 at 4:41am
Quote:
Originally Posted by Rschissler View Post

I'm upgrading my home theater with a new Panasonic plasma 3d TV (P60GT50) and a new A/V receiver with HDMI 1.4. I also need a blu ray player that will play 3d, so would also be HDMI 1.4, and that's why I am asking here. What makes a Oppo player at $400 and up, better than say a Panasonic DMP-BDT320 for $140? I don't care about Netflix streaming and Hula, I just want to play Blu ray and standard CD and DVD discs. Of course, I want quality playback and fast loadup speeds, but I think that is about it. How do I know what is a fast loadup speed, anyway? If I have a A/V reciever with HDMI 1.4, I shouldn't care about 7.1 analog outputs, right? What am I missing by getting a cheaper player?

On a sidenote, I'm blown away by how physically small the new blu ray players are, compared to my old standard DVD player. How did they do that, or where have I been these last few years?

We have a thread for "what player do I choose?" questions: http://www.avsforum.com/t/959985/official-help-me-choose-a-player-thread-cant-decide-start-here

The price difference is determined by features you may or may not want. There is no reason to pay for what you are not going to use.

OPPO has a reputation for good customer support, and the new players come with a 2-year warranty.

If you are running HDMI to your receiver then you don't need analog audio in the player.

-Bill
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post #14049 of 15128
10/12/12 at 5:11am
Panasonic DMP-BDT220 is great basic Blu-ray player.
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post #14050 of 15128
10/12/12 at 7:40am
You mentioned CD playback. Other players like sony and LG are much better at that than panasonic since they show track titles and album art via gracenote service. Panasonic won't do anything like that. You just get a crappy blue screen with numbers.

What attracts you to the 320 instead of the 220?
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post #14051 of 15128
10/12/12 at 12:34pm

Reliable Blu-ray player for mom

Looking for a good value Blu-ray player for my mom with the following criteria:

Must have:
- Supports discrete on/off.
- Reliable firmware updates in terms of keeping up with new release copy protection as well as not bricking the unit

Bonus:
- Streaming capabilities
- Fast bootup

Do not need
- 3D (connecting to a "1080p" panel that only supports up to 1080i input)
- Wifi (wired connection is available)

I have an Oppo, and would typically steer her toward a Panasonic or a Sony, given my previous experience and research, but I am not sure how the market has changed. The best deal I saw on a Panasonic was for a BD87, which was getting panned on Amazon, so I am leery. I'm okay with an older model and/or factory refurb, as long as there is no track record of unreliability for the player, which seems to be a common theme. Thank you in advance.
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post #14052 of 15128
10/12/12 at 3:10pm
Both sony and panasonic have discretes. I would avoid low end models like the 87. It's a dog. For a little bit more money you get a much better interface. Even though you don't need wifi or 3D, the 220 is a much better player than the 87 in terms of the netflix app and ease of use. Although I prefer sony overall, I think it's more difficult for an older person to use. I've used both for many years and never bricked one.
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post #14053 of 15128
10/14/12 at 6:00pm
Ok, here is what I have and what I want. I have a Panny 60UT50 that we just purchased. I currently have been running everything to my Yamahga HTR6090 then one HDMI to the TV and let the yammy do all the work. But Now that I have a 3d TV I want to use it. Problem is the Yamaha will not pass through 3D. So, I am planning on getting a 3D BR player and running BR and DirecTV box to my TV and then using digital coax from both to the Yamaha for audio. Streaming really means nothing but I know most 3D players will have it. My biggest concerns are PQ and speed of loading. Budget is no more than $175 ( I mean not one penny more).
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post #14054 of 15128
10/14/12 at 9:29pm
Hi all, looking for a new blu-ray player to go with my about to be updated system. Currently just use my 1st gen model PS3 for blu-ray playing.

This will be run through a Denon AVR-1713 receiver, and into some Polk Monitor50 series 2 speakers, video into a Samsung 55" 7100 series LED. (once I buy it all of course) smile.gif

So I am looking for a good player to enjoy the best video and audio I can. I have no need for any streaming capabilities, and I will not be using it for music, or even any burned CD's or DVD's.

Thank you for any input!
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post #14055 of 15128
10/15/12 at 1:22pm
Folks,

I am buying LG tv soon and am getting BP-420 player free with it. Now my new TV will already be having Wifi, so do i still need wifi on my player ?
If yes, i might sell of the free player on ebay and get myself BP-620.

PS: I intend to play ful HD videos via player wifi and for movies i will plug HDD directly to player.
Is their any strong use for wifi on player ?
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post #14056 of 15128
10/15/12 at 1:44pm
Wifi tends to have problems maintaining a continuous stream of video. There are many possible causes of interference. As a result, a wired network connection usually is better than wireless. If you have an electrically quiet environment, wifi can be fine, though.
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post #14057 of 15128
10/15/12 at 1:58pm
Powerline adapters are a great alternative to wifi. That's what I use.

S~
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post #14058 of 15128
10/16/12 at 12:14am

Panasonic BDT220 VS. PS3

Hi,

I went through a couple of threads on the subject but couldn't come up with a definite yes or a definite no, so i was hoping you could help me out?

I am getting a Optoma GT750E 720p projector soon (with built in 1.4a HDMI) and will be mainly using it for Blu-ray movies and 3D movies.

If I buy a blu-ray player, it'll be the Panasonic BDT-220 - have a fantastic deal on it with my reward points.

I do realise that the projector is only capable of 720p

Any feedback would really help as I am planning to buy today.

My question is should I go for a dedicated Blu-ray player or PS3, without a loss in blu-ray/3D content quality?

Watching Avatar 3D for instance..........which would be better (or same) given my setup
Edited by inshadesofgrey - 10/16/12 at 12:20am
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post #14059 of 15128
10/16/12 at 10:38am
With respect to my above question... post #14051

i was wondering how important is "bd-live feature" on disks ? as i understand it requires internet and if i use a non wifi player.. am i loosing out on something in terms of content?

PS: i knw i can always use Cat5
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post #14060 of 15128
10/16/12 at 10:43am
Quote:
Originally Posted by Craige View Post

With respect to my above question... post #14051

i was wondering how important is "bd-live feature" on disks ? as i understand it requires internet and if i use a non wifi player.. am i loosing out on something in terms of content?

PS: i knw i can always use Cat5

BD-Live has its fans, but majority opinion here has very little use for it. I keep the feature turned off in my players.

-Bill
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post #14061 of 15128
10/16/12 at 11:50am
Is the Sony BDPS790 any good?

http://www.amazon.com/Sony-BDPS790-Blu-ray-Player-Wi-Fi/dp/B006U1YUW2/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=FLZJMM63XA0&coliid=I1HJVSUN3GAFIY
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post #14062 of 15128
10/16/12 at 1:17pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by thatrayn View Post

Is the Sony BDPS790 any good?

http://www.amazon.com/Sony-BDPS790-Blu-ray-Player-Wi-Fi/dp/B006U1YUW2/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=FLZJMM63XA0&coliid=I1HJVSUN3GAFIY

Yes. But you have to decide if the additional features are worth the difference in price. (The Sony S590 lists at $150.). E.g. Dual HDMI outputs, many video processing features useful when upscaling DVDs, 4K upscaling. I'm sure I'm forgetting something. See the S790 thread at http://www.avsforum.com/t/1386151/official-2012-sony-bdp-s790-thread
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post #14063 of 15128
10/17/12 at 2:30pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by wmcclain View Post

BD-Live has its fans, but majority opinion here has very little use for it. I keep the feature turned off in my players.
-Bill

K mate, but i can still use more ppl's opinions....
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post #14064 of 15128
10/17/12 at 6:17pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by Craige View Post

Quote:
Originally Posted by wmcclain View Post

BD-Live has its fans, but majority opinion here has very little use for it. I keep the feature turned off in my players.
-Bill

K mate, but i can still use more ppl's opinions....

In my experience most discs put the best bonus content on the actual discs. Many BD-Live titles have things like trailers for other movies from the same studio that are of limited interest. Even worse, some have features that are flat out annoying and increase the load time of the disc when BD-Live is enabled (Apollo 11 comes to mind). However, you never know when a movie you like will have a bonus feature you want...

Based on your interest in streaming local HD content, I would suggest that you look at wired solutions rather than worrying about getting a player with Wi-Fi built in. Most players have cheap Wi-fi interfaces, so you may get better wireless performance using a Wi-fi bridge plugged into the player's Ethernet jack than with it built in. If Ethernet is not feasible, look into MoCa and Powerline, though the feasibility of each varies depending on how your cable and electrical are wired respectively.
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post #14065 of 15128
10/19/12 at 3:12am
Basically, I would like to buy a BD player (even an expensive one if necessary) with a full internet WiFi access. I have a wireless N network at home and my current Sony BD-570 connects to it no problem. But what I really want is to go onto ANY site, and not just these pay sites.

My main reason for doing this is I have discovered quite a lot of free streaming internet FM stations that I quite like and would like to switch on the HT system (receiver and BD player, speakers, etc.), and connect to one of the myriad streaming FM stations. I'm not interested in limiting myself to the various subscription sites if you have to pay, quite happy to listen to the occasional ad (just like on a real FM radio).

Right now, I am listening to 181.fm by accessing it with my PC, and plugging the PC's HDMI output to one of the receiver inputs. Works fine, but I don't like having to tie up my PC with an HDMI cable.

Seems to me it should be relatiely straightforward to do it with a BD player assuming it can access any internet channel, and not just some pre-determined channels as decided by Sony or whoever.

Can anyone suggest as BD player with full wifi internet access? (Goodness, what a wordy post to arrive at my simple question. Sorry)

Or is there any other device for full internet browsing which could be plugged into my receiver (I do NOT want to keep a PC running constantly just to listen to internet FM). Thanks
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post #14066 of 15128
10/19/12 at 10:05am
Quote:
Originally Posted by bbrio View Post

Basically, I would like to buy a BD player (even an expensive one if necessary) with a full internet WiFi access. I have a wireless N network at home and my current Sony BD-570 connects to it no problem. But what I really want is to go onto ANY site, and not just these pay sites.
My main reason for doing this is I have discovered quite a lot of free streaming internet FM stations that I quite like and would like to switch on the HT system (receiver and BD player, speakers, etc.), and connect to one of the myriad streaming FM stations. I'm not interested in limiting myself to the various subscription sites if you have to pay, quite happy to listen to the occasional ad (just like on a real FM radio).
Right now, I am listening to 181.fm by accessing it with my PC, and plugging the PC's HDMI output to one of the receiver inputs. Works fine, but I don't like having to tie up my PC with an HDMI cable.
Seems to me it should be relatiely straightforward to do it with a BD player assuming it can access any internet channel, and not just some pre-determined channels as decided by Sony or whoever.
Can anyone suggest as BD player with full wifi internet access? (Goodness, what a wordy post to arrive at my simple question. Sorry)
Or is there any other device for full internet browsing which could be plugged into my receiver (I do NOT want to keep a PC running constantly just to listen to internet FM). Thanks

Why not buy a device that is dedicated only to internet radio itself, with WIFI built in, if that's what you want? Like this

I know blurays are providing a lot of functionality right now, but they are not going to be as useful as a fully dedicated player for someone who values internet radio. These devices can be tied in to stereo inputs on your receiver and give you what you'd like without involving your PC.

Also, some receivers can reach any internet radio station, but are limited by their architecture to store a number within themselves. So if you have a receiver that can do this, just select the radio station, program it into your receiver and you are there without spending extra money. The most flexible, however would be a dedicated device.

Good luck, the internet stations are fun.
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post #14067 of 15128
10/19/12 at 2:59pm
Thanks Hernanu, that looks like it might be the way to go. Although another model, GDI-IRA500 would seem to be slightly better for quality with an optical output (I have plenty of available inputs on my receiver). I will consider it. On the other hand, I might just put back into service one of the aging PC's around here dedicated only to the internet FM. We;ll see. Thanks again
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post #14068 of 15128
10/19/12 at 4:35pm
Hello all,

I saw that this is the official "Help me choose a BD player" thread. Do I just post on here asking? A little information:

I don't have a home theater setup but I want one (I just can't afford it right now) so support for it will be needed, just not yet.

I have an Xbox 360 that I use for streaming/DLNA/smart widgets so the bd player doesn't need any of those bells and whistles.

I have a large collection of standard DVDs so it DEFINITELY needs to support that.

Everything will be played on a Panny 50" plasma.

My friends have been telling me to go with a PS3 slim, but a) I don't need another game system (I have a Wii as well as the 360 and I do a lot of PC gaming). From what I read, the PS3 is TERRIBLE at DVD support. They say it's best with firmware updates, but with models like the DMP-BDT220 with built-in wifi, is that really an issue in this day and age? I also don't want to break the bank on something that's going to be used for a) playing BDs b) playing DVDs. That's pretty much all I need it for. I have a BD burner on my desktop, so maybe support for BD-Rs might factor in? Not sure. Any questions, let me know. And I apologize if I put this in the wrong spot. The sticky said if I made a new post about this, it would be appended to the end of this thread anyway, so I figured I would just post directly on it.

Thanks again!
-Mike
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post #14069 of 15128
10/20/12 at 8:37am
Quote:
Originally Posted by DJLittleMike View Post

Hello all,
I saw that this is the official "Help me choose a BD player" thread. Do I just post on here asking? A little information:
I don't have a home theater setup but I want one (I just can't afford it right now) so support for it will be needed, just not yet.
I have an Xbox 360 that I use for streaming/DLNA/smart widgets so the bd player doesn't need any of those bells and whistles.
I have a large collection of standard DVDs so it DEFINITELY needs to support that.
Everything will be played on a Panny 50" plasma.
My friends have been telling me to go with a PS3 slim, but a) I don't need another game system (I have a Wii as well as the 360 and I do a lot of PC gaming). From what I read, the PS3 is TERRIBLE at DVD support. They say it's best with firmware updates, but with models like the DMP-BDT220 with built-in wifi, is that really an issue in this day and age? I also don't want to break the bank on something that's going to be used for a) playing BDs b) playing DVDs. That's pretty much all I need it for. I have a BD burner on my desktop, so maybe support for BD-Rs might factor in? Not sure. Any questions, let me know. And I apologize if I put this in the wrong spot. The sticky said if I made a new post about this, it would be appended to the end of this thread anyway, so I figured I would just post directly on it.
Thanks again!
-Mike

It sounds like you are on the right track. I agree that there is no reason to get a PS3 if you don't want another game console. It will suck up a lot more power than a dedicated Blu-ray player. I think the DMP-BDT220 is probably a good choice if you mainly want Blu-ray and DVD playback and it should integrate well with your Panasonic TV.

If DLNA is something that you use, you should also consider the Sonys (I have the BDP S590 and am very happy with it overall). Though you can use the Xbox with some DLNA servers my understanding is that it is much more limited in terms of codec support, so you probably have to transcode more often than you would with a Sony BD player. Less transcoding means your PC's processor won't have to work as hard and the video/audio quality will usually be better when no transcoding is needed. The Sonys are great BD players as well -- though the lower end models are kind of crippled in terms of image quality adjustments for DVDs (they reserve the manual image quality adjustments for the higher end players like the BDP-S790). Haven't owned the Panasonic so I'm not sure where it stands as far as those types of settings, though I have heard it has a zoom function to handle non anamorphic widescreen DVDs, which the BDP S590 does not have.
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post #14070 of 15128
10/20/12 at 10:04am
I am looking to buy a 3D Wifi Blueray player. The options I have are -

Panasonic DMP-BDT220GN: The best deal I have found is AU$165
Samsung BD-E5900: AU$159

The BD player would connect to a DENON 3312 (AVR) and Bose Acoustimass 10 Speaker systems. I currently have an old TV which I intend to upgrade to a Samsung LED TV in near future.

Which one would be a better choice? Will appreciate some advice.


The other alternative is to go for a PS3 which would cost me an extra AU$100 for a package of 12gb console, wireless controller, Gtek HDMI cable, Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit (Platinum) game & Men in Black 3 Blu-ray movie. I can get a 500GB console within a package but that would cost AU$400. Is it worth?
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AVS › AVS Forum › Blu-ray & HD DVD › Blu-ray Players › OFFICIAL "HELP ME CHOOSE A PLAYER" THREAD: Can't decide? Start HERE.