November 24, 2010
Revised November 24, 2010. Copyright
© 2010 Dealhack.com. All Rights
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Disclosure: Dealhack
is a blog
that helps consumers to find the best deals online. Dealhack has an
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relationship with some of the retailers
mentioned or referenced in this article.
 Blu Ray technology is relatively new and many people
don't know how to buy a Blu
Ray player. Sure, you could just tell them to go to their favorite
chain store and pick one up, but what about accessories, features and
cost? We plan to discuss the available features different manufacturers
provide and show you how to compare Blu Ray players before you buy one.
Why Blu Ray?
Movies started out on film then went to VHS tapes, which were a much
smaller version of a reel-to-reel movie player. As technology
progressed, we started seeing digitally delivered movies on our
satellites and cable. More technological advances brought us DVDs that
were mind-bogglingly clear and had incredible picture quality. Many of
us asked ourselves, "Could it get much better than this?" That answer
is a simple, "Yes."
In walks the Blu Ray. Like DVDs, Blu Ray discs are round, compact and
full of data. Blu Ray players are about the same size as a DVD reader.
Size and style depend entirely on the manufacturer.
The primary difference between a Blu Ray player and a DVD player is the
color of the laser used to read discs. The Blu Ray uses; you guessed
it, a blue ray of laser light instead of the DVD's red laser. The
wavelength of the DVD player's red laser is 650 nanometers, compared to
the 405 nanometer wavelength of the Blu Ray's blue ray of laser light.
A more focused blue ray can more effectively read data stored in
smaller packets. Smaller packets allow more data to be placed on each
disc. The blue ray also reads the smaller packets of data faster and
more efficiently. More compact data and a more efficient retrieval
process provides a better picture; making a Blu Ray movie sharper and
clearer than the same movie on a DVD.
How to Compare Blu Ray Players
The decision to purchase a Blu Ray player, like the decision to buy any
relatively new technology, should not be taken lightly. Compare several
brands of Blu Ray player before making your final decision. The last
thing you want to do is buy an inexpensive player that you're
ultimately unhappy with 2 years from now.
Highly Desired Features
3D Capability: 3D TVs are becoming extremely popular and a 3D
compatible player will be a must-have in the very near future. Stay a
step ahead and consider paying just a little extra for what we consider
the number one feature to compare.
Onboard Storage: Most players have a good amount of onboard storage. We
recommend looking for a player that holds a minimum of 1GB of onboard
storage.
Wi-Fi: Wireless connectivity is probably a given, but we chose to
mention it anyway. Connectivity to the internet is a must whether using
a wired connection or wireless.
Multi-Format Reader: Make sure the Blu Ray player also plays DVDs.
Five Star Blu Ray Players
Sharp
BD-HP50U: The AQUOS BD-HP50U is one of Sharp's newer Blu Ray
players. Reviews were sparse, but they were all good. Buyers praised a
sturdy build, easy remote, high resolution picture quality,
multi-format readability, and ease of use. This player starts around
$250 and received 5 stars out of a possible 5 star rating.
Sony
BDP-S500ES: The BDP-S500ES supports a 7.1 channel audio system for
true surround sound. It displays stunning full 1080p high definition
video and can read multiple formats. Wired internet connection allows
you to connect directly to the internet using your existing connection.
Sony's manufacturer's warranty is one of the best in the industry; 5
years on service and support. This costly little system currently runs
around $1,300 and also received 5 stars of a possible 5 star rating.
Sony
BDP-S1000ES: A much less expensive model, the BDP-S1000ES received
a buyer rating of 5 of 5 stars, and will only set your bank account
back $170 to $200. Full HD resolution, 7.1 channel Dolby True HD, and
several other features make this player very eye-catching. It includes
4GB of external USB memory to support BD-Live enabled movies, and it is
very small, weighing only 6.6 pounds.
Pioneer BDP-23FD: Considered one of the best mid-range players on the
market, the BDP-23FD runs about $550 and received 5 of 5 stars in
customer reviews. This player produces a 1080p picture with a solid
24fps. Users often comment on the advanced picture control suite that
allows you to tailor your picture signal to pure perfection.
Toshiba
BDX2000: Toshiba
(http://www.dealhack.com/archives/2007/12/hd_dvd_bluray_disc_players_fro.html)
is a brand many people have come to trust over the years. The BDX2000
received 5 of 5 stars and is on the less-expensive side of the
spectrum, as it can be bought around the $75 to $130 price range. The
5.1 channel audio support ensures a great surround sound experience.
It's lightweight - only 5.1 pounds, and provides full HD 1080p video.
Be sure to check out our article on buying Home Theater Systems for related information.
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