Blu-ray player prices dip again

While most Blu-ray players, including basic models like the Panasonic DMP-BDP60K (recently upgraded as the Panasonic DMP-BD65), continue to regularly cost around $150 and up, reports have recently surfaced of players with prices as low as $50. The catch? You'll need to settle for a good, but not great, Blu-ray player or accept a refurbished model. You'll also need to be quick and/or lucky because these Blu-ray players are being snapped up in a hurry by those that find them.

Engadget.com reports on what we think is the most interesting deal, a Philips BDP5010 Blu-ray player for just under $70 at Target. The deal is in stores only -- and you'll need to search on your own for a store that has it in stock. The same player is also available via Target's website, but at twice the price. The BDP5010, which is made under license by Funai, doesn't get the greatest feedback but seems to leave most owners relatively satisfied. Features don't including cutting-edge stuff like Internet streaming, but you will find BD Live (Profile 2.0) support, DivX support, and the ability to play files from an SD card.

Meanwhile, Rick Broida at CNet.com reports on what he calls "the single best Blu-ray player deal ever," though he correctly predicted it would be quickly gone. That was a penny under $50 for a refurbished Magnavox NB500MG9 Blu-ray player at Kmart.com. This is the same Magnavox player that took the crown as the cheapest Blu-ray player on Black Friday, selling back then for $78 at Walmart. The NB500MG9 is again made by Funai, but is even more basic than the Philips BDP5010 and doesn't support BD Live content. Unfortunately, Kmart appears to have run out already, but Broida suggests checking back in a few days in case more become available.