Blu-ray on a budget
If you don't mind giving up a feature or three, it's possible to get a Blu-ray player that will deliver picture quality every bit as good as more expensive options -- especially with Blu-ray Discs -- but at a more wallet-friendly price.
A case in point is the Panasonic DMP-BDT110 (*Est. $120) . This step-down version of the Panasonic DMP-BDT-210 lacks the latter's built-in Wi-Fi, though if you need it you can add it via an optional adapter (*Est. $80). It also strips out a few fancy features, such as the touch-free disc-load sensor, and the some esoteric audio modes, such as the Digital Tube Sound feature. But that's pretty much it.
You still get 3D support and 2D-to-3D conversion, and Internet streaming support is identical, though you'll want a nearby Ethernet connection to accommodate it because springing for the optional Wi-Fi adapter will wipe out the savings over the DMP-BDT210. DLNA support, Skype support and control via an app for iOS devices are also included. The DMP-BDT110 also sports the same quick disc-loading times and streamlined menus as the more expensive DMP-BDT210 and DMP-BDT310 Blu-ray players.
If you're uninterested in 3D and don't care about all the fancy bells and whistles, the Panasonic DMP-BD75 (*Est. $100) is less expensive. You won't get 3D or Wi-Fi, and you'll only be able to stream Netflix, Cinema Now, Vudu, and Napster, though DLNA streaming from your PC is included. Critical reviewers note some issues in benchmark testing but not enough to detract from the player's overall value. As HDGuru.com puts it, "What more could you ask for $100?" User reviews agree. Early owner reports of streaming issues have apparently been addressed in a firmware update.
Some other budget Blu-ray players are worth a second look as well. Sony's BDP-S380 (*Est. $100) doesn't include 3D, built-in Wi-Fi or DLNA compatibility, but it does keep a couple of features that you find on the higher-end Blu-ray players in the line -- namely Sony's streaming Bravia Internet Video service and smartphone control via a downloadable app. The BDP-380's menus still suffer from the poor interface that CNET grouses about in its review of the Blu-ray player, however. We also saw some user reviews at Amazon that say that actually getting the streaming apps to work is a hit and miss affair.
Reports indicate that the LG BD630 (*Est. $85) is a solid budget Blu-ray player choice, though one that asks for a few more sacrifices on the feature front than other players in the same price category. There's no 3D, of course. Internet streaming options are cut to the bone -- only Netflix, Vudu, CinemaNow and YouTube are supported, and there's no DLNA support. There's also no Wi-Fi support -- not even via an optional dongle -- though that means this budget LG player has dodged the spotty Wi-Fi connectivity complaints that have dogged its more expensive brand mates, such as the LG BD670. Picture quality with Blu-ray and DVD is solid or better, critics say.
Samsung's BD-D5500 (*Est. $120) gets a good review from one professional reviewer, but user reviews vary. Most posting at BestBuy.com seem relatively happy, but reports at Amazon.com paint a somewhat different picture. Just as many users give the player a 1-star rating as grant it a perfect 5-star mark. The BD-D5500 enjoys the same streaming features as Samsung's more upscale BD-D5700 (*Est. $130) , minus the built-in Wi-Fi, though you can stream wirelessly if you spring for an accessory radio (*Est. $80). You'll also find 3D support and 2D to 3D conversion. Picture quality is good. Negative feedback revolves around the Internet features, though some also report issues with disc playback.
