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- Fast load times
- Responsive
- Can bitstream high-definition audio formats
- No Internet connectivity or support of BD-Live
- No built-in decoders for HD audio formats
- Standard definition performance only so-so
The Panasonic DMP-BD30 is a standalone Bonus View Blu-ray player that scores well with experts and users. Video quality with Blu-ray discs is first rate, but performance with standard-definition discs is only passable. It can't decode high-resolution audio formats, but can bitstream those to home theater receivers with the proper decoders. Load times are relatively quick, and the Panasonic DMP-BD30 doesn't struggle with Java-heavy discs and special features. A built-in SD card slot reads several file formats and even allows users to play back video from certain high-def camcorders. The Sony PlayStation 3 (*est. $400) is an even faster performer, supports the BD-Live profile and can decode high-resolution audio, but its non-standard form factor and remote receive some criticism.
Reviews for the Panasonic DMP-BD30 are plentiful. CNet.com has a great balanced review, while those with a more technical bent will appreciate the testing at Ultimate AV magazine and Secrets of Home Theater and High Fidelity newsletter. PC World magazine also has a useful, if less detailed, report. Lots of user reviews can be found at Amazon.com.
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Our Sources
1. CNET
This review of the Panasonic DMP-BD30 is balanced, complete and accessible. Technical details are discussed, but there's plenty here regardless of a reader's expertise. Picture quality is noted as excellent, but editors say that if you want HD audio, you need a compatible receiver.
Review: Panasonic DMP-BD30K , Matthew Moskovciak, Oct. 1, 2008
Ultimate AV provides an authoritative and comprehensive review of the Panasonic DMP-BD30, though some details might have little meaning to non-techies. Video quality is "superb," but upscaling performance is "mediocre."
Review: Panasonic DMP-BD30 Blu-ray Player , Thomas J. Norton, Nov. 2007
3. Secrets of Home Theater and High Fidelity
This review says the Panasonic DMP-BD30 is an excellent performer when it comes to Blu-ray playback, but only average when it comes to standard DVDs. Reviewer Kris Deering notes that the slow load times and general usability issues common to other players aren't encountered here.
Review: Panasonic DMP-BD30 Blu-ray Player -- Full Review, Kris Deering, Feb. 21, 2008
PC World magazine's conclusions about the Panasonic DMP-BD30's performance are somewhat out of sync with most other sources. Image quality isn't a strong point, according to the review, though Lincoln Spector agrees with others that the player is a speed performer.
Review: Panasonic DMP-BD30K, Lincoln Spector, May 29, 2008
5. Amazon.com
The Panasonic DMP-BD30 enjoys a favorable reception here by more than 100 user reviewers. Its average rating of 4.5 out of five stars indicates that only a small handful of users are displeased with the player -- a good result for this kind of technology product.
Review: Panasonic DMP-BD30K 1080p Blu-ray Disc Player Reviews, Contributors to Amazon.com
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