The Greater of Several Evils

Pirate · 10-02-2007, 08:04 PM

I am so tired of waiting for fabled dual-format players and/or a semi-future proof BD standalone. Now that the Samsung models have been either cancelled or pushed to December, I’m really considering just buying a Sony S300, the Sharp BD-HP20 or the Panasonic DMP-BD10A.

So, I come to you, my fellow EA’s and HD fence-sitters. Help me choose an in the meantime BD player.

Here are my specs and stipulations:

1. Currently, my projector is 720p, but, honestly, that fine with me and I’m in no hurry for 1080p.

2. I don’t have a HDMI receiver, but I will in the next few months. So, I’m stuck with analogs for the time being.

Please feel free to suggest a player that I may have overlooked (except then PS3).

dugpa · 10-02-2007, 08:38 PM

December is only two months away. You can't wait that long?
I have the BDP-S1 and it's been reliable for me. A bit slow, especially in the java department, but otherwise stable. The BDP-S300 is more or less the same player.

ganthc · 10-02-2007, 08:39 PM

Yeah, you might as well wait. You shouldn't buy any of those players if you aren't going to be happy with them in two months or so.

Pirate · 10-02-2007, 08:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dugpa

December is only two months away. You can't wait that long?

I'd have to take a picture for you to truly grasp my aguish, but I've had 6 BD's sitting on my shelf for months now... and I want to fucking watch them!!!!

And not having Spider-Man 2 on October 30th might kill me...

Sehnzeleid · 10-02-2007, 08:51 PM

...it's calling...

Pirate · 10-02-2007, 08:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sehnzeleid

...it's calling...

ganthc · 10-02-2007, 09:09 PM

Was that ad with the baby an actual ad? If so, it was genius.

Sehnzeleid · 10-02-2007, 09:22 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ganthc

Was that ad with the baby an actual ad? If so, it was genius.

Yep.

PunkMunkey · 10-02-2007, 09:52 PM

I doubt that you'd be happy with a stop-gap player.

Seriously, just get the PS3...it's the most future-proof of the players out right now. Seems irrational to discount it due to the form factor and the fact that it plays games. It really is a great machine.

dugpa · 10-02-2007, 10:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ganthc

Was that ad with the baby an actual ad? If so, it was genius.

I agree, it is perfect. The PS3 is a toy blu-ray player thus catering to babies seems appropriate.

PunkMunkey · 10-02-2007, 10:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dugpa

I have the BDP-S1 and it's been reliable for me. A bit slow, especially in the java department, but otherwise stable.

Quote:

Originally Posted by dugpa

The PS3 is a toy blu-ray player thus catering to babies seems appropriate.

Funny how my "toy" handles both BD-Java and BD+ with aplomb while other players seem to be "a bit slow" when responding to such material.

In all seriousness though, of all the Blu-Ray players on the market the PS3 is by far the most future proofed and value oriented (you can use it as a full-on media client and it'll run Linux too!). It just happens to be play games.

sub780lime · 10-02-2007, 10:55 PM

I implore you to wait. Why spend the money now? If you are willing to through out the future proofing yourself, then wait til Christmas where those obsolete players will actually drop in price. Or, buy the sony, watch your movies for a month and then return and wait another month for Christmastime.

Pirate · 10-02-2007, 11:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by sub780lime

Or, buy the sony, watch your movies for a month and then return and wait another month for Christmastime.

Ya know...

Iguana Man · 10-02-2007, 11:21 PM

Wait. Can you please do it? Just WAIT.

snipsnapsappy · 10-03-2007, 12:39 AM

So far my experience with the Samsung BDP-1400 with the updated firmware to output DTS-HDMA is my favorite player on the market. I like the Panasonic, and find it to be equal to the Samsung, except for the lack of DTS-HDMA. The Sony player is a cheap disappointment, as the Samsung and Panasonic players seem to be of a much better build quality.

MooglePorn · 10-03-2007, 01:15 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by piratehunter

Please feel free to suggest a player that I may have overlooked (except then PS3).

What makes this even more silly is that you even play games from time to time, making the PS3 even more of a value than simply the best BD player around for $500. You're the target market and still you scoff.

Derb · 10-03-2007, 01:52 AM

The mystery of why people discount the PS3 has suddenly become so clear. Ignorance is Bliss

My folks picked up a BDP-S300 & can give ya a little more feedback in a few days about it. Ya know, like wether its good enough to meet PS3 standards.

"The Dude" · 10-03-2007, 02:25 AM

If I were to get a player now, I would go with these three in this order:

1. Samsung BDP-1400
2. Panansonic DMP-BD10A
3. Sony S300

Like a few have stated, with the Sammy, you'll get TrueHD and DTS-HD right out of the box, well, if you get the latest firmware update. I think the Panny is capable of this also, at least TrueHD, but not quite sure about DTS-HD. The Sammy also looks alot nicer than the Panny. I can't speak for the Sharp as I really don't like that brand and haven't been following up on it.

I was going to get the Panny awhile back, but they were hard to find back then and I also didn't really care the looks, so I decided to hold off and wait for the sammy. So now the sammy is on my to get list, but when that happens, I don't know. It all depends on if/when the new Onkyo 805 happens.

Pirate · 10-03-2007, 02:47 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MooglePorn

What makes this even more silly is that you even play games from time to time, making the PS3 even more of a value than simply the best BD player around for $500. You're the target market and still you scoff.

OK, reasons why I won't get a PS3:

1. I don't play games in my HT, so I'd have to move it every time I wanted to use that "feature."

2. No analogs.

3. I'd prefer it come with a remote control.

4. It's a toy and I'm an elitist prick.

MooglePorn · 10-03-2007, 02:58 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by piratehunter

1. I don't play games in my HT, so I'd have to move it every time I wanted to use that "feature."

Waiiiiiiit a sec... you're not playing games in HD? What the hell is wrong with you man, games benefit more than movies do by like 10 gazillion miles.

Quote:

Originally Posted by piratehunter

2. No analogs.

I don't even know what that means.

Quote:

Originally Posted by piratehunter

3. I'd prefer it come with a remote control.

I can handle the $25 since I'm saving so much in the first place.

Quote:

Originally Posted by piratehunter

4. It's a toy and I'm an elitist prick.

I don't think you're a prick... and the PS3 is the most solid game and movie player this generation with some awesome tech, so it's far from a toy (like the Wii you bought)... the rest ok.

***chlngr1970*** · 10-03-2007, 03:03 AM

The Panasonic has been discontinued, to be replaced with the DMP-BD20. I'll check to see when it should be in stock at work for you, if you like. If you can find a BD-10A, make sure you don't pay retail...

j

dugpa · 10-03-2007, 03:21 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MooglePorn

Quote:

Originally Posted by piratehunter

2. No analogs.

I don't even know what that means.

He stated above he doesn't not have a receiver with HDMI. Thus he needs a player that outputs the PCM and decoded TrueHD to analog outs. The PS3 does not have any.

**SilentBob** · 10-03-2007, 05:03 AM

I still say get the PS3. DTS-HD is suppose to added in a firmware update soon and you have already mentioned you will be purchasing a HDMI receiver in a few months. I have been without a HDMI receiver as well but the PS3 has still been great with the 2.0 PCM tracks (hoping to have a HDMI receiver maybe this weekend) Plus you said

Quote:

1. I don't play games in my HT, so I'd have to move it every time I wanted to use that "feature."

But at least you WILL have the option to use it as both. Save youself another $400-500 in the long run. Plus the PS3 has release a remote control for the system. Again i say you can't go wrong with the PS3 with your future HT plans

Ruined · 10-03-2007, 05:16 AM

If you can't wait for BD-Live, at least wait for BD1.1 - none of which the players you listed support.

Derb · 10-03-2007, 08:24 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SilentBob

DTS-HD is suppose to added in a firmware update soon and you have already mentioned you will be purchasing a HDMI receiver in a few months. I have been without a HDMI receiver as well but the PS3 has still been great with the 2.0 PCM tracks (hoping to have a HDMI receiver maybe this weekend) Plus you said

Hopefully soon. I am anxious to hear & compare LPCM vs TrueHD vs dts-HDMA. Now that I think about it, I kinda regret swaying my parents BD purchase towards the BDP-S300 instead of the PS3.

...but they are not audiophiles.

I ain't worried about Pro-1.1 sinse there isn't any discs planned for release which need it. Also, I generally don't give a sh!t about extra features.

ganthc · 10-03-2007, 02:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sehnzeleid

Yep.

Okay, nevermind. That was just plain creepy.

Pirate · 10-03-2007, 05:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MooglePorn

View Poll Results: The Greater of Several Evils
Sony BDP-S300 ($499)	2	16.67%
Sharp BD-HP20 ($499)	0	0%
Panasonic DMP-BD10A ($599)	1	8.33%
Other	9	75.00%
Voters: 12. You may not vote on this poll

10-02-2007, 08:04 PM	#1 (permalink)
Pirate Moderator Emeritus Loves Yellow Subtitles Join Date: Jun 2003	The Greater of Several Evils I am so tired of waiting for fabled dual-format players and/or a semi-future proof BD standalone. Now that the Samsung models have been either cancelled or pushed to December, I’m really considering just buying a Sony S300, the Sharp BD-HP20 or the Panasonic DMP-BD10A. So, I come to you, my fellow EA’s and HD fence-sitters. Help me choose an in the meantime BD player. Here are my specs and stipulations: 1. Currently, my projector is 720p, but, honestly, that fine with me and I’m in no hurry for 1080p. 2. I don’t have a HDMI receiver, but I will in the next few months. So, I’m stuck with analogs for the time being. Please feel free to suggest a player that I may have overlooked (except then PS3). __________________ Early Adopting So You Don’t Have To.

10-02-2007, 08:38 PM	#2 (permalink)
dugpa Nothing But the Best Join Date: Sep 2004	December is only two months away. You can't wait that long? I have the BDP-S1 and it's been reliable for me. A bit slow, especially in the java department, but otherwise stable. The BDP-S300 is more or less the same player. __________________ DVD collection LD collection Will rent this sig space for blu-ray discs.

10-02-2007, 08:39 PM	#3 (permalink)
ganthc Actor Join Date: Jun 2002 Location: "Vyenna", VA	Yeah, you might as well wait. You shouldn't buy any of those players if you aren't going to be happy with them in two months or so. __________________ HOOK'EM!!! UT LONGHORNS - National Champs 2005-2006!!! http://ganthc.youaremighty.com

10-02-2007, 09:09 PM	#7 (permalink)
ganthc Actor Join Date: Jun 2002 Location: "Vyenna", VA	Was that ad with the baby an actual ad? If so, it was genius. __________________ HOOK'EM!!! UT LONGHORNS - National Champs 2005-2006!!! http://ganthc.youaremighty.com

10-02-2007, 08:51 PM	#5 (permalink)
Sehnzeleid Actor Join Date: Jul 2006	...it's calling...

10-02-2007, 09:52 PM	#9 (permalink)
PunkMunkey Join Date: Jul 2002	I doubt that you'd be happy with a stop-gap player. Seriously, just get the PS3...it's the most future-proof of the players out right now. Seems irrational to discount it due to the form factor and the fact that it plays games. It really is a great machine. __________________ ...you left me feeling hopeful I'd never see your face again.

10-02-2007, 10:55 PM	#12 (permalink)
sub780lime Can't Spell Bilbo Join Date: May 2002 Location: A Galaxy Far Far Away	I implore you to wait. Why spend the money now? If you are willing to through out the future proofing yourself, then wait til Christmas where those obsolete players will actually drop in price. Or, buy the sony, watch your movies for a month and then return and wait another month for Christmastime. __________________ love comes and goes, but an avatar . . . that's forever. - Pirate

10-02-2007, 11:21 PM	#14 (permalink)
Iguana Man Ex-BadHumor Man Join Date: May 2002 Location: New Jersey, USA	Wait. Can you please do it? Just WAIT. __________________ Get outside and have fun! Nacho Website Focus

10-03-2007, 12:39 AM	#15 (permalink)
snipsnapsappy Actor Join Date: Jun 2000 Location: Shell Beach, CA, USA	So far my experience with the Samsung BDP-1400 with the updated firmware to output DTS-HDMA is my favorite player on the market. I like the Panasonic, and find it to be equal to the Samsung, except for the lack of DTS-HDMA. The Sony player is a cheap disappointment, as the Samsung and Panasonic players seem to be of a much better build quality. __________________ I balked, now the proud owner of both formats. I am now bi-partisan. I enjoy what both red and blue have to offer. My Theater MySpace

10-03-2007, 01:52 AM	#17 (permalink)
Derb Actor Join Date: Aug 2003 Location: canada	The mystery of why people discount the PS3 has suddenly become so clear. Ignorance is Bliss My folks picked up a BDP-S300 & can give ya a little more feedback in a few days about it. Ya know, like wether its good enough to meet PS3 standards. __________________ DVD, HD DVD & BD Collection Finished supporting High-Def. Time for Blu to go mainstream.

10-03-2007, 02:25 AM	#18 (permalink)
"The Dude" Actor Join Date: Aug 2003 Location: Salt Lake, UT	If I were to get a player now, I would go with these three in this order: 1. Samsung BDP-1400 2. Panansonic DMP-BD10A 3. Sony S300 Like a few have stated, with the Sammy, you'll get TrueHD and DTS-HD right out of the box, well, if you get the latest firmware update. I think the Panny is capable of this also, at least TrueHD, but not quite sure about DTS-HD. The Sammy also looks alot nicer than the Panny. I can't speak for the Sharp as I really don't like that brand and haven't been following up on it. I was going to get the Panny awhile back, but they were hard to find back then and I also didn't really care the looks, so I decided to hold off and wait for the sammy. So now the sammy is on my to get list, but when that happens, I don't know. It all depends on if/when the new Onkyo 805 happens. __________________ "This is what happens when you find a stranger in the Alps!"- Walter Sobcheik in the sanitized Big Lewbowski

10-03-2007, 03:03 AM	#21 (permalink)
*chlngr1970* Producer/Admin Tenacious "OB" Join Date: Jun 2000 Location: Spanaway Washington	The Panasonic has been discontinued, to be replaced with the DMP-BD20. I'll check to see when it should be in stock at work for you, if you like. If you can find a BD-10A, make sure you don't pay retail... j __________________ "The greatest thing you'll ever learn is just to love, and be loved in return" Christian, Moulin Rouge

10-03-2007, 05:16 AM	#24 (permalink)
Ruined It's Good to Play Together Join Date: Oct 2001 Location: NJ, USA	If you can't wait for BD-Live, at least wait for BD1.1 - none of which the players you listed support. __________________ For every shadow, no matter how deep, is threatened by morning light.