Blu-ray Players -- Are They Worth the Cost?
What's the difference between Blu-ray players and DVD players? Good question -- especially if you're in the market for a new player. You may be asking whether it's worth your money to go all out with a Blu-ray player, or wait for technology to mature and stick with a DVD player in the meantime. If you have questions, read these tips and suggestions before you buy.
Blu-ray cost
The biggest difference between Blu-ray and DVD players is price and picture quality. When Blu-ray players first came out, the prices ranged from $250 to $500 with some players costing $1,000! Having trouble deciding between a DVD and Blu-ray, take the cost and your budget into consideration. Blu-ray remains more expensive than other DVD players.
Blu-ray picture quality
Most DVD players can upconvert video so the picture quality is improved, but for the very best quality, go with Blu-ray. Blu-ray HD discs contain much more picture data so the quality will be more lifelike and detailed. For the best picture quality, combine a Blu-ray with a 1080p HDTV. But even if you don't have a top-of-the-line TV, a Blu-ray player can upconvert standard DVDs.
Blu-ray audio
DVD and Blu-ray players both support 5.1-channel surround sound, but with a Blu-ray, you get multichannel audio formats like Dolby TrueHD or DTS-HD. If you need top-quality audio to enjoy your movie and TV viewing experience, go Blu-ray.
Blu-ray features
Most new Blu-ray players, have BD-Live. This feature allows you to download trailers, bonus features, and games. You can also stream movies from services like Amazon, Netflix, and Vudu. If you have a broadband connection, you can also connect to the Internet. If the BD-Live feature is important to you, check to be sure that it's included. The less expensive models don't automatically come with this feature.
Blu-ray player reviews
Once you've decided Blu-ray is the way to go, take some time and search player reviews before you make your decision. Check major online electronic retail sites for customer reviews and get the opinion of other consumers -- don't impulse buy.
Now that you're armed with the tips for buying your next generation DVD player, enjoy the search and buy the best Blu-ray player for you.