Should I get a MacBook or a Sony VAIO?

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chevycobal

I'm getting a new laptop, but I can't decide. I can get a MacBook for $1,000, and I've always wanted a Mac. However, Wal-Mart is offering through it's Site-2-Store a Sony VAIO laptop with Windows 7 and a Blu-ray player for a little over $700. (I already have a BD player, but this would obviously be portable.) Which one should I get?

Answer
Apple MacBook
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B002QQ8EKO?tag=dcmb-20

Review:
Pros:

- Unibody enclosure
- Same battery as the MacBook Pro
- Same graphics and processor (low end) of 13" MBP
- Glass multi-touch trackpad
- 250GB Hard Drive (bigger than entry level MBP)
- DDR3 RAM
- LED Backlit Display
- SuperDrive
- New AC Adapter (I just like it better. Basically the same as a MB Air's)
- Snow Leopard
- Price

Cons:

- No backlit keyboard
- Bezel around the display isn't as "refined" and the edge to edge glass on the MBP
- No Firewire. Isn't that big for current products as most things are going USB, but legacy items and high transfer rates of Firewire 800 or sustained throughput of 400 would have been nice.
- Battery is non-removable. Again, could be a big deal for some.
- "Non-slip" bottom is rather slippery and tends to gather crud easily, but then again, it's easy to wipe clean
- While I would surely say that the new case is more pro than con (looks better, doesn't get dirty as easily, fingerprints rub right off) that high gloss is rather easy to scratch.
- Finally, this is more neutral than con, I would have liked to have seen a $50 price drop, putting this machine for students and educators, who make up a sizable chunk of Apple's target demographic, at $899. With everything that has changed on this machine, I can see why it didn't happen.

Overall, I would say that this is an very solid machine. For those looking for the "best overall value" in the notebook line, I say that it would be a toss up for me between this guy and the 2.53 MBP. For most users, this is more than enough machine and would be my pick for them. With the overall features, value, and redesigned exterior (and interior), this is really a great machine.

Review 2: Wow. Okay, I previously had a Sony Vaio that ran Windows Vista. It wasn't a bad computer in any sense, but now that I've owned this Macbook for a day, I can already see that it wasn't a GREAT computer at all! Even after a single day, I can already tell that this Mac has pulled me in, and I will never go back to Windows computers, unless they somehow become more amazing than Apple. But they won't. Once you go Mac, you don't go back ;)

But... anyway. The pros:
1. Start up/shut down. Shut down takes 5 seconds, and start up takes 10-20 seconds. My jaw dropped when I actually saw it happen.
2. The BATTERY. It really will last up to seven hours. Which I need, as I am a college student. If nothing else, get it for the battery life, haha.
3. Ease of use! I know my way around Windows computers quite well, and this was my first Mac, but my gosh, I've caught on quite quickly. Installing & uninstalling "apps" is 1000X easier than programs in Windows. I couldn't believe it was so easy, again, until I saw myself do it. If you happen to lose anything, spotlight will easily find it for you. Similar to the "search" feature in Vista's start menu.
4. The power adapter. It really is a simple magnet. You can pull as hard as you want, and the computer is going nowhere as it detaches.
5. The keyboard, and track pad! And... well, honestly, everything else, haha.

Cons:
1. No SD card slot. But this can easily be fixed by purchasing a SD-USB item. I haven't done so yet, but eh.



Overall, this is definitely a computer you should get. I once thought Apple overpriced its computers, by looking at the technical specs. Now I realize, you really do get what you pay for. Mac is sooo much better! Now I'm a believer :P

Do the iMac's have a blu-ray player or blu-ray burner?

:)

I am comparing different computers and I am leaning towards a 20 inch iMac, but do they have bluray players and/or burners?

Answer
MACs still do NOT have blu-ray players/burners.

The only way for now is to connect an external blu-ray player/burner via USB or Firewire 800.

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Can you hook up a Blu Ray player to a Panasonic surround sound system?

blu ray player no sound image

Q. I'm interested in buying a Blu Ray player, but I don't want to buy a new surround sound system.
I forgot to mention that the surround sound system has a DVD player built into it.

Answer
Some entry level surround systems have few or even no audio inputs. If you want 5.1 surround, then your surround receiver would need to have an optical (or coaxial) digital audio input (and the Blu-ray player would need an audio output to match, either optical or digital).

If your surround receiver has stereo audio inputs (red and white color coded RCA inputs), then you could connect the Blu-ray player that way, but this would be 2.0 stereo, and not 5.1 surround.

If you can get the audio connected to the surround system, I am guessing you would still connect the Blu-ray player's video output directly to the TV, because your receiver probably has no video input, or at least no HD video input.

How do I hook up my blu ray dvd player to my sony surround sound?

als3000

I just bought a blu ray player and I can't seem to figure how to hook it up to my surround sound. There's only one HDMI out put on each. And I just can't seem to figure it out. Thanks!

Answer
Connect optical cable from Blu-ray player to sound system for audio.

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Why should I buy a blu-ray player if I have to constantly install firmware updates so certain discs will work?

blu ray player reviews image

mavcowdzs

I'm looking at buying a blu-ray player, but I keeping reading reviews about discs not working for people and them having to install firmware.. I don't have a good internet connection, and no real way to connect the player to the internet? should I be worried about this?

Answer
Every BluRay disk is really a computer program. The language is called "BD-Java". The down-side is the specification was 'loose' and newer disks try to take advantage of things that were not well thought out a year ago so some people have problems.

I have not updated my firmware in about 8 months but I have not had problems with any disk so far. Anything you buy today will be updated beyond what I have.

Even if you dont have a 'good' internet connection, it's not hard to down-load and burn the firmware to a CD and they will even mail you a disk if you want.

Remember - you always hear about the problems, but there are millions of people who do not have problems so dont let this sway you.

Whats the difference between a blu ray player that is wifi enabled or wifi ready?

paco511

Looking at getting a blu ray player and not familiar with them.
What should I look for in a blu ray player?

Answer
Wifi enabled means it has it's own Wifi adapter built in. Wifi ready means it will do wifi if you buy a wifi adapter (usually a USB Dongle). what to look for depends on what you want. Some have netflix and pandora apps some do not. Some have a hard time playing some movies. so I would google Blu ray player reviews and find the best one for you.

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If my blu ray player has upconversion does my receiver need it also?

blu ray player definition image

GovernorJa

I recently purchased a Samsung Blu-ray player that has upconversion. I am wanting to upgrade my receiver with one that has hdmi ports. The receiver I am looking at is a Sony that apparently does not have and I quote "no upconversion of standard definition content". I'm assuming if my blu ray player has it my receiver does not need to have it. Is that accurate?

Answer
If your bluray has it, the receiver doesn't need it.The receiver is just "passing" the signal to the tv. "no upconversion of standard definition content" just means that the receiver doesn't do the upconverting, it would have to be from another source, which would be your blu ray player.

How do you connect a Blu Ray player to your TV?

ClockworkO

I know I sound a little dim and it is probably a silly question, trust me my male pride has lowered a little, but how do you connect a Blu Ray player to a TV? Is it through a Scart lead or just a HDMI cable?

Try to avoid the technical jargon, I ain't too advanced in that area.
Another thing, I have been told this but I just want to make sure, all Blu Ray players can read ordinary DVDs right?

Answer
Realistically, you want an HDMI cable. That's the best mate for your Blu-ray player and your TV.

The connection through SCART will not give you HD. That only happens with HDMI or composite cables, and HDMI is the better choice.

Yes, a Blu-ray player will play standard-definition DVDs.

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How do I setup a hdmi receiver with xbox 360?

blu ray player yamaha image

redsoxhk24

I have a yamaha surround sound receiver and i got my blu ray player to go through it but im having trouble setting up my xbox 360 with it? any help?

Answer
I have my hdmi connected directly to my tv maybe yours doesnt have a hdmi port but the receiver should right? So when I turn my xbox on I just switch the input on my tv to hdmi, Next time you ask a question it might help to be more specific on what your situation is

What is the best and cheapest home theater set?

burrito

What are all the things im going to need to get the best experience watching tv and movies? I've already got a 1080p 32' Samsung HDTV and a blu ray player.

Answer
Then all you need is a receiver to decode Dolby TrueHD & DTS-HD and 5 speakers + a sub woofer. A Yamaha RX-V663 and a matched speaker system is all that is necessary. Also, you'll need HDMI cables to transfer all that data to your components.

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How do I hook up my Tivo Series 2 to a cable box, blu ray player and flat screen LED TV?

blu ray player 6 channel output image

Pamela P.

I have every cord and cable hooked into all components possible and still no visual on the TV when I press the Tivo button. Help??!!

Answer
Connect the blu-ray player directly to the TV using a HDMI cable.
Connect the cable box directly to the TV using a HDMI cable.

These will be on different inputs on the TV. You may want to change the labels on the TV or make a note of which input is for which. For instance on my TV, video 6 is for the blu-ray player and video 7 is for the satellite box.

Connect the Tivo to the TV. Be sure you use one of the OUTPUT connections. The Tivo supports s-video which will give you better quality picture than the standard yellow/red/white AV cables. However if you don't want to buy another cable, just use the standard ones.

Most cable systems have started using encrypted digital cable. This means if you connect the Cable TV cable to the Tivo, it might not be able to receive anything. Give it a try, and rerun the Setup Guide so the Tivo will download the channel data for your cable system. However you may only get the local stations (e. g. ABC, NBC, PBS...)

For other stations you'll have to connect the Tivo to the cable box using a standard AV cable. Be sure you connect the cable to the Tivo's INPUT. In this setup, the Tivo can only record what the cable box is watching at the time. So if you want it to record an hour long show that's on at 8pm tonight, you'll make a recording to manually record from the AV input, from 8pm to 9pm. You'll need to leave the cable box on the channel you want to record - otherwise Tivo will simply record 60 minutes of whatever channel it happens to be on at the time.

The Tivo may also be able to control the cable box using its IR attachment - check the Tivo manual for details. In this case, the Tivo will be able to change the channel as it normally could with the older TV/cable system.

Setting up surround sound with HDMI or digital optical?

Derryck

Ive got a reciever that is for surround sound. It has 1 hdmi output and 4 hdmi inputs. I have my dvr, blu ray player and xbox all connected to the reciever all using hdmi cords. Then I ahve the reciever connected to the tv with an hdmi. Ok, so I'm getting sound on all my speakers, but I'm not getting specific sounds on the rear speakers. All my speakers are producing the same sounds. Do I need to use a digital optical cord to get a true surround sound? Thanks
@Uncle, That's what i have. An even sound on all speakers. What I'm looking for is shouldn't there be certain sounds such as a door closing or a gun shot that I'll hear only on the back speakers?
@Grumpy Mac, I shouldn't be getting dialouge on rear speakers, right? There is a setting for Pro Logic, PL2 Movie and PL2 music. I've set it to all 3 but still not getting the swirl effect. Maybe I'm still overlooking something.
@NoOne, It's a Yamaha RX-V367

Answer
- Make sure the speakers are hooked/plugged to the receiver correctly.
- Make sure you configure your receiver correctly (put on A or AB I think, adjust hdmi settings, adjust other audio settings like volume, distance and what decoder to use ect).
- Make sure your playing a surround sound encoded audio file, then make sure your outputting that signal from your output device such as dvr, blu-ray, xbox.ect
- You already using the correct cable and cable setup = hdmi from output device to hdmi input on receiver, then hdmi output on receiver to hdmi input on tv. Make sure you configure the tv settings for video.

Real surround sound formats the receiver should be able to decode.
- DTS-HD Master Audio > Dolby TrueHD > DTS > Dolby Digital.

Fake surround sound formats the receiver should be able to decode.
- DTS:Neo 6 > Dolby Pro Logic II.

Other surround sound formats the receiver may be able to decode.
- DTS-HD High Resolution Audio, DTS 96/24, DTS Neo:X, DTS-ES, DTS 70 mm, DTS Connect.
- Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby Digital Live, Dolby Digital Surround EX, Dolby Digital EX.
- Receiver may have special effect modes like jazz, gaming, matix.ect not really needed.

Remember the A, AB, B modes is useful if you want to use 2, 5.1 or 7.1 or no speakers.
- Should be able to do stereo or surround sound on 5 channel stereo decode mode.

For receiver audio:
- You need a hdmi cable if you have a 8 channels of audio=7.1 surround sound speaker system and you also want to use a hdmi cable if you have a receiver that supports the dolby-true-hd and dts-hd loseless surround sound formats (Supports higher bitrates/sample rates than s/pdif).
- S/pdif coaxial or s/pdif optical cable is only capable of doing up to 6 channels of audio=5.1 surround sound and only capable of doing up to the lossy compression formats such as dts or dolby digital (16, 20, 24 bit depths, 32.0k, 44.1k, 48.0k sample rates).

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Would you recommend the PS3 as a good Blu-Ray player, or should I get a standalone player?

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ecockpit

I'm Looking into a Blu-Ray player, and I'm wondering if the PS3 would be a good choice for one. I'm also into video games, and I already own a Wii and a 360. However, I know many other Blu-Ray players are less than the $300 price the PS3 has. Any tips/recommendations?

Answer
Since Blu-Ray is a relatively new technology, get a player that is able to get firmware updates in case there are changes to the media. The PS3 is an excellent choice there.

A perfect example of this: Remember older DVD players cannot play CDs or burned disks, aren't compatible with MP3s, JPGs, or even AVIs. Some even had a hard time recognizing dual-layer discs. If they were able to upgrade the firmware in the player, they might still be useful today.

PS3 is so much more than just a gaming console, also. You can stream music, movies, and pictures from your PC, stream TV and movies from the internet, have access to all the NetFlix instant movies to your main entertainment system. It is also an upscaling DVD player, web browser, WiFi connectivity built in...

PS3 is a great choice if it is in your budget.

When will developers start abandoning support for XP with new software?

Q. I am planning to continue using XP SP3 until April 2014 which is the year Microsoft will stop providing new security updates. Until then, will developers keep supporting XP for their new software? I am talking about software like Blu-ray player, 3rd party web browser, office applications, disk utilities, anti virus, other essentials like DVD burning, pdf reader, video editor and engineering software (Matlab, Mathematica and the like).

Answer
That depends on the particular developer. However, expect XP support to slowly get dropped by more and more developers as time passes, much in the way that Windows 98 support is almost completely non-existent these days.

The reason for this is that supporting XP (particularly with driver software) requires additional effort and resources on the part of the devleoper to program compatibility in. However so long as XP remains popular, then many developers will try to support it as best as they can.

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How does Blu-ray player upconverting work?

blu ray player information image

Darkman

i saw a few Blu-ray players in the store today that said:

Upconverts DVDs to 1080p

Well, if I buy a blu-ray player and it upconverts my old dvds to 1080p, why would I every buy the higher priced blu-ray discs???

Do blu-ray discs go beyond 1080p???

man, sometimes this stuff is confusing.

Answer
It is confusing, and the ads don't help since they MAY not lie, but can be misleading to consumers.

First point .. Blu-ray is native 1920x1080p ... the same as the maximum resolution consumer HDTVs (so called "True HD" ... a misnomer since 720p is also HD).

Now, why buy higher priced Blu-ray disks and not just watch DVDs?

It might help to consider that a DVD is native 720x480 pixels (NTSC). To upconvert that to fit a "True HD" 1920x1080 pixel display, the number of distinct dots (each defined as a specific colour) has to be increased by 2.25x vertically and 2.67x horizontally. Upconversion, processes the information in adjacent dots in the original image to fill in the dots on the higher resolution display (or in even more sophisticated processors even incorporate information from adjacent frames). The quality of the result is dependent on the sophistication of the video processing ... done well the result is a noticeable improvement on the original, but done poorly and the result can be worse. In all cases the DVD image is technically now a 1920x1080 pixel image, BUT no matter how well processed it can't ever provide as detailed an image as a native Blu-ray image. You can't get something from nothing.

The question for most consumers is whether a Blu-ray disk is worth the premium cost relative to DVD. The answer is unfortunately not easy since all sorts of variables are involved.

For example, are you watching on a 720p or 1080p display? If the former, well upconverted DVDs will look quite close to a Blu-ray movie downsampled to 720p. Or, is the Blu-ray disk a good remaster of the original high quality film, or simply a Blu-ray reissue of the original DVD master (in which case it may be little better than the DVD at best). Or, is the screen large enough and are you watching close enough to be able to appreciate the increased detail in a Blu-ray disk. Finally, is it worth a premium price to watch a drama or comedy where the visual detail isn't that important (vs a visual spectacle type Sci-Fi movie for example)

So, the long answer to your question is Blu-ray is, and will remain, more expensive than DVD. Blu-ray will always provide at least some improvement visually and audio wise over DVD. Whether it's worth the extra cost for Blu-ray then becomes a personal decision on a benefit-cost basis.

In general many consumers have concluded that at current price differentials DVD is good enough, but as the price difference decreases this may change. My recommendation is to evaluate for yourself based on your equipment and viewing conditions by comparing several movies on both Blu-ray and DVD ... then act accordingly.

Hope that helps.

What is the usb port on my blu ray player for?

Chris

On my blu ray player there is a usb port and i have no clue what it is for. I tried plugging my ipod in and playing it but it didnt work. Any ideas?

Answer
Since you don't give any information about make or model number my answer has to be generic. The USB port could be for a number of things. It could allow you to plug in a USB drive, flash drive or hard drive. You might be able to display pictures, play music or possibly even videos. The USB port could also be for WiFi connectivity allowing you to connect to the internet. The best place to get specific information about your unit is to read your manual or go online to the manufacturer's web site.

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Should I watch Star Trek again?

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I watched em all last year. It's been a year. I loved them 1 year ago is the first time I watched startrek.
I'm talking about the TV shows.

I started with TNG (It was on Netflix)
then Loved it so I went to there website and found more.
I watched Voyager and then The Original series. I found out there was a Animated series I watched that too. This all took place in a month, And I have a above avarage memory so If I watch a episode I will likley remember how it all panned out. Reason I ask, I have depleted all TV shows. I litrally spent months watching everyhour. So Reccomend me a TV show or film and I will tell you I know of it and either hate the idea or watched it.
(I'm not really a couch patato, it's just that I spend most of my time on the computer doing that and I don't own a TV) Who needs a TV? it's 2013.

10 hours a day have been filled with every imaginable interesting film from recreation watching - scientific research
I have seen Dilbert (Anime newyork TV SHOW, ITS FUNNNY) - Personal videos detailing lectures on Physics and space travel.

I am a brilliant mind so I avoid shit like Vampire diaries.. I want the serious-funny and deep inttelectual shit.
?
Oh wait sorry, I forgot to mention those. I did watch them unfortunetly. Anything else?
Plz thank you
Fringe is a big NO NO. That show is in the same catogory as the Vampire diares.
I'm a scientist soo I can't spend 1 hour looking at people talking about magic.
MI-5 Seems interesting, I should have mentiond I LOVE shows like:
Nikita
24
and these on the funny side
Monk
Bones

But like I said, I depleted all my TV show reserves.

Answer
Like the other guy said, watch Babylon 5 (but skip the movies and season 5). It's much more realistic than the Star Trek series. Also: Firefly. It only lasted 1 season but it's still worth the watch.

(Re)watch the X-Files. It tries to be serious, but its funny as well. And really, you can't take that stuff seriously anyway.

Funny? The Big Bang Theory, Arrested Development & It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia. But I'm sure you've already seen them.

You might like things like House, The Wire, The West Wing, Entourage, Prison Break and Dexter. I'm been told that Castle is similar to Bones; however it has little science. Not like Bones has had much believable science lately anyway. Breaking Bad is one you'll either love or hate. I hated it. You might like it since I seem to be in the minority.

If you like historical pieces, look into Boardwalk Empire, Game of Thrones, Mad Men, Rome. Keep in mind that while Game of Thrones is based in a fantasy world, it is a very very strong basis in actual history. Read about the people of England around the War of the Roses: most of the ridiculous events are based on fact. Downton Abbey has also had good reviews, though I haven't sat down to watch it yet.

The most recent show I watched might fit the bill too: White Collar. It's on USA, and seems to have been based off of Frank Abignale Jr. just like the film Catch Me If You Can. It's about a con artist teaming up with the FBI - serious crimes/tone with quite a few hilarious moments. It isn't always realistic, but it's definitely entertaining.

Finally, not all 'supernatural' shows are bad. The first couple seasons of BBC's Being Human is not really about the fact that the characters are a ghost, a vampire and a werewolf. It's about themes like addiction, and alienation: the supernatural is used as a literary device. Same goes for Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Sure, there's metaphysical fluff in there, but it's essentially a coming of age story with the first strong female lead since Wonder Woman. You can also see what put Bones' Seely Booth on the map: he was discovered for this show. It isn't intellectual, but it fits the serious-funny bit especially later on when the tone shifts darker.

-------
As an aside: why wouldn't you own a TV? Get a blu-ray player or something else with DLNA (like a PS3, media player or Smart TV), pop Serviio on your PC and stream everything to your widescreen. I do, and I'll never go back to watching shows on my PC again.

Surround sound questions?

Lakota C

I have been trying to get my surround sound to work for hours and still nothing, i bought some things that didn't come with a user manual because i bought them from ebay, and i couldn't find the manuals online
I have an hdtv Philips 40" 40PFL4707/F7
a 5.1 surround sound receiver PIONEER VSX-D457 5.1 HomeTheatre DOLBY
a 5.1 surround sound speaker set up VM Audio EXMS590T 800W 5.1 Home Multi Media Surround Sound
and an hdmi dvd player
I'm very confused as to how i should connect each device to each other.
My reciever does not have hdmi cable inputs/outputs.
I want the video to come out in hd, how do i hook these things up?
Below are some of the pictures of my receiver and all the plug ins that i have no idea how to set up.

http://i.novobuscar.com/index.aspx?p=%2FPic%2Fbr%2F2012%2F10%2F25%2Faaed5489-3b30-4855-8351-8519dde81f42.jpg

http://pictures1.kyozou.com/pictures/_14/13874/13873028.jpg

Below are pictures of my subwoofer, i need to know how to set this up to my receiver.

http://www.vminnovations.com/sys/resource.ashx?guid=4e8e918a2e674172b7bb33bc4a927257

http://sweetiesreviews.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/vminnovations-review.jpg

My speaker set up came with these cables

http://www.vminnovations.com/sys/resource.ashx?guid=a38527c287164af79f2d2dde25785d28

And lastly do i have to hook the audio from each device (xbox 360, tv, dvd player, etc) to the receiver? or can i hook all devices to the tv and then send the sound to the receiver through the tv?
This is a list of inputs and outputs on my tv
2 x HDMI (19 pin HDMI Type A) - Side,
1 x HDMI (19 pin HDMI Type A) - Rear,
1 x VGA input (15 pin D-Sub (DB-15)) - Side,
1 x Composite video / component video input (RCA phono x 3) - Rear,
1 x Audio line-in (RCA phono x 2) - Rear,
1 x Digital audio output (coaxial) (RCA phono) - Rear,
1 x Headphones (Mini-phone stereo 3.5 mm) - Side,
1 x USB (4 pin USB Type A) - Side

If i do have to plug in audio to the receiver, would i be able to have both the hdmi cable going to the tv while also having audio only cables going to the receiver? or would that not work?

Thank you for reading all of this, and especially thank you if you can help me. I know this is a lot of stuff, but there are so many different ways i could be messing it up that i need to know the exact right way to do it for it to work.and i (obviously) have no idea what i am doing ahah
Sorry for such a long question and i hope someone can help :)
Thank You!!!!

Answer
First off the VM Audio sub-woofer is incompatible with the Pioneer VSX D457 Receiver, they will not work together...you may be able to use the Satellite speakers if they are 8 ohm with the Pioneer VSX D457 next you do not have any digital connections on that receiver so you are only going to get stereo at best the Pioneer VSX D457 has Dolby prologic which is an analog 4.0 system and can be used to produce a psudo-surround from stereo. Dolby Pro-logic makes no provisions for a sub-woofer....some high end prologic receivers did there own sub-woofer provisions as aftermarket unfortunately your D457 is not one of them, so there is no provision for a subwoofer of any kind...also you will not be able to use a blu ray player with any satisfaction in surround...you would hook everything up to the TV then run a cord from the headphone jack out to the receiver for stereo sound nd then use prologic to produce a pseudo surround effect.
It may be best to leave the Pioneer VSX receiver out completely and just hook the VM Audio speaker system up directly to the TV.....

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Why buy a blu-ray player if you have a PlayStation 3?

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Nathan T

I don't understand why people would buy a stand-alone blu-ray player when the when (up to this point) the Playstation 3 has been cheaper. It seems like they are paying more for a product that can do less. Can the stand-alone blu-ray players do more then the blu-ray player on the playstation 3? If so, how much better is it?

Answer
Actually I beg to differ with some of the comments above.

Yes true, having a stand alone blu-ray player might last longer as it is dedicated to only playing bluray as opposed to the PS3 being a gaming system. But what PS3 has to offer outside of bluray playback is vastly better from gaming, storing videos, music, and browsing the internet.

Setbacks:
No remote control (not a big factor in my opinion, you can get the $25 bluray remote)
No dedicated chip set (Ps3 playback uses the Cell processor)

If you actually looked up reviews with PS3 vs. stand alone, its actually BETTER than most stand alone blu-ray players out there at a performance per cost stand point.
http://www.pcworld.com/article/id,127892/article.html

The fact that the PS2 did have issues of freezing and worse picture quality with DVD playback, does not mean it will be just the same on the PS3. There's been no hard evidence of PS3's breaking down due to bluray, more than any other piece of electronic equipment. And yes I'm sure there have been minor issues with bluray, but thats consumer electronics for you...besides, the PS3 is cheaper.

"Can the stand-alone blu-ray players do more then the blu-ray player on the playstation 3?"

No. The only difference in play back is that the PS3 uses Cell, and stand alone have a dedicate chip to decode bluray. There is no loss in quality.

Hope this helps.
Honestly, I'm sure no one who has a PS3, bought a stand alone as well...unless it were for different rooms. =)

Is there something deficient about the blu ray player on the PS3?

Iceberg22

It just seems too good to be true.

So you can purchase a PS3 with a blu ray player for 400. Yet, to buy a blu ray player individually, you would have to pay 400-600.

Is the blu ray player on the PS3 deficient?

Answer
To my knowledge, there are no issues with the Blu-ray disc player on the PS3. In fact, the PS3 has generally been acclaimed as a very decent Blu-ray player, and great for value.

Sony has been using the PS3 as a platform to promote the Blu-ray disc as next-gen format. As a result, until this year, Sony actually was performing at a loss/break-even in terms of profit for the PS3 division (as a result of the 'low' pricing). Supposedly they have started entering the profit band now since manufacturing costs have come down (cheaper Blu-ray & cell production, no more emotion chip needed, etc.).

Certainly, the PS3 is not a dedicated Blu-ray player, so some of the specialized players you buy may offer some customization and adjustments you can't find on the PS3. But in terms of playback, there should be absolutely no issues with the PS3.

The PS3 is being promoted as not just a gaming system, but as a full-fledged home media entertainment system. Because of this, in addition to Blu-ray, the PS3 includes capabilities to play DVDs, CDs, SACDs, and various PC media formats like mp3s, avis, mpgs as if it were an HTPC, so you should expect it will play Blu-rays as well as any other player.

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What is a good blu-ray player to run to my lcd monitor?

blu ray player not working image

Presstogo

I just read i could hook up my P244W lcd monitor to a blu-ray player.I have 2 hdmi imput's and max resolution 1920x1080. Do you think a blu-ray player should work with this monitor?

Answer
Yes HD movies on blu-ray discs have a resolution of 1080p, so your monitor supports that resolution. But 24 inch is low for watching HD movies in full glory (anything of 32 inch or above would be good) .

Besides Blu-Ray players in India are rediculously high priced. If you can afford it, sony PS3 would be great investment for playing Blu-Ray discs as well as games in budget of around 20000 or you can wait for prices to come down.

Can blu-ray dvd player work on a tv without a hd built in tuner?

Jesus is L

My tv needs a hd converter box. Do I need to buy the hd converter box in order for the blu-ray dvd player to work? The hd tuner is not built into the tv which is why I have to buy the converter box.

Answer
yes sir

a hd tuner is to receive digital video and audio out of the thin air with a capable antenna...

a blu ray player will still work on your regular TV and trust me i have one on my old projection clunker and it makes any regular dvd look amazing even on a non hd TV

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Can I use a Dvd player that i bought in the States or Canada (NTSC) in Europe (PAL)?

blu ray player zone hack image

Minimouse

Answer
NTSC and PAL are totally incompatible. However, my PAL player can play NTSC discs although image is a bit skippy. So maybe your NTSC player can also play PAL dvds. However, since you'll be connecting it to a PAL TV set, you must set the player's output signal to PAL. That's the most important thing. I can do that in my PAL player. But, if it outputs NTSC to your PAL TV, no deal.

Another thing is the REGION LOCK issue. Unless you hack it to make it zone-free, it will ONLY play REGION 1 discs. In Europe you can only get Region 2 dvds, which will definitely NOT play in a region 1 player.

My advice: Buy a new player in Europe. They're VERY cheap now that Blu-Ray is coming!! You can get a decent one for less than 50 bucks.

Should I get a PS3 slim or Xbox 360 slim?

Q. I've had a PS2 for the past 7 years or so, my dad is buying me a PS3 slim ( 120GB version for $299 ) or an Xbox 360 slim ( $299 ), he's letting me decide. Which one should I get? I've done some research, the systems are very similar in a lot of things. PS3 has better graphics, cool games, a blu-ray player, and free online play. Xbox 360 has cool games, better online play, and has sold more. Honestly, the most important thing for me is the online play issue. Is the "better" online play for the Xbox worth the $50 a year? Also, which has better exclusive games ( could you list 4-5 for each one that are exclusive to that system and are great ).

P.S. I'm turning 15 =D, I've had a PS2 for a while, but its pretty inferior now. I can get rated R games, ect., so no concern there. Anyways, honest and well-thought out answers are appreciated.
Also, I know there have been some questions on this. I just want this answer to focus specifically on the 1. online play issue ( $$$$ for better online play, or free online play that is worse ), and 2. Specific games for each system ( ex. Halo franchise for Xbox ).

Answer
as i will always say ps3 is better for many reasons
the only reason to have a xbox is to play like gears of war
the advantage for you is also that you know the controller of the ps3 already as the ps3 controller is like the same as the ps2
the ps3 also gives you better graphics and its free to play online plus its more than just gaming
if you want to play mw2 then be with the ps3 as its still alive the online play (i should know my boyfriend played online today)
the only reason why xbox sold more is because ps3 did cost more so people had the cheaper console back then
the only fault i can give the ps3 is that it got recently hacked but sony has told they have sorted the problem and they gave ps3 owners some free games , films and some membership that gives you discounts to some games
i cant really say much about the xbox because i dont own one ;/ but i dont hear good things about it
like having to pay to go online and the the xbox kinect does not work properly
its up to you tbh

P.S i am turning 17 soon ;D 6th of july ;)


EDIT!
ps3 is better if you dont want to spend money each month / year to play online a
and i am not going to give you the list of games but i will give you some examples
ps3 - , god of war , kill zone ,Final Fantasy Versus XIII <--( not out yet but hell yes cant wait)
xbox , halo , gears of war , Fable

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Stand Alone 3D Player or PS3?

blu ray player 2d to 3d conversion review image

Brian

Just purchased a Panasonic BDT310 at Best Buy for $268 including taxes, but have not opened it yet. I was talking to an employee there and he asked if I had a PS3 { I do } And he said that the PS3 has a faster processor than the stand alone ? And basically said I did not need the Panasonic 3D Blu-Ray... you would think they would want you to make a $270 purchase rather than not buying anything. I was on the internet and was reading comments that you should have a stand alone because that would be better and have more options ? And that PS3 used to be a top notch Blu-Ray player before but not so much now. { just what I read } I do know that PS3 finally came out with a 3D update however long ago and read something about only bad thing about using PS3 as a 3D Blu-Ray player is lossless audio or something. I do not know anything really on sound setups but I was looking at this Sony HT-CT150 3D Sound Bar System to use as extra volume for my 73" 3D Mitsubishi DLP 73640 I am not looking for anything crazy but to have extra volume on directv, 360, PS3... If I really do not need the Panasonic 3D Blu-Ray, I would take it back to buy that sound bar instead. Was the guy at Best Buy correct saying the PS3 has a faster processor or should I keep that stand alone 3D player and get that sound bar also... and then not buy the tv stand I want for a bit, because my money tree in the back yard is not producing because it's still winter. I like the idea of having different apps like Pandora { as long as it is free ? } , 2D-3D conversion on the Panasonic, youtube, etc. What does everyone think ? Thanks for any help !!!

Answer
If you are not a console system gamer or interested in becoming a (PS3â¢) console system gamer then the choice is fairly easy: choose a high-performance Full HD 3D Blu-ray Disc player such as one of the Panasonic Full HD 3D Blu-ray Disc⢠players, for example Panasonicâs DMP-BDT21x or DMP-BDT310 BD⢠players, rather than a Sony PlayStation®3 system.

With respect to video processing performance: Panasonicâs high performance P4HD (Pixel Precision Progressive Processing for HD) video processing technology easily competes withâand in some areas excels compared toâthe better IC video processors currently available. (Donât allow yourself to be fooled by the olâ âwho has the âfasterâ processorâ notion - itâs a deceptive and/or misleading performance metric. That said, to quote Panasonic: âusing P4HD, the Panasonic Blu-ray Disc Player can process 15 billion pixels per second, producing images with an astounding depth and clarity rendered in rich, vibrant colors.â)

Itâs also important to note: according to Chris Heinonenâs review of the Panasonic DMP-BDT210, with the Picture Mode set to Normal and Advanced Chroma set to Off âthe Panasonic [BD player] was perfect at 4:2:2, 4:4:4 and RGB colorspaces,â which very few BD players are capable of achieving - the OPPO (Blu-ray) disc players being another. Furthermore the latest Panasonic 3D Blu-ray Disc⢠Players are some of the fastest loading BD players currently on the market; again, quoting Chris Heinonen: ââ¦the Panasonic [DMP-BDT210] is quicker than any other player I have used to date, including the Oppo player.â And when it comes to 2D-to-3D conversion youâre better-off ignoring that feature; BD titles that are mastered and encoded onto the disc as 3D offer a noticeably superior experience.

If you own or regularly rent movies on DVD then you should be aware that the Sony PlayStation®3 system is a flag-based disc player, i.e. it relies upon various data flags encoded on the disc, rather than employing a more sophisticated cadence detection scheme. Typically such flag-based designs lack the same level of video performance in particular areas when compared to their cadence detection counterparts, especially when a BD player is used to playback standard definition DVD-Video. Please read through the Secrets of Home Theater and High Fidelity resources for more information.

Lastly, any of the three current Panasonic 3D Blu-ray Disc⢠Players can be found at a price that is lessâand in some cases significantly lessâthan the latest Sony PlayStation®3 System.


RESOURCES

Panasonic Full HD 3D Blu-ray Disc⢠Players
http://shop.panasonic.com/shop/blu-ray-dvd-blu-ray-disc-players

Secrets of Home Theater and High Fidelity
â Panasonic DMP-BDT210 3D Blu-ray [Disc] Player
http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1405%3Apanasonic-dmp-bdt210-blu-ray-player-for-the-home-theater&catid=930%3Ablu-ray-players&Itemid=189&showall=1
â The Secrets Blu-ray Player HDMI Benchmark - Part 2
http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1366%3Ahdmi-follow-up&catid=42%3Atechnical-topics&Itemid=60&showall=1
â Sony PlayStation PS3 FW 2.1
http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=288-a-secrets-dvd-player-benchmark-review&showall=1
â âHigh Definition 1080p TV: Why You Should Be Concernedâ
http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=155-high-definition-1080p-tv-why-you-should-be-concerned.html%3Fshowall%3D1&showall=1

CNET Review: Panasonic DMP-BDT210
http://reviews.cnet.com/blu-ray-players/panasonic-dmp-bdt210/4505-9991_7-34468896.html

Home Theater Review: Panasonic DMP-BDT210 3D Blu-ray Disc Player
http://www.hometheater.com/content/panasonic-dmp-bdt210-blu-ray-3d-player

âHelp with white flashes/bars on Blu-rayâ
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1217493&pp=60

Wiki: Megahertz myth (see References and External Links sections)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Megahertz_myth
 

Lg lw4500.I'm new to this this whole tv thing?

Do I need a 3d blu ray player to view 3d movies.can't I just connect my USB or Ipod and view 3d movies off there while wearing my glasses?I tried but doesn't seem to work!and also the tv has "2d-3d conversion"meaning I can view my local tv programmes in 3d?but how?I tried it but wouldn't view proper 3d images.can anyone please help me

Answer
Yes, you need a blu-ray player to play 3D disc titles but there are a few more ways to watch 3D movies. I have a LG LW5600 and easily convert 2D to 3D with the magic remote. Press Home button on it and select '3D' on the bottom of the screen. Then you will see three different types of 3D modes you can choose. The split screens are for 3D gaming so click the first one. You can see anything in 3D. And you should take advantage of the smart feature your tv has. LG Smart TVs have Youtube app. You can watch the video clips there in 3D, either. Here is the review video I watched. You will get step-by-step instructions from it.

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How can I connect my Samsung Blu Ray player to the internet?

blu ray player instructions image

djb5474

I have a samsung blu ray player that has an ethernet jack to connect to the internet...but my hub is downstairs and running a wire isn't an option. I have wireless throughout the house...is there a way to transmit the wireless signal to *something*, then run the ethernet cable from that to the blue ray player. Thanks. Look forward to hearing some ideas cause now I'm stuck.

Answer
I had the same problem, if you're wireless router is a G series (80211.g) all you need is a range expander. I picked up the Linksys WRE54G which plugs into an electric wall outlet. The WRE54G connects to my 80211.g router wirelessly. The WRE54G has a ethernet port on it that I run into my Blu-Ray player and all works well.

If your Blu-Ray player is a Samsung BDP-1500 you might need two things to enable the BRLive feature. 1: You'll need to update the firmware (see Samsung website for instructions) 2. You'll need to plug in a USB flash drive into the back with at least 1-GB of space (this is required for external storage). All of this should be stated in the users guide, but a lot of people just expect to be able to plug in the ethernet cable and everything "just work", unfortunately it's not that simple.

Do I have to use the Panasonic wireless LAN adapter with my new Blu Ray player?

Laura

The Panasonic adapter seems to be much more expensive that any other adapter on the market but my nearest hard connection is in another room from my blu ray player.

The operating instructions say only the DY-WL10 Panasonic model will work but it is priced at $100. Can I use another brand of USB adapter like a netgear or d-link which is available for less than $50.

Answer
i would say it would be ok

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Can I connect a Blu-Ray Player to a PC wirelessly?

blu ray player for pc image

Ali J

I have a router. If I get a Blu-Ray player with internet capabilities, is it possible to connect the Blu-Ray player to the PC wirelessly so that I can view videos stored on the PC on my TV via the Blu-Ray player? In other words, is it possible to make that Blu-Ray part of a home network? Thanks.

Answer
If you have a PS3, yes.

Not all BD players have a built-in digital media receiver.

Will a downloaded blu ray movie work on a pc that doesn't have a blu ray player?

Jason

I was wondering if a pc without a blu ray player can play downloaded blu ray movies?

Answer
Yes, it can. You simply need a downloaded blu-ray file in your pc and a media player such as GOM or Flv.

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Best wifi ready blu ray player for streaming Netflix and Hulu?

blu ray player netflix image

J D

Shopping for a wifi ready blu ray player to stream Netflix and Hulu. Must be wifi ready because it will be quite far from the router and I would like to spend less than $150. Thanks!

Answer
I have a PS3 and it streams Netflix no problem, and it has WIFI, u can buy one used for around $130 on Craigslist plus u can play video games on HD.

How do I log out of Netflix on a Vizio blu ray player?

Q. I need to log out of the current Netflix account and get into a different one, but I can't figure out how to go about it. I deactivated the blu ray player on my Netflix account and logged off, but it still shows up on the player. Help!

Answer
reset your player to the default settings in the set up menu....

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Can you hook up a Blu Ray player to a Panasonic surround sound system?

blu ray player 5.1 image

Q. I'm interested in buying a Blu Ray player, but I don't want to buy a new surround sound system.
I forgot to mention that the surround sound system has a DVD player built into it.

Answer
Some entry level surround systems have few or even no audio inputs. If you want 5.1 surround, then your surround receiver would need to have an optical (or coaxial) digital audio input (and the Blu-ray player would need an audio output to match, either optical or digital).

If your surround receiver has stereo audio inputs (red and white color coded RCA inputs), then you could connect the Blu-ray player that way, but this would be 2.0 stereo, and not 5.1 surround.

If you can get the audio connected to the surround system, I am guessing you would still connect the Blu-ray player's video output directly to the TV, because your receiver probably has no video input, or at least no HD video input.

What is the best money can buy for up to $400 for a Blu-ray player?

shjOlds_44

I'm looking for Blu-Ray player with BD Live and a connection for Sirius or XM. I really like to get one that is a recorder IF it's worth it. I am also looking for one that can upscale DVD's running a 5.1 channel digital or analog outputs.

Thanks.

Answer
I agree with MTS, the Oppo BDP-80 is an outstanding universal player, it has 7.1 channel outputs so if your receiver won't decode the new HD audio formats, the Oppo will. I don't believe there are any recorders out yet - except for a computer connected drive. As far as a Sirius/XM connection an AV receiver would have those, not a stand alone blu-ray player.

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How do you download firmware or software updates for a blu ray player? Specifically a ps3.?

blu ray player history image

Jason S

I recently purchased American History X on blu ray and when i opened the box there was a little note inside. It said i need to download a firmware or software update to ensure the best possible veiwing experience. Not only do i not know what firmware or software is, but i don't know how to download the update. PLEASE HELP!!!

Answer
If your PS3 is connected to the internet via either ethernet cable or WiFi it updates itself. If you're not, you need to connect it and it will handle the update automatically.

I have a presentation in class next week about blu-rays, what should I do?

tuyabid

Do I talk about the foundation and/or history of blu-rays? I have a blu-ray player and discs at home, should or can I bring them as well to present to the class? What do you think?

Answer
Maybe you can show the class a slide presentation. (I would leave the actual Blu-ray equipment at home, so it doesn't get stolen, broken or lost.) The following link shows a sample of the material to cover, and various formatting styles to make each page look different and interesting:
http://www.slideshare.net/gueste6332b/blu-ray-disc-ppt-by-dhruv2-presentation

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Will a Blu-Ray player improve the sound of a standard DVD disc?

blu ray player no picture image

Nick M

I am thinking of purchasing a Blu Ray player and although I am aware that connecting this to my HDTV via a HDMI cable can upscale the picture quality to 1080, I was just wondering if it will make a noticeable improvement to the quality of sound. I currently have my TV connected to a home theatre system. Thanks for your answers.

Answer
There will be no improvement whatsoever from a DVD disk played on a Blu-ray player.

The player and HDMI per se won't make any difference at all unless you a) use Blu-ray disks, b) select an HD audio track, c) have excellent speakers and d) have good hearing (including knowing how to recognize good sound). For the average consumer the hype over improved sound from Blu-ray is way overblown. I have a dedicated room, a medium/high quality 7.2 surround system and have compared DD and DTS HD Master and hear very little benefit from the latter. Others may, but everything I have read says improvements form advanced audio are fairly subtle.

What format video can i put on a USB and play on my LG blu ray player?

Cody

I have already tried .mpg and wmv and it did not recognize those and thus they didnt show up. I am only trying to put on 5 minute video on my flash drive and watch it on the blu ray player. All of the pictures and music on it show up but i cant get any video formats to. So does anyone know what format would work?

Answer
Capability varies with the model of Blu-ray player. Most won't handle video at all (only jpeg, wma and MP3). You really have to consult the specifications for your particular player ... and you didn't specify so I can't help. Look for "USB media plus" support.

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