Official Blu-Ray & HD-DVD Thread

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  • CaptainZombie
    Brains
    • Jul 2003
    • 37851

    #3076
    Re: Official Blu-Ray & HD-DVD Thread

    For anyone still looking at the DF players, here is a review from PC Mag:

    The thread on AVS where they are talking in more detail: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showt...55388&page=161

    Samsung BD-UP5000
    REVIEW DATE: 02.15.08
    BOTTOM LINE:
    The Samsung BD-UP5000 is the best combo HD disc player currently available.

    PROS:
    Plays Blu-ray and HD DVD discs. Quick start-up. Immediate resume from stopped playback with Blu-ray and DVD movies. Excellent upscaling DVD player. Top-notch HD video-processing quality.

    CONS:
    HD DVD PiP displayed with incorrect aspect ratio. No 24-Hz output with DVD video. No raw bitstream output with Dolby TrueHD or DTS-HD lossless audio formats.

    COMPANY:
    Samsung Electronics

    SPEC DATA
    Price: $999.00 List
    Video Outputs: S-Video, Composite, Component, HDMI
    Audio Outputs: Optical (Toslink), Coaxial, HDMI, Analog 7.1
    Height: 3.1 inches
    Width: 16.9 inches
    Depth: 12.8 inches
    Weight: 9.3 lb
    Supported EDTV and HDTV Resolutions (HD Ready): 480p, 720p, 1080i, 480i, 1080p
    Disc Format Support: DVD Video, HD-DVD, Blu-ray, CD audio
    Networking Options: Ethernet
    Video Processor: HQV
    EDITOR RATING:

    By Robert Heron

    The HD DVD format was on the losing end of the blue laser battle, but the early adopters of this original HD disc format may be interested in a set-top player that supports the playback of HD DVD and Blu-ray high-definition discs. Until all HD movies make the transition to the Blu-ray format, a combo HD disc player lets you focus on finding content you want rather than worrying whether that content is compatible with your hardware. And the Samsung BD-UP5000 Duo HD Player ($999 list) delivers the best image quality and disc performance I've seen in an HD disc player to date. The long-term enjoyment of any HD disc player depends on firmware updates that add new features and address any issues that arise, and the BD-UP5000 is the only dual-format HD disc player that can be conveniently updated directly over the Internet. For its ease of use and eye-pleasing performance, the Samsung BD-UP5000 earns our Editors' Choice.

    Although the BD-UP5000's glossy black stylings are similar to those of other Samsung disc players, its face has been updated with rounded edges as well as a strip of recessed chrome-like trim along its lower lip. Its information display is positioned between the disc tray on the left and a circular control pad near the right-hand edge of the player's face. The rack-friendly dimensions of the BD-UP5000 are 3.1 by 12.8 by 16.9 inches (HDW), and the unit tips the scales at 9.3 pounds.

    The design of the remote control is similar to that of other Samsung home theater remotes: a narrow, baton-style shape, with the primary disc navigation buttons located centrally. The remote's navigation, channel changing, and volume control buttons glow in the dark for use in dimly lit environments. With the BD-UP5000, the four-way directional control pad on previous Samsung remote controls has been updated to an eight-way control design—a feature found on the remotes of dedicated HD DVD players.

    Port connections are located on the rear of the player and include almost everything an A/V enthusiast could want. The UP5000's component video output and HDMI port (v1.3) are simultaneously enabled, except for the times when the player is configured for 24-Hz output (via HDMI). A set of standard-definition video outputs (composite and S-Video) are provided as well. Audio outputs include HDMI, 7.1-channel analog (with bass management), and coaxial and optical digital. The one item missing from the player's otherwise generous assortment of port offerings is an RS-232C connection for use with programmable home-theater control systems. The HD DVD specification mandates the inclusion of an Internet connection capability, and the BD-UP5000 provides an Ethernet port for this purpose. Web-connected BD-UP5000s are able to access Samsung servers for firmware updates using an easily accessible option in the player's setup menu--a feature the dual-format LG BH200 Super Blu Player combo player lacked. I encountered no difficulties in updating the BD-UP5000's firmware to the latest available at the time of this review (v1.0 dated 1/17/2008).

    The BD-UP5000 can deliver up to a 1080p60 or a 1080p24 formatted video signal via its HDMI port; however, 1080p24 output is not available with upconverted DVD video. Unlike the HD DVD players I've seen, the UP5000's on-screen information display doesn't provide details about the currently selected audio or video output formats. The BD-UP5000's component video output supports video signal formats up to 1080i. I encountered no video delay or other obvious issues when using the BD-UP5000's 1080p24 feature (or other video output formats) with a compatible HDTV.

    The player can decode all audio formats commonly found on standard and high-definition movie discs. However, like the LG BH200, the UP5000 is unable to pass raw bitstreams of Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD encoded lossless audio to a compatible A/V receiver (via HDMI). Also, Dolby TrueHD audio is converted to two-channel formats in all cases. A Samsung spokesperson said that a future firmware update for the BD-UP5000 will add bitstream output for the new lossless audio codecs. For owners of anything but the highest-end A/V receivers, these digital audio limitations will go unnoticed.

    My test setup for the BD-UP5000 utilized the player's default video settings with its video outputs connected to a Pioneer Elite KURO PRO-150FD plasma HDTV. The TV was configured to use a pure picture preset that minimizes video processing while delivering color and detail levels that conform closely to the standards that describe the HDTV format. The BD-UP5000 provides few user-accessible controls for its HQV-based video processor, and available options such as sharpness enhancement and noise reduction were left at default settings (off). Whenever possible, the player's 1080p60 and 1080p24 video output formats were used for image quality evaluations.

    I encountered a handful of relatively minor usability quirks during my time with the BD-UP5000. When it's configured for HD output and a regular DVD is inserted, the player's setup menus, splash screen, and other menu graphics appear blurry, with lots of jagged edges--distinctly standard definition. However, inserting a high-definition Blu-ray or HD DVD movie returned the player's graphics to full HD detail. As per the HD DVD spec, the BD-UP5000 incorporates dual video decoders for picture-in-picture (PiP) functionality with supporting movie titles. The HD DVD version of the movie 300 incorporates an interesting PiP feature that lets the viewer compare the finished film to how it looked prior to the addition of special effects and post processing, but enabling it on the BD-UP5000 resulted in PiP video that was displayed with an incorrect aspect ratio: Letterboxing was added to the widescreen PiP video, making it appear slightly squished.

    Dedicated HD DVD players such as the Toshiba HD-A30 displayed 300's PiP feature correctly. Some newer Blu-ray movies such as War also incorporate a PiP feature, but Blu-ray's PiP feature requires a player that supports Profile v1.1 (aka Bonus View). The BD-UP5000 is currently listed as a Profile v1.0 player, yet it was able to display War's PiP feature, although the PiP video often appeared corrupted. Blu-ray players with Profile v1.1 support, such as the Sony PlayStation 3 (with system software v2.10+), were able to display War's PiP feature properly. A Samsung spokesperson told me that the BD-UP5000 will soon receive a new firmware update that adds full support for Blu-ray Profile v1.1 features.

    None of the BD-UP5000's aforementioned quirks affected movie playback, and further testing revealed some admirable traits for a modern HD disc player. A universal complaint among HD disc player owners is long start-up and disc-load times. I found the BD-UP5000's disc-load times with Blu-ray and HD DVD movies to be within a second or two of the LG BH200 combo player's, but the UP5000's start-up time (power on to tray open) was less than half of any standalone HD disc player I've seen to date—just under 15 seconds. I also discovered that resuming playback on the BD-UP5000 after pressing the stop button was instantaneous. HD DVD titles, however, restarted playback from the beginning of the movie, unlike DVD and Blu-ray movies, which resumed from the point where the video was stopped. I also appreciated the player's ability to navigate DVD titles by chapter or title: The latter is a rare feature among most disc players.

    As an upconverting DVD player, the BD-UP5000's delivered superb performance and picture quality. When playing classic DVDs, the UP5000's HQV-based video processor was quick to detect 24-Hz material like that sourced from film and digital cinema. The BD-UP5000 retained subtle scene details including film grain without giving the picture an overenhanced or edgy look. Given the BD-UP5000's video processor, I expected and witnessed an above-average performance with the HQV Benchmark DVD. Compared with the LG BH200 Super Blu Player and its impressively effective Marvell QDEO video-processing technology, the UP5000 proved slightly better at minimizing jaggies that can occur along angled edges.

    The BD-UP5000 breezed through my HD video examinations, providing full-resolution output with interlaced and progressive video material. I tested approximately one dozen HD titles from my library of Blu-ray and HD DVD movies, and at no point did I experience a lockup or other A/V hiccup. The UP5000's performance on the HD HQV Benchmark was also excellent, matching the equally impressive performance given by the LG BH200. The HD DVD version of the Digital Video Essentials test disc proved problematic for the LG BH200, consistently causing it to lock up, but the BD-UP5000 was able to access and play this useful title without any issues.

    Power consumption measurements put the BD-UP5000's monthly cost of operation at an affordable $1.20, based on 8 hours of daily operation at $0.13 kWh (a local average). The LG BH200's even-more-impressive monthly operating cost calculation of $0.83 was attributed to the player's consuming 10W less than the BD-UP5000 when in use and 0.4W less power in standby.

    With its recent firmware update, the Samsung BD-UP5000 ranks as the best combo HD disc player that I've seen in terms of disc compatibility, performance, and ease of use (particularly its Internet-based firmware updates). The player's lack of a RS-232C control port and support for bitstream output for the new lossless audio codecs may detract from its appeal among home theater aficionados, but Samsung claims the latter will be addressed in an upcoming firmware update. If you need one disc player that will handle all of your standard and high-definition video needs, the Samsung BD-UP5000 delivers a quality experience that will likely improve with future updates.

    Sub-ratings:
    Image Quality:4.5/5
    Value:4/5
    Usability:4/5

    Benchmark Test Results:
    Factory default display settings
    HDMI video output @ 1080p
    HQV: 95/130
    HD HQV: 75/100
    HDMovie Room

    Comment

    • Holic
      All Star
      • Feb 2003
      • 6424

      #3077
      Re: Official Blu-Ray & HD-DVD Thread

      Originally posted by ExtremeGamer
      Eventually, all I own now are Paramount and Universal HD-DVD's, along with 2-3 WB that are HD-DVD only (Batman, V for Vendetta). I'm going to play it by ear, and use the HD-DVD add on as my "dvd player" for now. As movies come out on BD, I will be getting the counterpart.

      Like others said they can't understand how I can spend X amount on HD-DVD to sell it, then to rebuy on BD for X amount of money, I can't justify keeping hold onto a dead format. It's just not me, I get to anal to have say Batman on HD-DVD and The Dark Knight on BD.

      Just my OCD with my movies.
      I'm with you man. I can't see holding onto a dead format either.

      Comment

      • RockyTop1
        All Star
        • Apr 2004
        • 8267

        #3078
        Re: Official Blu-Ray & HD-DVD Thread

        Originally posted by Holic
        I'm with you man. I can't see holding onto a dead format either.
        You're too late. He changed his mind
        PS4: aBayBates
        Xbox: RockyTop1

        Comment

        • Holic
          All Star
          • Feb 2003
          • 6424

          #3079
          Re: Official Blu-Ray & HD-DVD Thread

          Originally posted by RockyTop1
          You're too late. He changed his mind
          He's worse than a woman. It'll change again, watch and see.

          Comment

          • AuburnAlumni
            War Eagle
            • Jul 2002
            • 11939

            #3080
            Re: Official Blu-Ray & HD-DVD Thread

            Well, my slew of HD DVDs I've been buying off of Ebay is starting to arrive at my house.

            I checked out Pitch Black and Batman Begins and both look VERY VERY nice.

            I just got The Planet Earth series delivered to my door and I'm very excited about this one. It's suppose to be flat out gorgeous and really a cool series.

            I have the Mission Impossible and Bourne Series both on the way.

            The Italian Job is also VERY nice in HD.
            AUBURN TIGERS
            MINNESOTA VIKINGS
            INDIANA PACERS

            Comment

            • armistead
              Rookie
              • Mar 2003
              • 271

              #3081
              Re: Official Blu-Ray & HD-DVD Thread

              Broke down and just bought an A-30 off Amazon. Had a $25 certificate so for $104 figured I couldn't go wrong. I'm planning on updating my Tv to 1080P and this way I'll be able to watch the HD-DVD at that level. Feel sorta nuts doing it given the format's end but don't have any desire to repurchase the movies I have on blu-ray. Have the space for it and the PS3 so I figured this way I also can use the A-2 as a backup waydown the road if the A-30 breaks...

              Comment

              • GAMEC0CK2002
                Stayin Alive
                • Aug 2002
                • 10384

                #3082
                Re: Official Blu-Ray & HD-DVD Thread

                Originally posted by AuburnAlumni
                Well, my slew of HD DVDs I've been buying off of Ebay is starting to arrive at my house.

                I checked out Pitch Black and Batman Begins and both look VERY VERY nice.

                I just got The Planet Earth series delivered to my door and I'm very excited about this one. It's suppose to be flat out gorgeous and really a cool series.

                I have the Mission Impossible and Bourne Series both on the way.

                The Italian Job is also VERY nice in HD.
                I hear ya. I'm waiting on Planet Earth series to arrive. Picked it up for $35. This site is selling it for $30, today only: http://www.techbargains.com/news_displayItem.cfm/112937

                Missed out on the 3 firesale threads of $8 per flick. Only picked up a couple at $10...Batman Begins, ATL, and MI2, The Christmas Story.

                Comment

                • Fresh Tendrils
                  Strike Hard and Fade Away
                  • Jul 2002
                  • 36131

                  #3083
                  Re: Official Blu-Ray & HD-DVD Thread

                  I just ordered Planet Earth for like 40 bucks shipped. Can't wait.



                  Comment

                  • CaptainZombie
                    Brains
                    • Jul 2003
                    • 37851

                    #3084
                    Re: Official Blu-Ray & HD-DVD Thread

                    Originally posted by armistead
                    Broke down and just bought an A-30 off Amazon. Had a $25 certificate so for $104 figured I couldn't go wrong. I'm planning on updating my Tv to 1080P and this way I'll be able to watch the HD-DVD at that level. Feel sorta nuts doing it given the format's end but don't have any desire to repurchase the movies I have on blu-ray. Have the space for it and the PS3 so I figured this way I also can use the A-2 as a backup waydown the road if the A-30 breaks...
                    I bought the A30 today at Best Buy for $119, had them price match TigerDirect.com. I have an A3 that I moved in the bedroom, so its nice to have a 1080p HD DVD player for my on my TV. I'm hearing that the A3's might drop even more over the next few weeks, so I may get one for the family room. Hell, these are excellent SD-DVD upconverters for those that have never had a Toshiba HD DVD SAL. Enjoy guys.
                    HDMovie Room

                    Comment

                    • AuburnAlumni
                      War Eagle
                      • Jul 2002
                      • 11939

                      #3085
                      Re: Official Blu-Ray & HD-DVD Thread

                      Ok...so Planet Earth is insanely beautiful. And wicked cool as well.

                      That is all.

                      I suggest everyone, Blu Ray or HDDVD wise, pick this series up.
                      AUBURN TIGERS
                      MINNESOTA VIKINGS
                      INDIANA PACERS

                      Comment

                      • RockyTop1
                        All Star
                        • Apr 2004
                        • 8267

                        #3086
                        Re: Official Blu-Ray & HD-DVD Thread

                        Come on Candy, gotta give me a heads up before you go posting on HDD about what you're selling. Let me know if FNL doesn't sell
                        PS4: aBayBates
                        Xbox: RockyTop1

                        Comment

                        • GAMEC0CK2002
                          Stayin Alive
                          • Aug 2002
                          • 10384

                          #3087
                          Re: Official Blu-Ray & HD-DVD Thread

                          Having a good night on HDD. Picked up these either for cheap ($10 max) or trading duplicates:
                          Black Snake Moan
                          Hustle and Flow
                          Batman Begins
                          T3
                          Derailed
                          Coming to America
                          MI 2
                          Evan Almighty
                          Knocked Up (wasn't a big fan, but was cheap and the gf liked it)


                          Still waiting on FF: Tokyo Drift from a trade from last week.

                          Comment

                          • CaptainZombie
                            Brains
                            • Jul 2003
                            • 37851

                            #3088
                            Re: Official Blu-Ray & HD-DVD Thread

                            Originally posted by RockyTop1
                            Come on Candy, gotta give me a heads up before you go posting on HDD about what you're selling. Let me know if FNL doesn't sell
                            Will do.

                            Originally posted by GAMEC0CK2002
                            Having a good night on HDD. Picked up these either for cheap ($10 max) or trading duplicates:
                            Black Snake Moan
                            Hustle and Flow
                            Batman Begins
                            T3
                            Derailed
                            Coming to America
                            MI 2
                            Evan Almighty
                            Knocked Up (wasn't a big fan, but was cheap and the gf liked it)


                            Still waiting on FF: Tokyo Drift from a trade from last week.
                            How is Hustle and Flow?

                            I'm still waiting on Alexander from a dude I bought off of HDD.com last Tuesday. He must of sent it through snail mail.

                            Coming to America looks good on HD DVD, we have that one and Black Snake Moan is awesome.
                            Last edited by CaptainZombie; 02-21-2008, 11:39 PM.
                            HDMovie Room

                            Comment

                            • GAMEC0CK2002
                              Stayin Alive
                              • Aug 2002
                              • 10384

                              #3089
                              Re: Official Blu-Ray & HD-DVD Thread

                              Originally posted by candymanGT

                              How is Hustle and Flow?
                              Rented it awhile back when I had Blockbuster online. Great movie, PQ isn't great compared to most HD movies. Audio is very good though, as expected.

                              I got lucky and ran across a Horror Movie fan. Was able to unload: Twilight Zone, Dead Silence, Frightners and Feast.

                              The next big score would be snagging Star Trek Season 1 for less than $60.
                              Last edited by GAMEC0CK2002; 02-21-2008, 11:51 PM.

                              Comment

                              • RockyTop1
                                All Star
                                • Apr 2004
                                • 8267

                                #3090
                                Re: Official Blu-Ray & HD-DVD Thread

                                For those that have a Hollywood Video around you, call them because if they rent out HD DVD's, they are now selling them for $14/each or 2 for $20 and this is company wide. Picked up 4 for $40 tonight
                                PS4: aBayBates
                                Xbox: RockyTop1

                                Comment

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