We love the unrelenting advancement of technology. When they first came out just a few short years ago, Blu-ray Disc players sold for upwards of $1,000. They were slow to load, awkward to use, and limited in features. Sure, Blu-ray Discs looked amazing in all their 1080p glory, but there was limited support for advanced audio codecs from DTS and Dolby, no multi-channel analog outputs for compatibility with pre-HDMI A/V receivers, no support for internet connectivity and no support for BonusView (PIP commentary).
All that has changed. Now you can pre-order Panasonic's latest 4th generation Blu-ray Disc player, the DMP-BD55 (or DMP-BD55K as it's also called) for under $400 and it kicks the first and second generation BD players right in the tuchas! To order the BD55, see the following links:
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| Panasonic's DMP-BD55 is the top Blu-ray Player in their fourth generation model line. |
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| The DMP-BD55K features 5.1 or 7.1-channel analog audio outputs for compatibility with non-HDMI-equipped receivers and preamp/processors. |
We've reviewed the DMP-BD55 and it looks like it offers even better video performance than its predecessors, the DMP-BD50 and DMP-BD30 so buy it now from Amazon.com if you want to bring home a great Blu-ray player in time for the holidays.
DMP-BD55K Key Features
- BD-Live: Enjoy Additional Content via Internet (requires optional SD card)
- PHL Reference Chroma Processor Plus
- High Precision 4:4:4 color processing: Experience the Original Movie Quality
- P4HD: Advanced Picture Processing for 1080p (including 1080p/24 output for Blu-ray and standard DVD)
- 7.1-channel Lossless Decode & 7.1-channel HDMI/Analog Output
- On-board decoding or bitstreaming of Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, DTS, DTS-HD High Resolution Audio and DTS-HD Master Audio
- Advanced, High Quality Sound Enhances Blu-ray® Experience
- 96Hz Surround Re-Master
- VIERA Link™: Control All of Your AV Devices With One Remote
- SD Memory Card Slot: Enjoy Precious Memories in HD (Photos and Video)
The BD55's little brother, the DMP-BD35 is also available for $299.95 (or less). It offers similar performance to the BD55 but without support for DivX and without the BD55's multi-channel analog audio output:
