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:

• Panasonic DMP-BD55 Blu-ray Disc Player on Amazon.com
• Panasonic DMP-BD55 BD Player at Vanns.com
• Panasonic DMP-BD55 BD Player at Circuit City  - Buy Online - get it shipped free or pick it up in store - full local return privileges
  

Panasonic's DMP-BD55 is the top Blu-ray Player in their fourth generation model line.

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)  

• Panasonic DMP-BD35 on Amazon.com