3D Blu-ray player: reviews, new models, review, specifications, owner's manual

For home theater users, 3D technology provides access to a unique experience of viewing movies and other content in a 3D format. Due to the variable depth of field, the on-screen video acquires a physical volume, which gives the images a wonderful interactive quality. 3D-technology usually requires the use of Blu-ray discs and, as a rule, is not supported by traditional DVD-players.

Set up a home stereo cinema

The three-dimensional image players function in the same way as normal ones, reproducing the content from DVDs without problems. When choosing a 3D Blu-ray player, owner reviews are recommended to take into account the settings of the existing home theater. In addition to the video player, you need a compatible HDTV. To make a decision to purchase a device, the user must evaluate the characteristics of the available equipment. Although the cost of the system can be very high, 3D electronics really has unique advantages when playing movies. In addition, you may need HDMI and USB ports, which are necessary for the player to perform the function of the main device for working with multimedia content.

Although 3D image technologies that do not require special glasses have already been exhibited at electronics trade shows, most consumers will need active or passive glasses that are purchased separately from the Blu-ray player to view 3D content. Active glasses provide optimal performance, but they are usually more expensive than passive models, similar to those used in cinemas.

How to evaluate 3D Blu-ray players?

Feedback from users who have had the opportunity to conduct a consistent comparison of many Blu-ray players, indicate that there are several key areas that should be paid attention to before the purchase. First of all, you need to find out the boot time, the quality of the software, and the speed of the main menu. The average user base performance of 3D-players of different price categories will seem almost identical. But for the more sophisticated, features such as 4K scaling and advanced HDMI color calibration, play a key role in providing a high level of image quality.

Like the internal characteristics of 3D Blu-ray players, the connectivity of different players can vary, which should also be taken into account. For example, if all other home theater equipment is connected via optical cables, a player with a coaxial output will not be compatible with the entire system and will require the purchase of a separate converter.

Along with the price and quality of playback, there are other indicators that determine how well the player will be combined with other consumer electronics. When buying a new model, you should consider the following factors.

Streaming application support

Modern 3D-players are supplied with additional tools that can be useful for consumers. Like most other home theater components, players are able to support streaming services such as Netflix and Hulu. DLNA support is also important. The technology allows you to broadcast multimedia content to the TV through a local network. In both cases, the best players can function as efficient multi-tasking centers for home entertainment.

Dimensions and Design

If the home theater system is already overloaded with additional devices, then the physical dimensions of 3D Blu-ray players are also recommended for users to consider. Standard 3D video players usually follow the general trend, becoming thinner, lighter and requiring a minimum number of connections.

Large multi-purpose models can combine 3D functionality with other features, such as performing media server functions and streaming multimedia support. Devices of this type are much more versatile than standard players, but they are usually comparable in size with home AV-receivers.

Is it worth it to buy players with 4K resolution?

The 4K name is used to refer to televisions with a resolution of 4096 x 2160 pixels, which exceeds the standards of HDTV receivers of 1080p or 720p format. Generally speaking, such devices benefit from a higher image quality, but since this is a relatively young technology, the availability of UHD content is very limited. In addition to the risk of a trailblazer, new models of 3D Blu-ray players with 4K resolution support have the advantage of being able to provide the maximum visual performance of an ultra-high definition home TV.

Remote control

Like all home devices, 3D players come with their own remote controls to control functions such as playing and adjusting the volume level. Their design can vary significantly depending on the manufacturer, and their sizes range from a small wallet to cumbersome devices covered with buttons. If there is no desire to acquire another remote control, some manufacturers offer applications for smartphones or tablets that allow you to remotely control a three-dimensional video player.

Beginning of work

Any manual for using 3D Blu-ray players starts with a description of how to connect the player to your TV. This can be done directly using an HDMI cable, connecting it to the corresponding connectors. Then change the source of the signal to HDMI on the TV. In addition, the connection can be made through a receiver or amplifier that provides the transmission of a 3D signal by connecting its input to the player, and the output to the television receiver. After that it is necessary to activate the digital output of the player. In addition, depending on the model of the player, you may need to connect to the receiver or amplifier through analog, coaxial or optical ports. Next, you need to establish a network connection by connecting the device to an access point via the Ethernet connector or by selecting the required wireless connection. After adjusting the image according to the parameters of the screen, you can enjoy watching a stereofilm by loading a disc and putting on 3D glasses.

Recommendations

The optimal 3D Blu-ray player reviews users call a universal player with support for the best features of 3D viewing systems. ORDP BDP-103, for example, takes up a lot of space, but provides a variety of interfaces and image settings that allow it to become the central element of the living room. Karaoke player LG BKS4000 offers a bundled microphone, a catalog and a disc with 4000 songs. The base model of the Sony BDP-S6500 combines the best features of home theaters, including support for 4K. Finally, the Panasonic DMP-BDT460 offers an intuitive user interface and features corresponding to high-end systems, including the integrated 2D to 3D conversion. In addition to these options, a review of 3D Blu-ray players allows you to highlight the well-performing Denon DBT1713 and Yamaha BD-S677 players. Although they have some minor drawbacks when playing 3D content, this is more than offset by excellent support for streaming media as a home theater hub.

Below is a brief overview of 3D Blu-ray players of new models, which are distinguished by the best price-quality ratio.

ORRO BDP-103

This is one of the best 3D players available today. The model supports video enhancement technology Darbee Visual Presence, which increases the depth and realism of movies and games. It ensures that any disc will be played with the best quality. The player can scale video to the resolution of ultra-high definition screens and convert 2D to 3D standard DVD and Blu-ray discs. The player is ready to work after 15.6 seconds after turning on, which is worse than the average value of 10 seconds. The device allows you to view a large number of video file formats from USB-drives or recordable discs, including MP4, AVI, MKV and AVCHD.

In addition, you can listen to Super Audio CDs (SACD) and DVD-A, a number of compressed and uncompressed audio formats such as WAV, MP3 and APE. The player plays the high-definition sound formats DTS-HD Master Audio and Dolby TrueHD. The device is equipped with both optical and coaxial outputs. BDP-103 offers many options for streaming video and audio, which are supported by embedded applications (Netflix, Pandora) or multiple input and output connectors. Connection to the network is provided by Wi-Fi and Ethernet. The model is certified for DLNA. There are 2 HDMI audio and video inputs, one of which supports MHL, and can also be used to charge a mobile device. In addition, OPPO offers a free downloadable application for Android and iOS users, which turns any mobile device into a remote control.

Samsung BD-H5900

The player offers a strong combination of minimalist design and useful hardware features to users who want to upgrade their home theater equipment. 3D Blu-ray player Samsung supports a large depth of color in 24p format and high-quality audio standard Dolby TrueHD. There is no reproduction at ultra-high resolution 4K, but this function is rarely found in the base HDTV models.

H5900 runs on the Opera operating system, which is used in other 3D Blu-ray players Samsung. The platform provides a decent loading time of just 5.6 seconds. There is a large selection of preinstalled applications. Along with the standard streaming capabilities, such as Netflix, the player library can be replenished with downloads from the Opera software store. In the presence of mobile devices Samsung player is able to display the contents of the display of a smartphone or tablet on the TV screen. The player offers a standard set of connectivity options. It is capable of outputting audio through one coaxial connector, has USB and Ethernet ports, and also supports Wi-Fi. Due to the dimensions of 360 x 196 x 41 mm and weight of 0.5 kg, the compact assembly of the player makes it easy to become an integral part of any entertainment center. The design is similar to many 3D-players, and the rounded edges and glossy black surface give it a stylish look.

Yamaha BD-S677

With its limited versatility, the player's specifications and its functionality allow it to become a solid foundation for a home theater system. The 3D Blu-ray player of the Yamaha BD-S677 is a kind of exception, because this is one of the few devices that do not support Netflix and Hulu Plus streaming. But this compensates for the other strengths of the model. Given that Yamaha started out as a producer of musical instruments, it's no wonder that this surround video player has a great sound. It not only satisfies any audiophile with SACD playback, but also supports many types of discs and audio files, including DTS-HD Master Audio and Dolby TrueHD. Navigation through the menu is very convenient. The player is loaded in a record short time of 2.1 seconds. However, few people buy 3D-players just for the sake of quality sound. The video is also very important. The S677 provides a good image quality, but the player lacks additional functionality in the form of 4K-scaling and 2D / 3D-converter. The device is compatible with Miracast, which allows you to transfer media from your smartphone or tablet. Also available for Android and iOS, which turn the phone into a remote control. Despite the support of YouTube and VUDU for video, Picasa for photos and Dropbox for playing cloud-based multimedia files, the inability to maintain streaming network broadcasting can be a decisive drawback.

LG BP550

The model combines functions and design, aimed at home cinema systems of entry level. The player measures 269 x 196 x 43 mm and weighs 0.86 kg. Thanks to the standard playback support with a frequency of 24 fps, there are no problems with 3D content. The LG Blu-ray player delivers a decent boot time of 8.8 seconds. To fulfill the role of the media center of the model, there is not enough color depth and 4K support. But the BP550 is compatible with standard audio formats, such as Dolby TrueHD, although it only has a coaxial output. The latter can become an obstacle for systems using optical audio ports. A significant part of the capabilities of the Blu-ray player LG is provided by its software. The operating system is characterized by large icons and a simple menu. LG supports DLNA and streaming video services applications like Netflix. There is a Wi-Fi, Ethernet and mobile application.

Philips BDP7501

3D Blu-ray player Philips is a small device measuring 221 x 221 x 61 mm and weighing 1.6 kg. The BDP7501 reproduces the image as an Ultra HD (including improvements such as HDR and Wide Color Gamut) and allows you to play standard discs (both 2D and 3D), DVD and CD, and scale to 4K. Connectivity is limited to 2 HDMI outputs (of which 1 is for audio only). There are no other output ports (analog or digital). There is an input USB port for accessing digital photos, video and music content using flash or other compatible drives. The BDP7501 is equipped with Ethernet and Wi-Fi for direct access to Netflix and YouTube (up to 4K), and to digital media files from compatible network devices such as PCs and media servers. However, the Philips 3D Blu-ray player does not provide access to the popular streaming services Amazon Video, Hulu, Vudu or Pandora. To do this, you need the latest model of Smart TV or an external media monitor. Streaming offers are the weak point of the device, but Ultra HD support is its main advantage.