One out of three Americans has a high-definition TV—and nothing showcases what an HDTV can do like a Blu-ray player. Now, with prices dropping, you might be tempted to trade in your old DVD player. Consumer Reports just tested both Blu-ray and DVD players and can help you sort out your choices.
WATCH JOANNE PURTAN'S REPORT IN THE VIDEO PLAYER ON THE RIGHTConsumer Reports' testers say that nothing compares to the high-definition image you get from a Blu-ray player. Its picture quality is high in detail, very lifelike, and very nice to look at.
Many standard DVD players offer something called upconversion, but it falls short. An upconverted DVD image is not as detailed or lifelike as a high definition Blu-ray image. Today's Blu-ray players come with features like "bonus view," where you can see director's comments right along with the movie. A few offer "BD live," which provides access to extra online content such as updated movie trailers. And once you get a Blu-ray player, it can still play all your old DVDs.
While some Blu-ray players still cost $1,000, Consumer Reports recommends one for $300. It's the Panasonic DMP-BD35.
Consumer Reports says if you don't have an HDTV, there's no reason to buy a Blu-ray player. Stick with a standard DVD player. Consumer Reports top-rated the Pioneer DV-410V, which costs $100. Another good choice for less is one from LG, the DN898 for $80.
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