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JVC XV-BP1: Review

Posted to Video Components 2009-08-27

First available in March 2009, the JVC XV-BP1 is the first venture into the Blu-ray player market for JVC. Of further interest is the fact that Blu-ray as a video format and associated players first came to market throughout June 2006. JVC waited an unusually large amount of time, possibly due to the format war with HD-DVD, to give us a first Blu-ray player offering and now find themselves slightly behind the competition in terms of available features.

The JVC XV-BP1 comes with all the standard features expected of a Blu-ray player. 1080p full HD playback, DTS and Dolby TrueHD audio passing over HDMI and a USB port for playback of digital movie files on external storage. An easy to use interface is available so there is no steep learning curve to try and control the player. Missing is the lack of connectivity for wireless networks, with only an Ethernet port being provided for connection to the internet.

Rating:

3.2 out of 5

Features

Features of the XV-BP1 are the positives and negatives of this player. Whilst JVC has ensured the inclusion of standard features such as USB port for external storage, HD audio outputs for DTS and Dolby TrueHD and the added benefit of the BD live content for added viewing experience, there is also a lack of extra features that have become standard on home theater players. The lack of wireless connectivity (meaning you need to run Ethernet cables to your internet connection in order to access BD Live content) makes this player fall behind competitors that are now offering this feature as standard.

Ergonomics

Where there XV-BP1 makes up for its feature shortfalls is in the intuitive, easy to use menu system and sleek design. An affordable Blu-ray player of this kind often lacks quality design aspects, so it is pleasing to see that this is where this player excels. The menu easily navigates a user around the settings of the player and into BD Live content; meaning even those new to the Blu-ray market can get a hold of what the player is providing them.

Summary

Yes, the XV-BP1 is a late entry into the Blu-ray player market, but JVC can be forgiven for awaiting the outcome of the HD format war that was finally wrapped up this year. Standard features mean that the player will serve your immediate Blu-ray needs, but will be easily surpassed by newer models that are providing a better platform for the connected home, both now and in the future.

Pros

Good user interface
Standard features
USB port for digital file playback

Cons

Late entry to the market
No wireless connectivity