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Panasonic DMP-BD70VK: Review

Posted to Video Components 2010-02-01

If you are looking for a multifunction multimedia player, then look no further than the Panasonic DMP-BD70VK Blu-Ray Disc/VHS Combination Player. Not only does it play the latest DVD and Blu-Ray formats, but it is also compatible with the older VHS tapes. So if you like movies of all formats, old school and new, then this is definitely the player to consider. Because this is so versatile, now you can have the power of a VHS player, DVD player, and Blu-Ray player all in one.

At just 17 x 3.8 x 13 inches and 5.7 pounds, the Panasonic DMP-BD70VK is approximately average in size compared to similar VHS/disc combination players. What sets this model apart from the rest is that it supports VHS, DVD, Blu-Ray, as well as USB and SD card content. And at a price close to that of some Blu-Ray players, it is among the best-valued multimedia players that are available on the market today. Although picture quality falls a little short behind other players, the Panasonic DMP-BD70VK is still a great product overall.

Rating:

4.2 out of 5

Quality

The only common complaint with this model is that the video quality of VHS tapes appears substandard compared to ordinary VHS players. This is likely the result of users playing VHS on a newer HDTV or widescreen, which is unable to compensate for the VHS resolution limitations. Needless to say, if you only have a few tapes you like to watch on occasion, and superb VHS quality is not a must, then you should still consider the Panasonic DMP-BD70VK. DVD and Blu-Ray playback is spectacular, matching that of similar players. Overall, it boasts great quality.

Features

Most impressive about this device is the collection of useful features and capabilities. It allows convenient playback and up-conversion for ALL formats, and enhances the playback with technologies such as the PHL Reference Chroma Processor Plus and Dolby Digital. This model features HDMI, component, audio, Ethernet, digital audio, and SD memory card/USB ports. For web content, Panasonic includes Viera Cast technology, in addition to the BD-Live feature that is also available. This model supports virtually every multimedia format, including CD, DVD, Blu-Ray, and VHS, plus multiple digital video and picture codecs. Overall, the features are impressive, although the Panasonic DMP-BD70VK would be more enticing if it included wireless networking.

Summary

If you are tired of navigating three different media devices and their interfaces, then perhaps it's time that you upgrade to the Panasonic DMP-BD70VK VHS/DVD/Blu-Ray player. This all-in-one preserves your ability to watch your favorite old VHS movies, while at the same time allowing you to enjoy the DVD and Blu-Ray movies of the modern age. At a price that is comparable to a high-end Blu-Ray player, this model is definitely a great buy and recommended for any VHS/DVD/Blu-Ray enthusiast. Although it is not perfect, the Panasonic DMP-BD70VK is quite impressive overall.

Pros

Ultimate combination player- plays VHS, DVD, and Blu-Ray
Reasonable price- maybe expensive for some, but great value
Versatile- compatible with nearly every multimedia format
Good ports- HDMI, component, audio, digital audio, SD card/USB terminal

Cons

VHS suffers- quality-lacking, especially on newer televisions

Recommended accessory:

Monster Cable ILS200-2M : Interlink LightSpeed 200 Digital Fiber Optic Cable, two meter length