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LG BD370: Review

Posted to Video Components 2009-08-19

If you want the latest technology in a Blu-Ray player, including BD Live and free YouTube content streaming, then the LG BD370 Network Blu-ray Disc Player could be the choice for you. While the reliability of the player has been questioned in quantity, this model is a superb upgrade for consumers entering the Blu-Ray market. And for a fairly reasonable price, you can enjoy all the features of an enhanced Blu-Ray player, plus live content streaming and NetFlix compatibility. The LG BD370 performs beyond expectations but falls a little short of quantity quality.

This sleek, glossy-black Blu-Ray player is 17 x 2.2 x 9.7 inches and weighs 6 pounds. It comes loaded with more features and technologies than the majority of Blu-Ray players currently available, at a price that isn't too frightening. In addition to a quick-loading disc tray and an easy-to-use remote, the LG BD370 boasts an array of useful features, such as BonusView and NetFlix support, plus superb audio and video performance. If you want a top-quality Blu-Ray player, then consider this model. The only negative feedback concerning the LG BD370 has been several defective products.

Rating:

3.8 out of 5

Features

This model features some of the most exciting Blu-Ray technologies and capabilities to date. The popular NetFlix feature allows subscribing customers to stream NetFlix movies straight to your television. The BD Live feature allows other online content via NetCast, such as YouTube videos, to be streamed in real-time. As standard, this Blu-Ray player comes equipped with full-HD 1080p output with HDMI and 24fps or 60fps via Cinema mode. There is also the prized BonusView (picture-in-picture) enhancement. The audio capabilities are just as astounding, with support for 7.1 channels in Dolby Digital Plus, TrueHD, and dts-HD formats. As far as equipped ports, the BD370 comes with one Ethernet, one USB 2.0, a digital optical output, coaxial output, component output, composite output, and one HDMI port.

Performance

While the majority of users have found the LG BD370 Blu-Ray Disc Player to be easy-to-use and problem-free, there are a substantial number of customers who have had to return the device because of a defective NetFlix feature (this is likely due to a firmware error). Fortunately, LG backs their product with a 1 year full warranty, so if any problems are encountered, they will repair or replace the player free of charge. Despite a noticeable number of defective models, the player's performance is superb. The picture is crisp and colorful, and the sound is rich and supreme. Definitely a four-star Blu-Ray player as far as performance goes. Not perfect, but close.

Summary

Overall, the LG BD370 is an excellent choice for a Blu-Ray player. It offers recently popular capabilities, such as live YouTube streaming and NetFlix content, plus "quick play" for fast and easy Blu-Ray viewing. Although several users have complained of a defective player, the majority has praised this model as one of the best for the price. It is a great value as far as features and performance goes, and it should be considered among the top Blu-Ray players available today.

Pros

Quick set up and easy to use interface
Full-HD 1080p output with 24fps and 60fps in Cinema mode
Features BD Live with NetCast for streaming YouTube content and NetFlix movies
Superior audio with 7.1 channels in Dolby Digital Plus, TrueHD, and DTS-HD

Cons

Excellent value but some customers have complained of defects