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Marantz BD7003: Review

Posted to Video Components 2009-06-11

The Marantz BD7003 is a quality Blu-ray high definition player that plays Blu-ray discs, DVDs and CDs. You can also view photo CDs, as well as DivX 6-encoded compressed video discs. The BD7003 comes with expanded internal memory and secondary audio and video decoders that enable the picture within a picture component, to function.

The BD7003 includes Dolby TrueHD and DTS Master Audio (both provide lossless multi-channel audio) via HDMI for decoding in an A/V receiver. The HDMI output has a wide bandwidth transmitter that meets HDMI version 1.3a specifications. This disc player has Pure Direct capability, which enables you to turn off the video outputs and the display and listen without any interference. This Marantz player offers many other features that enhance your viewing and listening pleasure.

Rating:

4.4 out of 5

Quality

The BD7003 has tremendous picture quality in both HD format and standard DVD. The blacks are true black and the colors are vivid and vibrant with very sharp contrast and outlines. The fine details in the picture are sharp and in focus. Set up is easy and intuitive, with the remote being easy to use and well designed. The picture quality is a big plus on this unit and is outstanding in this price range.

Features

To enable the HD audio sound, you will need a receiver with the decoders built in, because the BD7003 doesn't include them. Along with HDMI connections, it also has a digital coax. The BD7003 lacks an Ethernet port but will bitstream. Keep in mind, you are paying for quality, not features.

Ergonomics

The front panel is made from resin composite and aluminum which helps to squelch resonance in the unit. The Marantz BD7003 is designed to be unobtrusive and good looking at the same time. It is a welcome visual addition to any system.

Summary

This Marantz BD7003 is a great player and the more basic version of the Marantz BD8002. The unit is easy to set up and to control with the remote, and it displays great image quality. The drawback to this unit would be if you had an older A/V receiver, as this might not be compatible. It is a higher quality player and it may not be in everyone's price range.

Pros

A quality Blu-ray player
Good, solid connections
Glow key device remote
Vivid blacks

Cons

Not rich in features

Recommended accessory:

Monster Cable IDL100-2M : Interlink Datalink 100 Low-Loss S/PDIF Style Digital Coaxial Cable