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Panasonic DMP-B15K: Review

Posted to Video Components 2009-10-05

If you are looking for a portable player that can do more than just play standard definition DVD's then you may want to check out the Panasonic DMP-B15K. Known as one of the first portable Blu-Ray players on the market, it gives you the ability to enjoy you high definition movies while on the road. Whether it is a long flight, or just an afternoon in the park, the DMP-B15K gives you the ability to enjoy high resolution movies, regardless of where life may take you.

Measuring 9.6 inches x 7 inches x 2 inches and weighing only 5 lbs, the Panasonic DMP-B15K packs a lot of functionality into its portable package. With an 8.9 inch LCD screen surrounded by a mirror like blue bezel, the DMP-B15K can provide a quality image that can keep your or your kids occupied for hours on end. Marketed as a Blu-Ray player, it also has the ability to play other media such as CD, DVD, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD+R, DVD-R, DVD+RW, DVD-RW, DVD-RAM, DVD+R DL, DVD-R DL, and DVD+RW DL. This gives you the ability to still watch your old favorites that have yet to be transitioned to Blu-Ray disk. Its maximum resolution is 1024 x 600 which falls short of the true high definition resolution of 1920 x 1080, but this should not be an issue give the players size. The player also comes equipped with a HDMI output, Ethernet, Composite video/audio output, and a headphone jack, giving the DMP-B15K much more functionality than you would expect to find on a portable player.

Rating:

3.0 out of 5

Features

The DMP-B15K offers a variety of different features you may not expect to find on a portable player. It comes equipped with a HDMI port that actually allows you to use it as a standalone Blu-Ray player. It has the ability to provide 1080/24p output on your TV so you have the chance to experience movies at home in the same format at the theater. This gives the user the ability to purchase one device that can perform multiple tasks. You can plug it into your HD TV at home, or take it on the road for movie watching fun. Combine this with its integrated SD card slot and Ethernet port and you have the ability to enjoy Viera Cast, BD-Live and YouTube when an internet connection is available.

Unlike other portable models, the DMP-B15K comes complete with a headrest mounting bracket and a cigarette lighter power adapter for long trips. This gives you the ability to take the DMP-B15K on the road with you without fear that you will run out of juice just before the movie ends.

The most unique feature of the DMP-B15K is its display. While most portable players utilize a clamshell design, the DMP-B15K actually requires some adjustments in order to get it into viewing mode. Equipped with its own built in stand, you need to spin the screen around and then lay it flat for the correct viewing angle. All that is left is to prop it up and you are ready to watch the movie on a screen that looks oddly similar to that of a digital photo frame.

Performance

The DMP-B15K performs quite well for a portable Blu-ray player. Image quality is good and due to such a close viewing position it becomes quite difficult to tell the difference between standard and high definition Blu-Ray movies. The only drawback is the player's battery life. While Panasonic claims a battery life of 3 hrs, it has been found to last under that at 2 hrs 28 minutes, which is probably just long enough for one movie. An easy way to avoid this is to use the included power components to keep your movies running no matter how many hours you have been on the road.

Summary

In conclusion, the Panasonic DMP-B15K provides a useful set of features in what could be considered just another portable movie player. With the ability to play standard as well as Blu-Ray movies on the go as well as at home, the Panasonic DMP-B15K may just be the device you are looking for. The only downside is its battery life which can easily be resolved with the use of AC power or the cigarette lighter plug when on the go. With decent video quality and internet accessibility, the Panasonic DMP-B15K may just be the way to go.

Pros

Blu-Ray and DVD compatibility
HDMI port
Unique built in stand
Car accessories included

Cons

Shorter battery life