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Panasonic DMP-BD85 review : Wi-Fi Enabled Blu-ray Disc Player with Super Sensitive Antenna

Posted to Video Components 2010-11-02

If you're ready to take your DVDs and Blu-Ray movies to the next level, then consider the WiFi Ready Blu-ray Player, Panasonic DMP-BD85. Not only does it include more features than its younger predecessor (BD65), but it also features new entertainment-enhancing and power consumption saving technology. The price tag for this device is fairly reasonable; however, if you do not plan on utilizing the WiFi often, then you may save some money by choosing a lower model. Overall, the DMP-BD85 is a tough contender in the player market, proving itself worthy with a majority of positive reviews.

Measuring 16.95" x 2.2" x 9.8," the upscale Panasonic DMP-BD85 includes features not previously seen in its predecessors but at a higher cost. Some of those advances include the PHL Reference Chroma Processor Plus, HDMI Jitter Purifier, and the Digital Tube Sound Simulator- all of which enhance your entertainment experience with audiophile-like sound and brilliant picture. Although this Blu-Ray player lacks the better ergonomics as seen in competing devices, overall it carries a just-right amount of features and performance to edge out the rivals.

Rating:

4.2 out of 5

Value

The new features previously mentioned, along with the added bonus of extended VIERA Cast capability, help make this Blu-Ray player a good value. The super-quick booting time and breathtakingly-smooth disc playback are more than enough to convince the DVD owner of yesteryear to make the switch to Blu-Ray. If that isn't enough, then Panasonic has stepped it up a notch with integrated WiFi and Ethernet capability. There are also built-in ports such as HDMI, component video, digital optical audio, USB 2.0, SD card slot, and more. While the original price dissuaded many consumers, the introduction of competing devices has brought the price down.

Features

Some Blu-Ray and even standard DVD players surprisingly lack DivX and AVCHD compatibility, but the Panasonic DMP-BD85 supports these technologies. Some of the more impressive features include Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital Plus, DTS-HD Master Audio Essential, and DTS-HD High Resolution Audio codecs. For all formats, there is 96kHz surround re-mastering, as well as Dynamic Range Compression and Dialog Enhancer. Video enhancements follow suit with improved technologies like Adaptive High Precision 4:4:4, P4HD (pixel precision progressive HD processing), and 16-level motion detection (pixel-based). This Blu-Ray player does lack DNLA compatibility, so if that is a necessity you will want to consider other models.

Summary

While Panasonic has considerably improved its Blu-Ray players, the Panasonic DMP-BD85 still has some shortfalls, such as the smaller, less-ergonomic remote and lack of DNLA compatibility. Overall, this device exemplifies advances in Blu-Ray technology, offering features such as Bonus View, audiophile Digital Tube Sound simulation, HDMI jitter purifier, VIERA Cast, and more. Because it supports a variety of popular and not-so-popular media formats, you can rest assured that your multimedia will pass playback standards with ease. If you are looking for an elite networking Blu-Ray player with advanced and improved capabilities, then consider this model.

Pros

Advanced- PHL Reference Chroma Processor, Jitter Purifier, and Tube Sound Simulator
Streamlined- includes improved VIERA Link and VIERA Cast features
Versatile- compatible with USB 2.0 and SD multimedia card devices
Connected- features integrated wireless and Ethernet

Cons

Improvable- poorer remote ergonomics than competing players

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Monster Cable MC 500HD-2M : HDMI 500hd 2 Meter Standard Speed HDMI Cable