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Samsung BD-P4600: Review

Posted to Video Components 2009-08-31

If you're tight on space or own a wall-mounted TV, then the Samsung BD-P4600 Blu-Ray Player may be for you. Its compact, streamlined design allows users to watch their favorite Blu-Ray movies without wasting space. Although several users have discovered technical difficulties with this player, the overall performance and Blu-Ray experience appears to be getting better with each firmware update. This model is one of Samsung's highest in the series, and it is specifically made for saving space. For less money, however, you can find a less-ergonomic model with the same features.

At just 18.2 x 1.7 x 7.7 inches and 4.2 lbs, this model is one of the smallest, lightest premium Blu-Ray players on the market today. Samsung did not fail on features or quality, either, although performance is questionable. In addition to supporting Internet-access features such as Netflix and Pandora via the Ethernet port, the Samsung BD-P4600 comes with a WiFi dongle to do just the same without the annoyance of cables. What sets this model apart from all others, however, is its amazingly-compact size. And aside from a few glitches and the expensive price tag, this is a good Blu-Ray player.

Rating:

3.8 out of 5

Value

One of the downfalls for this model is its pricey cost to the consumer. In addition to being very ergonomic, it comes loaded with plenty of Blu-Ray-friendly features and technologies. This helps justify the price somewhat. Unfortunately, for a hundred dollars less, the consumer can step down to get the lower model that is virtually identical to the Samsung BD-P4600. The only difference between the Blu-Ray players is size-so if you are tight on space and don't mind paying extra, then this player will suffice. But at such a high expense, you may want to consider a different model-especially since this particular one has had several technical difficulties in the past.

Features

The features for this model are fairly impressive, such as the 1GB onboard memory and the included WiFi dongle. Space is particular tight on the BD-P4600 for ports and such, so this WiFi dongle comes in handy when you don't want an Ethernet cable to plug in. As far as ports go, this model includes one HDMI, one composite, one SPDIF, one Ethernet, and two USB. It supports all the latest technologies, including Dolby Digital and Blu-Ray Profile 2.0 (BD-Live). PC streaming is unusually difficult to set up (some users have trouble with Netflix and Pandora), but once this player is set up, it's ready to start playing your favorite movies.

Summary

If you are looking for a very compact and versatile Blu-Ray player that does not take ages to load discs, then consider the Samsung BD-P4600. It is very flexible as far as setting up your network connection (WiFi or Ethernet); however, the initial link configuration can be quite difficult to set up. If you want to save some money and don't mind a larger Blu-Ray player, then we recommend you look elsewhere. In reality, this model is too expensive to consider for most, especially since it has had a long history of technical difficulties. But if you need a slim-line player, by all means consider this one.

Pros

Ergonomic- very slim, lightweight, and streamlined
Exclusive- features 1GB memory built-in and WiFi dongle

Cons

Expensive- small size comes at a questionable price
Problematic- difficult to set up PC streaming, among other glitches
Needs improvement- buy only if you have limited space or unlimited money