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Sony BDP-S5000ES: Review

Posted to Video Components 2009-11-21

Featuring full 1080p HD playback, the Sony Sony BDP-S5000ES provides 7.1 channel analog audio output. Key to this Extended Standard (ES) version of Blu-ray player is its super bit mapping technology. According to Sony, this proprietary system breaks information down bit by bit when it is transmitted from the disc so that the player can then adjust the picture and in turn provide the best possible image on screen.

Dolby TrueHD and DTS HD output formats are available from this player, as well as the ability for the unit to stream out audio via HDMI to other capable devices, such as a central a/v receiver. Audio quality is enhanced in this model through the use of an isolated audio circuit board that allows any interference that may be produced by the video circuit board to be kept separate, enhancing the viewing experience. The unit is Blu-ray live capable, however, this is only achieved via an Ethernet port as the unit lacks Wi-Fi connection capabilities.

Rating:

4.0 out of 5

Quality

Through the inclusion of the R-Core transformer in the S5000ES the unit is able to reduce the noise output and 'hum' that is often associated with other models. This allows the power supply to create a better dispersion of output to the unit for a cleaner sound. Added in with the R-Core transformer is the actual construction of the player which uses a special arrangement of frames and beams to give a more rigid construction. In effect, this allows the unit to control the resonance of the panels that make it up, meaning your sound should be less inhibited.

Performance

If you are into getting the most video and sound quality out of your Blu-ray discs then the S5000ES should help you. Video playback is noticeably improved through the Superbit mapping process, so your HD movies really do show up better, providing your TV is up-to-date enough to handle it all. Overall, video and sound playback together exceed the capability of the PS3, so unless you are looking to upgrade your games console, it is hard to find a better performing Blu-Ray than the S5000ES.

Summary

Great audio and video playback for your Blu-ray movies and the 5 year parts and labor warranty make the S5000ES an attractive player for the home theater, though the value for money is somewhat lacking given you can achieve relatively identical performance from the PS3. It is a capable stand alone Blu-ray player, but doesn't have much more to offer than that.

Pros

Enhanced 1080p HD Video Playback
7.1 Channel Output
BraviaSync Capability
5 Year Parts & Labor Warranty

Cons

No Wi-Fi