[roymail]

I'm looking to buy my first Blue-Ray player, and I'd appreciate some advice from you guys.

A friend purchased a Samsung model that connects to his router via WiFi for streaming media.  I definitely want that feature.  However, his DVD playback occasionally gets funky and freezes, but streaming has presented no problems at all.  It cost him about $150.

What models can perform the above functions with more reliability for up to $300?  Thanks!

[Peter J]

I've had good luck with an LG BD670. I had its predessor, the BD570 that was sent back for a minor problem and never came back...long story.

While not the last word in DVD/Bluray players, I'm sure, my wants were much like yours and so far, it hasn't dissapointed. I now stream Netflix more than watching DVDs.

http://reviews.cnet.com/blu-ray-players-recorders/lg-bd670/4505-9991_7-34468446.html

[rockadanny]

I likely have the same Samsung model as your friend ($99 at Target, plus $50 for the WiFi adapter off of ebay). After about 15 DVDs thus far I have not had any issues with it freezing up.

[kingdeezie]

Are you against a Playstation 3?

I've had mine since 2006, and it's been awesome.

As a bluray player it's always been supreme, firmware updates have made it updated since inception; to the point where it's also 3D compatible; 5 year old hardware.

It has built in wifi and can stream Netflix. The Playstation store also has movies and shows available for download in hd to watch or own.

[roymail]

Any other suggestions?

Thanks for the replies and helpful advice. 

[shawnbaden]

If your budget is $300 I think the PlayStation 3 is a no brainer.  It's the safest purchase for a Blu-ray player from a firmware upgrade standpoint.  The additional functionality like Netflix, beautiful DVD up-conversion, and networked media playback are icing on the cake.

[bladesmith]

I agree with the 'PlayStation' suggestion..

(I do not have one, because I do not game..)

I use a Sony Blu-ray player, works great....You might save a couple of bucks buying/using one.

Mine has worked flawlessly..Has all the options I need for streaming, playing, upgrade-able, etc, etc..

I hook mine up, Ethernet cable to Sony player, then from my Sony optical sound output to my DAC and HDMI to my TV.

good luck...

[Mr Peabody]

A friend of mine picked this up based on a great review in What Hi Fi and it is about $199.00
http://www2.panasonic.com/consumer-electronics/support/Video/Blu-ray-Disc-Players/model.DMP-BDT210

[Doublej]

Samsung BD-6700

http://www.hometheater.com/content/samsung-bd-d6700-blu-ray-3d-player

[kingdeezie]

Just to add to my earlier suggestion for the PS3, there are rumors that in August, the PS3 is supposed to get a price cut to 199.

I do not know if this is going to happen for sure, but it would make it that much more enticing.

EDIT: Actually, the story has changed. It looks like it is rumored to be 249 by September.

[Mr Peabody]

If buying the PS3 I'd act now and check the serial number if this is important, according to Bluray.com the PS3 will no longer pass HD content from component video outputs, earlier models are still fine with this, and they are adding a stronger but noisier fan.  The website gives the serial number beginning for these machines.  Just passing along info, I do agree with all that has been said about the PS3 except I can't confirm the DVD upscaling ability. 

One thing about the freezing up issue, you really have to make sure your units are current on firmware updates.  I still have a couple of the Samsung 1200's around and despite the criticism of that model mine have done well and still one of the best DVD upscalers I've seen in BDP's.  My daughter has a 1500 and the 1200 is noticeably better PQ.  I haven't seen any of the newer models.

[roymail]

Mr Peabody, you commented...

One thing about the freezing up issue, you really have to make sure your units are current on firmware updates.

How do you go about doing that?  Thanks for the advice.

[Mr Peabody]

To check for firmware the easiest way to find if any updates are available is to check the manufacturer's website.  Well, I shouldn't say the easiest, with newer players you can connect to the internet via either Ethernet cable or Wyfi and checking for updates is as easy as going into the menu and telling the unit to check.  With older units and going to the website you have to download the update and burn it to a disc, pop the disc into the player and follow the instructions either on the site or in your manual.  Some websites also have a link to check for firmware updates like Bluray.com or Amazon but if there are updates you are typically directed to go to the manufacturer website any way.  The amount of updates vary from manufacturers and it seems  there aren't quite as many as with earlier generation players.  The PS3 is the only one I can think of that actually gets upgraded to newer features. 

[MaxCast]

since others have recommended the ps3 I'll vote for the Sony too.  Especially if you have kids/grand kids.

[wushuliu]

If picture quality is important, Panasonic.