Panasonic DMP-BD10A

September 10, 2008

Manufacturer's overview

The DMP-BD10A features an audio upgrade package that brings high end surround audio to the viewing experience via the inclusion of 7.1 channel surround, Dolby True HD and dts-HD High Resolution Audio decoding technology. The DMP-BD10A also incorporates Panasonic's proprietary EZ-Sync system for integrated one-touch operation of Panasonic home-theater components. In addition to playing pre-recorded Blu-ray movie discs, the DMP-BD10A plays conventional standard-definition DVDs and conventional CDs. Other key features of the DMP-BD10A include proprietary P4HD technology for performing IP conversion at the pixel level for ultra-fine details, a 297MHz 14bit Video D/A Converter with 4X oversampling, video noise shaping that improves signal-to-noise ratios by shifting noise to an unused band, and theoretical support for nearly 4400 billion colors. The DMP-BD10A also incorporates Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby Digital and dts decoding, and BD-J (Java application) interactive capability.

Our Take

This is one of the first attempt at Blu-ray player by Panasonic. As such, it lacks some of the features that are present in recent Blu-ray player releases. The player lacks the newest Blu-ray Profile. This player comes with Profile 1.0 which lacks the picture in picture capability of 1.1 and internet connectivity of Profile 2.0. If having the latest profile is a must for you, you might want to look for some of the newer models.

The connectivity is pretty standard. It has HDMI and component video output as well S-video. The 5.1 and 7.1 audio channel connectivity is pretty nice if you lack a receiver. As stated earlier, the high definition signal can only be carried by the HDMI interface.

While this player lacks the feature of some of the newsest players, it makes up for it in video output quality. As with other Panasonic players, it has received great reviews across the board. The pictures are sharp and it lacks the blockiness or choppiness experienced by some players. Having said that, most Blu-ray players have great imaging quality for most part. The upconversion quality is excellent as with other Panasonic models.

For an earlier model, this player has excellent audio support. IT can decode standard Dolby Digital and DTS. It also supports high resolution audio tracks Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD via bit streaming to the receivers. The addition of 7.1 audio channel support is big plus for people with 7.1 audio channel set up.

The remote control is pretty bad for Blu-ray player of this caliber. It lacks back lit buttons as well as difficult navigation. The remote also lacks good support for other devices. You might want to pick up Logitech Harmony remote control.

Overall, it is an excellent player and can be had at low price due to its earlier spec. If you have to have the Profile 2.0, you might want to avoid this player. However, if you can live with older spec, this player is an excellent pick up.

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