Blu Ray upgrade from a Panasonic BD55 - is it worth it?

[admin_exported]

Expert views please.

I have the above player connected by HDMI and 5.1 analogue to an Arcam AVR350, Pioneer 5090 plasma and B&W MT30 system, all in a fairly compact area.

How much visual and sonic difference would it make if the player were changed to?

Sony S760

Oppo 83 SE

Sony S5000ES

Pioneer LX91

Any help to decide and where to purchase would be appreicated. Thanks.

 

[Anonymous]

Having had the Panasonic DMP-BD55 before, and demoed the Oppo (non SE version) and Sony and own the Pioneer, this is my opinion:

Sony BDP-S760 - marginal difference in picture and sound quality

Oppo 83 SE - no idea with the SE version. I have demoed the 83 and I would say as

above

Sony BDP-S5000ES - significant difference in picture and sound quality

Pioneer BDP-LX91 - as above

 

[Anonymous]

Thanks for swift and helpful response

 

[Anonymous]

In terms of pure value for money (and if you're not particular about a one-make system like I am), the Sony BDP-S5000ES is the absolute best buy - fantastic blu-ray player.

The Pioneer BDP-LX91 pips it for picture and sound quality, but not by very much, IMO.

If you're looking for a mid-priced player, do also consider the Denon DVD-2500BT. While it may not possess the Wi-Fi functionality and all the other technical bits of the Sony, it's picture and sound quality IS better.

 

[Deleted member 2457]

Well the pioneer bdp-lx91 is obviously the best by a long, long way.

But it's very pricey so if you want something that is like 95% of the 91 then it is the pioneer bdp-lx71.

But if you want profile 2 then I would recommend the Sony S760.

 

[Anonymous]

Thanks gel

Do you have a view on the Sony S5000ES?

 

[Clare Newsome]

gel is a Pioneer man through and through

The Sony is a superb machine and will be barnstorming in your (excellent) set-up, offering a instantly noticeable upgrade from your Pana; feel the Pioneer '91 would be overkill.

 

[Anonymous]

gel:
Well the pioneer bdp-lx91 is obviously the best by a long, long way.

But it's very pricey so if you want something that is like 95% of the 91 then it is the pioneer bdp-lx71.

But if you want profile 2 then I would recommend the Sony S760.

95% of the 91.....errr, NO! The 71 is no better than the 51FD, apart from the soft touch buttons. Maybe in your dreams....

 

[Anonymous]

Definately add the denon 2500bt to your list. I personally think that offers the best value out of all of them (if you are purely after picture and sound quality). Built like a tank & stunning pictures and sound.

 

[Anonymous]

Thanks all

Clare - which Sony are you referring to? 760 or 5000?

Gander - as I understand it, the Denon does not have analogue audio out which my Arcam needs to play HD sound

 

[Anonymous]

She was referring to the 5000.

 

[Deleted member 2457]

Clare Newsome:

gel is a Pioneer man through and through

The Sony is a superb machine and will be barnstorming in your (excellent) set-up, offering a instantly noticeable upgrade from your Pana; feel the Pioneer '91 would be overkill.

That's very true Clare I have OCD Pioneer and don't mind admitting it.

No problem Mbart777.

The Sony more expensive one. No not really I do know that the 760 the cheaper one has some of it's picture technology so it can produce pictures near or as the 5000. I doubt it can match it for sound know.

 

[Anonymous]

Oops, should have read yoru original post properly!

 

[Deleted member 2457]

Mbart777 have you seen any other the players because most people after seeing ie pioneer, sony, denon though they all have different traits as a blu ray player or dvd player.

Me I very much like the look of blu ray and dvd that pioneer's look like on the screen.

Whereas someone else might like a sony more on the screen.

They do look differnent, have you gone towards one in the past for a dvd player?

 

[Deleted member 2457]

In Response to your orginal post is it worth it.

These ones which would be a considerable jump.

The pioneer bdp-lx71/08.

The Sony 5000 and a bigger jump the pioneer 91.

Other than that I would say probaly not worth it.

 

[Anonymous]

Gander - no problem

I just appreciate the responses from you all

Gel - I have not looked at many DVD or Blu Ray players myself, instead relying on reviews such as in WHFS&V. Over the years, I have had mostly Pioneer DVD (737, 989), Panasonic Blu Ray (30 and 55) and plasmas from Panasonic and Pioneer (436, 5090). Enjoyed them all at each upgrade. So not sure how different the Sony will be, but willing to give it go!