New tv and Blu-ray for parents Christmas present

[lobby]

Hi i would like to get my parents a special Xmas present this year, and am planning on a new tv for the lounge while their on Hoilday from the 9th of Dec to the 23 Dec. I was looking for a minimal look something like the Philips 47 PFL7404H lcd or similar price 46 Panny plasma. We have only got standard sky and not bothered about hd, but it would be good to get a blu-ray player and was thinking about adding the Sony BDP-360, would this be ok for these tv's or should i spend more to get the best out of it.Also to acheive a better connection with the Sky box as we do need a new one is it possible to add the Sky HD box and not actually subscribe to hd channels as they already have the full package and do prefer to watch dvds when they choose rather then the movies at set times. Any help we be well appreciated.

 

[bigboss]

Sony S360 is a superb player. I'm sure you won't be disappointed by it.

 

[lobby]

Anybody with ideas on which would be the best tv for these purposes, and will the sky hd box need subscribing too, also will the Sony BDP- 360 be the best blu-ray player or should i step up the budget. Blu-ray player will be for mainly dvds, but i will lend them all the lastest blockbusters i own.

 

[Anonymous]

I have the 52" version of the philips, and it looks stunning asthetically, so does the picture feed by a blu ray player, I would suggest the sony 760 if budget allows, only because the philips is so good with detail, and needs something spot on with motion.

I am sure they will be happy with this TV, by the way, I would upgrade to Sky HD, dependant on what type of programmes they like, but programmes on FX HD / Channel 4 HD / BBC HD & all those wild life programme (which i dont watch but look good) are stunning, and the sport of course.

 

[lobby]

Ok the Philips does seem a good choice will now depend on actually being able to view one, yes they like sport and love wildlife and documentary programmes, one issue i read in another forum is lighting problems, will be wall mounted and generally watched in the eveningsi with day time viewing at weekends. Can't quite afford the Sony BDP-760 and the 560 is no better so what other alternatives are there to the Sony BDP-360.

 

[bigboss]

The Sony S360 is currently the best player for your budget. Other options include the Panasonic BD60, LG 390 & Samsung (forgot the model number). Also the Pioneer BDP 320.

 

[Dave_]

lobby:is it possible to add the Sky HD box and not actually subscribe to hd channels as they already have the full package and do prefer to watch dvds when they choose rather then the movies at set times. Any help we be well appreciated.It is possible to use a Sky HD box without an HD sub,and you'll get access to BBC HD,ITV HD,4 HD and Luxe HD as they are all free.

However, unless you take out an HD sub you're not entitled to a free/subsidised box, so you'll either have to buy one at full RRP(around £250) or go second hand/ebay(around £100). So in short not really worth it ATM, as the HD sub is only £120 for a year and you'll get a free box with 12month warranty.

 

[bigboss]

Don't know what's your opinion about Sony TVs, but Sony stores are currently offering free blu-ray players on their TVs at vastly reduced prices......worth checking them out, especially if you're in the market for both.