Best blu-ray players & recorders according to redditors

A couple details:

Components:

I read QUITE a few reviews and this series was very highly rated at a reasonable price. Ended up getting many of them on refurb, open box, or otherwise for a great discount.

R/L Floor Speakers: Polk Audio TSi400

Center channel: Polk Audio CS20

R/L surround: Polk Audio TSi200

R/L rear in-ceiling: Polk Audio RC80i

Subwoofer: Polk Audio PSW505

Receiver: Harman Kardon AVR-3650

Projector: Optoma HD20

Screen: Elite Screens Sable, 100" CineWhite

Blu-Ray player: Pansonic DMP-BDT220

Remote: Logitech Harmony One RF (no line of sight needed)

Total of all electronic components with wiring and such came to around $5,000.

All lumber used for coffers is 1x finger jointed poplar. Used 1x8 ripped to dimension for verticals, 1x10 for horizontals. Sizes were dimensioned based upon the depth of the gimbal lights above the columns and the width of the column capitals.

Base and casement trim is also FJP, crown molding was MDF due to the major cost difference. Doors are Western solid cores, knobs by Emtek.

All speaker wires are 12 gauge UL rated for in-wall usage. All other cables and connectors are from Monoprice as well.

110v wiring is all 12/2 with 15A receptacles.

Gimbal lights from Lowes, wall sconces are Minka Lavery.

Total for all building materials came to around $2,000 (much of it in the coffered ceiling materials).

The project took around 2 months to complete from start to finish, of working on it after work each day. I'd estimate that there was about 100 hours in the ceiling construction, a great deal of that in paint work.

The columns/trim/doors/coffers are all done in a BM satin, which is the lightest shade of brown. The walls are of the same swatch, only one color darker, and in flat (to prevent light reflection from the bright projector). The ceiling is one color darker on the same swatch, also in flat. The vertical insides of the coffers behind the crown was also painted with the ceiling color to make the crown stand out more. The dark colors were all chosen to minimize any reflection from the screen.

Now that the room has a closet and an egress window, it can technically be counted as a 4th bedroom in my house when it comes time to sell.

You're aware that there are set-top boxes that let you watch video off of the internet on your TV, right? And they cost the same as or less than 1 month of cable? And unlike cable, they let you watch shows whenever you want?

For example: http://www.amazon.com/Panasonic-DMP-BDT220-Integrated-Blu-ray-Player/dp/B00752R4PK/ref=pd_sxp_f_pt

Seem to recall they were around there, but not turning any up offhand.

Here's a $55 one: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00TKOSUDQ

(Edited because prior link wasn't wifi)

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B001VZ1W5U

I own the ‘97 series on Bluray from the UK. You just have to buy an European player also, which costs like £50 on Amazon UK. Comes with the original English dub and subs.

Edit: Link to Berserk ‘97 blu ray

Link to European player

Sony UBP-X700 4K Ultra HD Blu-Ray Player https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078HXF9H2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_PTJZCb9HTDH9V

This looks to meet all of your requirements...

Here's the best cheap one you can get

I posted this few days ago to a question about Roku streaming - physical UHD disc is mind boggling good with the right setup:

I went with a fairly inexpensive player for $165 that works great: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B078HXF9H2/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I purchased a few movies I really wanted to own but for the majority I use a disc rental service: https://4kbluray4u.com/

Subscription is $15 a month and I average 4-5 movies a month so the per movie cost is actually lower than most streamed rentals.

I do use Vudu for things that haven't been released on disc yet and on other TVs.

Honestly, the Xbox One S is actually a really great buy if you're in the market for a 4K Blu-ray player. The only other options are over $200 from Samsung and Phillips. It's very reminiscent of the PS3 days where it was around the same price to get a PS3 vs other blu-ray players so it was a waste to get a standalone player.

Plus, with the introduction of the play anywhere thing (albeit limited), you only need to buy a single copy to play on both the Xbox and PC for the games which are eligible. Just seems MS is eager to try and mend the gap between PC and Xbox especially since they're behind. I'm still floored as to why Sony didn't use a 4K blu-ray player in their Pro model, but it made the decision really easy when I wanted to buy something capable to play 4K blu-rays.

Edit: Me grammar bad.

this one apparently

https://www.amazon.com/Seiki-SR4KP1-Up-Converting-Blu-Player/dp/B00MB54M9W

https://www.amazon.com/Panasonic-DMP-BD70V-Blu-ray-Multimedia-Player/dp/B001VZ1W5U

You can get it cheaper than this but I'd recommend this model

I'd go with this relatively inexpensive Sony model. Streaming built in, less than 70 bucks.

Sony still makes stand alone UHD Blu-ray players.

The Sony UBP X700 is one of the most popular ones on the market actually. Unlike the Xbox, it actually supports Dolby Vision.

https://www.amazon.com/Sony-UBP-X700-Ultra-Blu-ray-Player/dp/B078HXF9H2

I don't know why, but your comment made me wonder if one of these exist.
Turns out at least one was made.

It's not region free out of the box, whether for DVDs or Blu-rays. Modded versions that are region switchable for Blu-rays and region free for DVDs are readily available, though. Look at the Amazon page for the X800, scroll down to "Sponsored products related to this item" and you'll see third party sellers offering modded versions for about $100 more.

$400

https://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/denavrx3500h/denon-avr-x3500h-7.2-ch-x-105-watts-a/v-receiver-w/heos/1.html

The only blu-ray players I know with multi-channel preouts come from Oppo, which no longer makes them. Even the BDP-103 that is only 1080p is $500. AFAIK, none of them will do 5.2.2 Atmos via the RCA jacks, only 7.1.

The X3400H will decode all the modern formats, and has the pre-out functionality you want. Then you can use a cheap player like the Sony X700.

https://www.amazon.com/Sony-UBP-X700-Ultra-Blu-ray-Player/dp/B078HXF9H2

If you want to go beyond 5.2.2, the Marantz SR6012 is likely your cheapest option, being 9 channels native and expandable to 11.

https://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/marsr6012/marantz-sr6012-9.2-ch-x-110-watts-a/v-receiver-w/heos/1.html

your monitor needs to have an HP audio output. or else they do make blu ray players with audio outs, but you will need a headphone amp because those outputs will be line level. or more commonly a blu ray player with spidf out but you will need a DAC with headphone out.

example:

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00TKOSUFY/

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00A2QLPJM/

This is what I have - Sony UBP-X800 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Player (2017 Model) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N4RCPKO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_iZ4CAbTNHK75Q

I was using a One S but didn’t like it very much. The Sony was a big improvement over it.

>some due to the expense of having to buy a new system to play the discs on

https://www.amazon.com/Samsung-BD-J5700-Curved-Blu-ray-Player/dp/B00TKOSUDQ/ref=sr_1_14?s=tv&ie=UTF8&qid=1495246869&sr=1-14&keywords=blu+ray+player

If you cant afford that, you have bigger problems than worrying about trying to play Blu Rays

Actually, unless you're looking at refurbished or open box 4k Blu-ray players, the Xbox One S is one of the best priced 4k blu ray players.

Here's a best buy search of all of their 4k blu ray players. You'll see the Xbox One S is the same price as the cheapest non-console player.

The cheapest on Amazon is $193. So at ~$50 more you'll have a game console plus UHD player. plus you'll be able to trade in your VCR Classic Xbox One for credit.

I bought this blu ray player, lowest i got it was for 40 pounds with shipment, meaning around 55+ bucks usd.

​

https://www.amazon.co.uk/LG-BP250-Up-scaling-external-playback/dp/B00TWW583Q/ref=sr_1_25?s=home-theater&ie=UTF8&qid=1538859029&sr=1-25&keywords=blu+ray+player

>• Best places to check online, and in-store for steelbooks (i.e. Zavvi, Manta Lab)?

You can keep up with every release worldwide on the [HiDefNinja Steelbook Forum](
http://www.hidefninja.com/community/forums/blu-ray-steelbook.39/)

Here's some popular sites. For releases from Hdzeta, Blufans, and Filmarena you'll have better luck joining group buys which I mention down below.

http://www.novamnm.com/

http://www.filmarena-eng.com/steelbook/

https://kimchidvd.com/en/index.jsp?null

https://shop.hdzeta.com/

http://www.blufanatics.com/

https://www.everythingblustore.com/

https://www.mantalab.com/



>• Is there a reliable place to check what region every Steelbook is? I've been told that Zavvi and other's descriptions can be unreliable at times.

http://www.blu-ray.com/

If you're going to seriously collect steelbooks you'll want a region free player. Most new releases from abroad won't have accurate region info before release and you run the risk of them selling out during pre-order.


>• A few of the best region free Blu-Ray players?

I use the Seiki SR4KP1. The price on Amazon is way too high. Look around for a better deal. I bought mine from meh.com for $35.


>• Best place to check for pricing when buying from an independent seller?

Ebay sold listings


>• From America, how do you buy steels on other countries Amazon sites and other sites?

Just log in with your username and password from your US account and follow the checkout instructions once you've made your selections. You'll need to create a new account for amazon.co.jp but all the other ones will work. Most sites for steelbooks ship internationally. You can also join group buys on HiDefNinja for anything that you can't find shipped to the US. Every thread in the steelbook forum will have a purchase link to the site or the group buy.

https://www.amazon.com/Philips-BDP7502-F7-Blu-ray-Player/dp/B073P7KY1Y/ref=sr_1_3?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1520397300&sr=1-3&keywords=phillips+4k+blu+ray+player&dpID=21aA0gR-SnL&preST=_SX300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch

Recently got the Dolby Vision update, so not bad for 199.

You can check the AVS forums for the thread on this player if you don't believe me.

Region free player blu-ray players aren't that expensive, and overall you'll find the wider choice of movies very freeing. It really opens up the realm of cinema that you can buy on home video.

Benq w1070 Projector

Denon-1713 receiver

Jamo S426 Speakers

BIC F12 Subwoofer

3D TV Corp Glasses

Sony BDP-5100


edit: If anyone is wondering, 89" fixed screen. Picture doesn't really do it justice.

I absolutely love it. Could not be happier. Feel free to ask any questions.

This is what I got:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MQXUU4R/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

It's awesome.

Sony Bluray Player

• DVD Region: 0-9
  
• Bluray: A, B, C

Hi, so I didn't see an official spec sheet on the player but its amazon page has a lot of reviews attesting to it being region free. https://www.amazon.com/Seiki-SR4KP1-Up-Converting-Blu-Player/dp/B00MB54M9W

Some additional links:
http://www.toptenreviews.com/electronics/home-entertainment/best-blu-ray-players/seiki-review/

http://forum.blu-ray.com/showthread.php?t=216607

https://www.amazon.co.uk/LG-BP250-Up-scaling-external-playback/dp/B00TWW583Q/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=blu+ray+player&qid=1565091675&s=gateway&sprefix=blu+&sr=8-3

I'm looking for the cheapest Blu Ray player I can find for an older 1080p LCD TV. It doesn't need to have any bells and whistles (no 4k, 3D, HDR, etc.) because my TV won't support it anyway. I was considering this Amazon recommended one until I read all the reviews about the child lock feature turning itself on and making it impossible to get your discs out. Any recommendations would be welcome :) Thanks!

No, it's a fair question. It sucks because it's slow, loud, doesn't have all the functionality that a stand-alone has no 3D if you care about it and it also adds additional wear and tear to your PS4. The PS3 is actually a much better player than the PS4 but there is just no reason to use either with the cost of a dedicated player being less than a new game.


There are several new (not refurb) at Walmart in the $55-$60 range that are below $50 on sale prices. If it were me, I'd go with the Panasonic or the Toshiba


http://www.walmart.com/search/search-ng.do?Find=Find&_refineresult=true&ic=16_0&search_constraint=0&search_query=blu+ray+player&search_sort=4

Here's a nice Samsung for $49 with free shipping
http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-BD-F5700-Wi-Fi-Blu-Ray-Player/dp/B00EUY59Z8/ref=sr_1_3?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1398266452&sr=1-3&keywords=blu+ray+player

What TV did you buy?

"External 4K upscalers" basically don't exist. What you're probably thinking of is an upscaling BluRay player.

For sure, I checked through my purchase history and it's only going back to February of this year and the player was purchased around December so I don't have the exact details currently. But just letting you know that Sony doesn't actually make region free Blu Ray players, so the one I ended up getting was a modded one but it works great! It was used on one of the cheaper models of Sony's players so it doesn't have built in wifi it's pretty much only useful for region free Blu rays and that alone. Here is what looks similar to what I purchased, it was a little cheaper when I got it though:
https://www.amazon.com/Sony-Multi-Zone-Region-Player/dp/B00VPGS1J0/ref=mp_s_a_1_5?keywords=sony%2Bregion%2Bfree%2Bblu%2Bray%2Bplayer&qid=1562023170&s=gateway&sprefix=sony%2Bregion%2Bfree%2B&sr=8-5&th=1&psc=1

Edit: The mod I got came with a remote that would allow you to change the region of the player. It came with 4 colored buttons and you'd press let's say blue to be region 2 or B, and Green for Region 3 or C, and so on

Edit 2: cheaper https://rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.com%2Fulk%2Fitm%2F232159019998

Sony's lowest-end UHD BD player supports Dolby Vision & Atmos. You can get it for $175.

https://www.amazon.com/Sony-UBP-X700-Ultra-Blu-ray-Player/dp/B078HXF9H2/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=4k+blu+ray+player&qid=1567520265&refresh=2&s=gateway&sr=8-3
This ones is 190$ so for a few bucks more you can get the Xbox, not a fan of it but if you really want a 4K blu-ray I'll get the Xbox since you'll get more stuff out of it.

the poster above me linked the thread just about that topic. I didn't contribute to the thread, but I bought this https://www.amazon.com/Seiki-SR4KP1-Up-Converting-Blu-Player/dp/B00MB54M9W

I got it for 60 dollars while it was on sale (forgot the site, Buydig?) One annoying thing about it though (and with most region free players) are that you gotta select the region code when you switch what disc you use to a different region. Not a big deal, thats just me being super lazy and not wanting to press literally some buttons.


Once you go region free it opens up Arrow Video/Academy, Eureka/Masters of Cinema, BFI, Indicator and some more boutique labels that are doing releases ranging from almost as good to equal to better than Criterion releases. Surf their catalogs! there are tons of stuff people are screaming at Criterion to get!

Sony x700. Under your budget and a good player. The next step up would be something like the Panasonic UB820.

I have lots of great titles available for anyone starting a collection. Take a look and let's make a deal. Also have a Seiki region free SR4KP1 Up-Converting Blu Ray Player new in box for $100 + S&H. Shipping within the UNITED STATES only please.

They really should make more of these

I got this when it was 40 pounds: http://www.amazon.co.uk/LG-BP250-Up-scaling-external-playback-Black/dp/B00TWW583Q?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00

The adapter I got it from a Radioshack, was a couple of dollars.

The LG BP250 . Just remember that you’ll need an adapter for the power cord too (assuming you live outside the UK).

It’s listed at £50.99 but the price drops down to £42.49 once you start the checkout process and enter a US shipping address.

Hey. I looked around for reviews, and the Sony BDPS6700 seems to be really highly rated for everywhere I can find. And it's 66$, and it supports 4K upscaling.

What do you think?

Here's one. Also look at your local Targets, Best Buys, etc. Pretty frequently they're on sale. I've seen several at my Target's tech clearance rack.

Samsung BD-J5100 Curved Blu-ray Player (2015 Model) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00TKOSUFY/ref=cm_sw_r_other_awd_pz7BwbGDKTSZ5

$57USD AND $65 for the WiFi model

The equipment overviews were OK except the Blu-ray player, which had 1/3 of all Amazon reviews in the 1 and 2 star range. The ad for this very product at the bottom of the page is not confidence inspiring.

I do agree with 2 of the issues mentioned at the end; that smart TVs are a dumb idea, and that the Nexus Q is overpriced and under connected.

I also agree with their assessment of HDMI cables, at least for short runs. However, the guys at Blue Jeans Cable cover what you need for longer runs.

You should look into one of these:


https://www.amazon.com/Sony-UBP-X700-Ultra-Blu-ray-Player/dp/B078HXF9H2

A chromecast is $35. It'll do everything you said except for the blurays.

If you just can't ditch the disks, looks like this will do the job on the cheap

Just get a region b player then, they can be picked up for <$60

https://www.amazon.co.uk/LG-BP250-Up-scaling-external-playback/dp/B00TWW583Q/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=blu+ray+player&qid=1571552880&sr=8-3

The Philips 7502; $170ish on Amazon, Sams Club has their own version for about $150. I was actually able to get it for $130 at Sams a month or two back. I've had zero issues with this player.

For Apple TV, if its just for watching apps and the internal apps work for you now, id stick with that. Maybe wait til the TV OS slows down a bit before spending more money.

Sony UBP-X800 -I love mine-

Pro's

Plays UHD HDR (10) 4k Discs great!

Great aesthetic

Hi-Res Audio

Atmos ready

It's only 149.00 on amazon now. Was 250.00

DVD Audio and SACD playback

Cons:

Smart features suck and are sluggish. I have a RokuTV and PS4 so this isnt an issue for me

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N4RCPKO/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I spent a lot of time trying to find legit region free player for cheap when I realized all I needed was a region B player from the UK. Found this

https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/aw/d/B00TWW583Q/ref=ya_aw_od_pi?ie=UTF8&psc=1

on Amazon uk (you can sign in with american amazon account) for a total of $60 shipped. Works straight of the box just need an american 12v power cord or uk to us plug adapter (no step down/up needed, auto converts pal, etc). It was the best idea, and opens up arrows whole library, which is way cheaper than it is here, and other great stuff that is uk only or just cheaper.

(note: player shows as 50 pounds on site, but drops to 42 pounds once you get to the final place your order screen, probably because we dont pay tax)

No it's not, you can get [4K players for under $200] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01A9V6OI6/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1497763528&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=uhd+blu+ray+player&dpPl=1&dpID=31GPleAMt0L&ref=plSrch). Anyways, price of 4K Blu Ray players was way cheaper when the Xbox One S came out than Blu Ray players were when PS3 came out. It's all relative.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00EUY59Z8
I bought this one, really nice

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00HPMCO4Q should do what you're looking at... It's what I used when my PS3 hit the YLOD back in September. It doesn't respond quite as fast as the PS3 did and doesn't have HBO Go, but overall I'm pretty happy with it.

I have this one:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00EUY59Z8?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_search_detailpage

It is fine for the price and features. It does have some apps, but I've never used them, so I can't comment on how well they work.

Honestly, between a refurb Bluray player (~50) and a Roku (~50), you are going to spend about 100 dollars. I'd just spend the extra ~20 dollars and get the PS3. It is a MUCH better Bluray player and it runs apps as well or even better than the Roku does. The PS3 does have a Spotify app, FYI.

Also, you can play games on it. And it will take up less room and have fewer cords than a Bluray/Roku combo would.

Keep us posted on what you decide!

Not exactly. Although I have a Pioneer VSX-90 receiver, it has both HDMI 1.4 and 2.0a/HDCP2.2 inputs. I use the 1.4 inputs for the Shield because I currently have a 1080p TV. Netflix still stutters like crazy @ 24p (even 60p isn't that great).

https://www.amazon.com/Panasonic-DMP-BDT220-Integrated-Blu-ray-Player/dp/B00752R4PK

I have an old Panasonic DMP-BDT220 player which you can switch to 24p manually. It also supports 4:4:4 output. It has some of the best video quality I've ever seen in Blu-Ray player. Netflix playback 1080p @ 24p is smooth. Unfortunately it uses the old Netflix UI and is very slow. But for PQ alone it's the best player out there.
It also has an Amazon, Hulu and Vudu app (although I'm not sure if the Amazon app is 720p or 1080p). All output 24p fine.

I wish Nvidia would fix the multitude of video output problems on the Shield. I know it's doable if they just made the effort. If a 5yr old Blu-Ray player can do it, the Shield sure can.

Sony sells a region free blu-ray player for $150.

This one is considered good for the price: https://www.amazon.com/Seiki-SR4KP1-Up-Converting-Blu-Player/dp/B00MB54M9W

50 bucks for 4K upscaling and region free really good.

It's unavailable on Amazon but it can be bought here: http://www.abcwarehouse.com/seiki-sr4kp1

I got this Phillips for less than $200. It has HDR10 and Dolby Vision. The only drawback is that it is noisy but other than that it has been working flawlessly for the past year or so.

Sony BDP-S5100 3D Blu-ray Disc Player with Wi-Fi (2013 Model) by Sony http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AWKC0JM/ref=cm_sw_r_udp_awd_hMyZtb0JKGW8P

Best basic wifi model on the market.

> They are both available in comparable hi def formats.

No, you are wrong. You clearly have no idea about what you're talking about. The max resolution of DVD is 480p.

>Get over yourself, you don't need to worry about justifying your $400 blu ray player.

They were $400 like 7 years ago. You must live under a rock. http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-BD-F5700-Wi-Fi-Blu-Ray-Player/dp/B00EUY59Z8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1407899254&sr=8-1&keywords=blu-ray

$50.

There is another one released just this month by Phillips:

https://www.amazon.com/Philips-BDP7501-Ultra-Blu-Ray-Player/dp/B01HBYUYSU/

The price is still too high on both the players though figuring the price of the Xbox One S model with 500GB is $100 less. Though these consoles are normally sold at a loss, it is still likely that these other companies, Phillips and Samsung intended to fleece people since they didn't know Microsoft's intentions. All under the guise of it being "new" tech. I bet when early September comes around, their prices will miraculously fall.

Even though Scorpio is coming next year and will almost certainly support 4K Blu-ray, if you were going to buy a standalone 4K player, this would be the best option.

This model does include an IR sensor, but the only difference some might have a problem with is for those who prefer a standard remote but have no universal one like the Harmony. That said, they do sell media remotes that will work and you will still end up ahead.

Depending on the model from LG I didn't want that one since it had issues switching to 24p playback. Do they have a deal on this one at ~ $200?

50% off this 4K bluray player.

Sony UBP-X800 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Player (2017 Model) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N4RCPKO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_-VGeAb38KHX2Z

http://www.amazon.com/Sony-BDP-S5100-Blu-ray-Player-Wi-Fi/dp/B00AWKC0JM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1397234547&sr=8-1&keywords=bluray

Players are really cheap now too!

Right, right. Any reccomendations on the player itself? The big one on Amazon currently seems to be this one here

> It's unclear what you mean by "full stereo" and "full stereo surround".

I mean stereo sound using all the speakers. Its got just the normal stereo setting, which just uses the front right and front left, then it has the 7.1 stereo. I ended up putting an extra "Surround" in there where I didn't mean to.

>what is your bluray player and how it is set up.

Samsung player Connected to the receiver through HDMI. Not sure of the audio settings on it, I'll have to take a look.

>basic layout of the room and speaker placement.

Room is 22' L 14' W.
Couch goes right across the middle of the room with heads 11' from the TV.

TV is sitting at the front of the room, center height of 4'4".
Center speaker is a bit low, only 2'. But about as high as I can get it without mounting it above the TV.

Front R/L speakers are in the very corners of the room, they're tall speakers so the directional sound mostly comes out at a height of ~3'

Surround R/L are mounted to the wall, also 11' back. Middle of the speaker is 6.5' high.

Surround Back R/L speakers are along the back wall, about 2 feet in from the corners sitting at about 4'

>First check that your bluray player is NOT set to pure direct mode, if it has one. Sometimes this setting will override the AVR settings. This alone might solve your problem.
Then make sure pure direct/straight mode is disabled on the receiver. Note that these modes don't disable surround sound. But they do disable settings such as EQ, speakers levels, bass management, etc. Check the manual, I'm sure you can turn it off.

This seems suspect to me, I'll follow up on that as soon as I can.
I know its not using pure direct on either, but the receiver does not change from straight mode while playing bluray.

>Make sure your speakers' polarities are correct (the + and - on the receiver are wired to + and - on the speakers).

That I've done.

>Use your receiver's automatic calibration system. On your Yamaha it should be YPAO. After the speaker levels are set you can change the center speaker level or the Dialog Level manually if necessary.

This I have also done.
Though I am not sure, I assume when I go back and make manual adjustments as necessary the test tone volume should be equal for all speakers? Should I rely on that, or should I kind of ignore it if it still doesn't seem right in use?

Edit:

Bluray audio was on Bitstream unprocessed, which I did according to the setup instructions provided by samsung.
Change it to Bitstream Dolby encoded, and I'm not sure if thats fixing the dialog, but it does allow me to change between different sound mode on the receiver now, which is a very good improvement.

No, unfortunately.

You could do what I did and look into buying a UK Blu-ray player and the UK Blu-rays

Even with shipping, that should be like half the price of the limited US release. Having a UK player will also give you cheaper options for things like F/SN:UBW, Baccano, Madoka, Gurren Lagann, Monogatari, etc.

Actually no, it costs the same.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01HBYUYSU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_0Lp1xb8DAJJRR

For your family - http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-BD-F5700-Wi-Fi-Blu-Ray-Player/dp/B00EUY59Z8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1406621792&sr=8-1&keywords=bluray+netflix+player

Wi-Fi Built-In
All Share
Supports Netflix, Accuweather, YouTube, Twitter, Flicker, Facebook, Pandora, Vudu, Cinema Now, Flingo, Phapsody. Playback formats include MPEG2/4, AVCHD, MKV, WMV, JPEG, LPCM, AAC, MP3, WMA ...all that for $50


And for you- a gaming pc

This actually showed up at my work.

LG BP250 Blu-Ray and DVD Disc Player with Full HD Up-scaling and external HDD playback - Black (UK Plug) https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00TWW583Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_rSviDbGZBXXMJ

When I bought it it was a bit cheaper...

Sony Multi Zone Region Free Blu Ray Player - PAL/NTSC Playback - Zone A B C - Region 1 2 3 4 5 6 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00VPGS1J0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_RBSJDbVS4DSH3

I paid $550 last year for mine which I thought was very expensive.

https://www.amazon.com/OPPO-UDP-203-Ultra-Blu-ray-Player/dp/B01N6GG5XL

Sony Multi Zone Region Free Blu Ray Player - PAL/NTSC Playback - Zone A B C - Region 1 2 3 4 5 6 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00VPGS1J0/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_jpq5ybFG8PQGQ



I grabbed this one but haven't had the chance to use it yet. Waiting on my order from Amazon UK.

I got a sony 2016 model blu ray player the other day to stream netflix and amazon. Here is the link http://www.amazon.com/Sony-BDPS3700-Streaming-Blu-Ray-Player/dp/B01AT6B0DK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1458010032&sr=8-1&keywords=2016+sony. It is cheaper at Walmart. I can say its a little laggy in the menus, but the video quality is great.

Ok, so here's an update:

Here's a very VERY crude drawing of my house and what I'm trying to accomplish: http://imgur.com/a/nQnMa

1. The Outdoor Speakers: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00378KMEG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_dp_T2_OlAuzb3V0BJK8
   
   2,3,4,5) Audio devices I currently own that I need to hook up to the new receiver:
   
   
2. Audio Technica Turntable: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00378KMEG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_dp_T2_OlAuzb3V0BJK8
   
   
3. Blu-ray Player (buying this week): https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01BTTHXZU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_dp_T2_uoAuzbYZXJBTF
   
   
4. Apple TV
   
   
5. XFinity X1 receiver
   
   Just need a receiver that can accommodate all of my devices, and be a 2 zone receiver so I can disable the outdoor speakers when needed. Hope that helps. I am also going to update this in the OP.

You know that a 4K player is a 4K player, right? Like a drive is a drive is a drive. It's the software and chipset that really matter, and I'd imagine that a $200 player and a X1S are probably going to be pretty damn close to identical. As if anyone can really tell the difference anyway in playback.

$175: https://www.amazon.com/Samsung-UBD-K8500-UBD-KM85C-Certifed-Refurbished/dp/B01M3NXNFR/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1497295261&sr=8-8&keywords=4k+blu+ray+player

$69.99: https://www.amazon.com/Samsung-BD-J6300-Blu-ray-Certified-Refurbished/dp/B0718XD2ZN/ref=sr_1_12?ie=UTF8&qid=1497295261&sr=8-12&keywords=4k+blu+ray+player

$150: https://www.amazon.com/Samsung-BD-KM85C-Bluetooth-Certified-Refurbished/dp/B07254LR5J/ref=sr_1_16?ie=UTF8&qid=1497295261&sr=8-16&keywords=4k+blu+ray+player

$190: https://www.amazon.com/Samsung-UBD-K8500-Wi-Fi-Blu-ray-Player/dp/B01A9V6OI6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1497295261&sr=8-1&keywords=4k+blu+ray+player

https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B073P7KY1Y/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_E0ryBb1963E24?sa-no-redirect=1

​

https://smile.amazon.com/Sony-UBP-X700-Ultra-Blu-ray-Player/dp/B078HXF9H2?sa-no-redirect=1

​

https://smile.amazon.com/LG-UBK90-Ultra-HD-Blu-ray-Player/dp/B07C12TH46?sa-no-redirect=1

​

These seem to be on sale and decently recommended for budget UHD player. I am trying to decide myself.

Sure... lol.

• If you want a non-UHD player, the Sony BDP-S3700 is my go-to in the $100 range. You can typically find it for $80.
  
• If you want a UHD player, the Sony UBP-X700 would be my budget pick, usually around $180.

So why these players are vary from USD 100 to USD 2000

For example OPPO UDP 203


https://www.google.ae/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.amazon.com/OPPO-UDP-203-Ultra-Blu-ray-Player/dp/B01N6GG5XL&ved=2ahUKEwi4hZK_wLDeAhXmyYUKHdRYDu0QFjADegQICBAB&usg=AOvVaw0onjp7k_xNfsQ5hH6Tivyg&cshid=1540982884610

I say it's definitely worth it. Blu Ray is the best picture you're going to find in 1080p. I'm not a snob about players though, so I'd just recommend the amazon best seller.

https://www.amazon.com/Sony-BDPS3700-Streaming-Blu-Ray-Player/dp/B01AT6B0DK/ref=sr_1_2?s=tv&ie=UTF8&qid=1487978335&sr=1-2&keywords=blu+ray+player

Do you have a PS3? They also play blu rays. If you don't have one you might just go that route if you love the games.

No, only on certain BluRay players. Make sure the BluRay player says "4K upscale from 1080p". Of course, 1080p will still look really good, but make sure you are getting a DVD player that actually does the upscaling to 4k.

For example, the PS4 Pro will upscale 1080p BluRays to near 4K quality; however, the PS4 Slim will just natively play the BluRay at a maximum of 1080p.

Good thing is, upscaling DVD players are fairly common and cheap. This one would be ideal: BDPS6700

This one, it went back up in price.

I guess it is the nomenclature that wasn't clear to me. Is it a stand alone "external" player like this :

http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-BD-F5700-Wi-Fi-Blu-Ray-Player/dp/B00EUY59Z8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1418940758&sr=8-1&keywords=blu-ray+player

or something like this:

http://www.amazon.com/Blu-Ray-Player-External-Laptop-Burner/dp/B001TVAU0E/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1418940822&sr=8-1&keywords=usb+blu-ray+player&pebp=1418940825017

I would consider both of those to be "external" vs a traditional mount in a case internal drive. My own personal solution was to get a USB Blu-Ray drive, rip a disc to Mkv, and then watch it from either VLC or Kodi and never worry about paying for Cyberlink or AnyDVD. Just delete the mkv when you are done if it is a rental.

Would you have a suggestion for a streaming blue ray player? Or is something like this just fine?

Thanks for all the help, I really appreciate it.

I have a sony blu-ray player that my dad got me for Christmas. It streams netflix, amazon, youtube, and a whole host of other channels that you can access with a subscription to a cable service. The netflix UI is exactly like the one on the xbox 360, and I definitely prefer it over my the Netflix on Apple TV. Built in wireless and LAN. My particular model is this one.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/LG-BP250-Up-scaling-external-playback/dp/B00TWW583Q/ref=bdl_pop_ttl_B00TWW583Q?th=1

Lister ethernet via. hdmi.

https://www.lg.com/dk/video/lg-BP250 Siger også den har internet.

You can pick up a smart-bluray player for pretty cheap.

http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-BD-J5700-Curved-Blu-ray-Player/dp/B00TKOSUDQ/ref=sr_1_2?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1450880669&sr=1-2&keywords=smart+blueray+dvd+player+with+built+in+wifi

I have this in my living room for my dumb tv. Have a ps3, the controllers stopped working or something... I dunno. It just collects dust now.

You could probably get them on board with this. Plays DVDs, Bluray, has Wifi, has Netflix (and Hulu and Amazon, and I'm sure other stuff). Comes with an actual remote (none of them are going to know how to use a controller).

I'm assuming you're referring to this one? It is reasonably priced, especially in comparison to some of the OPPO players people have recommended to me in the past. Thanks for the heads-up. I'll have to research it a bit more after work.

It's easy to fall into the logical fallacy that you just did - " new stuff is expensive" but in reality, it's that "more stuff is expensive and I want more stuff" As soon as we have full VR, people will still go to the movies, but probably not as often, not when you can have a more immersive experience in your own home. As soon as we have full wall TVS that are utility cheap ( $100 for a roll up OLED that goes across the wall will be cheap enough for everyone most likely withing 10 years, but definitely in 20 years) most people probably will be satisfied with that as an entertainment hub. As soon as we have self driving cars, most people will stop caring about their cars as a status symbol. Malls are becoming a thing of the past. You used to see everyone in the shopping malls, it's where kids hung out when I was a kid. I can't remember the last time I heard a teenage girl say " we're going to the mall, see you later!" Things are changing ( for the better) in my opinion.

Some examples:
The cost of TV's. Here's a chart of the cost of a TV over time That's true comoditization of a consumer good. in 2001 I bought one of the first gen 1080P tvs - paid $6K for it. Now that same TV is blown away by a $600 set that anyone can get at Walmart. 90% cost reduction in 10 years. This will happen with OLED and with 4K tvs (oled wnet form $100K to $1800 for a 55" set in 5 years)

Same with Computers - typically 12% decrease annually over time.

The amount we pay has stayed static not because the price didn't go down, but because newer replacements in both cases were bigger better and more powerful than their predecessors. There was a time when having a color television in your living room was a mark of wealth. Same with a computer. Now those are completely ubiquitous.

There was a time when having a smartphone was only a business too ( blackberry) and then after a while it was only for rich people with too much money to throw at toys. Go read This article on smartphones form 15 years ago. That phone ( if they even sell something comparable) is the cheap throw away phone that providers use as a loss leader now to get you to buy a new phone.

I paid $500 for my first DVD player - it was one that I could put in my computer, not even a full IO system that w can get on [amazon] (http://www.amazon.com/Sony-DVPSR510H-DVD-Player-Upscaling/dp/B007F9XHAY/ref=sr_1_4?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1451660686&sr=1-4&keywords=dvd+player) for $40 Blu ray beat out hd-dvd becuase sony included one in the PS3 - at the time ( in 2006) it was $1100 for a blu ray player. here's one for $60

Something a little more close to today: high end video cards. I just bought an Nvidia 960, which cost me $180 - the 970 comparison here. The 960 came out about 3 months after the 970 or maybe a little more. The 970 still costs over $300, but the performance difference is not 2x, more like about 20% better.

Neophilia is a real thing, and it drives a lot of consumerism. There will always be something to buy and something to have. I very rarely buy things when they're just out for the first because of seeing this over the last 20 or so years, it's a TON of money down the drain to have the biggest baddest thing on the market right when it comes out.

http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-BD-J5100-Curved-Blu-ray-Player/dp/B00TKOSUFY/ref=lp_352697011_1_4/184-2589796-3415964?s=tv&ie=UTF8&qid=1449072971&sr=1-4

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N4RCPKO/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_c_api_p9TXzbBTSN48D

Current Sony model $208

This one plays Blu Ray, DVD, and has apps for Netflix, Youtube, Hulu, Amazon Instant 'and more'.

This particular device is NOT 4k compatible - it tops out at 1080p full HD. Also allows for USB storage for media, and screencasting via miracast.

This one does all that + 4k. I don't think it'll do miracast, but it might.

This player is the one i have, it just a simple 4k player and ive never had any problems with it in the 2 years ive had it.

Samsung UBD-K8500 3D Wi-Fi 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Player (2016 Model) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01A9V6OI6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_9UxgybQ431DM4

Samsung 4k blu-ray player on sale at $197 at amazon (this is the current black friday price at Fry's and others)

https://www.amazon.com/Samsung-UBD-K8500-Wi-Fi-Blu-ray-Player/dp/B01A9V6OI6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1479486202&sr=8-1&keywords=ubd

> The Samsung UHD Blu ray player is half off at best buy right now too

Worth noting that this will be $50 more off on black friday and is already ~$200 on Amazon

The Philips is also on sale for ~$180 on Amazon

I believe these combine netflix over wifi like a Roku player and BluRay for ~$50. Although if you also got it to occasionally play exclusives I totally support your choice.

Pretty much any Blu-Ray player is going to have access to Netflix built in. For instance, here's a $35 Sony on Amazon that has Netflix built in.

You'll need to have ethernet to the player, or the Roku if you decide to go that route.

Some will have wireless built in but you really want to have it wired, especially if you want to watch HD content. Stringing ethernet isn't that difficult.

I'm going to be the odd voice here and suggest a blu-ray player. This doesn't exactly fit OP's specifications because it doesn't do Hulu Plus, but maybe someone else will find this useful.

The good:
At $68 it is a little cheaper than a Roku.
Streams content from other devices on your network with DLNA.
(Serviio on Windows, MiniDLNA on Linux, Skifta on Android, haven't used Plex)
Streams Netflix just fine. Supports Pandora and Youtube too.
Plays Bluray.
Plays .MKV just fine over DLNA (which my Xbox360 used to just error out on).

The bad:
Navigating the UI with the remote is a little sluggish. There's a consistent and predictable delay of about a second between pressing a button and seeing an onscreen response. It was a little irritating at first but I don't even notice it anymore.
It doesn't seem to advertise itself on my network as a DLNA playback device. I have to browse media using the remote, I can't just fling a stream at it and have it play.

Overall, this little box serves me well and I don't regret the little I paid for it.

EDIT: Found the box for my unit, and the Walmart version has a different model number - BD-FM51. Still $68.

If your budget is around $200 this Philips player is a decent no-frills unit that has had some solid reviews.

You can roll the dice and also take a look at this Sony unit, which is solid IF you get a good one. There have been many complaints from owners who have had issues either with the disc playing ability or the built in apps malfunctioning.

I'm kind of in the same boat as you, and right now I'm leaning towards the simple Philips player.

If your Chromecast is working for you, don't fix what ain't broke.

I don't know much about the Apple TV but it looks to be a solid streaming box, but there's a bunch of offerings for those nowadays. Apple, Roku, Amazon, NVIDIA Shield, all have their strengths and weaknesses.

I'm thinking of going the HDMI switch route and getting a regular Blu-ray player. I'm thinking of plugging this player into this HDMI switch and then going to this monitor. See any problems with that? And then I can just bring the player into the living room when needed (until I get sick of doing that). As for audio, I have an audio interface (MOTU 828mkii) hooked up to my computer and was going to share it with the Blu-ray by taking the optical audio out from the HDMI switch to the S/PDIF input on the MOTU.

Not a PC deal. But Samsung 4k blu ray player for $250 after coupon

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01A9V6OI6/ref=ox_sc_mini_detail?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A2L77EE7U53NWQ

They won't. You could look in to a blu-ray player. I got this one. It plays files from a flash drive or external hardrive and supports subtitle files. Really simple too. Literally, plug in and browse for the file you want to play. I primarily use mp4 and mkv files, and I'm a little disappointed it doesn't support avi.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MQXUU4R/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I've been using this one for a few weeks now and I really like it. It's a quick switch between regions and easy to navigate. Recommended.

Yep, I agree Netflix and Amazon prime is already streaming 4K HDR and a Bluray player that can play 4K HDR is under $200 already. Trust me you want HDR. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01A9V6OI6/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER

Blu Ray players aren't that expensive. You could probably pick one up at Wal-Mart for twenty bucks. Blu Ray has a lot going for it that DVDs don't.

https://www.amazon.com/Sony-BDPS3700-Streaming-Blu-Ray-Player/dp/B01AT6B0DK/ref=dp_ob_title_ce

He'll have to spend an additional $100 to do so. He's better off buying a dedicated Blu-Ray player for about $70.

Philips 4K UHD Dolby Vision Blu-ray Player w/ Built-in Wireless LAN and Streaming Apps (BDP7502) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B073P7KY1Y/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_HVXVCbSQ4A6V0

Has DV. I've found it on sale for as low as 140 bucks.

Which are not worth more than the console is selling for just by itself

https://www.amazon.com/Samsung-UBD-K8500-Wi-Fi-Blu-ray-Player/dp/B01A9V6OI6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1497391916&sr=8-1&keywords=4k+blu+ray+player

https://www.amazon.com/BDR-XD06J-UHD-Pioneer-Blu-ray-Portable-Supports/dp/B06XGRHR2H/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1497472191&sr=8-1&keywords=UHD+Bluray+drive

Its $186 ... so yes about $150/200.

heres another for almost $600
https://www.amazon.com/OPPO-UDP-203-Ultra-Blu-ray-Player/dp/B01N6GG5XL/ref=sr_1_14?ie=UTF8&qid=1497472191&sr=8-14&keywords=UHD+Bluray+drive

another for $150..
https://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-BDR-211UBK-Internal-Supporting-Playback/dp/B071DQFK9B/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1497472320&sr=8-1&keywords=Ultra+HD+Blu-ray+drive

So again tell me im so off with a $200 price tag?