Redbox Kiosk Game Rentals Launch Nationwide

After nearly two years of regional testing, Redbox kiosks nationwide are now offering $2/night video game rentals in addition to DVD and Blu-ray discs. Because it’s getting real in the Whole Foods parking lot, I instead swung by my local Harris Teeter this AM to check it out. Initially, it seemed as though Redbox might have … Read more

Best Blu-ray Player For Netflix Streaming?

Tech of the Hub got their hands on a trio of 2011 Blu-ray players and set about determining what model provides the best Netflix experience. Which works out well, as I’m in the market for a new, connected Blu-ray player. On the Netflix front, the 802.11n-capable Panasonic DMP-BDT210, LG BD670, and Samsung BD-D5700 seem to provide … Read more

Blu-Ray Player Gets Wi-Fi Direct. Who Needs a Media Streamer?

Call me a Wi-Fi Direct junkie, but I’m watching closely as new devices get certified under the point-to-point wireless spec. This past week, the first Blu-Ray player showed up on the certification list. The LG BD690 isn’t shipping yet, but the possible implications of embedding a Blu-Ray player (or an Internet TV box…) with Wi-Fi … Read more

Confirmed: Blue Rays in Red Boxes

Within a few days of Redbox announcing Blu-ray rental availability from their nationwide network of kiosks, I swung by for confirmation. And, as it turned out, their press release was overly optimistic — neither Blu-ray title availability or even a category in the UI was found at my closest outpost (MickeyD’s). But when Engadget was tipped that Blu-ray … Read more

Deal of the Day: Samsung BDP-1590 @ $85

Woot‘s got the Samsung BD-P1590 up today for a low $85 shipped. I can’t say it’s the best Blu-ray player, or even very good. In fact, one of the top ZNF posts of all time is our coverage of Samsung’s sister unit, the BD-P1600. Because it’s got problems. Amazon commentary of the 1590 isn’t very … Read more

The New Blu-ray Players Have Arrived

After seeing every single Blu-ray player on sale and/or clearance at Best Buy a few weeks back, I’ve been religiously checking in to see when the latest batch (most unveiled at CES) drops. And this weekend, I hit the mother lode at Best Buy’s Reston, VA outpost. Although these eight new units aren’t entirely ready for their close up… None have completed shelf labels and only two (the Sonys) are boxed on the showroom floor. This isn’t the entire updated lineup, but all the models I saw (starting at $180) include a network jack and streaming services. Additionally, all units start at lower prices compared to last year and are mostly more compact – with several boasting improved startup times. Now that the LGBD390 has presumably been discontinued and Vudu has been acquired, I’m no longer sure which player I need…

The Sony Blu-ray Players

The two Sony Blu-ray players are significantly thinner than prior models. At least 1/3rd thinner, maybe 1/2. And surprising slow. Unfortunately, these two lower end models look somewhat pedestrian in a cheaply finished plastic. However, they can be overlooked as the “wireless ready” (buy their USB adapter) units include Slacker, amongst the other Bravia Internet services, and an iPhone remote control app is available. The slightly higher-end unit is also the first Blu-ray player advertising 3D capabilities on the box, expected via a firmware update this summer.

The LG Blu-ray Players

Although not the slimmest, I found the three LG models to be the most elegant looking. But I’m still not quite sold on the need for a built-in hard drive (on their high-end model), as I have no intention of ripping my (old) CDs to a Blu-ray player. However, maybe it opens the door for improved movie download or gaming services. Interestingly, despite the variety of online services offered by LG, only Netflix is mentioned on the unit. I suppose they reserve the right to rotate streaming apps in and out of their catalog.

Read more

Roku’s New Channels: SmugMug, DreamTV

Roku ($99) may or may not hit 100 channels this year, but we’re +2 with the addition of SmugMug photos and DreamTV (who?) video. Speaking of channels, I’m about to cave to the studios and pick up a Blu-ray player for new movies, sooner. In addition to physical media, the Sony BDP-N460 (~$200) also claims … Read more

At CES, It’s All About The 3D

Here at CES, it’s all about the 3D. At least that’s what a large number of manufacturers and banners would have you believe. And while many are displaying a variety of 3D technologies, most folks not making the pitch remain skeptical and/or uninterested. 3D’s a neat effect, and I enjoyed Avatar. But I’m not sure … Read more