PRODUCT REVIEW: LG Super Blu (BH100) Blu-Ray/HD-DVD Player

I was really excited to get my hands on the LG Super Blu - the world's first combination Blu-Ray, HD-DVD, and Progressive Scan DVD player. One machine to handle all my viewing needs? What's not to like?

Look & Feel

The unit itself is about the same size as a stand-alone DVD recorder. It's shiny black and has a nice blue glow when turned on. The control buttons are placed on the top of the unit, which is esthetically pleasing, but almost impossible to use once inside a cabinet.

The Remote

The remote is another issue all to itself. LG claims it is a universal remote but all it controls is the player and a television set (not overly universal to me!). It is also supposed to be backlit but I found it very hard to use in a dark room. Compared to other (cheaper) DVD player remotes I have used, this is one of the worst.

Connections

All the standard audio/video connections are here: 2 channel audio, 5.1 channel audio, optical and coaxial digital audio, composite video, component video, and HDMI. There is also an Ethernet port for SERVICE ONLY.

First Impression

Upon set-up, I sat back, turned the machine on... and waited. I know there is a lot going on inside of this machine, but my old Pentium 2 boots Windows faster then this. I could have made popcorn, eaten the popcorn, and made more popcorn before I was even ready to eject the tray to put a disc in. Once a disc is inserted, it's back to waiting. By the time I got my first movie to play, I practically forgot what I was watching.

Blu-Ray vs. HD-DVD

To be honest, I can't see or hear a difference between the two formats. On a 1080p display both look amazing (much better than regular DVD's upscaled to 1080i). The big difference to me is the extra features that HD-DVD offers (known as HDi). With a network connection in your living room (practically everyone has one these days), you can unlock online features, play games, participate in polls, and download extra content. The possibilities are endless. Unfortunately the LG Super Blu doesn't support HD-DVD menus or HDi content (as I noted above, the Ethernet port is for SERVICE ONLY). This is by far the players biggest downfall.

Bottom-line

The LG Super Blu is an excellent Blu-Ray and Progressive Scan DVD Player. When it comes to HD-DVD, it does not do it justice. For roughly the same price you can get an XBOX 360 Elite with HD-DVD add-on (read my review here), and a Playstation3, giving you a lot more bang for your buck.

The LG Super Blu is available at most electronic stores with a MSRP of $1299.99 US

Have something to say about this review? Post a comment or drop a line to brian@bamcat.com.

Comments

[Cate Jones]

What brainwave came up with the buttons on top concept? How silly. Think I'll wait until there's a clear winner in the HD-DVD/Blu-Ray war (Or at least a better all-in-one player) before going HD.

[blu-ray disc player]

Yea, I agree. Buttons on top does look kinda cool, but its just not really practical. Most people have their players set inside some sort of case or shelf, usually stacked with other media equipment. No way they're trying to reach all up in the top of it instead of just pressing a button in the front. Bad design on their part.