All you get is a stereo analog option or a TosLink digital output that’s limited to legacy audio formats.
The player also lacks a multichannel analog audio output, so you won’t have that option for hookup as a work-around. I would have preferred dual HDMI outputs to help integrate the player into a home entertainment system that lacks 1.4 switching so the video could go straight to the display and the advanced audio could go to the surround processor or AVR. If your A/V receiver doesn’t have HDMI 1.4 and you plan to use the player’s 3D capability, this could be a challenge. The small form factor makes the rear jack panel a bit sparse it lacks some of the connections that some other devices in this price range offer. You can initiate calls right from the remote, record a video message for when you’re not around, or even answer calls from the device as long as you’re not watching a Blu-ray when it comes in.īeyond these new features, the DMP-BDT210 is pretty much identical to Panasonic’s other recent smaller-profile players.
CAN YOU PLAY XBOX ONE ON A 2D TO 3D CONVERSION FULL
I’m sure it will be a popular feature for Skype users and newcomers since the service is free and provides a great way to communicate with friends and family with full video. Panasonic introduced Skype in some of its high-end HDTVs last year, but this is the first Blu-ray player I’ve seen from any manufacturer with this capability. Several compatible cameras are available Panasonic sent me the Freetalk 7181 ($130). For now, just be happy that you can wave at it and amaze your friends.Īnother key feature is Skype video calling from the Blu-ray player with the addition of an optional camera. I imagine this is the first step toward an eventual interface similar to Microsoft’s Kinect sensor for the Xbox that turns you into the remote and lets you operate the player without ever touching it or picking up a wand. This is a bit puzzling for me, since I never thought the buttons on a player’s front panel were that much of a hassle, and a lot of people use a remote to power on the player anyway.
This touch-free sensor lets you wave your hand over the player to power it on and open the tray. The first thing you’re likely to notice, though, is the large sensor on top of the player. The new slim design has a faux carbon fiber body that gives it a very appealing look. Netflix, Pandora, Vudu, and others have become the staple services you see in every player.įacing this challenge, Panasonic has added some interesting bells and whistles to help make this player a standout. Lately we’ve seen a lot of new streaming media support from all the big contenders, but it’s pretty much become an even keel with streaming options across the brands. It’s interesting to see the lengths companies will go to to separate themselves from the pack with Blu-ray players. Not only does it deliver a superb picture, but it’s loaded with more cool features than a player at this price point has a right to lay claim to, including 2D-to-3D conversion, Skype video calling, a nice complement of online streaming services, built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, and even a touch-free sensor to open and close the tray. The DMP-BDT210, a new $200 player from Panasonic’s 2011 lineup, once again proves the case. From the top to the bottom of Panasonic’s line, you always seem to get stellar video with both Blu-ray and DVD playback-and typically a host of other great features as well. Since the beginning of the Blu-ray format, Panasonic has been a leader in the price/performance segment of the market and my go-to recommendation for anyone who’s looking for excellence on a budget. Price: $200 At A Glance: Skype video calling