I was investigating Blu-Ray players, thinking about jumping on board, and this Pioneer seems to get consistently good ratings.

It is, however, quite expensive:

http://www.vanns.com/shop/servlet/it...v_c=GoogleBase

Is it worth it?

Keep in mind that if I buy a Blu-Ray player, I am unlikely to be replacing it for at least 5 years.

If you're determined to get the best, than yes this may be worth it. Two things to think about, though:

1. You can get a PS3 w/ a 40GB harddrive for $400 and play blu-ray just fine on that.
2. All these players will probably drop in price a fair bit in one or two years, if you can wait.

Well, I'm starting to find myself thinking carefully about buying any new DVDs, because I'm wondering if I should either (1) get them on Blu-Ray if they're available or (2) wait until they're available on Blu-Ray.

I'm where I was in the last days of laserdisc.

My next purchase after going Blu-Ray is going to be the very best 1080p HDTV I can afford, something in the 46" - 52" range. I want a Blu-Ray player that will show it off to its fullest potential.

Living in a small town with only one theater, I want to build myself the best home setup possible. It'll take me the rest of the year, most likely, but I don't want to wait much longer than that.

FIXED

I'm not sure if the Pioneers can decode or pass through DTS-HD Master Audio. I know the new Panny can. You might want to find that out first.

This is an interesting concept. One I no longer use. I think you need to be careful, very careful is thinking you can buy one of these new techologies (or just about any technology) with the hopes of keeping it 5, 8, 10 years.

This issue is not will it still be working, the issue is will you WANT to upgrade before then. And don't say you won't cause you don't know what will come out next. Even in 5 years if there is not a system with w a better image, there might be difference connectors, different audio, different whatever.

And IMHO, to jump on BD (or HD) you would still be an "early adopter". Meaning there will be changes and improvements and tweaks. Personally I like my PS3 for that very reason. It is so easy to update FW with its built in Wifi.

Just some thoughts.

It's an awesome piece of gear. Here's a link to an informative review-

http://www.ultimateavmag.com/hddiscplayers/907pio94hd/ .

Be aware that I have seen this model at my local Best Buy Magnolia store for $499(even less if they accept one of their 12% off coupons).

Right now I have a 1080i, which says HDTV on the front, so I was making the distinction between my present gear and what I am looking to purchase.