So, in my wife's infinite wisdom, she decided she wanted a new entertainment center. This posed a problem for my old Mitsubishi CRT rear projection HD set. So, I went out and bought a new tv (Sony KDS-60A300). Then, I picked up a Toshiba HD-A3 for Christmas. Once that was purchased, I needed a new receiver (Onkyo 605). Also did some upgrades to speakers (only a 5.1 setup, and will remain that way until we move into another house).

Anyhow, I'm now thinking I need to go dual format, just to finish this thing off. Been looking at a few machines.

I like the PS3 (for movies) for it's quality and upgradability, but hate the fact that I'd need to use another specific remote for it.

Both the Samsung 1400 and Panasonic BD-30k look the most appealing for standalone players. Price is somewhat an issue, but I'll likely have a 12% off coupon at Best Buy to offset it, along with some gift cards. I'm buying there b/c starting Sunday they have a promo where you get 5 free movies in store with a Blu machine purchase.

So, basically, looking at my set up, what machine would some of you recommend?

PS3 or bust.

Ps3!!!!!!!!!

PS3. You can get a USB IR plugin for about 15 bucks.

I think there is some sort of USB adapter that lets the ps3 work with universal remotes.

I'm actually preferring using the controller. Big spaced out buttons equals fewer mistakes.

PS3 and this with your universal remote. You won't be able to turn it off and on, but you'll be able to do just about everything else with your universal.

The Cow is right - I have the Nyko IR remote and I copied its functionality to my Harmony 890. The only button that isn't mapped on the Nyko is the PS3 button, but everything else is there for movies.

I'd stay away from Samsung. I've read a lot on this forum and others about how many movies will not play on them. PS3 or the Sony or Panasonic stand-alone is the way to go.

The PS3 is a solid choice if you can get over the remote issue or use the IR thing others have mentioned. Panasonic models seem to have had fewer issues than the Samsung models - so I'd get the Panasonic if the higher price is OK with you. Both the PS3 and Panasonic are Profile 1.1, so you'll be able to take advantage of the PiP functionality down the road as more discs begin to use it if that interests you.

Hmmmm. The more I try to shy away from the PS3, the more people keep getting me to buy it. The downside is, I can't use the coupon (excludes game hardware) and the 5 in-store movie deal with BB isn't applicable with the PS3. Plus, I'd also likely get the 80 GB, soley for the hardware backwards compatability, so it puts it right back up there with the price of the Panasonic.

If you're talking about the 5 free in-store deal at Best Buy starting Sunday, I believe speedy has a note at the beginning of his post specifying that the deal excludes the PS3 and Blu-ray computer drives.

I would recommend the PS3 for the player, but I guess it really depends how important those extra 5 free movies are to you. Oh yeah, and the PS3 plays games too, although I'm sure some here will disagree

EDIT: Well, looks like you already know the 5 free deal excludes the PS3

The 80 gig does not have hardware backwards compatibility, only software emulation based. The 60 is the one that's hardware based.

The PS3 is likely to be the widest-tested Blu-Ray player, which means that you're less likely to get certain discs with slightly incompatible / wonky features.

My mistake. I thought it did. So, basically both the 80gb and 40gb ones are both software emulation?

I have absolutely no PS2 games (skipped that generation of gaming), but the thought of being able to pick up some of the AAA titles and play them intrigued me. Now, I'm not so sure the 80gb is worth anything more to me, than the 40 gb.

Edit: I see the 40gb isn't backwards compatible with any PS2 games. So in essence, if I want that feature, I'd have pay an extra $100 for it.

So, i'd say it's down to the 40gb one and the Panasonic.

The 40GB has no backwards compatibility. The 80GB uses software emulation for backwards compatibility.

Just get the 40GB one then. If you didn't pick up one of the many AAA titles when the PS2 was $129, why would you pick them up now?

If you want to game and don't want to spend $60 on a game, there's plenty of demos on the PSN store that you can get for free and scratch that itch.

20gig PS3 (if you can still find one)


Otherwise...40 gig PS3

Let's not forget that the Panasonic BD30 also passes all HD lossless audio, including DTS HD Master Audio, via bitstream. Something the PS3 still can't achieve. Since your new Onkyo 605 decodes DTS HD MA, this would be the player to get, imo.

I have the exact same set up as you and I love my Panny. It is great and works with universal remotes. I have it controled by my Harmony 880. DTS HD Master AUdio is a huge upgrade to have. Worth the price especially if you buy it this upcoming weekend from BB to get free movies instantly as well through the mail.

Given the issues you have with the PS3, I'd suggest the Panny.

If you're not interested in using the extra features of the PS3(the games, the media server, internet browser, etc.) get the Panasonic. The Panasonic does bitstream all audio formats right now, which makes it a better player for Fox titles than the PS3 currently.

"Currently" being the operative word. It'll come along in a new firmware update.

I'm in a similar situation, but am leaning towards the PS3 (though reading that the 40 gig isn't PS2 compatible and that I'd have to spring for the 80 gig and not get Spiderman 3 for free may push me to a stand alone player).

I'm in no rush and am not a big gamer but was wondering when a good time to buy a PS3 would be. Is there likely to be another 5 free bluray offer after this one expires? Does anyone know if any other movie deals are likely in the near future (like this weekend's at Best Buy but where a PS3 would qualify)? Also, the fan noise and overheating issues with the PS3 - have they been a dealbreaker for anyone here?

Thanks in advance for any advice, I'm completely ignorant when it comes to current video games systems so any input is appreciated.

I have a buddy on another board stuck in the same dilemma as you. Wants BC, but doesn't want to spend more than the 40GB price.

He's hunting for a 20GB PS3. If you can find a Toys R Us with them around they are $299 there. They run about $350 on ebay. That's what I did this summer. Been very happy with it.

Craigslist?