The world of home entertainment has witnessed significant advancements in recent years, with blu-ray players being at the forefront of this revolution. Two prominent models that have garnered attention from consumers are the LG UBK90 and the Samsung UBD-M8500. In this comparison, we'll delve into the features, performance, and overall value of these two high-end blu-ray players.
Design and Build Quality
Both the LG UBK90 and Samsung UBD-M8500 boast sleek and modern designs that will complement any home theater setup. The LG UBK90 features a compact and minimalist design with a matte black finish, while the Samsung UBD-M8500 has a slightly more premium look with a glossy black exterior and a silver accent on the front panel. In terms of build quality, both players feel solid and well-constructed, with a weighty build that suggests durability.
Video Performance
As blu-ray players, both models are designed to deliver exceptional video quality. The LG UBK90 supports 4K Ultra HD playback at 60Hz, with HDR10 and Dolby Vision capabilities for enhanced color and contrast. The Samsung UBD-M8500 also supports 4K Ultra HD playback, but with the added benefit of HDR10+ and Samsung's proprietary UHD Upscaling technology, which enhances the picture quality of non-4K content.
In a side-by-side comparison, both players deliver stunning video quality, but the Samsung UBD-M8500 has a slight edge in terms of color accuracy and contrast. The LG UBK90, however, excels in its ability to handle fast-paced action scenes with minimal motion blur.
Audio Performance
Both blu-ray players are capable of delivering high-quality audio, with support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X object-based audio formats. The LG UBK90 features a more comprehensive set of audio codecs, including Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio, while the Samsung UBD-M8500 supports these formats as well, but with a slightly more limited range of options.
In terms of actual audio performance, both players deliver immersive and engaging soundscapes, but the LG UBK90 has a slight advantage in its ability to handle complex audio mixes with ease. The Samsung UBD-M8500, however, excels in its ability to produce clear and detailed dialogue, making it ideal for movie enthusiasts.
Smart Features and Connectivity
Both blu-ray players come with a range of smart features and connectivity options. The LG UBK90 features LG's webOS platform, which provides access to popular streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, as well as built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. The Samsung UBD-M8500, on the other hand, uses Samsung's Tizen operating system, which offers a similar range of streaming services and connectivity options.
In terms of smart features, both players are relatively evenly matched, but the LG UBK90 has a slight advantage in its user interface, which is more intuitive and easier to navigate. The Samsung UBD-M8500, however, excels in its ability to integrate with other Samsung devices, making it an ideal choice for those already invested in the Samsung ecosystem.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the LG UBK90 and Samsung UBD-M8500 are excellent blu-ray players that offer a range of features and performance capabilities. While the Samsung UBD-M8500 has a slight edge in terms of video quality and smart features, the LG UBK90 excels in its audio performance and user interface.
Ultimately, the choice between these two blu-ray players will depend on individual preferences and needs. If you're looking for a player with exceptional video quality and smart features, the Samsung UBD-M8500 may be the better choice. However, if you prioritize audio performance and a more intuitive user interface, the LG UBK90 is an excellent option.
Regardless of which model you choose, both blu-ray players are sure to provide an immersive and engaging home entertainment experience that will elevate your movie nights to new heights.
