The world of home entertainment has seen significant advancements in recent years, with blu-ray players being at the forefront of this revolution. Two prominent models that have garnered attention from audiophiles and movie enthusiasts alike are the Panasonic DP-UB820 and the Sony BDP-S6700. In this comparison, we will delve into the features, performance, and overall value of these two high-end blu-ray players.

Design and Build

Both the Panasonic DP-UB820 and the Sony BDP-S6700 boast sleek and compact designs that will complement any home theater setup. The Panasonic model features a sturdy build with a brushed aluminum finish, giving it a premium feel. The Sony BDP-S6700, on the other hand, has a more minimalist approach with a matte black finish and a slightly smaller footprint. While both players are well-built, the Panasonic DP-UB820's design feels more robust and durable.

Picture Quality

As blu-ray players, both models are capable of producing exceptional picture quality. The Panasonic DP-UB820 supports HDR10+, HLG, and Dolby Vision, providing a wider color gamut and enhanced contrast ratio. The Sony BDP-S6700 also supports HDR10 and HLG, but lacks Dolby Vision support. In terms of actual performance, the Panasonic DP-UB820's picture quality is slightly more refined, with better color accuracy and deeper blacks.

Audio Capabilities

Both players are equipped with high-quality audio capabilities, including support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. The Panasonic DP-UB820 takes it a step further with its proprietary HCX2 (Hollywood Cinema Experience 2) processor, which provides improved sound quality and more precise object-based audio rendering. The Sony BDP-S6700's audio performance is still impressive, but it lacks the same level of finesse as the Panasonic model.

Smart Features and Connectivity

In terms of smart features, both players offer a range of streaming services, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and YouTube. However, the Sony BDP-S6700 has a more comprehensive suite of apps, including support for Google Play Movies & TV and Sony's own PlayStation Now service. The Panasonic DP-UB820's smart features are more limited, but it makes up for this with its improved Wi-Fi connectivity and faster loading times.

Gaming Performance

While neither player is specifically designed for gaming, both can handle 4K video playback at 60Hz, making them suitable for use with gaming consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X. The Sony BDP-S6700 has a slight edge in this department, thanks to its faster loading times and more responsive menu system.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the Panasonic DP-UB820 and the Sony BDP-S6700 are high-quality blu-ray players that offer exceptional picture and audio quality. While the Panasonic model excels in terms of picture quality and audio capabilities, the Sony BDP-S6700 has a more comprehensive suite of smart features and slightly better gaming performance. Ultimately, the choice between these two models will depend on your specific needs and priorities. If you value superior picture quality and audio performance, the Panasonic DP-UB820 may be the better choice. However, if you're looking for a more feature-rich blu-ray player with improved smart capabilities, the Sony BDP-S6700 is definitely worth considering.

As the market for blu-ray players continues to evolve, it's clear that both Panasonic and Sony are committed to pushing the boundaries of what these devices can offer. Whether you're a casual movie viewer or a hardcore audiophile, there's never been a better time to experience the thrill of high-definition home entertainment with these cutting-edge blu-ray players.