When it comes to high-quality blu-ray players, two devices that often come to mind are the Sony BDP-S6700 and the Samsung UBD-M8500. Both of these devices are designed to provide an exceptional viewing experience, but they have some key differences that set them apart.

Firstly, let's take a look at the Sony BDP-S6700. This blu-ray player is part of Sony's 2016 lineup and features a sleek and compact design that makes it easy to fit into any home entertainment setup. It supports 4K Ultra HD playback, as well as HDR (High Dynamic Range) for enhanced color and contrast. The device also comes with built-in Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity, allowing users to stream content from popular services like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.

On the other hand, we have the Samsung UBD-M8500, which is a more recent release from 2017. This blu-ray player boasts a similar set of features to the Sony BDP-S6700, including 4K Ultra HD playback and HDR support. However, it also adds some additional features, such as built-in Bluetooth connectivity and support for Samsung's SmartThings platform, which allows users to control their home entertainment system using a single app.

One key area where the two devices differ is in terms of their user interface and smart TV capabilities. The Sony BDP-S6700 uses Sony's XMB (XrossMediaBar) interface, which provides easy access to various settings and streaming services. In contrast, the Samsung UBD-M8500 uses Samsung's Tizen operating system, which offers a more streamlined and intuitive user experience.

In terms of audio quality, both devices are capable of producing high-quality sound, but the Sony BDP-S6700 has a slight edge due to its support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X formats. The Samsung UBD-M8500 also supports these formats, but it requires a separate firmware update to enable them.

Another area where the two devices differ is in terms of their pricing. The Sony BDP-S6700 is generally priced lower than the Samsung UBD-M8500, making it a more affordable option for those looking for a high-quality blu-ray player without breaking the bank.

Overall, both the Sony BDP-S6700 and the Samsung UBD-M8500 are excellent choices for anyone in the market for top-of-the-line blu-ray players. While they share many similarities, their differences in terms of user interface, audio quality, and pricing make them suited to different types of users. If you're looking for a more affordable option with great picture quality and decent smart TV capabilities, the Sony BDP-S6700 may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you're willing to pay a bit more for a device with more advanced features and a more streamlined user experience, the Samsung UBD-M8500 is definitely worth considering.

In conclusion, when it comes to blu-ray players, both the Sony BDP-S6700 and the Samsung UBD-M8500 offer exceptional performance and features. By carefully weighing their differences and considering your specific needs and budget, you can choose the device that best fits your home entertainment setup and provides an unforgettable viewing experience.