While Toshiba launches its second generation of HD DVD players, Sony finally releases its first competing high definition player, the BDP-S1 Blu-ray DVD player. Compared to the Toshiba HD-DVD players, the Sony BDP-S1 offers both some advantages and some disadvantages. The BDP-S1 outputs at 1080p resolution via HDMI equipped HDTVs, while the Toshiba HD DVD players are limited to 1080i. While hardcore visual enthusiasts might consider this a major plus point, many people will struggle to notice any difference in picture quality between 1080p and 1080i. Just as important, especially considering the limited number of movie titles available in either HD or Blu-ray format, the BDP-S1 offers 1080p upscaling for standard definition DVDs. This conveniently lets you make the most of your existing DVD library.

While the picture quality from this Blu-ray player is simply stunning, as it is with the Toshiba HD DVD players, there are some advantages inherent within the Blu-ray format. Most notably, Blu-ray discs offer superior storage capacity, 25GB for single layer and 50GB for dual layer discs, compared to 32GB for dual layer HD DVDs. In terms of the BDP-S1 itself, the device is neatly styled, as you would expect from Sony, complete with the distinctive blue glass front. The included remote control is intuitive, and the menu system more intuitive than the Toshiba models, although the load and response times are similarly slow when compared to standard DVD players.

The retail price of the Sony BDP-S1 has recently dropped from the launch price of $999.99 to put it in line with the Toshiba HD-XA2. However, that still makes it much more expensive than the excellent value Toshiba HD-A2 HD DVD player. As well as standard DVDs, the BDP-S1 is also compatible with DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+R and DVD+RW formats, including those encoded with MP3 music files. It cannot, however, handle audio CDs. The unit also lacks an Ethernet port for home networking.

More of the movie studios have chosen to release titles in the Blu-ray format than in HD DVD, although it's too early to confidently pick a winner in the high definition format war. However, early adopters who choose the Sony BDP-S1 Blu-ray DVD player will be rewarded with stunning picture and audio from a stylish, high quality device.


Pros: First Sony Blu-ray DVD player, excellent picture quality, offers HDMI upscaling for existing DVD library, cool-looking design
Cons: More expensive than HD DVD player, slow load times, still a lot of uncertainty over the format's future

Warranty
1 year, parts and labor