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This even after I updated the unit's firmware, by downloading/burning the patch to a CD and playing the CD in the unit. The unit is extremely slow to "warm up" (after being turned on), more time to open the tray, and even more time to think about running and bring video to your screen. In addition, this unit does not play MP3s or WMAs, and has no USB ports, which limit it's usefulness.Definitely pass on this one. I bought this unit in Dec. (2008), since at the time it was recommended by Consumer Reports. While the update seemed to remove most instances where the unit would not recognize/play a rental DVD movie, it made little change in the painfully slow process I've already described.
I really can't say about its features, as I basicly just play it, but the picture is beautiful. This came free with the purchase of a Samsung 40" LCDTV. The upconversion of non HD DVDs gives a picture very close to a blu-ray DVD.
The thing with Funai is, you can buy the same model number of any of their brands, and depending on when, where, and how it was made, get a different unit. Then, as the need to be more competitive in the market comes into play, different (I'm assumming mostly cheaper) parts MAY go in the units.
There's no way to know for sure, but the mojority of reviewers here have liked this unit, and overall, it is a good value when bought for $180 or less. Funai has also gone the other way, and updated some of the newer produced NB500SL9 units, as my unit loads faster than the same (model number) unit a friend of mine has, which he bought 6 months before I did.
This can also happen if they run out of a certain part, or change suppilers (pretty common actually) in the middle of a production run, or just simply need to make them cheaper. Other times, you may get one with cheaper, or just slightly different parts, and the result may be less satisfying.
Like the Magnavox, and Insignia brands, the Sylvania NB500SL9 is made by Funai, who incidently makes 50% of the DVD players sold in North America. The reason for this is that Funai, like many manufacturers, usually makes the initial offering with the best parts, ie, power supplies, DAC audio, video processors, boards and chipsets, etc., usually for the first 3 to 4 months of production.
When you get a good unit, as I apparently did a few months ago on Amazon for $130, they work great and perform well.
Although, to me, if someone cannot spare a MINUTE of their time for startup, they shouldn't be watching a movie anyway. You're not going to find a better value on a Blu-Ray/DVD player. The only con I can say about this product is that it takes about a full minute to load up when powering on. Other than that, it is sleek and high-end looking as well as great picture & sound quality.
This is a great Blu-ray disc player.I ordered it from Amazon and recieved it a few days later.It was Very easy to hook up and watch.The load time is not bad at all, just a minute or so.Movies look great and all this for a great low price.I would recomend it to anyone who is looking into getting a Blu-ray player and not wanting to spend a fortune.
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