Is it time to invest in a Blu-ray player?

The world is continually evolving and moving forward and if you're not careful, you may get left behind!  To make sure that does not happen, in the area of electronic equipment at least, this article will explore the differences and similarities between DVD players and Blu-ray players.  Once you are more informed about the technology, it will be easier to make a decision when buying new equipment for your home theatre space.

At first glance, these two disc players look virtually the same.  The discs that they play look the same too, and the disc menus are almost identical.  However, the image quality, sound quality and special features differ.  The qualities are better and the features are more on the Blu-ray player and that makes all the reason as to why Blu-ray seems to be the way people are going.  This greater quality is due to the larger storage capacity Blu-ray discs have - 40 GB more than DVD discs. 

The overall visual affect is a smooth, sharp, rich clarity that brings each scene alive!  The better image quality is thanks to the higher maximum resolution possible on a Blu-ray disc.  A better video compression method is used which creates more contrast and better colours.  The video format of a Blu-ray disc is the highest quality format available today!

In regards to the audio, a DVD takes the raw surround-sound audio and compresses it so it can fit on the disc.  During this process, some information is lost, but it is done in such a way that you don't notice it when watching your favourite movie.  Because Blu-ray discs have more space, less information is lost and the audio quality is improved.  This high resolution soundtrack format is superior to that of a DVD but the difference cannot be heard exclusively unless a high-end audio system is used and even then, the difference is subtle.

Special features are dependant on the specific Blu-ray player you have.  There are three categories.  Each new category has more features.  These features include; a pop-up menu allowing you to access functions while the movie is still playing, video commentary that plays simultaneously with the movie, trailers, games, quizzes and the ability to download content.  Some say that these features are overwhelming and not a reason to upgrade but that is your personal preference.

At this point in time, it looks like Blu-ray will definitely replace DVD but what about your huge DVD collection?  There is always the possibility of "upconverting" and converting your DVDs to as close to Blu-ray as possible but it won't be the same.  Luckily, DVDs will be able to play in a Blu-ray player so those years of building up your collection will not be in vain!

There are many reviews that you can read on the comparison of this old and new technology.  You can also look at the machines and how they play in your local electronic shop. 

If you decide that you would like to upgrade to Blu-ray then have a look at www.digitalallsorts.co.za - Digital Allsorts is an online store that will make your shopping experience a simple and pleasurable one!