Panasonic DMP-BD35 Blu Ray Player - Returned

After spending much time researching Blu Ray players on the Internet, I decided on the Panasonic DMP-BD35. It was rated just slightly better than the Sony BDP-S350. The best price I could find was $299. So I went to Costco today and they had the Panasonic player, just one, for $279. I was going to buy a second one for my sister, but she'll have to wait as all Costcos seem to be sold out of this model.

I just connect the player, without reading the instructions, of course, and played a few minutes of the Blu Ray DVD I just bought - Into The Wild. Costco had lots of DVDs, but not many that I didn't already have on standard DVD format, so I chose this movie because I heard it was good. So I turned on the DVD player and it took me through a short setup. Then I inserted the movie and it began to play. I was quickly disappointed at the playback. There was lots of "macro-blocking" and "pixilization", making it almost unwatchable. Now I know there are fixed to this. I need to update the player's firmware, but first I need to get it connected to the Internet. I have no Internet connection in my living room so I'll either bring the player into my computer room, or I think I can use my laptop as a "bridge" and get connection that way. I'll also check the AVS owners thread for this player for help. Also, the problem could be the DVD, and I have no other Blu Ray DVDs yet.

In order to use the DB-Live features of this, and all new Blu Ray players, you need a 1GB or more SD card for storage. I still need to buy one of these. Also, you need a permanent Internet connection.

Currently, I have the audio connected to my stereo using the players optical output, and the video connected to my TV using HDMI. After I buy a new stereo, I can connect the HDMI cable to the stereo and then connect the stereo to my TV using HDMI. This, I believe, is the optimal method for connecting components. This will also give me the 7.1 audio (7 speakers and a subwoofer) for the best possible sound. Stay tuned for further updates as I learn more about my new toy.

Edit: I have good news, bad news and more bad (or good?) news: I was able to connect the DVD player to my network hub and update the firmware. However, this didn't fix the playback problem with the "macroblocking". The problem was the same on my other HDTV, plus I tried a different HDMI cable and the problem also happened on the playback of The Simpson's Movie. Then, to make matters worse (or better), I got a coupon booklet from Costco, and it looks like the same Panasonic player is on sale starting Jan. 5th for $50 off! I get the feeling that the DVD player I bought was a returned item. So on Jan. 5th, I'll buy the same player, make sure it works, and return this one, hopefully without any hassle from their customer support.

Edit(2): Now I just read that Panasonic might be discontinuing this model. That would explain why Costco is having it on sale. Maybe I should return it and buy the Sony.

Added 1/2/09: Yes, I returned this player today at Costco with no problem. Now have to decide to buy another one ore wait and get the Sony, if it is discounted somewhere.

Added 1/5/09: Bought the same player again and it works this time! See post above.

Added 02/13/09: I got the player connected to the Internet. Read about it here.