The SONY BDP-BX57: Great Performance & Features, For A Bargain Price!
Please let me advise you not to make the same mistake as I, and many others have made. Our error was to purchase a Sony BDP-BX37, in order to save a few dollars. Please don't get me wrong, the BDP-BX37 is a fine machine that works well providing great video and audio reproduction, and the same selection of free and subscription streaming programming as the BDP-BX57, PS3, and all other Sony products. It is easy to justify purchasing a BX-37, if you are not inclined to enter the world of 3-D TV, or if you are able to easily "hard-wire" the unit via the ethernet port.
Conversely, the BDP-BX57 offers 3-D reproduction, has built in wifi and can still be connected via its ethernet connection if necessary. And, for me since my entire apartment building is wired for wifi, I was able to put the BX-57 into my A/V cabinet and plug it in, and begin watching my Netflix programming, within 5 minutes, honestly! (for $8.00 per month, this must be the bargain of the century, and if you only subscribe to one streaming video service this should be the one. For $2.00 more you can add the DVD service that is also worthwhile.). I purchased both my BX-37 and BX-57 on e-bay, and I paid $55.00 for my BX-37 and $75.00 for my BX-57 making it far less expensive than a BX-37 and the wifi adapter, which sells for $70.00 (total $125.00).
Finally, throughout my 45 years as an audiophile and later as a videophile, I have always impressed by the features and ergonomics of Sony remote controls. However, the RMT-B107A that comes with both models is comfortable to hold, has very good range, and angle of operation. But, the problem is that the large "HOME" button is too close to the down button, so when you intend to use the down key its all to easy to hit the "HOME" key which means you need to restart the process of selecting and beginning the programming you've selected. There is plenty of room on the face of the remote to correct this, and I hope Sony does.
In closing, I suggest you purchase a BDP-BX57 as I did from a seller who tests and sells reboxed units, that come with the remote (I ASK YOU, WHERE DO ALL OF THESE REMOTES GO? It amazes me how many sellers don't include the remote with their machines!) and the same accessories that originally came with the unit, plus a short warranty.
All things considered, if you purchase a Sony BDP-BX57 on e-bay for under $100.00, you have bought a great piece of home theater equipment at a terrific bargain price.Read full review
