BD Player Internet Connectivity/Updates

[Jeff R.]

All

I am looking for a BD player for my parents system I am putting together for them. I have not done much shopping for BD Players and need to understand how important it is to be connected to the internet. I have seem several entry level players that a just a basic player that will need to have an ethernet cable connected to the back for the internet. That is not really an option for my parents due to the location of the player in the house. Other options have the ability to connect the wireless system in their house. The price difference is nearly $100. So I guess the question is how important is it to have the ability to be connected to the internet? From the sale associates I have spoken with the player needs to be updated via internet on regular basis or it will not be able to play certain movies. I am not sure I believe this..... ANy help would be appreciated.

Thanks

Jeff

 

[Adam]

Hi, Jeff. If your parents aren't going to be using any of the internet options (such as Netflix streaming or BD-Live), then having an internet connection isn't important. Just make sure that the blu-ray player allows firmware updates via disc (I have yet to see one that doesn't), and you're all set.

My Panasonic DMP-BD60 has an ethernet jack on the back, but I almost never have it connected to the internet. I've updated the firmware both via the internet and via disc (that I burned on my computer from the internet site), and both worked just fine.

 

[Jeff R.]

That is pretty much what I was thinking. Thanks for the help.