Time to pull the trigger on BluRay?

If you have a 1080P display, are the sort to watch the 'making of' & assorted extras on the added discs accompanying the DVD, can connect to the internet one more device, like commercials, and don't mind the near $30 per copy disc prices, then definitely get a BR player.

Given the nature of HDMI has changed several times in just the recent past, it is likely another itteration is forthcoming.

And just when is 1080P content coming for TV? it'll be a good long while.

I liked the nod to upsampling SD DVD content best. SD DVDs are plentiful and inexpensive. The title choices there are plentiful as well.

IMO the BR & HDMI stanards are still not fixed, nor are there sufficient titles at decent priciing to necessitate a huge investment right now into Blue Ray discs & gear.

If you truly wish to get in, get in cheap. Things are still evolving.

Oppos' BR player was originally slated for about this time last year, but they went with a reference SD DVD player instead, the 983. Some sort of hold up with the processing chip and/or rights from Sony. I will say though, if and or when oppo does come out with one, it will surely have to be on one's short list of Blue Ray players to check out given their track record for performance and value.

Can someone who has the Panny BD-35 tell us how quiet it may or may not be?

Goldmund new bluray player looks attractive. It is called Eidos 20BD

Stubby, I have the BD35 and its very quiet.

YES and on the cheap too. I bought the Panasonic BD 55 ($325-Amazon) for an older no HDMI HDTV to taste Blu Ray. I was less than overwhelmed looking at Blu Ray through video components. (Let that be a warning everybody!) However, I was forced to look for a 32" flat screen for a second room HT system. I discovered I didn't need to pay for the added cost of 1080i/p or even 120Hz refresh for my smaller flat screen purchase. I got a 32" Sony flat screen from Best Buy just priced down to $500 from $650 the day after Thanksgiving and it paired up with the BD 55 magnificently. I discovered for screens under 36", a 740i capable screen is fine. Above 36" you will want 1080 capability but I saved at least $3-400 for my screen size revelation. Also, the Panasonic BD35 (w/out video components) would have been fine for my needs and cost $100 less. In short, you can enjoy Blu Ray HD for under $750 without a problem with a Panasonic BD 35 for $225 (Amazon)and a 32" HD flat screen in the $500 and less range. If nothing else, seriously consider the Panasonic BD 35/55. They're not "universal" players - no SACD or DVD-Audio but will give you all the current state of the art Blu Ray-HT audio formats to enjoy high definition images. Seeing Batman Begins and 2001 Space Odessy in high def is worth it. Also, the upconvert feature for regular DVDs is outstanding and won't make you want to rush out and rebuy your entire DVD collection. However, you will want to get Blu Ray releases clearly identified as "outstanding". (Sadly not all Blu Ray movies are equal, just as not all early CD audio releases of favorite vinyl recordings are sonic gems.)