Where the BD50 falls down slightly is in its DVD playback capabilities. The BD30 was only an average disc-spinner, and this model is not overly different. Interestingly, the new software coding on the Uniphier chipset has resulted in slightly different characteristics.

Most notable is a break-up on vertically scrolling text (typically the end credits on a movie). The player will, however, scale DVD to 1080p.

Future-proofed

Panasonic's BD50 is currently the best-performing Blu-ray deck you can buy. It offers unmatched levels
of picture clarity (edging past the PS3) and comes with a future-proof specification.

That BD Live has yet to develop into a worthwhile attraction is hardly Panasonic's fault – at least the internet connection will make upgrading firmware a simple task.

If you want the best performing standalone Blu-ray player available, this is the machine to get.