We flicked on the 24fps mode in an attempt to create a more cinematic feel by slowing down the disc a modicum, but it's hard to discern any appreciable difference. Doing so can also occasionally introduce a lip-sync problem, though no more on this deck than any other.

The BD-P1600 conquers Transsiberian's endless snow-laden scenes with crisp, sharp close-ups that contain just enough detail to create depth. The murder scene at the church is especially impressive, with the white surroundings containing subtle detail and shadow, although the player is equally adept with the tense and colourful dining car scenes that follow.

Skin tones look natural and gradation in colours is reasonably good, though there is some visible picture noise in backgrounds. It's not serious and pictures remain watchable at all times, but it's clear that the BD-P1600 is a step-down from high-end decks.

RemoteREMOTE ACCESS: You can access all the picture tweaks with ease with the good remote layout

To the untrained eye though, the HD spinner offers excellent value for money if you're simply after a great Blu-ray deck, although it must be said that upscaling of DVDs does lack precision.

Sound

In practice the BD-P1600 is more about pictures than sound, with soundtracks lacking a little punch. That said, playback of simple MP3 files from a USB flash memory stick delivers plenty of mid-range and treble detail, while CD playback is on a par with most DVD players and by that we mean basic.

If you have a compatible amplifier, try routing Dolby True HD or DTS HD Master Audio soundtracks through the player's two analogue outputs, although you'll have to trade up if you want 7.1-channel sound.

Value

A good performer in all areas, it seems crass to criticise the BDP1600 too much, especially at this price. The extra cost for the wi-fi dongle pushes this deck closer to its bigger brother, Samsung's £200 BD-P4600, which while it also needs a dongle, can indulge in streaming from a PC.

If you are after a decent Blu-ray player that can handle a good few digital media file types – and you'd sooner buy a BD Live deck than not, in the hope features will improve – Samsung's imperfect BD-P1600 is worth hunting down.

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