Who needs Netflix and Prime Video? These 4K Blu-ray starter packs can unlock the ultimate movie-watching experience

Panasonic Blu-Ray player and Samsung soundbar side-by-side
(Image credit: Future)

Recently, I've written fairly regularly about my entry into the world of 4K Blu-ray and the immense benefits that have come with it. I'm pretty sure that the novelty of increased picture quality, less compressed audio, and genuine ownership has yet to wash off. And I'm starting to wonder if it ever will.

Yes, I'm even getting such a kick from venturing to my local music and entertainment store, picking up a movie I love, and enjoying it like never before. There's something deeply nostalgic and heart-warming about that experience, which just makes 4K Blu-ray that bit more enticing.

Today's best 4K Blu-ray player and Dolby Atmos soundbar deals in the US

The budget-friendly starter pack

Sony UBP-X700
Sony UBP-X700: $279 at Best Buy
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I personally own the Sony UBP-X700, and it's the ultimate 4K Blu-ray player for those on a budget. With Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos support, you'll be able to experience movies like never before, with less compression than streaming services subject us to.

Sonos Beam Gen 2
Save 26% ($130)
Sonos Beam Gen 2: was $499 now $369 at Amazon
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Even though it's a few years old now, the Sonos Beam Gen 2 is probably still the best compact Dolby Atmos soundbar around. When I tested it recently, it wowed me with super-clean dialogue, impressive low-end output, and supreme ease-of-use. Oh, and it's also 26% off right now, meaning you can snap it up for an exceptional $369!

The premium starter pack

Panasonic DP-UB820
Panasonic DP-UB820: $533.97 at Amazon
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We judge the Panasonic DP-UB820 as the best 4K Blu-ray player for most people. Why? Well, it plates up outstanding audio and picture quality, it's built to a great standard, and it's absolutely rammed with connectivity options. Those wide connectivity options and HDR10+ compatibility set it apart from the Sony player above, making it a pristine premium pick.

Sonos Arc Ultra
Save 18% ($200)
Sonos Arc Ultra: was $1,099 now $899 at Amazon
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When I think of an amazing soundbar, I instantly think of the Sonos Arc Ultra. For a one-box model, it's astonishingly powerful, with the sort of bass performance that demands your attention. Pair that with impeccable Dolby Atmos and a super-sleek design, and you're getting a top-tier soundbar. Plus, it's $200 off right now, bringing it to a much more tempting price.

Today's best 4K Blu-ray player and Dolby Atmos soundbar deals in the UK

The budget-friendly starter pack

Sony UBP-X700
Save 6% (£16.14)
Sony UBP-X700: was £269 now £252.86 at Amazon
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I own the Sony UBP-X700 4K Blu-ray player myself and absolutely adore it. As it reads discs locally, you're going to get far less compression than with streaming services. And as a result, movies with Dolby Vision look absolutely unbelievable. Dolby Atmos effects also sound so much better, and audio is generally mapped more effectively, with heightened overall clarity to boot. There's a little sale on this at the moment, so why not give it a go?

Sony HT-S2000
Sony HT-S2000: £399 at Argos
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The Sony HT-S2000 is an amazing soundbar, and given its modest price, it sounds almost too good to be true. Dolby Atmos is convincing, dialogue is ultra-clear, and setup is as easy as pie. You can also save 10% on this bar over at Argos if you use the code RED10. If availability is limited in your area, you can also purchase it at Amazon instead via the link below.

Sony HT-S2000 at Amazon - £399

The premium starter pack

Panasonic DP-UB820
Panasonic DP-UB820: £346.97 at Amazon
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I use the Panasonic DP-UB820 to test soundbars at our TV testing space at Future Labs, and couldn't recommend it enough. It has more connectivity options than the Sony model above, and its HDR10+ compatibility could be a game-changer, especially if you've got a Samsung TV, given that none of those support Dolby Vision.

Samsung HW-Q990F
Samsung HW-Q990F: £790 at Amazon
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The Samsung HW-Q990F is one of the best multi-box soundbars on the market, thanks to its mesmerizing surround sound, room-shaking power, and compact design. We rated it five stars in our Samsung HW-Q990F review, and having tried it out myself, I couldn't recommend it enough.

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Harry Padoan
Staff Writer

Harry is a Reviews Staff Writer for TechRadar. He reviews everything from party speakers to wall chargers and has a particular interest in the worlds of audio and gaming. Harry has a background in business tech journalism, particularly around the telecoms industry.

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