SELECT 107
TOP 10 Blu-ray players
Sony UBP-X1100ES
« £750
This update on Sony's
previous ES-level 4K spinner
continues to dazzle with its
build quality and audio
playback, but the lack of
HDR10+ and a clunky Dolby
Vision implementation limits
its appeal. HCC #301Xbox One X
« £400
Microsoft's superior console
dazzles with its native 4K
HDR gaming chops – and
doubles as a UHD disc
player. If you're short of shelf
space and like mixing movies
with joypad fun, it's a decent
option. HCC #280Cambridge Audio CXUHD
« £800
The lack of analogue outputs
is a surprise considering CA's
heritage, but this universal
(and DV-capable) deck
sounds sweet over its digital
outs. As with Oppo's UDP-
203 , a MediaTek SoC is used.
HCC #279Panasonic DP-UB9000 « £850
Supporting both HDR10+ and Dolby Vision, and incorporating
useful image adjustments, this premium player is at the leading
edge of UHD BD playback. The astonishing construction and
provision of VOD apps heighten its appeal. HCC #292Panasonic DP-UB820
« £330
Panasonic's mid-ranger
delivers on both the HDR10+
and DV fronts, and introduces
multichannel analogue
outputs. As with the UB420,
the VOD portal could do with
a style makeover.
HCC #295Sony UBP-X800
« £270
Sony embraces UHD Blu-ray
with a full-width, sturdy
design that'll also spin
DVD-A and SACD platters.
A great all-rounder, but no
current Dolby Vision support
or word on an update.
HCC #274Pioneer UDP-LX500
« £1,000
Lacks the audiophile features
(including XLR output) of the
UDP-LX800 but still sounds
sublime with CD and hi-res
audio. Dolby Vision playback,
with HDR10+ due via
fi rmware. No VOD apps.
HCC #296Sony UBP-X700
« £200
A compact player updated
to Dolby Vision support, the
UBP-X700 has a nondescript
design, no analogue outs
and a stubby remote. But
it's well priced, and off ers
SACD support.
HCC #284Pioneer UDP-LX800 « £2,200
A phenomenal universal disc spinner, which adds audiophile-
grade music playback to its 4K BD talents. Includes Dolby Vision
support, with HDR10+ promised via future fi rmware. Build quality
is staggering. HCC #29303
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Panasonic DP-UB420
« £200
Hi-res fi le support and
HDR10+ compatibility make
up for this deck's lightweight
build and basic streaming
app provision. Plenty of
user tweaks on off er and
a tempting price.
HCC #291NEW
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