How To Buy Guide - Blu-ray Guide

What is Blu-ray?

In a nutshell, Blu-ray is the next generation digital optical media. Blu-ray discs are the same size as DVDs, but can store over 5 times as much data (single layer BD = 25GB, single layer DVD = 4.7GB). Because Blu-ray discs have a large storage capacity, they are perfect for use with High Definition content.

Why do I need Blu-ray?

For the most part, if you want to watch High Definition movies and shows at home, your options are HD TV channels (cable, satellite, or over-the-air) or Blu-ray. Blu-ray is now used by all of the major movie studios, and more and more films are being released on Blu-ray every day. If you want the convenience of watching movies when you want or building out your own personal HD movie library, you’ll likely want to consider Blu-ray.

So what makes Blu-ray so great?

HD content. HD resolutions come in 3 flavors: 720p, 1080i and 1080p; with 1080p offering the highest quality image. While HD TV is typically broadcast in either 720p or 1080i resolution, Blu-ray has the ability to support full 1080p. Blu-ray also supports high definition audio codecs like Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio. While DVD movies are typically mixed with 5.1 channels of audio, Blu-ray can support up to 7.1 channels.

Great! So what do I need to watch Blu-ray movies?

1) An HD Television capable of displaying 720p, 1080i or 1080p resolution (1080p offers the best resolution). See our TV Buying Guide if you need help picking out a TV.

2) A Blu-ray player. There are many stand alone players available today. You might also consider the Playstation 3 video game console. The PS3 comes with a built-in Blu-ray player, allowing you to watch Blu-ray movies in addition to playing PS3 games.

3) A 5.1 or 7.1 surround sound speaker system. If you don’t have a surround sound system, the audio will still play through your TV speakers but you’ll be missing out on everything Blu-ray has to offer. At minimum a 5.1 surround sound system is recommended, with 7.1 being ideal.

4) High Definition cables. HDMI cables carry both audio and video signals and provide the highest quality. If HDMI cables are unavailable, Component or DVI cables will also transmit HD quality video, but you'll need separate audio cables like Digital Optical or Digital Coaxial. Only HDMI and DVI cables can transmit video quality at 1080p.

5) Blu-ray movies. PriceGrabber has a large selection of Blu-ray Movies to get you started. And if you really want to be blown away by the HD capabilities of Blu-ray, make sure and pick up a copy of Planet Earth.