Sony CES 2011 3D Blu-ray Player Lineup Is Quite Impressive

Given the fact that it unveiled plenty of new 3D-capable HDTVs, several 3D camcorders and even Cyber-shot digital cameras capable of taking 3D snapshots, it should come as no surprise that Japanese company Sony also brought to CES 2011 quite a few 3D Blu-ray players, as well as a very attractive portable Blu-ray player, the BDP-SX1000.

The new full HD 1080p 3D Blu-ray Disc Player series includes four stand alone models (BDP-S780, BDP-S580, BDP-S480, and BDP-S380), all of which provide plenty of interesting playback features, and support for Blu-ray 3D, DVD, CD and SACD discs.

Additionally, all of the players also grant users access to a host of movies, video, and music services through the BRAVIA Internet Video platform including Sony’s Video On Demand and Music Unlimited powered by Qriocity, as well as Netflix, Pandora, HuluPlus, Amazon Video on Demand, YouTube, Slacker Internet Radio, Crackle, Blip.tv, etc.

The BDP-S780 Blu-ray Disc Player is the most advanced model of the bunch, offering, beside the features mentioned above, integrated Wi-Fi (802.11n) with WPS, 2D to 3D up conversion technology, DLNA Client and photo, music, and video playback, as well as support for the HomeShare Wi-Fi Network Speaker and for the Media Remote application (compatible with iPhone/iPod touch/Android mobile devices).

Next in line comes the BDP-S580 that loses 2D to 3D up conversion and Skype support, while the same features are more or less the same as those of the S780, followed by the BDP-S480, that is only Wi-Fi ready (requires an external dongle for connecting to a network).

The BDP-S380 is the least-advanced model, ditching HomeShare Wi-Fi and DNLA Client support.

Last, but certainly not least, comes the portable Blu-ray player model we've mentioned earlier, namely the BDP-SX1000 Portable Blu-ray Disc Player, that packs a 10-inch WSVGA (1024 x 600) display that swivels at 180 degrees and a five-hour rechargeable battery life.

Plus, beside Blu-ray and DVD playback, the device also supports USB media playback and comes equipped with built-in speakers and headphone output.

All of Sony's new 3D Blu-ray players should arrive on the market in March 2011 for $250, $200, $180 and 150 US dollars, respectively, while the portable BDP-SX1000 will retail for around 300 US dollars starting at some point this Spring.