There can’t be too many brands in this world that are so associated with high quality than what Panasonic is when it comes to audio and video products. They’re often the benchmark, so we were very keen to find out just how well Panasonic’s DP-UB420 Blu-ray player would perform, and if you continue reading, we will reveal all.
Panasonic 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Player
With Panasonic being one of the world’s foremost manufacturers of video and audio consumer products you might be surprised to know that they do not produce a massive array of different Blu-ray players. However, that should mean that the few that they do make will be of the highest order, and that is very true of the DP-UB420.
It is obviously designed for home entertainment, with the ability to playback in several high definition formats. It can also work with an Alexa voice control device and can stream videos and movies from Prime, Netflix, and YouTube.
Who is this product for?
If you are looking for a Blu-ray player that is going to enhance the look of your living room in any way, you are looking in the wrong place, because this one from Panasonic isn’t going to win any prizes for its looks. It is basically a boring black box, so its appeal is going to be in terms of its playing quality.
On that, it scores very highly so that will be a plus for many. There is also the fact that it is capable of being connected to audio for providing premium sound outputs for a variety of audio formats such as mp3 and Wav to name but two. That should appeal to those who value the quality of the sounds they hear, as much as the images they are seeing.
What’s included?
When your purchase is delivered, the box should contain the following items. There will be the Blu-ray player, the remote control, two batteries for the remote control, the power lead and the user manual.
Overview of features
This Blu-ray player can support some of the most advanced video 4k/HDR formats such as HDR10 and HDR10+ and much of the quality that you will see on-screen is thanks to its HCX processor which is especially adept at recreating precise colors.
It’s not just images that it excels at, as multiple sound formats can be played through it simply by connecting an audio device via USB connection. Whether it from an external source or the disc being played internally, the purity and clarity of the sound will be every bit as impressive as the aforementioned video, thanks to the player’s 32-bit, 4-DAC sound processor.
Should you wish to stream using the DP-UB420, you can do so with YouTube, Netflix and Prime Video streaming services all available thanks to the player’s built-in Wi-Fi.
Although you can control everything using the remote control, you also have the option of voice control using Alexa’s voice assist system.
How to use it
To try and fully explain every function of any Blu-ray player and how to use it, would take than the space we have here, so we will cover the basics and trust that you will read the user manual carefully to learn every function.
Probably the most important section in the manual is the one showing how to connect the player to devices such as your TV. Normally done via an HDMI cable, making sure you follow the instructions so that you connect it correctly.
The Panasonic DP-UB420 Blu-ray player can be used to play several disc formats including DVD, Blu-ray, and CDs. Always ensure that any disc you intend playing is one that is listed as compatible.
Before placing discs in the player always wipe the playing surface with a suitable cleaning cloth so that it plays properly, and to minimize dust entering the player.
Pros
- Supports 4k/HDR formats
- Outstanding image quality
- Exceptional sound clarity
- Has voice assist capability
- Built-in Wi-Fi for streaming services
Cons
- CD playback is variable
Alternative
Panasonic DP-UB820K
If you love Panasonic products and instead of the DP-UB420,wish to go for a Blu-ray player which is further up their range, then you will be keen to take a look at their DP-UB820K model.
This player incorporates some of Panasonic’s highest technologies with respect to video and audio playback products and has enhancements that the DP-UB420 can’t offer. These include 7.1 channel audio output, twin HDMI output and state of the art Dolby Vision technology for the very best video images.
Conclusion
There is no mistaking quality when you see it, and while on the outside it may seem unassuming, once you see the quality of the videos images that this Panasonic DP-UB420 Blu-ray player can produce, you will know why this gets 5 stars from just about everyone.