The BDP7500 is a step-up from mass-market Blu-ray spinners, but only just. The main example of this status is how the Profile 2.0 BDP7500 deals with BD Live, though its built-in storage is only one step in the right direction – Wi-Fi connectivity would make things a whole lot easier. Being straddled with an Ethernet port only doesn't exactly lessen the appeal of the BDP7500, but it does push BD Live further into the margins. Lucky, then, that the BDP7500 issues such strong picture quality from both Blu-ray and DVD discs.
The BDP7500 Mk II takes a winning formula and makes it even better by throwing 3D compatibility into the mix. Both its 3D and 2D pictures are excellent, and with the addition of Wi-Fi support plus an impressive range of other features, the BDP7500 is now one of the best Blu-ray players on the market. And thatۉs before weۉve even mentioned its slick operating system and its external design, which is simply beautiful.
The only things preventing us from holding it in quite the same regard as the LG BD570, Sony BDP-S570 and Samsung BD-C6900 is the lack of built-in Wi-Fi, which means you need to fork out for a costly USB dongle, plus Net TVۉs range of services canۉt quite match the quality of Sonyۉs Bravia Internet Video.
Much like the BDP7300 and BDP3000, the BDP7500 is a very likeable Blu-ray player with a wonderful operating system, speedy operation and jaw-dropping, distinctive looks that’ll bring a bit of glamour to any AV system. And on the performance front it’s hard to fault, sending gloriously sharp, vivid and nuanced hi-def pictures to your TV.
At this price, that would normally add up to an absolute bargain, but like many Blu-ray players in this price bracket it’s up against a considerable opponent in the LG BD390, whose combination of Wi-Fi, PC streaming and superior media support still makes it seem like a more tempting proposition, particularly given its similar price tag. Even so, take a punt on the Philips and you won’t be disappointed.
(Les notes de la presse sont données à titre indicatif et représentent une interprétation du test par Numerama)
