Memorex MVBD-2520 [Profile 2.0 Blu-ray Player]

Memorex unveiled its $200 Profile 2.0 Blu-ray player – the MVBD-2520 – at the CES in Las Vegas. The player is expected to ship to retailers in early summer. For the uninitiated, Profile 2.0 is a Blu-ray specification that mandates an internet connection via an Ethernet port for the Blu-ray player. Profile 2.0, also known as BD-Live, requires that the players possess 1GB of local storage capability.

The Memorex MVBD-2520 may not be packed with features but has enough to make it a good budget offering that gives a pleasurable HD-viewing experience. The Memorex model does not offer streaming capabilities as offered by players like the LG BD390 and the Samsung BD-P4600. Also, it does not offer DTS-HD Master Audio decoding and 7.1 analog outputs that another $200 player, the Vizio VBR100 offers.

Profile 2.0 compatibility means that you will be able to download extra features, online bonus content and firmware updates. The Memorex MVBD 2520 lets you convert standard-definition images into hi-def quality at 480p, 720p, 1080i and 1080p display resolutions. The player features a USB port and an SD card slot. It also offers onboard Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD High Resolution decoding.