Panasonic's UltraHD 4K Blu-Ray Players: The DP-UB420 VS DP-UB9000

This video focuses on the picture quality of the UB420 and some external cosmetics. Because they both include the HCX processor, it's going to be hard to justify spending the extra money for the UB9000 for many consumers. My overall thoughts and mini review is located in the last 13 mins. The UB420 is on sale at Best Buy for $189.99 - Links below.
www.panasonic....
www.bestbuy.co...

[@uceddiemo]

I bought one, just getting into 4K and after doing much research the UB420 is the best player per dollar

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

Eddie Davis I agree! I’m still amazed by the quality of this player and the price.

[@darthwarren4599]

I have one and i have had 3 other players and they don’t live up to the 420. The hdr optimizer makes hdr content on my budget samsung nu6950 amazing

[@jabdnor]

@@darthwarren4599 have a nu7200 and I agree

[@Revolver1981]

No pal. Not for people who want Dolby Vision.

[@franka1621]

Fantastic and very practical review - one of the best! Many thanks and please keep it up.

[@d7a7s7]

Thx for the revue--- well presented and informative.

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

Patricia Smith Thanks so much!

[@ricardocasolin1455]

Thank you for this review! Very good info and comments. Great that you make videos like this from an enthusiast point of view, makes the energy and enjoyment very high. Thinking to buy the 820 with Dolby Vision, since my project supports Dolby Vision. Had the UB9000 a few years ago. Great player and build like a tank, but since I am not a big collector of movies I can settle with the 820.

[@vonzuriel4341]

I just brought the 420 for $80 open box never used from FB market. !🎉 Literally never used. My LGC3 is like GOKU… Ultra Colors are popping like never before!!! There’s definitely difference in streaming than having and reproducing the source at home. The GAMMA😱 🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩

[@na_98_45]

Man you should do more videos you will have more people here easily thanks for the video and don't stop !

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

Thanks for the kind words, I’m trying to develop some idea of things people want to see. Feel free to give us some insights to what content you’d like to see.

[@na_98_45]

@@hometheaterhobby9450 I would say do what you are good at and what you like and I'm sure if it's from your heart people will like it

[@TonyDL]

Haven't found a lot of info about this player until I watched your video! Thanks so much for going into such detail about this player, features, and where it sits in the overall UHD space. I have an Epson 5040UB projector and based on your analysis of the HDR features, picture quality, and aesthetics, I am going to BB tomorrow to pick this up for $150, or I may get an open box for a few bucks less if it's clean enough. Really good and practical info you've presented here in a logical and organized manner, bravo!!

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

Tony Lopes thanks so much! I think you’ll really enjoy this player. You will be able to fine tune the HDR or use their optimizer settings out of the box. Either way, this will really add to your 5040UB. Looking forward to your thoughts once you get a chance to view some great content.

[@TonyDL]

@@hometheaterhobby9450 Doh! I missed the sale and it's back up to $250. Now watching for a New Year's sale hopefully... :-(

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

Tony Lopes Hey, I saw your question about settings and picture quality of the disc 4K and Blu-ray, but I don’t see it here anymore. I do have a copy in my email and was planning a video to walk you through everything in the question. Are you still interested?

[@TonyDL]

@@hometheaterhobby9450 Yes, I would very much be interested in that, thank you! My comment is still listed here on KZbin, but it's under a different thread (below this one). Thanks much

[@jnagarya519]

@@TonyDL Amazon has it for $149.00.

[@crazy-_-Beard]

I bought the UB420 it’s excellent and I only paid $149.95 💪🏻

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

That's a great deal on the player. It's still our player of choice for most consumers, in our opinion, but there's always someone with a different view.

[@misterjaliscoelmascabron9327]

DO YOU RECOMMEND IT ?

[@m4nc1n1]

I have the 420 in my 7.3.4 HT, and it (HT) is costly. I am running an 85" Samsung mini-led, Klipsch RP 8000, RP504C, and RP5000 speakers powered by Marantz AV7705, MM8077, and MM7055. This player looks and sounds fantastic! I was going to get the 9000 but decided it was not worth it since I will only use the HDMI anyway. Like you said, they have the same video processor, so I would spend 5 times as much on looks. I have a ton of 4K BR rips I play off my NAS, and if I take that same movie on Disc and use the 420, it blows them away in video, especially audio. The 420 is just a fantastic deal!

[@willisjr12169]

I bought Panasonic ub820 and it doesn't read my disc anymore. I keep my disc very clean and store them back in there case. I'm very disappointed and angry I paid $500 for the Panasonic ub820. My Panasonic ub420 plays flawlessly no problems!!

[@hdmoviesource]

UB9000 is a great player, definately still, the best player on the market today, and I love the build quality. Great video, thanks.

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

Thanks for the kind words

[@michaelwyckoff7593]

Just got the UB420😊

[@garyharper2943]

Bought the 420 to go with my Benq 3550 and couldn’t be happier!

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

Good deal!

[@meritofapproval]

A concise and thorough review spoken in real people language-phew! Thank you & I look forward to more videos from you. New subscriber here! 👍🏾

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

Thanks, I’m working on new content

[@mark17840]

i have the 420 form panasonic is a good 4 k player love it just to to say

[@cavalierdecoupe]

Perfectly said man. I ve also bought 3x UB420 units. They are that good.

[@mdk9000]

Dolby vision aside, is there any marginal upgrade to the picture quality on the UB, 9000 versus the 420 I know. In terms of sound, it’s far superior, and wondering whether better components in the UB 9000 yield a slight improvement in visual performance?

[@larryhazelwood5491]

The build quality makes the 9000 worth the extra money.Metal chassis and anti vibration compared to mostly plastic on the 820.If you can afford it the 9000 is worth it.

[@robertrobitaille320]

I have the 420, work great, picture quality, sound us way better than LG ubk90, way less noizy player on 420. Lovevits small and very light. Last summer in high end audio store they all had panasonic versions side by side and tv. They play a movie No différences in picture quality. Only thing they could not do is make me here the audio. Audio would be a big part to buy for movie is different than 420 does it loader faster, is even more silent than a 420. I care less about metal heavier better built unless it maje better for points I concern. I has more audio feature. But does it make difference in the hdmi for movie. That is six versus four hdr mapping feature not a selling point. Compare to last summer 9000 has home up 300 canadien dollars. Than + 15 percent taxes.

[@JohnBog]

I picked up the ub420 for only $80 USD brand new and will go with a Samsung QLED and sounbar !!

[@SpencerDean14]

Love Panasonic. Wish they would sell their OLED TVs here. Had to go with a Sony OLED when I upgraded my Panasonic Plasma :( Appreciate the video man. Picking up an 820 today (really appreciate the Dolby Vision and OLED call out, bc I have both)

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

Thanks for the comments, enjoy the new player!

[@markwilliams5792]

If I connect this model of player to my Onkyo via HDMI will receiver decode all audio? I am happy with movie sound from Xbox one to receiver but want a better 4 k picture experience without losing audio

[@powerinnumbers6159]

Note to Australian viewers!!! The UB420 remote control pictured here is NOT the same supplied here. We get a similar look but 3/4 size and not big finger friendly.... I hate it

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

Just unboxed the 450 - it has the smaller remote as well.

[@powerinnumbers6159]

@@hometheaterhobby9450 I wonder if you can use the UB9000 remote on the 420? Can you please check?

[@jnagarya519]

@TheRoswellCrash That's because you have small hands and fewer fingers Down Under.

[@larryhazelwood5491]

I am a huge Panasonic fan.That being said you can live in a house made of plastic ora house made of brick.The 9000 is built like a tank.Even better sound vibration dampening.i have the 9000 and I have no regret spending $999 for it.

[@user-bj1mx2ip1c]

The 420 is extremely quit???? And only $220.00

[@robmontoya8181]

Thanks for the review. I was thinking about getting a region free DP-UB420 at 220 Electronics for 369.99 that includes free shipping and free cable and no tax. Then I think about the DP-UB820 selling for 399.99 maybe I should purchase the DB-UB820 for thirty dollars more...

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

That's close; I’d go with the 820 for those price points.

[@percybedford6266]

Thanks for the review. I am thinking of getting the UB420 for my projector and pairing it with the HD Fury Vertex2 for the Dolby Vision and tone mapping.

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

Which projector are you using?

[@percybedford6266]

@@hometheaterhobby9450 I have a JVC X35 right now but I am thinking of upgrading. What do you think I should do? I have been looking at the Sony 295es. Still somewhat undecided.

[@rsdno]

Thank You great review plus help for my UB420 coming 4/20/21 or 4 20

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

Awesome!! Happy to hear it helps!

[@mrpmj00]

I'm returning my SONY ubp-x700 because it froze when I played a long movie (FURY 4k froze at around the 2 hours mark). I've ordered the Panasonic UB420 so I hope that doesn't freeze on a long 4k movie. I'm surprised SONY hasn't fixed this considering that it's been 3 years ago.

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

I think you will be good, I haven't had problems yet.

[@bzrdbrew]

Great picture from Blu-ray and 4K discs from the UB420; just what I wanted.

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

Awesome, happy you found the right disc player!

[@hcho8164]

If you could provide comparisons to Apple TV and other streaming devices' video quality, it would be interesting. Also, for OCD people who can not tolerate any disc rotating noise, isn't technology ready to use camera sensors to read the entire disc without spinning?

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

I'll do a streaming review soon. My perception has changed a bit as streaming quality improves.

[@jnagarya519]

Years ago Panasonic made bicycles. Their quality was the best, even in cosmetics.

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

I agree! Their quality is top-notch.

[@RonD84]

Very good review pal cheers, So is the Dolby Vision on the 9000 replacing the HCX on the 420

[@jerzyboy1210]

When you watch 4k blu-rays and press the “playback info” button twice, does it show you the hdr info? Like rgb values and such. That’s literally all Ím looking for

[@irvingporter4925]

I had a Panasonic dp-420 and it wouldn't read some of my discs even though they were in great condition

[@johandenhertog6878]

Panasonic makes great 4K UHD BR players and is the best on the market. But Pioneer is the greatest and it’s since 2020 out of stock. For me the only option is the PANASONIC DP-UB9004 and like the build of it is made as a tank. Use now the PANASONIC TX-49FXW784 LED LCD 4K TV but would have latter on the PANASONIC TX-55HZW2004 OLED 4K TV because of more nits. And use the NAD T758 V3IGR with Bowers & Wilkins.

[@westraweek5125]

Hey man! Thank you so much for such a great review video! I have a quick question for you. I have had a Sony ubp-x700m for about a year and a half. It is quit working. Will only read DVDs. Will not read regular Blu-ray discs or 4K discs anymore. It is on the latest firmware. I am ready to replace it. I have looked at the Sony X800M2 or the Panasonic ubp-420. After a few years of owning it, would you still recommend the Panasonic? It just seems like such a great player.

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

Yes, absolutely! Although I’m streaming more these days.

[@OzzyMandias]

I got UB320 for £50 UK, I think it's the same minus the WIFI, I have an ethernet connection so I'm happy...

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

Hope you like it! Thanks for sharing.

[@kennztube]

Streaming in my view is good but can’t match the bandwidth of discs. Also movies come off services and don’t have the extra features.

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

Great points!

[@amead78]

I bought this from my BB today for $126 open box.

[@mikedinno8413]

Can anyone tell me why the screensaver doesn't work when I pause the Panny using it's Netflix?? Any suggestions?

[@zztop7000]

I'm happy very with my Panasonic UB420 replace my xbox one x as 4k player I'm surprised the colors is rich and detail! Plus i don't need a dolby vision my JVC projector don't even have dolby vision also alot of 4k projector doesn't even have dolby. That reduced the license fees very SMART move by Panasonic.

[@phillipgant3436]

Recently purchased this unit going to pair it with a Samsung QN900B which does not support dolby vision, should i turn off dolby vision on the 4k bluray player or leave it on. Any help would be great ? Thanks.. Phil

[@zztop7000]

As long 4k xbox players and ps5 physical media is here to stay. I love holding something instead of just invisible streaming. Also turntable came back because of physical.

[@leroyalade6570]

Hi I have brought the Panasonic TV GX800 so I will use the remote from this while using the DP UB 450. It is a no brainer picking this up.

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

Should work!

[@percybedford6266]

Nice review. If you don't mind me asking, what theater seats are you using? Thanks again.

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

Percy Bedford I’ll try to find the information. I might have the paperwork saved.

[@percybedford6266]

@@hometheaterhobby9450 sounds good appreciate it.

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

I haven’t been able to locate the information, but I’ll post an update if I do.

[@percybedford6266]

@@hometheaterhobby9450 sounds good, thanks again.

[@fabfitty]

I connected hdmi to my projector. eARC to AV receiver. Is thete any advantage of using 2nd hdmi to av receiver for audio over eARC ?

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

It depends. In most cases no. If you have a higher end set up it can make a difference.

[@WizeGuyDezignz]

Great video! I wanna get either the 420 or 820 today. I have a Sony X930E (not OLED) that does support Dolby Vision. At Best Buy the 820 is $399 and the 420 is $219. Is DV with the extra $180? Thank you!

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

WizeGuyDezignz DV is a great technology and worth $180. I don’t think you’d be disappointed without it. If it fits your budget - go for it.

[@Pr3dator80]

Hi, great video :-) What you think get the UB420 with all good settings, optimizer, Chroma upscaling and so one, or the LG UBK90 ? The Panasonic is normally the way to go and it’s for sure the better player. But no Dolby Vision, I have an LG C8 Oled. But I think I will go with the UB420, I think, the chroma upscaling, HDR optimizer and the other settings makes more difference then just Dolby with the LG. What you think, is my idea good or better go with the LG ? I hope you can help me. Best regards Christian

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

That’s a great question. Normally I’d say go with the LG if DV is a must but the optimizer is really just that good. I’d get both, play with the settings, see what you like the best and return the other model. However, you could always step up to the Panasonic UB820 for $499 if your budget allows and have DV. Hope this helps.

[@Pr3dator80]

Brand Man Thank you so much for that fast answer. :-) 👍 Yes the 820 would be perfect, I can spend the money, but i think the price over the UB420 don’t worth it for me. Yes have DV, but otherwise not more that I need. And the price is very fair for the UB420. I‘m sure that 4K is just like HD ready years a go, 8k will the format when physical discs will release. And I don’t watch so much often discs, yes I prefer It over stream, but I will have just a player, also for my normal favorites Blu-rays. I have 52 UHDs, it’s not much, but I bought just films that I like really and want to rewatch again and again. :-) I would also buy the UB9000, because I like the design so much, but for me don’t worth it. I want just one for watch my discs that I have from my favorite movies, all others stuff I watch on Apple TV (iTunes) very good quality and good prices for movies/series. For that money that the UB820 or UB9000 Costs, I prefer buy with that money more movies. 😃 I bought last week the denon X4500 for an good price, now I have nice sound and picture. 🙏 Thank you so much again Best regards Christian

[@stckyjoey1]

I would definitely go with Panasonic. I have Two lg players but they were on sale. They have no settings to choose from like Panasonic. Way better then the Xbox one a player

[@crw31399]

I have oled lg c9 and marantz sr8012..is the 820 good enough for video quality and sound for atmos etc..? Good vid.just subscribed.what we would u recommend?

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

You’d be extremely happy with the 820. It’s features are closely matched with the 9000. I’d also recommend the 820 for oled’s.

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

Also, since you would use HDMI through your Marantz, Atmos and DTS-X will bitstream nicely.

[@crw31399]

@@hometheaterhobby9450 thank u for quick reply..!!

[@MrNiceKnife]

I just got a Sony ubpx700. How would you compare it to the Panasonic (picture quality). The Sony does have Dolby vision but it’s a manual setting, I’m on an lg c9 OLED.

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

In my opinion you’d benefit from the tone mapping of the Panasonic. However, I’m particularly partial to the optimizer.

[@MrNiceKnife]

Home Theater Hobby any chance you’ll compare the two in a video?

[@IxMADMANxl]

How much better is the 420 compared to Samsung k8500

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

Honestly, they perform very close to each other. I prefer the 420.

[@dora42ch]

i had this blu-ray player for nearly 3 months but returned it because it had too many problems. it would suddenly pause and mute for about 2 seconds while playing a disc. the picture would be blurry with some blu-rays. some movies looked like they lacked color. i think it was damaged when it was shipped.

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

Out of curiosity, who has a three month return policy? I haven’t read about anyone having that problem. I’ve had two disc not play but that’s the only thing I’ve ran into. Thanks for the comments, they help the community make buying decisions.

[@FrankVila]

What level of optimizer do you use with your projector? If I understand correctly, the 9000 has down to 350 nits tone mapping, meanwhile the 420 down to 500. Have you tried both with your projector? I have a BenQ W1720 4K HDR projector with no auto-mapping scene-for-scene and want something that get me closer to that. Thank you inadvance

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

That’s an interesting question, from what I’ve read I thought they were the same. Let me run some test and I’ll get back with you.

[@FrankVila]

Home Theater Hobby thank you!

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

Tone mapping appears to work per the display capabilities - nits on LCD were better than the projector. So I think it depends on your components.

[@FrankVila]

Home Theater Hobby Oh so you found nits on LCD works best for your setup?

[@edwinrijos6679]

to be fair that sony player is not the direct competitor of the ub420 is actually the sony ubp-x700 or the sony x800m2 those are direct competitors. now that that's out of the way yes panasonic is best bank for your buck

[@integra8502]

If i get a Hisence H9G with Dolby Vision should i get the Panny 820 vs the 420 ?

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

If DV is important to you, go with the 820. In my opinion you’d be surprised how great the 420 performs, however, many people want the feature of DV when it’s available.

[@GOLFADDICT65]

i am trying to decide between the 820 and the 9000.......live in canada....got the 820 for 348 canadian ( 270 US ).......the 9000 for 999 canadian ( 770 US )...so could almost get 3 of the 820's for the price of the 9000.....do you think its obvious to go with the 820 ??? thx.....cheers

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

I’d get the 820 and save the money unless you have to have the cosmetic look of the 9000.

[@GOLFADDICT65]

@@hometheaterhobby9450 ya thats what i did i picked up 2 of the 820's ...cheers

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

Good deal - one thing I noticed recently - get a jump drive and plug in the back. They aren’t much more than $6 and for some reason they seem to allow the start up and shut down to run quicker with BDlive content

[@CLTheMachine24]

Awesome review. I love the player but having issues with sound. I have a Vizio TV with hdr10+ support. I'm having trouble getting the sound to play from my receiver. 1 hdmi cable to the TV-hdmi 3, the other to the DVD hdmi input on my receiver. The receiver is is connected to the TV, hdmi 4. When the TV is on hdmi 3,i get picture nut no sound. When it's on hdmi 4, I get sound but no picture. Any advice would be great!

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

Thank you so much! I have a few ideas, I’m not where I can respond right away, I’ll respond tomorrow afternoon.

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

Okay, so you should make sure the input on your TV is set for the same HDMI as your player. The A/V receiver should be on the input from the second HDMI from your player. You will not see the volume sections like you normally do when only running one HDMI. But your sound should come through fine. Let me know if this helps @Christian Lemieux

[@CLTheMachine24]

Sorry for the late reply. after a couple hours of messing around with it nothing seemed to work. I'm guessing it's a receiver issue that won't allow audio only pass through by hdmi. Thanks for replying back

[@smokebonde9943]

I currently own the Panasonic UB 420 and a Samsung QLED 60 4k Tv. I also have a Samsung Fm57 blu ray player. For blu rays and dvd’s I say it looks better on my Samsung. On the Panasonic, my dvd’s and blu rays look way brighter and a little washed out than the Samsung one. I’m not so sure but I think Samsung has better color, at least for animated films, I say it has better color and video quality. I’m not sure what to do, should I keep my UB 420 or exchange for a Samsung M8500 4k player? What do you think?

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

That’s interesting, I’ve used the M8500, it’s what I replaced with the 420. I’d say, if you feel the Samsung has a better picture, go with that.

[@smokebonde9943]

Home Theater Hobby thanks for replying. Would you say that the M8500 is a better overall player than the Panasonic UB420 in terms of color and picture quality? How about in terms of 4k? What was your experience like with having the M8500 , was it better than the UB420? I am torn between the two and don’t know if I should keep my Ub420 or exchange it for a M8500. Thanks again :)

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

I believe the 420 is a much better viewing experience, but go with what your eyes like the best. If you gravitate towards the M8500, then go with that. In the world of HDR / SDR viewing, screens and players always need adjustments, so that’s something to consider as well.

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

I never liked the M8500, but some customers have been very happy with them. Panasonic has the best HDR 4K viewing in the market right now, but that could change.

[@Jmeon4eva]

Panasonic over Pioneer? Also my current player is the LGUBK90 which is doing okay for me.

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

I’m personally not a fan of the Pioneer 4K players. The video is geared towards new purchasers. I do think Panasonic will own the market over the next few years if they keep producing products like this one. LG makes some good players and I’m happy you found one that’s working for you. The features of the Panasonic is where I think it shines, you should take a look, they are on sale again for $150.

[@Jmeon4eva]

@@hometheaterhobby9450 My issue is that the 420 doesn't have Dolby. So it'd be either the 820 (i believe) or the 9K. I'm debating at some point going either Pana or Pioneer, especially if i can do a full on set up.

[@Jmeon4eva]

That's where i LOVE my UBK90, minus HDR10+ (not much of an issue my tv's a Vizio). I also love how responsive the player is. Granted it has it's issues, but it's a solid system.

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

Understand that, that’s were I’d recommend the 420 for projectors and the others for LED or OLEDs. I think that’s where Panasonic has something for everyone in every budget and need, per home theater. It’s a fun hobby, I like how you are thinking ahead!

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

I like what I see with Vizio, sounds like a good pairing.

[@claudec2588]

the Panasonic UB420 according to a local retailer has been discontinued.

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

www.panasonic.com/au/consumer/home-entertainment/blu-ray-and-dvd-players/dp-ub420.html

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

This could be possible. According to their three corporate websites I don’t see anything that leads me to think it’s discontinued.

[@GraceLifeMinistries]

Does the 420 do hi res audio?

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

Yes!

[@cinemalord9055]

Bought one yesterday 😁

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

Melvin Wea awesome!! Post your thoughts if you get a chance.

[@MandalaOfThe7]

Will I need an HDMI 2.0 Audio extractor in order to have an HDR 10+ signal running to my television while simultaneously having a Toslink optical audio signal plugged into my Active speakers? Does the DP-UB420 already allow me to do this with the use of its optical out? Any info is greatly appreciated.

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

Just seeing this comment, apologizes for the delay. You should be able to use this without needing an extractor. HDR 10+ will still run to your television without any issues. However, if you run into something, please let us know.

[@dmmusic233]

very good video , with you on the Oppo 203 cause I sold mind for 2 and a half times what it cost me, Panasonic 9000 a great player but lack the ability to play SACD CDs , me more audio then video, but pioneer udp lx 500 dose but Panasonic better video for my Sony A1 OLED , so got the Sony ubpx 1000 for a great price for SACD and the Panasonic ub 420 for the video cause not crazy about DV , like having the best of both world at a very low price at 350.00 for both

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

Thanks for the kind words, I’d agree with you, buy what you like and will use. The lack of SACD really surprised me on the Panasonic players. Also, I think you get it regarding DV, the optimizer is going to be best for most consumers, especially ones with projectors.

[@donosborne8303]

Could I get some advice. The more You tube videos I watch the most confused. I am going to buy a 75inch 4k, either Samsung or LG. I am told the LG is Dolby Vision and the Samsung is HDR 10 The Sony blue ray does Dolby, The Panasonic 420 doesn't. So if I pick a TV with DOlbyvision will the Panasonic 420 work? Any advice?

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

www.panasonic.com/uk/corporate/news/articles/introducing-panasonic-s-ub450-and-ub150-blu-ray-players-with-hdr10-and-dolby-vision.html The 420 does both, please see the attached link from the manufacturer.

[@Lamski3]

@@hometheaterhobby9450 The 420 does not do Dolby Vision. The 450 does but I believe the 450 is not available in the US. If you have to have Dolby Vision then you need to step up to the UB820. Correct me if I'm wrong.

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

Great points - there are differences between the UK and US models.

[@bryanp4827]

Picture Quality difference between the 420 and the 9000...?

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

They seem to be the same, which surprised me. The major difference is sound quality. The 9000 sounds fuller and I’m running new test now that I acquired a 450 as well.

[@dora42ch]

if your'e a person who likes problem free blu-ray players then know this, this player plays some DVDs with black bars on the sides even though the disc has been modified to fit your tv screen. i contacted panasonic and they said to reset the player, which i did, and it still did not work. my tv is not causing this problem. what can i do about this?

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

Hi dora42ch! I believe the following information will be helpful. The player is working correctly. When DVD’s were introduced to the market common TV aspect ratios were 4:3. The disc screen stating the film was modified to fit the screen lets the viewers know 2.35:1 or 1.77:1 films are reformatted to 1.33:1. This was the size of full screen TV’s in the 80’s and 90’s. When you view this same disc on a modern Blu-ray payer, you should see black bars on the left and right of your screen. The reason this is normal is your HD or 4K TV has an aspect ratio of 16:9. This simply means its wider than our old 4:3 TV’s from 1997 when DVD was first introduced, and why you will see the bars. When viewing a 2.35:1 film you will see black bars on the top and bottom of the screen. The only time you will see “full screen” is when you view a film or tv show recorded in 1.66:1, 1.78:1, or 1.85:1; these are all 16:9 formats. Hope this helps, rest assured the player is working properly.

[@dora42ch]

thanks for the quick reply. i forgot to mention that i have an old panasonic blu - ray player ( 2011 ) that i had hooked up to my 4K TV and it played the DVD full screen. it does not play all my DVDs like this, just a few of them. i have a DVD that i bought when DVDs first came out and it plays that one just the current DVDs and blu - rays. well, i'll take your word that the player is working properly. thanks again.

[@jnagarya519]

@@dora42ch I bought a number of DVDs in the early years of their existence that were "sized" 4:3, like early TVs (including 1950s and 1960s).. I then learned about that issue and found the same DVDs were also released to fit 16:9 screens.

[@lokanadhnadh9235]

Sir... I am in india, I won't Panasonic ub 420.any help me..pls

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

What would you like to know?

[@Sidottu]

You said had Oppo 203, what happened to your Oppo?

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

Later in the video, I talked about putting them on eBay.

[@TonyDL]

Hello Brand Man, I recently saw a post on AVS Forum (link below) where the poster claims that 4K disks are almost indistinguishable to 1080p disks when being sent to the Epson 5040UB as far as sharpness and clarity due to the excellent upscaling of the Epson. I am considering this DP-UB420 for watching UHD disks on my Epson projector and now it's back on sale at BB. Can you please offer your opinion on the use of this Panasonic player in regards to the poster's comment? Will I see much difference watching UHD disks compared to upscaled 1080p disks? Many thanks! www.avsforum.com/forum/199-front-projectors-great-found-deals/3059050-refurbished-epson-5040ub-1-151-00-a-30.html#post59111946

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

I’ve conducted the same test and disagree with what I read on avsforum. BB has a great return policy, I’d recommend testing it out yourself then decide. I’ll say that I recently watched Gemini Man which was 60fps and the picture was like looking through a window, you won’t get that with a 1080p disc or stream.

[@TonyDL]

@@hometheaterhobby9450 Appreciate the prompt reply! The 5040UB I don't think is able to do 60fps, right? The input is limited to 10.2GHz (30fps at UHD). But you are right that BB has a great return policy and I might as well try it for myself. The poster does concede "aside from the HDR difference", so maybe that alone is worth experiencing even with similar picture quality. I have a 4K Spiderman Homecoming Blu-ray that I can try this out on. It has both 1080p and 4K discs, so should be a fun comparo! Thank you

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

It can pass 60fps at SDR, 18GHz is required to pass 60fps HDR. I think you’ll be impressed.

[@TonyDL]

@@hometheaterhobby9450 I've had the DP-UB420 for a week now and have tried a few tests. Testing with a 4K disc, I was able to see 3840x1920 HDR on my Epson 5040UB projector, nice! BUT all of my other tests failed. It seems that if you can keep input frame rates down to 24 or 30fps, then you can get HDR and UHD, but I was not able to get ANY other devices to output at 24 or 30fps. Even the Panasonic player when using stream apps streams at 60fps and I found no setting to alter that. Using my Roku Stick+ with Netflix, I was not able to see any UHD content. HDR came through just fine, but only at 1080p. I blame this on the fact that the Roku checks for 18Gbps and when it can't do this, it backs down to 10.2Gbps which can only handle HDR at 1080p. So the only reason to keep the Panasonic player is if I see an improvement with 4K discs compared to 1080p. I tested with Spiderman Homecoming with both 4K and 1080p blu-rays. Honestly I could not really see any difference even when using my old Sony blu-ray player. The HDR was cool to adjust and made a big difference, but the extra resolution could not really be seen. Doing some research, I found that this movie uses a 2K DI (2048x1080), so that is likely why it looked similar since that is almost the same resolution as 1080p (1920x1080). My next test is going to be with a true 4K movie Joker. I'll pick up both the 4K and 1080p blu-rays at Redbox sometime this week. If I still can't see much difference, I'll have to pack up the Panasonic and take it back to BB. If I can't stream any 4K and discs don't look considerably better, then there's just not much point in keeping it until I have a projector that can handle it. Thoughts on this?

[@michaelpatrick6984]

6 entire minutes talking about its size and the way the box looks >

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

The tech specs are easily found online.

[@bradmiller2222]

I got the ub420 for my epson projector. Unfortunately I had to go with a samsung in my living room. Since I have a 5.1 sonos. And the samsung is the only one that will convert dts to dd 5.1 otherwise I'd have 2 of these. Especially at the price of $150. I wish panasonic would add the functionality to convert dts to dd 5.1

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

Could you elaborate? I was under the impression this took place automatically based on the Blu-ray spec... I understand this was different on DVD and early on in the DTS lifespan.

[@bradmiller2222]

@@hometheaterhobby9450 yes. Sonos is only capable of dolby digital 5.1 and stereo. most blu rays and 4k blu rays only have DTS no dolby digital. So when connected to a sonos soundbar. You get stereo not dolby digital. Samsung players are currently the only ones for sale at the moment that have the option in the menu to convert DTS signals to Dolby digital signals. And this makes a huge difference in sound quality.

[@bradmiller2222]

@@hometheaterhobby9450 xbox one s and one x will also convert dts to dd 5.1. But panasonic and sony do not have to option built into the menu. Really only matters if you have a sonos system. Or another system not dts capable.

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

Thanks for the information, I didn’t realize that.

[@bradmiller2222]

@@hometheaterhobby9450 no problem. I didnt know either. I upgraded my old samsung blu ray to a sony 4k blu ray and couldn't figure out why it sounded so bad. After some research and looking in the sonos app it showed as stereo when playing movies. I had to return the sony. And get the samsung.

[@JohnSmith-zl8rz]

Is possible make it region free??????????????

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

John Smith this will play most regions by stopping the disc then pressing the top menu button twice. Most disc will play regardless of regional codes.

[@JohnSmith-zl8rz]

@@hometheaterhobby9450 I need know if work on the recent models, it would be great!

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

John Smith this still works on recent models. This could change with firmware upgrades or disc finalizing in the future though. So far I’ve only found two disc where this hasn’t worked.

[@sumthinterrible15]

Hey there, I hear projecter alot when people are reviewing the 420. I have a QD OLED that is only capable of HDR10+ and was looking at this player. Is it fine for an oled in your opinion?

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

It will pair well with your TV.

[@sumthinterrible15]

​@hometheaterhobby9450 thank you!

[@hometheaterjoe9489]

Love this video, thank you sir… BOOM!!

[@kleefan8]

Thanks for this video! I'm leaning towards getting the 820, which now sells for $400. What is your opinion of it at $400 vs. $500? I got a new Hisense H8Q and it has Dolby Vision as well as HDR10+...so I'd love to get a player that supports DV as well. I guess with the 820 you're getting all that along with the HCX that makes their video superior to others (as you and others have mentioned.) It just seems a little out of whack to pay almost as much for a 4K Blu-ray player as a 4K TV. 🤔

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

I think it's a great deal at $400, so it's worth it. I don't know anything about the TV.

[@kleefan8]

@@hometheaterhobby9450 Thanks for taking the time to reply. I saw an unboxing of the 820 by another KZbinr, and he mentioned there were discussions on forums that the 820 wouldn't operate in Europe. I haven't looked into this yet, do you happen to know? I thought I'd ask because I saw your review of the 450 import from Britain, so I know you're quite knowledgeable about these issues. Thanks for any thoughts you have on this. I live in the US, but I may move to Europe, and I'm trying to buy things that will work well in both places.

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

You'll have to get a step up power converter or get a lower end model.

[@hometheaterhobby9450]

I have models from both countries, and I wonder if they are talking about disc playback due to region codes?

[@kleefan8]

@@hometheaterhobby9450 I think you might be right about that. I researched several players - the Panasonic 420, 820 and the Sony UBP-X700. They all are 120V AC 60 Hz. So a power converter would be needed for any of them in Europe. But I now learned my TV is also 120V AC 60 Hz. Thanks a lot for helping out!