entry level bluray?

I have the basic Samsung BD1600 and it's just fine other than being slow at times and having a few minor issue. My point is that just about any entry level player is adequate for the majority of people. Samsung initially had the most available features such and Netflix, Pandora and such which is why I have one.

As long as they have an HDMI tv there isn't really a difference. If they want to use home theater sound they will either need a receiver with HDMI inputs and the ability to decode the HD formats or a blu ray plater that can output all 7.1 channels via RCA connection. There area a few entry level players that will do this.

Yes, they play regular DVDs and CDs. Some play SACD and DVD Audio as well as NetFlix, and other online services. Oppo does all well and plays back FLAC files through it's USB input.

OK, Thanks. Oppo sounds good.

The Oppo mentioned is indeed an excellent player and is highly recommended... That said, I would not in any way classify it as "entry-level." It actually is the best player on the market for relatively sane money, IMO.

If your friend is indeed looking for "entry level" and has HDMI inputs, then I would recommend something like the Panasonic BDT-110 which will give him most of the Internet goodies and Blu-ray playback quality the best players have, just no legacy multi-channel outputs and no SACD. It streets at about $125-$130 online, versus just under $500 for the admittedly excellent Oppo.

Just to clarify, I am not in any way saying the Oppo is not worth every cent of that price tag (or more)... just that it is in a completely different class than an entry-level unit like the 110, and your friend may not need that kind of build quality. If $500 is not an issue, then I say have at it. :-)

---Dave