As someone who purchased the very first Blu-Ray player on the market, I can say, with hindsight, how far the technology has come.
This unit supports uncompressed TrueHD sound for a much more realistic soundtrack, HDMI 1.3 for the full color spectrum, and includes an Ethernet Port for firmware updates (which some new spec unit do not include).
This unit upscales standard def DVDs as well as any stand alone unit I used (incl my Oppo 981). While some DVD color banding is evident, keep in mind I'm watching it on a 72" TV.
Loading times vary seemingly with how Java-rich the BRD is that I'm watching.
While the remote is intuitive, the buttons are not backlighted and the size of the buttons for more minor functions do not lend themselves to people with large hands.
Out of the box, it's usable but you'll likely get more functionality setting it up with someone with a modicum HD experience.
The unit did freeze while watching Spiderman II. However, after loading in the latest firmware the unit has played without incident.
As improvements in the firmware are made, it's a worthwhile use of time to check every so often for the free upgrades.
I enjoy my unit for which I paid $370; I would purchase it again unhesitatingly .