Yamaha BD-A1020 Universal Blu-ray Player Preview

This year Yamaha is touting their new Aventage BD-A1020 Blu-ray player which is an upgrade from their BD-A1010. The main new feature is WiFi integration so you can access all the new network apps like Netflix, Hulu, even Picasa so those of you putting photos online can access them via this player. Of course it is a universal player so you've got the ability to utilize SACD, DVD-Audio and more in addition to Blu-ray - basically, if you can fit it into this player it will probably play it. Two USB inputs are there, one on front and one on back. The new player works with Yamaha's AV Controller app which is now available for iOS, Android and even the Kindle.

The new Blu-ray player has a single HDMI output but also features component video outs as well as both optical and coaxial digital audio outputs. A pair of dedicated analogue stereo outputs lets you route the main channels to a separate Zone if desired and RS-232C is present for whole home system control.

The BD-A1020 looks like a really solid player overall and at $450 it provides an option for custom installers and consumers who want to stay within the Yamaha brand for their source components.

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Unless otherwise indicated, this is a preview article for the featured product. A formal review may or may not follow in the future.