Audio Video News

Stand-alone Blu-ray recorders have been available in Japan for a while, but alas, we're not so lucky here in the U.S. Prices aren't that great even over there - about $800 US for a Sharp Blu-ray recorder. But, a story from HD Guru said that Panasonic will introduce a freestanding Blu-ray recorder/player next year.

What do Panasonic engineers have to say?

CNET had a chance to ask some Panasonic engineers about it, and they said there was no news for the U.S. market.

The question is, are folks really waiting for this? With large capacity HD DVRs available, and significant copy-protection on most HD material, will there be anything you'll want to record?  Currently, blank discs cost around $9, and are not rewriteable.

If folks are complaining about two-hundred dollar players, what price will get them buying Blu-ray recorders, assuming they're even going to be available in this market? -Leslie Shapiro

CNET