Expert Review:
After an admittedly disappointing run with rebadged Sharp Blu-ray players, Pioneer has altered their gameplan and are back to producing their own devices. Because of this, the 'Elite' Blu-ray players are once again a true alternative to Oppo's award-winning lineup. The naming scheme is a not-so-subtle reference to older Elite models produced by Pioneer - the implication here is that the BDP-52FD picks up where the impressive BDP-51FD left off. As with anything else bearing the 'Elite' badge, the BDP-52FD carries serious-looking styling and solid build quality. A quick peek at the internal components reveals that the BDP-52FD is built on a Mediatek chipset, and the spec sheet is littered with Pioneer's own performance-enhancing technologies. Video performance is excellent, with quick load times and responsive operation. The BDP-52FD supports 1080/24p output, and can play back DVD and SA-CD content as well. Unfortunately, there is no sign of component video or multi-channel analog audio outputs, leaving only a single HDMI-out, composite video, and optical audio to connect to your TV or A/V receiver. On the other hand, the BDP-52FD comes in at a full $100 less than Oppo's competing BDP-93, making it a more attractive choice for less demanding buyers. Whichever way you look at it, the BDP-52FD signals Pioneer's return to the high-end home theater market with a product worthy of carrying the 'Elite' name.
