PS3 or stand alone blu ray player? pros/cons

[zegerman]

$300 for the PS3 slim. Also you have internet access on it as well so you can surf. Free and relatively frequent firmware updates. The biggest plus for me is I can stream audio and video from my server over wifi. No hassles and no configuration necessary. Only needed to setup the wifi configuration.

[tcho]

I originally bought a cheap BD player. I fairly quickly sold it on Kijiji for what I paid, and spent more to buy a PS3. I'm very happy with my decision and I'm not a big gamer.

I really like the PS3 as a wireless hub for my home. I can play songs or videos from either of my computers on my home entertainment centre, all without having to deal with any cables. I can show a slideshow of photos from my computers on the big screen TV. I can surf the net. Plus, I've bought and enjoyed the occasional game (Civilizations, Half-life, and I'm really looking forward to Dragon Age).

It's more. But, really, who cares? I guess if a couple hundred bucks is a big deal in your budget, and you really think you'll be satisfied with the bare bones, then just go for a BD player. If not, live a little and buy the PS3. I'm sure glad I did.