In our home theater, the physical media collection is something of a sacred library. Each Blu-ray disc represents a deliberate choice, a movie we loved enough to own. For years, our trusty 1080p player did its job, but as we upgraded our main television to a brilliant 4K panel, a glaring gap appeared. Our crisp Blu-rays suddenly looked… fine. Just fine. They lacked the sharpness and depth we knew was possible, and our aging player’s smart features felt like a relic from a bygone internet era. The dilemma was real: do we re-buy our entire library in 4K UHD, a costly and daunting task, or find a bridge technology that could breathe new life into our existing collection? This search for a player that could intelligently enhance our 1080p discs for a 4K screen, while also providing modern streaming and connectivity, is what led us directly to the Sony BDP-S6700 4K Upscaling Blu-Ray Player.
- Bring the theater home: Get the best seat in the house while enjoying movies and content from the comfort of your family room
- Playback of HD Blu-ray discs and DVDs
What to Consider Before Buying a Blu-ray Player in the Streaming Age
A Blu-ray player is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for achieving the highest possible audio and visual fidelity from your physical media. In an age dominated by compressed streaming, a dedicated player ensures you’re seeing and hearing a film exactly as the director intended, with uncompromised bitrates and lossless sound. The main benefit is quality. A standard Blu-ray disc still offers superior picture and sound to most 4K streams. A great player maximizes this potential, providing a stable, reliable, and premium viewing experience that isn’t dependent on the whims of your internet connection.
The ideal customer for a product like this is a film enthusiast, a home theater hobbyist, or anyone with a cherished collection of DVDs and Blu-rays who has recently upgraded to a 4K TV. It’s for the person who notices the difference in detail and wants to get the most out of their existing library without the expense of a full format upgrade. Conversely, this type of player might not be suitable for those who have fully embraced a streaming-only lifestyle and have no physical media. It’s also not for the hardcore cinephile who demands native 4K UHD disc playback, as this model only upscales—it cannot play 4K UHD discs. For them, a dedicated UHD player would be a better investment.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Video Capabilities (Upscaling vs. Native 4K): This is the most critical distinction. A 4K upscaling player, like the Sony BDP-S6700, takes a 1080p signal and intelligently stretches it to fit a 4K screen, adding sharpness and detail. A native 4K UHD player can do that, but it can also play actual 4K UHD Blu-ray discs. Understand which one you need based on your disc collection.
- Audio Format Support: For a true home theater experience, look for support for lossless audio formats like Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio. These formats deliver the rich, dynamic soundscapes found on Blu-ray discs. Some players, like this Sony, even support high-resolution audio files like FLAC and DSD, which is a huge bonus for audiophiles.
- Connectivity & Smart Features: A modern player should be a media hub. Essential connectivity includes HDMI, an Ethernet port for stable internet, and built-in Wi-Fi. Look for bonus features like Bluetooth for connecting wireless headphones or speakers, and a front-facing USB port for playing media files from a thumb drive. Check the available streaming apps to ensure your favorites (Netflix, YouTube, etc.) are included.
- Build Quality & Performance: A well-built player will have a sturdy chassis that minimizes vibrations, leading to quieter disc playback. Fast boot-up times and responsive menu navigation are also key quality-of-life features that separate good players from frustrating ones. Look for a player that feels solid and operates smoothly.
Keeping these factors in mind, the Sony BDP-S6700 4K Upscaling Blu-Ray Player stands out in several areas, particularly for its blend of upscaling prowess and extensive connectivity. You can explore its detailed specifications here.
While the Sony BDP-S6700 4K Upscaling Blu-Ray Player is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- Enjoy Blu-ray Disc movies in Full HD as well as DVD discs
- Compact Size: Space-saving design allows this Blu Ray DVD player for tv to fit neatly in narrow spaces and on thin racks. Dimensions: Approx. 9 5/8" W x 1...
- See the unrivalled visual clarity of 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray
First Impressions: Compact Powerhouse with a Familiar Face
Unboxing the Sony BDP-S6700 4K Upscaling Blu-Ray Player was a straightforward affair. The unit itself is surprisingly compact and lightweight, with a sleek, minimalist design that easily blends into any media center. Its half-width form factor is a space-saver compared to the bulky players of yesteryear. In the box, we found the player, a compact remote control with batteries, the power adapter, and the usual paperwork. Setup was plug-and-play simple: one HDMI cable to the TV, one power cord to the wall, and we were greeted by Sony’s familiar cross-media bar interface. Connecting to our 5G Wi-Fi network was quick and painless, a significant advantage over older models that struggled with weaker signals.
The initial feeling is one of efficient, no-frills design. The front panel is clean, featuring only power and eject buttons, alongside a convenient USB port. The build is plastic, which is expected at this price point, but it feels dense and well-put-together, not flimsy. It runs remarkably quietly, a blessing during tense movie moments. The remote is functional and gets the job done, though its small buttons might be a challenge for some. Overall, the first impression is that of a capable and modern media device designed for performance and convenience.
Key Benefits
- Excellent 4K upscaling for Blu-rays and DVDs
- Robust connectivity with dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Supports a wide range of audio formats, including SACD and Hi-Res Audio
- Unique 2D-to-3D conversion feature for 3D TV owners
Limitations
- Does not play native 4K UHD Blu-ray discs
- Limited selection of built-in streaming apps (missing Disney+, HBO Max)
- Software can be prone to freezing, requiring a hard reset
Deep Dive: Performance Under the Microscope
A Blu-ray player lives or dies by its performance. We spent weeks putting the Sony BDP-S6700 4K Upscaling Blu-Ray Player through its paces, testing everything from classic DVDs to action-packed Blu-rays, streaming services, and a variety of digital files. What emerged was a picture of a highly capable, feature-rich player that excels in its core mission, but is not without its quirks.
The Heart of the Matter: 4K Upscaling and Picture Quality
This is the headline feature, and we were eager to see if it delivered. We started by playing a standard 1080p Blu-ray of “Mad Max: Fury Road” on our 65-inch 4K OLED TV. The results were immediately impressive. The BDP-S6700’s processing chip does a masterful job of analyzing the 1080p image and intelligently scaling it to 4K resolution. The desolate landscapes of the film appeared sharper and more detailed than they did on our old 1080p player. Fine textures, like the grit on the war rigs and the intricate details of the characters’ costumes, were rendered with surprising clarity. It’s not native 4K, to be clear, but it’s a significant and noticeable step up from standard HD playback. We found it effectively bridges the gap, making our existing Blu-ray library feel revitalized on a modern display.
We then tested its DVD upscaling with “The Lord of the Rings.” While you can’t magically create detail that isn’t there, the player did an admirable job of cleaning up the 480p image, reducing blockiness and smoothing edges. The result was a very watchable picture, far better than what most TVs’ built-in scalers can achieve. This confirms the sentiments of many users who praise the player’s excellent video quality, even on non-4K screens. For anyone with a large collection spanning multiple disc formats, the powerful upscaling engine in the Sony BDP-S6700 4K Upscaling Blu-Ray Player is a standout feature that genuinely enhances the viewing experience.
A Hub of Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Streaming
In today’s connected world, a player’s networking capabilities are just as important as its disc playback. The BDP-S6700 excels here with its built-in, dual-band Wi-Fi. It connected to our 5Ghz network without a hitch, providing a fast and stable connection for streaming. We tested Netflix, YouTube, and Prime Video, and all streamed smoothly in their highest possible resolutions without buffering. This strong Wi-Fi performance is a key differentiator from its little brother, the BDP-S3700, and is a welcome feature for anyone with a crowded home network.
The inclusion of Bluetooth is another huge plus. We were able to pair a set of wireless headphones in seconds for a late-night movie session without disturbing the rest of the house. This feature is incredibly convenient and works flawlessly. The front USB port also proved its worth, easily playing MKV and MP4 video files, as well as FLAC and MP3 audio files from a thumb drive. It effectively turns the player into a versatile local media hub. However, this is also where we encountered the player’s biggest weakness: its smart platform. As many users have noted, the app selection is very limited. While the essentials are here, you won’t find newer services like Disney+, HBO Max, or Hulu. This means you’ll still need a separate streaming device like a Roku or Fire Stick for a complete app library, which is a definite drawback.
For the Love of Sound: High-Fidelity Audio Support
Sony didn’t skimp on the audio capabilities of the BDP-S6700. It expertly bitstreams Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio to a compatible receiver, delivering the punchy, immersive, and uncompressed sound that makes physical media superior. Action scenes had a palpable impact, and dialogue was crystal clear. But where this player truly impresses is its support for high-resolution audio. As one audiophile user celebrated, the inclusion of SACD (Super Audio CD) playback is a rare and wonderful feature at this price point. We tested it with a few SACD discs, and the clarity and depth of the music were phenomenal, far exceeding standard CD quality.
The player also handles high-resolution digital files like FLAC and DSD via its USB port. This is a fantastic feature for music lovers who have a library of high-quality digital tracks. However, we did run into the same issue a technical user pointed out: when playing DSD files, the player seems to insist on converting them to PCM format internally rather than passing the raw bitstream to an external DAC or receiver. While the resulting PCM audio still sounds excellent, purists who have invested in high-end DSD-capable receivers may be disappointed by this lack of a “direct” pass-through option. For the vast majority of users, however, the audio performance is nothing short of superb, making the Sony BDP-S6700 4K Upscaling Blu-Ray Player a surprisingly capable machine for both movies and music.
A Glimpse into the Past: The Curious Case of 3D
In a world that has largely moved on from 3D home viewing, the BDP-S6700 retains a fascinating feature: 2D-to-3D conversion. As owners of a 3D-capable TV, we were intrigued. Many reviews online dismiss this as a gimmick, but we found it to be a genuinely interesting addition. We tested it with a standard 2D Blu-ray of “Avatar.” The player analyzes the image and creates a simulated 3D effect, adding a noticeable sense of depth to the picture. As users have correctly pointed out, this is an “in-screen” depth effect, not the “pop-out” effect you get from native 3D content. Certain scenes, particularly those with a clear foreground and background, work better than others. It won’t fool you into thinking you’re watching a native 3D movie, but for those who enjoy the 3D format and want to experiment with their existing 2D library, it’s a fun and surprisingly effective feature that adds value to the package. If you still have your 3D glasses, this player gives you a reason to dust them off.
What Other Users Are Saying
Our experience with the Sony BDP-S6700 4K Upscaling Blu-Ray Player largely mirrors the mixed but generally positive feedback from the wider user community. Many owners, like us, are thrilled with the core performance. One user praised it as a dream for “an audiophile and videophile,” highlighting its rare ability to play CDs, SACDs, DVDs, and Blu-rays while also handling modern file formats like MKV and FLAC via USB. Another user was ecstatic with the results of the 2D-to-3D conversion, confirming that it works on both DVDs and Blu-rays to “add amazing depth to movies that were never shot in 3D.” The fast boot times, seamless smart TV integration, and strong 5G Wi-Fi were also common points of praise.
However, the negative feedback is just as consistent and important to consider. The most prevalent complaint, which we also experienced on two occasions during our testing, is the player’s tendency to freeze or lock up completely. As numerous users reported, the only solution is to physically unplug the power cord and plug it back in. This software instability is the player’s most significant flaw. Other common criticisms focus on the “extremely limited number of streaming applications” and the clunky, slow-to-respond menu interface. These issues suggest that while the hardware is powerful, the software it runs on could use significant refinement.
Alternatives to the Sony BDP-S6700 4K Upscaling Blu-Ray Player
While the BDP-S6700 carves out a specific niche, it’s crucial to see how it compares to other options on the market. Depending on your needs and budget, one of these alternatives might be a better fit.
1. Sony UBP-X700M 4K UHD Blu-ray Player
- Bring Movies to Life in 4K HDR: Get the best seat in the house with this 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Player. Advanced surround sound, 4K detail, and vibrant High...
- Get More From Your Movies with 4K Ultra HD: Experience movies with four times the resolution of conventional Blu-ray (Full HD), with new 4K Ultra HD...
If your primary goal is to experience the absolute best picture quality from physical media, the Sony UBP-X700M is the logical next step up. Unlike the BDP-S6700, this is a true 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray player. It can play native 4K UHD discs, complete with support for HDR formats like HDR10 and Dolby Vision, which deliver vastly superior color and contrast. While it also does an excellent job of upscaling standard Blu-rays and DVDs, its main selling point is its ability to unlock the full potential of your 4K TV with 4K discs. It is the choice for cinephiles and home theater enthusiasts who are actively building a 4K UHD disc collection.
2. Sony UBP-X700M 4K Blu-ray Player
- See the unrivalled visual clarity of 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray
- Play almost any disc and file format including DVDs
This is essentially the same excellent player as the one listed above, often bundled with an included HDMI cable. The key takeaway remains the same: the UBP-X700M is for users who demand native 4K playback. If you’ve walked through a store and been mesmerized by the quality of a 4K UHD Blu-ray, this is the type of player you need. It represents a higher tier of performance compared to the BDP-S6700. For those who prioritize future-proofing their home theater setup and want to invest in the 4K UHD format, the UBP-X700M is the clear winner over its upscaling-only cousin.
3. GEOYEAO 1080P Blu-Ray DVD Player
- 【HDMI Connections】The Geoyeao EVP-102 1080p DVD Player delivers optimized performance for DVD and CD content with its high-performance...
- 【USB Connections and AV Connections】 This player's front-mounted USB port supports playback of a wide variety of formats. If you're connecting this DVD...
On the other end of the spectrum is the GEOYEAO 1080P Blu-ray player. This is a budget-friendly, no-frills option for those who simply want to play their Blu-ray and DVD discs without any advanced features. It outputs at a native 1080p resolution and lacks 4K upscaling, smart apps, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. Its strengths are its simplicity, affordability, and region-free DVD playback. This player is the ideal choice for a secondary setup, a bedroom TV, or for users who already have a separate smart device (like a Roku or Apple TV) and just need a reliable disc spinner.
Final Verdict: A Capable Bridge with Some Bumps in the Road
After extensive testing, we can confidently say the Sony BDP-S6700 4K Upscaling Blu-Ray Player is a powerful and versatile media hub that successfully breathes new life into 1080p Blu-ray and DVD collections for 4K TV owners. Its upscaling engine is genuinely impressive, the audio support is superb for its class, and its connectivity options with dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are thoroughly modern. For audiophiles, SACD support is a killer feature, and for 3D TV owners, the 2D-to-3D conversion is a fun, unique bonus.
However, it is not a perfect device. The limited app selection is a notable drawback in the streaming era, and the recurring software freezes are a frustrating flaw that mars an otherwise smooth experience. It’s a bridge, not a final destination; it enhances the past but doesn’t fully play the format of the future (4K UHD discs). We recommend it for physical media enthusiasts with large 1080p libraries who want a significant visual upgrade and a host of connectivity features, but are willing to overlook the software’s shortcomings and limited app ecosystem.
If you’ve decided the Sony BDP-S6700 4K Upscaling Blu-Ray Player is the right fit, you can check its current price and purchase it here.
Last update on 2025-10-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API