Sony Professional Solutions Europe has introduced a new ‘reference standard’ 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray player for professional applications. The new ES Series model (UBP-X1000ES) offers full Custom Installation (CI) compatibility and is scheduled for shipping this summer.
The X1000ES Universal Player is compatible with Ultra HD Blu-ray discs as well as video streaming in full 4K resolution and High Dynamic Range (HDR). In addition to support for Ultra HD Blu-ray discs, the X1000ES uses a Sony-developed Precision HD drive to help maintain consistent performance with virtually every optical disc format, including DVD Video and DVD Audio, CD and SA-CD, Blu-ray 3D and BD-ROM media. The player also incorporates a variety of video codecs that can deliver 4K streaming from services including Netflix, Amazon Video and YouTube. Full details of formats can be downloaded.
A dedicated picture mode for HDR content is provided, along with advanced video processing that upscales 1080p content to near 4K 60p resolution. Additionally, when playing 4K HDR content on a 4K SDR television, the X1000ES uses a unique Sony algorithm to reproduce the intended brightness and colour gradations, to provide the best picture possible.
To deliver the most immersive audio experience possible, the UBP-X1000ES is designed to work with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X object-oriented audio compatible receivers. Further, its 32-bit processing DAC is compatible with both native DSD (at up to 11.2 MHz) and LPCM (at up to 192kHz) Hi-Res Music files, which are available in a number of different formats.
The UBP-X1000ES has a Frame and Beam (FB) chassis helps to increase structural rigidity and its honeycomb top plate, sf heat sync and offset insulator feet are intended to reduce the effects of both airborne and mechanical vibration. The player’s removable rack-mount ears (to be sold separately) are designed to reduce vibration and electrical noise.
The X1000ES offers dual HDMI outputs with separate audio and video signal paths and its HDMI, 2ch analogue and coaxial digital outputs are gold plated for better conductivity.
Unlike conventional 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray players, Sony plans to have the X1000ES fully certified by such leading home control and automation system vendors as Control4, Crestron, Savant, and others. Furthermore, the UBP-X1000ES provides virtually every connectivity option required for today’s complex custom installations, including IP Control over CAT 5 cable or Wi-Fi networks; RS232C two-way control and IR-IN. A web browser interface is also offered, along with support for ihiji, a cloud-based network management solution used by custom installers for remote maintenance.
The new UBP-X1000ES is being offered exclusively to the custom installer channel and a 3-year limited parts and labour warranty is included. It will be available from authorised Sony AV dealers and custom installers this summer. Pricing will be announced at a later date.
This is the back of the Sony UDP X1000ES BD Player – at Display Monitor, the back is often more interesting than the front – there are a lot of logos!
Analyst Comment
This player was originally announced last September, with a promised shipping date of ‘the spring’.
