Sony BDP-S1700U Blu-ray DVD Player - Fast Start, DVD Upscaling

Our review of the Sony BDP-S1700U examines a simple, affordable Blu-ray player aimed at living rooms that need dependable Full HD playback without complexity. The bottom line: this player is best for users who want fast disc loading, basic streaming of physical media and improved DVD picture quality without a steep learning curve. It does not chase smart TV features but delivers clear 1080p Blu-ray playback, quick boot times and an included HDMI cable for straightforward setup.

Key Features

• Full HD Blu-ray playback: Plays Blu-ray Discs in native 1080p for crisp, cinematic picture on compatible TVs.
• DVD upscaling: Upscales standard DVDs to near HD quality so older discs look noticeably better on modern HDTVs.
• Quick start mode: Boots in less than a second so discs load and play faster than many entry-level players.
• Front USB port: Allows quick access to photos, music and videos from a thumb drive without navigating complex menus.
• Included HDMI cable: Simplifies setup with everything needed to connect to an HDTV and begin viewing right away.
• User-friendly interface: Keeps controls and menus straightforward for users who prefer simple navigation over feature-packed systems.

Who It's For

The BDP-S1700U is ideal for people who still own a library of Blu-ray and DVD discs, want improved DVD picture quality and prefer a plug-and-play player that starts fast. It suits secondary rooms, older HDTVs and buyers who value physical media playback over streaming platform integration.

It is less suitable for users who want built-in streaming apps, advanced network features or 4K playback. If you need smart platform integration, HDR or UHD support, consider a more feature-rich player or a smart TV instead.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Consistent Full HD Blu-ray playback for clear image quality on compatible TVs.
• DVD upscaling gives older discs improved sharpness and detail on HDTVs.
• Very fast boot and disc load times thanks to the super quick start mode.
• Includes an HDMI cable and has a front USB port for easy media sharing.

Cons

• Does not include built-in streaming apps or 4K/UHD support, limiting online streaming options.
• Interface is intentionally simple and may lack features power users expect.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Sony BDP-S1700U is a practical choice for anyone who values straightforward Blu-ray and DVD playback with fast start times and reliable upscaling. It provides good picture and basic audio support at a sensible price, making it a strong value for homes that prioritize physical media over smart features.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this player play both Blu-ray and DVD?
Yes, it plays Blu-ray Discs in Full HD and also plays DVDs with upscaling to near HD quality.

Is an HDMI cable included?
Yes, the player ships with an HDMI cable to simplify initial setup.

Can I play media from a USB drive?
Yes, the front USB port supports playback of photos, music and compatible video files from a thumb drive.