Gadget review: A rainbow of Blu-ray wonders

The Harman Kardon BDS 570 is a 3-D-capable Blu-ray disc receiver which you can connect to your TV and 5.1 channel speaker set to experience visual and acoustic magic. Well, not literally, but you know what I mean. All black and minimalistic, the BDS 570 features a design that is distinctively Harman Kardon. The front features the 3-D Blu-ray disc slot, a display screen, a single port each for headphones and USB, and a volume knob. The plethora of connectivity options is saved for the rear, which features three HDMI inputs, two analogue inputs, one set of component video input, two optical and one co-axial digital input. You could also purchase the optional Bridge III dock, which lets you connect your iPod or iPhone to the device. The BDS 570 supports 3-D Blu-ray playback so you can connect the system to your 3-D-capable TV and add a whole new dimension (pun intended) to your viewing experience. The BD-Live capabilities will let you download additional media and content for your movies over the internet; however, this depends on what has been provided by the studio for that particular release. The HDMI 1.4a connection features Deep Colour technology, which supports a gamut of more than a billion colours. The result is an image which is a lot more true to life, with deeper blacks and brighter colours. The system also has support for full HD 1,080p DivX playback, so all your downloaded media can be played without any issues. On the acoustic side of things, the system supports Dolby True HD and DTS-HD Master Audio, which, in simpler terms, is the reproduction of sound similar to that experienced in a movie theatre. You will need a good set of 5.1 surround speakers, though. What is (still) missing in the BDS 570 is the support for streaming media. Most players and receivers give you access to, and support for, online streaming services such as YouTube and more. This capability is missing in the BDS 570 — and while it isn't a deal breaker, you may find yourself missing it at times. With brilliant sound and great picture quality, the BDS 570 brings an immersive movie-viewing experience right to your home. The BDS 570 is available for Dh2,299 at all Harman Kardon stores.