After much speculation, Pioneer's has officially launched its first 4K Blu-ray player, the UDP-LX500, to go on sale next month.
Back in June, Pioneer teased us with a sneak peek of a 4K Blu-ray player on its Facebook page following months of rumours.
The Japan-based manufacturer is expected to release the UDP-LX500 in September. The LX500 benefits from double-layer construction and a “low centre of gravity” to reduce the effects of vibrations – this houses “enhanced noise reduction” technology Pioneer affirm optimises image quality.
Pioneer's own PQLS system (Precision Quartz Locking System) is also on hand to work with its compatible receivers to better signal transference.
Spec-wise, the Blu-ray player supports SDR and HDR content, as well as Dolby Vision. Outputs include two HDMI outputs and two analogue outputs (but no multi-channel option).
In timely fashion, Pioneer’s big play for the 4K Blu-ray market follows the demise of Oppo announced earlier this year.
The UDP-LX500 will be priced at 185,000 yen (£999.99 in the UK, Europe pricing TBA) on its release in September. Of course, the LX500 will have some competition in the form of Panasonic’s DP-UB9000 on its release in October, which also promises high level performance.