PowerDVD 8 Ultra vs PowerDVD 7.3 OEM?

[Roger Zoul]

I just moved into the Blu-Ray world. Am using an HannSpree LCD Screen (25-inches) and an LG Blu-ray drive which came with the OEM version of PowerDVD 7.3.x.

It all works fine. The image and sound are better than ever.

I've been lurking around here trying to see why some of you upgraded to PowerDVD Ultra. I read the comparison post with the other players and I have looked at the Cyberlink site at the features. I note that I do have some DVD-audio disc as well as some audio recoding in DTS format.

What else will I be able to do on my system with the PowerDVD Ultra 8 that I can't do with the OEM version I got. The upgrade is $65. I just got ripped buying the Nero 9 upgrade (does very little with Blu-ray beyond authoring). '

Why did you all upgrade to PowerDVD 8 Ultra?

Thanks.

[dadkins]

When you run into those BDs that refuse to play on the OEM software, even after the updates... they will most likely play fine on the PowerDVD 8 Ultra.

*I* had Intervideo WinDVD BD for VAIO.
Older discs play fine, some of the newer discs do nothing - they sit there with a black screen.

As soon as I opted to get full-on player software, my discs play fine.
ArcSoft TMT and PowerDVD 8 Ultra will do BD-Live, Corel WinDVD 9 Plus Blu-ray will not.

I prefer ArcSoft TMT myself...

[warriorking]

Totally agree, Newer Blu-ray discs started giving me issues with the OEM version 7.3 that came with my LG Blu-ray burner, upgraded to Cyberlink 8 Ultra and have not had a single issue with any Blu-ray disc, well worth the upgrade cost....

[9Nails]

It's worth noting that there is an update for Cyberlink PowerDVD 7.3 OEM dated on Dec 12, 2008. This update fixes compatability issues with some titles. It fixed my issue with X-Files that I rented a few days ago.

Go here to download the 102 MB update file:
http://www.cyberlink.com/multi/downl...s_1_en_US.html

[9Nails]

Originally Posted by Roger Zoul

I just moved into the Blu-Ray world. Am using an HannSpree LCD Screen (25-inches) and an LG Blu-ray drive which came with the OEM version of PowerDVD 7.3.x.

I'm also lurking, but I've learned that PowerDVD 8.x does not offer support for HD DVD and will break title compatibility. So if your LG drive supports HD DVD, then 7.3 is the correct version for you. It's a factor to weigh - I don't own and HD DVD's, and just one Blu-ray title. But I can find some HD DVD's in the bargain bin for fantastic prices.

[Roger Zoul]

My Blu-ray drive is the LG GBC-H20L. I understand that the actual drive does support HD-DVD, however that was not listed anywhere on the box or the materials inside. Also, the version of Cyberlink PowerDVD that comes with this drive does not mention support for HD-DVD in its documentation. I think they stripped out HD-DVD support and repackaged the drive after Blu-ray emerged the victor. I have the BD Edition of PowerDVD (according to the opening screen graphic) which I bought at Best Buy.

I did have to apply the update to PowerDVD after installing it.