I'm late to the party, (welcome dougy), I can attest to everyone's advice, you'll do great with the BD55. I have one and I finally think I found MY player.
I tried alot of them (not as many as teachsac
) The ONLY one I might consider in the future is the Oppo (more for SACD/DVD-A in one unit), but I am gonna wait a while for more reviews on it.
I too am disappointed with Pioneers offerings in blu-ray, especially for the prices they want, but that is another post.
Since you are shopping, you might want to check amazon, they have some good deals involving the panasonic and some absolutely CRAZY deals on blu-ray movies. (I have worked various deals the past few days to get about 23 titles at an average price of $7.73 each shipped)
Deal involving BD55
Save $75 When You Buy a Blu-ray Player and Four Warner Blu-ray Discs Together
If you like James bond, you can't go wrong with this deal on amazon either (other titles included also)
Amazon.com: Buy More and Save More on Blu-ray