While many people have long known about the manufacturing practice of "region coding" (as well as the challenges that come along with foreign disc playback), there are still a majority of people who know little to nothing about it, or who are simply new to the whole idea. Upon performing a bit of research about region codes, they'll most likely stumble across some websites providing codes and software hacks for Blu-ray and DVD players which claim to give an ordinary player the ability to play discs from other regions (foreign-coded discs). While this is somewhat true, and while a good majority of those hacks will in fact work to some extent, they're still simply not much more than that; "hacks".
Although it's a common misconception that there's little difference between an "overpriced" region-free player and the "hacks" that can be entered to allow region-free disc playback, this actually couldn't be further from the truth. To clarify this confusion, we've provided some pros and cons, as well as some explanation of the differences between a true region-free player and region code software hacks.
Region-Free, or No too Region-Free
One of the biggest reasons that region-free players are preferred over software hacks is the fact that a real region-free player has been professionally modified. The internal hardware of the player has been altered to change how the system itself actually reads and interprets the discs. There is no forcing or tricking the player, and no "new codes" involved. The player has been modified and will continue to remain modified.
In many instances, the software hacks or "codes" that can be entered will work. However, there's just as many instances where they'll fail. The codes are often inconsistent, ever-changing and can vary from region to region or sometimes even from disc to disc, depending. It can be a major hassle, not to mention the time you'll spend scouring the internet for the newest codes and then trying to implement them. But aside from avoiding the endless annoyance of the software hacks and codes, there's still many more legitimate reasons that a professionally modified player is more beneficial.
The Cons of Software Hacks
• Most players have a specific, set number of times that they can be "hacked" or switched to another region. After that, the ability to switch regions will lock up, rendering the player useful only for whichever region it's been locked into. It's a very common occurrence for this to happen, and with no warning or chance to switch back to your native or default region setting.
• A good majority of the time, the "hack" you found online will not work after a software update. If you have no control over when your player updates, you could be stuck waiting for someone to post the new hack codes on a forum. Not only is this an inconvenience, but if your player updates while you're using another region setting, there's no telling if you'll ever find a code to change it back.
• Once a player has been hacked, the manufacturer warranty is null and void in most instances. Even if it's due to something other than region hacking, there is a good possibility that you could be left without a replacement or that you might be charged for repair instead of receiving a replacement.
The Pros of Hardware Modified Players
• Hardware modified players, when properly modified, will continue to work for the life of the player.
• Since a warranty on the region-free modification is generally provided by the company who performed the mod, there is no worry about the player being rejected by a manufacturer due to the modification.
• While some of the cheaper modifications have been know to fail to work after firmware updates, high-quality mods will continue to work, even after the updates. This means you can connect to the internet or wireless network without worrying about how updates will affect the player's functionality - something you can't always do with a hacked player.
When you spend your hard-earned money on a Blu-ray player, there is no reason to risk your investment just to play discs from another region. Why take chances with codes and software hacks when this is what region-free players are specifically meant for? If you're serious about watching movies from other regions, you need an efficient, secure and reliable way to watch foreign discs without risking the quality and functionality of your Blu-ray Player - with a hardware modified region-free player, that's what you get.
The Added Bonuses
Aside from the ability to play discs from various regions, region free players almost ALWAYS come with other added benefits. The most popular advantage is the addition of worldwide voltage capability and built-in PAL/NTSC conversion.
The worldwide voltage allows the player to operate at any voltage (110v-240v) which means it can be used literally in any country in the world. Just flip a switch on the back, depending which voltage you need to use it at. This feature is perfect for those who travel or live abroad.
The built-in PAL/NTSC conversion is another huge bonus for two reasons: Some foreign discs are in PAL format which will not work on an NTSC TV unless you use a video converter, and if you use the player in a foreign country, they might use PAL TV's and now your NTSC discs will not play. The built-in converter eliminates the need for a external converter, period.
More importantly, the combination of all the modifications is what counts. They go hand-in-hand, because a region-free player with worldwide voltage and built-in video converter ensures that you can play a disc from anywhere in the world, while you're in any location around the world, and from any TV. You cannot get that from a software hack.
The Region-Free LG BP325 Blu-ray Player is an excellent value for your dollar. This model does almost anything you could ask for from a region-free player and is offered at an affordable price that provides reliability and quality performance without breaking the bank.
The BP325 is a hardware modified region-free player that plays both Blu-ray Discs and DVD's from absolutely any region. No matter what country you purchase discs from, this player will read and play them all, including Blu-ray regions A,B, and C plus DVD regions 0-8. The unit also utilizes a worldwide voltage feature (110 volts - 240 volts) which allows it to operate from anywhere in the world, regardless of the electrical voltage that's used. Even if you're using it with a foreign television, the LG BP325 will still work flawlessly due to a built-in PAL to NTSC converter that eliminates any need for an external video converter. The player can literally be taken anywhere in the world, and used to play any disc on any TV.
Although the region-free capabilities of this model make it well worth the low price of $209, there are plenty of other options that make it one of the most popular sellers as well as one of our most recommended.
The BP325 comes with built in Wi-Fi, Full 1080p HD, 3D, 1080 up-scaling of non-HD DVD's, Streaming media content (Netflix, Vudu, YouTube, Hulu & more), a USB 2.0, HDMI output, and plays practically any video format out there.
The player also works with a free downloadable app for your SmartPhone that lets you use your phone as a remote control to play, pause, adjust volume and even watch whatever is on the screen from your phone - anywhere in your home!
At this price, you can't afford to not take a look.. Learn more about the region-free LG BP325 blu-ray player today, only from 220-Electronics. We're your trusted source for international and region-free electronics since 1979!
If you're relocating overseas, whether it be for business or retirement, you can save yourself a great deal of frustration, time and even money by ensuring you have all of the proper appliances before traveling. To better explain this, we're going to take a brief look into a few of the common scenarios that are encountered when moving or relocating overseas or to a foreign country.
Adapting to a new country that you're going to call home has its fair share of challenges. There will be plenty of surprises, some pleasant and some not so pleasant, as well as an array of cultural and societal differences that will take some getting used to. For many, this is part of the excitement - new learning experiences keep the mind from growing bored. But with that said, there are going to be some differences that take a bit of getting used to, which can often be simple things that you might take for granted. Shopping is one thing that's sure to frustrate, even for those with the utmost patience. The combination of a new language, varying standards of customer service and a lackluster selection of the brands and products that you're used to are just a few of the things that pose an immediate threat to your ability to simply shop for groceries. While it can be accomplished, you're probably going to need a bit of patience and a strong will to learn.
One of the most dreaded shopping experiences overseas could very possibly be purchasing home appliances. Even in your home country, shopping for appliances can be a lot like shopping for a car. There is wiggle room in the pricing of major appliances, yet there are hundreds of makes and models to choose from. Factor in the language barrier, cultural differences (which could affect the ability to barter, especially if you're seen as a "foreigner") and currency differences and you've got enough on your plate to make your head spin. The good news is that there's no reason to fret, because there are specialized businesses who are experts in international relocation. These are people who understand the stresses of moving to a new country (or anywhere overseas) and can minimize the hassle of purchasing appliances and electronics overseas by ensuring you're prepared BEFORE you move.
220 Electronics is one of these businesses. For over 30 years, 220 Electronics has specialized in international relocation by offering a complete inventory of 110 volt through 240 volt electronics, home appliances and travel products. From Multi-system TV's and Blu-ray Players that operate at any voltage, to 220 volt major appliances like washers, dryers, refrigerators, ranges, dishwashers, small kitchen appliances and more. 220 Electronics stocks the best makes and models from the top brand names you've grown to trust, and everything is offered at industry leading prices. So, what does this all mean?
Well, lets assume that your current home is fully furnished, and while you've pondered the idea of simply refurnishing your new home upon your arrival to a new country, there's a lot of things you'd like to keep. So you've contracted an international mover, a bulk shipping company or a cargo company and arranged to have all of your belongings shipped overseas - but you can't take your appliances or most of your electronics with you because your new home country operates at 220 volt electricity which your appliances were not designed for. Should you purchase new appliances and electronics when you arrive? Sure, but you're likely going to run into the problems mentioned above, and ultimately end up paying a higher price. There's a better solution.
If you've arranged to have your belongings shipped overseas to your new home, now is the perfect time to purchase all of your major appliances and electronics so they can arrive in time to be shipped over with the rest of your things. 220 Electronics sells everything you'll need to be comfortable in your new home without enduring the hassle of having to shop overseas. We carry many electronics that utilize worldwide voltage, meaning they'll work properly any where in the world from 110 to 240 volt electrical systems, as well as a full line of standard 220, 230, and 240 volt major appliances. Pricing is simple (and low), the inventory is robust and the customer service is second to none in the industry. Our online store allows you to order directly from the comfort of your home and have your order shipped direct to your home where it will be ready for shipping with the rest of your things.
While many people are surprised that such a service exists, thinking they wished they would have thought of it sooner, there are thousands upon thousands of satisfied customers whose move was made easy thanes to our expert staff, everyday low prices and timely delivery.
For more information on how we can assist you with your international relocation, or to simply browse our inventory to get a better idea of what we offer, visit our website today at 
Remember the days when you used to record your favorite TV shows or movies from your TV using your VHS recorder? At that time, it seemed like the greatest technology in the world. All you had to do was pop in a blank tape, wait for the show to begin and press record. Some VCR's even had the option to set a timer so you could record shows when you weren't even home. Your movie collection consisted of a stack of VHS tapes with handwritten labels that you could watch at any given time. But times have changed since then, and nowadays we're in the middle of a digital technology revolution where every few months there's better, faster, more appealing technology being developed. In turn, it's released at such a fast pace that it can truly hard to keep up with.
So you've purchased your Region-free Blu-ray Player, now what? You have quite a few viewing options at your disposal, depending on the reason you've purchased the player. Generally speaking, most people fall into one of the following categories.
1. Those looking to play discs from a specific single region other than their own.
2. Movie lovers who have seen titles available in other regions and want to be able to purchase and watch those titles in their own home.
3. Those who already own discs from another region and wanted to be able to watch them.
Whatever your reason may be, it's highly probable that you've already found a source for purchasing movies from other regions. However, there are a few very good retailers out there who you may have not heard of. While there are plenty of overseas websites where you can buy Blu-ray and DVD discs coded for a specific region, most of them don't offer discs from all regions. In other words, there are only a handful of decent websites catering to people who want to browse discs from all regions of the world.
You can thank us later - Here is one of the best, most unique sites who offer hard-to-find Blu-ray and DVD discs from other regions. That is, assuming you're into horror, Kung-Fu, cult favorites and odd documentaries.
Who: 
When it comes to Blu-ray players there's a seemingly unlimited amount of models to choose from, many with their own unique and impressive features that offer cutting-edge technology for your home theater. But how do you decide what Blu-ray player is best for your needs? Research. Read reviews, compare prices and options, then decide which features you can or cannot live without. Depending on the brand, the technology and the features, the difference in pricing can be drastic from model to model.
Today, we're going to review a very economical and relatively inexpensive Blu-ray player that's not only affordable, but highly functional. It's the Region Free LG BP220 - and it offers a big bang for your buck.
LG has a reputation for offering next-level technology that's reliable and highly usable. Considering this, the LG BP220 Blu-ray player has hit its mark perfectly by providing just the right combination of attractive options, flexibility and ease of use. As a player that falls into the "less than $150" category, we were very surprised with the overall quality as well as the capabilities it offers.
We'll begin with the fact that the BP220 offers the LG Smart TV experience. Using a simple and clean user interface you can connect to a variety of apps, movies and streaming media including YouTube, Netflix, Hulu PLUS, Pandora and more. Some services are free while others are paid, but regardless, you'll have endless audio and visual entertainment right at your fingertips. Setup is easy and although the model doesn't have Wi-Fi, a wired connection works flawlessly and gives you access to all your favorite services including the LG app store. It also has DMP, or DLNA capability, meaning you can connect and share media with other devices in your home.
In the Audio/Video area, we felt that the BP220 did quite well, often exceeding our expectations of quality. The player uses full HD 1080P playback, plus 1080P up-scaling which dramatically increases the picture quality of non-HD DVD discs. Blu-ray playback and quality was wonderful and it's truly hard (if not impossible) to differentiate from that of a much more expensive device. We used it in combination with a 55-inch LG smart TV and it performed very well, serving up a crisp image with deep colors and great detail.
Of all the discs we threw at it, it didn't fail to play one. It literally plays everything including DVD-R, DTS-CD and CD-R's. It also fully supports the most popular video formats such as MPEG2, MPEG4, MKV, AVCHD, M4V, 3GP, FLV, VOB and more. HDMI 1.4 and a video enhancement feature lends additional options, making the movie experience even more enjoyable.
As far as audio, we found no reason to say that the LG BP200 falls short. It comes equipped to support Dolby Digital(Plus), Dobly True HD and DTS 2.0 digital output. It features dynamic range control for configuring surround sound to your exact preferences while providing a theater-like experience in the convenience of your own home. Although this player might not feature the highly advanced audio options desired by the expert home audio buff, it is more than capable of high-performance sound delivery.
The BP220 also has the following input/output features:
