Review: Block HD-120 – An Ultra HD Player with Exceptional Audio Performance

Film lovers like to own their favorite movies. Streaming has done little to change that so far. With the new HD-120, Block offers Blu-ray collectors a versatile player that, in addition to its cinematic qualities, also promises to impress in terms of sound. We tested this specialist in physical media in a hands-on review.

Entertainment electronics have now reached a stage that can be described as the "streaming era." Most types of content now come directly from the internet. Files are often stored on servers halfway across the world, and the corresponding data streams are delivered to us with the push of a button. However, physical media is far from obsolete. Aside from the passionate defenders of vinyl, who occupy a special niche in the market, many people still enjoy having their films and music neatly stored on shelves.

I count myself partly among these enthusiasts. For video games, I still prefer the disc version, and I often buy Blu-rays of movies I enjoy after watching them on Netflix. When it comes to music, I find myself torn between Hi-Res downloads and CDs. Older titles are often available as bargain discs, but there are also times when I simply want to hold a newly released album in my hands. Meeting this mix of needs requires a special kind of device.

Image and Sound

Blu-Rays, CDs, and Hi-Res audio files are all brought together in the new Block HD-120. It’s no coincidence that the northern German manufacturer calls this device a "HiFi UHD Blu-ray Disc Player." There seems to be a bit of pride in this, as the front of the player emphasizes its UHD system capabilities three times. The abbreviation appears at the top right in the device’s name, while the words "Ultra HD Blu-ray" are prominently displayed on the disc tray. Once the device is powered on, the screen on the left also shows this label. One can't fault Block for these somewhat ostentatious references. After all, Blu-ray players have become somewhat rare on the market, even though the format still has many fans. At the same time, music also plays a significant role here. In addition to the ability to play SACDs and CDs, files can be streamed via the network or played via USB.

Not a Lightweight

The overall design of the HD-120 clearly shows that Block classifies it as an audio device. Unlike the often excessively minimalist appearance of modern Blu-ray players, this device from Lower Saxony resembles more of a high-end Hi-Fi component. What stands out the most are the generous thicknesses of the materials used for the metal casing. The front panel is 10 millimeters thick, while the sidewalls, equipped with numerous cooling fins, reach up to 12 millimeters in some places. As a result, the HD-120 has a substantial weight of nearly seven kilograms, resting on four sturdy feet, with those at the front being height-adjustable. In contrast to the trend of flat, discrete buttons, the HD-120 features well-sized front buttons that offer a pleasant tactile feel and a satisfying mechanical click. Its design is sleek and timeless, but the rounded corners prevent it from appearing bulky.

Music Sets the Tone

At the back, the HD-120 once again demonstrates its Hi-Fi capabilities. Blu-ray players generally come with basic connections, as they often don’t process sound directly, leaving that role to the TV speakers, soundbars, or AV amplifiers. Block, however, designed its player to integrate primarily into a stereo system for film playback. Therefore, in addition to coaxial and optical digital outputs, it features a pair of RCA (Cinch) connectors and even an XLR output. With its own volume control, the HD-120 can be connected directly to active speakers or stereo amplifiers. It can also be paired with any type of integrated amplifier. Additionally, there’s an Ethernet port for network integration and a USB port for connecting USB drives and hard disks. For occasional use, there is an additional USB port available at the front.

A Strong Signal

If you want the film’s sound to be processed by an AV system, Block’s 4K player offers a dedicated HDMI port. This is in addition to the main HDMI output, which transmits both video and sound to the TV. However, the manufacturer missed the opportunity to create a fully versatile device here. This HDMI port does not support ARC (Audio Return Channel), which means the HD-120 cannot process sound from the TV. To connect sound from streaming services, TV channels, or media libraries to your audio system, another solution will be required. On the other hand, the HDMI ports support other essential signals: video signals up to 4K resolution (including HDR10) and 3D, as well as PCM audio streams or Dolby Digital bitstreams. In addition to Blu-rays, DVDs, and CDs of all types, the player is also compatible with SACDs.

Ready to Go

As it should be for a disc player, the installation and setup of the HD-120 are a breeze. I paired it with a Block A-200 integrated amplifier, driving large tower speakers. At the other end of the HDMI cable, a large connected TV, and finally, the HD-120 was connected to the network via cable. The player is then ready to go, but I first take a look at the menu. It offers various options to adjust the image and sound, such as color space, resolution, or aspect ratio. On the audio side, you can set the output signal format or configure the speakers. By default, a stereo mode is already set, ensuring an optimal downmix for the test. Overall, the factory settings are already satisfactory, but it’s always nice to have the option to fine-tune various parameters.

A Powerful Start

Before inserting my first disc into the player, I press the "Media Center" button on the remote. This menu allows you to start the inserted disc, but it is primarily designed for music playback, displaying content from USB devices and network servers. The navigation with the remote works fine, although it’s not always intuitive. Music files from the server appear only in a directory tree, and the organization of tracks and albums doesn’t seem to follow any particular order. However, this issue can be circumvented using a compatible UPnP smartphone app. Once Elton John's classic, Rocket Man, starts playing, this becomes secondary: the HD-120 delivers impressive sound power. Every piano note resonates with dynamism and intensity. The guitars are pleasantly textured, while the highs shine with clarity and freshness.

Block HD-120 – Sound Performance for Discs and Files

The HD-120 also excels in terms of spatialization and sound depth. Sir Elton is perfectly centered in the soundstage and reproduced with great precision. Behind him, a choir of backing singers stretches widely, well detached from the extremely dark background. Switching to Runter mit den Spendierhosen, Unsichtbarer by the band Die Ärzte, the HD-120 stays true to its sonic qualities. The reproduction is lively and dynamic, especially noticeable on the punchy percussion. The combination of Block components controls the large speakers effectively, although at times, a hint of force might be lacking. However, the groove of the round bass more than makes up for it. Finally, when I insert an audio CD into the player, the HD-120 reads the data accurately and delivers fresh, dynamic sound. A clever feature bridges the gap between CDs and streaming, adding even more versatility to this device.

Power in Silence

From the start of the movie, another advantage of the HD-120's robust metal casing becomes apparent: the player is virtually silent in operation. Only by pressing your ear close to the device can you detect a faint hum. Even in quiet scenes, the atmosphere remains intact without annoying background noise. This is also true for signal processing, where the HD-120 impresses with astonishingly silent backgrounds. With no perceptible background noise, moments of silence are truly silent, highlighting the wide dynamic range of the device. Sudden sound effects are reproduced with impact and intensity. In the battle scene of The Discs, the powerful percussion from the soundtrack makes its presence felt, while the synthesizer melodies in the highs offer refined clarity. In the background, applause and chants from the audience unfold within a vast sound arena. Even in 2.0 stereo, Block's player provides an immersive cinematic experience.

Cinema Sound in Stereo

The discs whistle through the air with striking sound, their trajectory clearly audible before bouncing off virtual walls with dense, vibrant sound effects. During the Lightcycle battle, the stereo soundstage offers great spatialization. The opening fireworks expand the soundstage in all directions. The subtle hum of the motorcycles is accompanied by the faint but precise rustling of the light barriers, while the participants move through the sound space. The collisions produce powerful impacts, followed by the crystal-clear sound of computer programs disintegrating. With vivid sound reproduction and precise control, the HD-120 offers an impressive listening experience. The 2.0 stereo downmix works flawlessly. However, in particularly intense scenes, with numerous effects coming from all directions, simultaneous dialogues, and the soundtrack, the speakers may reach their limits in terms of differentiation.

Striking Contrasts

In addition to its remarkable sound performance, the HD-120 also impresses with its picture quality. The many dark nuances of the film are perfectly distinguished, never appearing dull or blurred. The contrast is also excellent, with light effects standing out brilliantly in this world dominated by black. During Daniel Craig's debut in Casino Royale, the player reproduces beautiful colors, sharp contrasts, and a clear image. Once again, it shows everything that can be achieved in terms of immersive sound with just two speakers. While 007 chases a bomb-placer at Miami airport, the sprinkler water spreads realistically through the soundspace, as do the voices and the sounds of passengers fleeing. The HD-120 doesn’t lack detail either: the faint whistling of a machete blade, the clinking of poker chips, or the rustling and slapping of cards are reproduced with great precision. Action scenes also benefit from powerful, well-controlled bass. A top-level performance.

Conclusion

Blu-rays are still very much alive, as are CDs and SACDs. With the HD-120, Block offers an excellent player with versatile playback capabilities, with a particular focus on sound quality. The Ultra HD player reproduces films and music with remarkable dynamics and spatialization. Those who wish to use their stereo setup for their TV will enjoy the superb sound quality of the HD-120 and savor an immersive cinematic experience. Thanks to its integrated audio player, including a network streamer, it can also serve as a high-end source in a Hi-Fi setup. The only drawbacks are the lack of an ARC port and some quirks in menu navigation, but these issues can be easily worked around. For movie and music enthusiasts looking to rediscover their collection in optimal quality, the Block HD-120 is a wise choice that promises plenty of enjoyment.

Test & Text: Philipp Schneckenburger
Fotos: Simone Maier

Model: Block HD-120
Product Category: HiFi / UHD Blu-Ray Player

Price: 1,799 EUR
Finishes:

•  Black
• Silver

Distributor: Audioblock, Hude
Phone: 04484 92009017
Website: www.audioblock.de

Dimensions (H x W x D): 96 x 430 x 330 mm
Weight: 6.9 kg

Inputs:

• 1 x 4K Blu-Ray Drive
• 1 x Ethernet
• 2 x USB-A (1 x front)

Outputs:

• 1 x HDMI
• 1 x HDMI (audio only)
• 1 x XLR Stereo
• 1 x Cinch Stereo
• 1 x S/PDIF coaxial
• 1 x Toslink optical

Supported Formats:

• 4K/ 3D Blu-Ray
• SACD
• CD
• MP3
• WAV
• FLAC
• ALAC

Included Accessories:

• 1 x HD-120
• 1 x Remote Control (with batteries)
• 1 x Power Cable

Pros & Cons:

• Numerous playback options
• Timeless design
• High build quality
• Whisper-quiet operation
• 4K, 3D, and HDR10 support
• Integrated HiRes streamer
• High contrast image
• Good color representation
• Fine detail resolution
• Engaging dynamics
• Excellent spatiality
• Differentiated and three-dimensional sound
• Dark background

• No ARC
• On-screen menu can be somewhat unintuitive

Ratings:

• Sound/Image (60%): 99/100
• Practical Use (20%): 96/100
• Features (20%): 98/100
• Overall Score: 98/100
• Class: Reference Class
• Price/Performance: Good

Tested with:

• Block A-200
• Audio Physic Midex
• Canton Reference 7.2 DC
• Metz blue 65MCU80001Z
• Panasonic TX-55GZW1004
• Innuos ZENmini Mk3
• Avinity Ultra High Speed HDMI
• Viablue NF-S6 Air XLR
• Viablue SC-6
• Creaktiv Little Reference MXP ci2P
• Roterring Scanea Protekt
• IsoTek Polaris EVO3