This blu-ray, technically, has all the features you're looking for, but the best phrase I can use to describe it is "clunky as 4e11."

Has Netflix streaming, but it takes forever to connect. Could be Netflix. **** UPDATE JUNE 2011: Nope, it's not a problem with Netflix. I have another device (WD TV Plus) that connects to Netflix quickly and flawlessly.

Takes forever to load a blu-ray. Takes forever to turn on. Takes forever to power off. Maybe all blu-rays are like that; I don't know. My $99 Panasonic DVD player was much nicer.

Sometimes, when playing a scratched DVD, my old DVD player would freeze up until I hit fast forward to skip the scratched part. This pioneer blu-ray player just quits an goes back to the main menu.

In order to connect to Netflix (internet), you're supposed to buck up for their $200 proprietary WiFi USB adaptor. Luckily, I was able to connect it directly to my network (wired, not wireless). I did try a... Read more

I have been using the Pioneer BDP-31FD Elite since I received it on Feb.28, 2012. I must say that it is a great blu ray player. I installed the latest firmware after I received the BDP-31FD. It loads a blu ray disc in about 25 seconds after I insert it. The picture is very sharp, and the color is fantastic, the audio is also fantastic. The BD-31FD is a lot better than my old Pioneer BDP-320 blu ray player, and the BDP-320 was no slouch either. I am very happy with my BDP-31FD purchase from Amazon's Market place, Walt's TV and fulfilled by Amazon.
The price was also fantastic.

The picture quality is great on this player. I had a nice player already, but I needed one with RS-232 control. Although Pioneer technical support is poor, their documentation is above average.

They are one of few who offer RS-232 (serial) control on their Blu-ray players. Their website has a link to the command documentation here: [...]

The IR HEX codes are here: [...] (Although, I didn't see the BDP-31FD listed for the IR, I'm sure the 32 and 33 would work.)

Yes, Blu-ray discs take a few seconds to load, but I am very satisfied with the performance and response times.

I did have to update the player's firmaware.

Hope all that helps someone...

Chris