Getting into physical media? Here’s everything I’ve learned from 20+ years of collecting - CNN

What the report says

CNN Underscored published a consumer guide by Henry T. Casey on the renewed interest in physical media, drawing on his more than 20 years of collecting DVDs, Blu-rays, records and CDs. The article frames the trend as a response to the instability of digital access, citing examples such as digital purchases disappearing after licensing changes, artists removing music from streaming platforms, and recurring streaming price increases.

The piece says collectors are looking for more control over their home entertainment libraries, along with better access and quality than some streaming options provide. CNN Underscored cites The Digital Entertainment Group as reporting a 12% increase in 4K Blu-ray disc sales in 2025. It also includes perspectives from Criterion Collection president Peter Becker, Night Owl Video cofounder Aaron Hamel and Sean Fennessey of The Ringer’s “The Big Picture,” who describe interest from both younger audiences and older consumers who grew up collecting physical formats.

The guide offers practical recommendations for people starting a collection, including 4K Blu-ray players, TVs, soundbars and storage considerations. Casey recommends the Sony UBP-X700K as a broadly suitable 4K Blu-ray player and points to the Panasonic DP-UB820 as a higher-end option for collectors interested in imports. The article also addresses limited editions, library-building habits and ways to avoid overspending.

The broader significance is cultural as well as practical: CNN presents physical media collecting as part of a shift toward ownership, intentional viewing and analog hobbies, rather than relying entirely on streaming services whose catalogs and terms can change.