- Product Name: Durarara!! Season 1 Complete Collection Blu-ray
- Key Specs: 24 Episodes + 2 OVAs, 1080p, LPCM 2.0 Audio, Region A
- Publisher: Sentai Filmworks
As a long-time collector, I’ve seen countless anime releases come and go, but few series have the enduring appeal and rewatchability of Durarara!!.
If you’re here, you’re likely past the point of wondering if you should watch it, and are now asking the critical question: is the durarara season 1 blu ray set worth the investment?
This review is for you—the reader who is ready to buy but needs that final push of confidence.
I’ll be honest and transparent, treating this purchase like I would advise a friend.
We’ll look past the hype and focus on the technical quality, the packaging, and the overall value of the set.
Let’s find out if this is the definitive way to own the start of the Ikebukuro saga.
What’s Included in the Durarara!! Season 1 Blu-ray Set
The complete set is a straightforward package, which is a relief compared to the confusing volume releases of the past.
- Episode Count: All 24 episodes of the first season are included, along with the two bonus OVA episodes (12.5 and 25). This is the complete Season 1 story.
- Disc Count: The set typically comes on 3 Blu-ray discs.
- Bonus Features: Standard extras include textless opening and ending sequences, and various trailers. Don't expect the massive physical extras of the original Aniplex limited editions, but the core on-disc content is there.
- Packaging Type: The most common version available today (Sentai Filmworks) comes in a standard Blu-ray case, often with a slipcover.
Video & Audio Quality Review
This is the most important section for any durarara season 1 blu ray review.
The technical quality is what separates a good release from a great one.
Resolution & Transfer Quality
The video is presented in a sharp 1080p High Definition.
The transfer is excellent, showcasing the series' unique color palette and dynamic animation style beautifully.
There is a noticeable improvement in clarity and detail over the DVD version.
Color & Sharpness
The transfer is clean, with vibrant colors and deep blacks.
The lines are crisp, and the overall image is free from the digital noise or excessive grain that can sometimes plague older anime transfers.
This is a top-tier presentation for a series from 2010.
Audio Clarity
This is the set's strongest technical point.
Both the Japanese and English audio tracks are presented in LPCM 2.0 (Linear PCM).
LPCM is uncompressed audio, meaning you get the sound exactly as the studio intended, with superior clarity and dynamic range compared to compressed formats.
Subtitle Quality
The English subtitles are clear, easy to read, and include a dedicated track for on-screen text and songs, which is essential for a show with as much visual text as Durarara!!.
Short Comparison vs: Streaming, DVD
The Blu-ray is superior to streaming due to its significantly higher bitrate, which eliminates compression artifacts, especially in dark scenes.
Compared to the DVD, the Blu-ray's 1080p resolution and LPCM audio make it the clear winner for picture and sound quality.
Packaging & Physical Quality
Since this is a review of the complete set (typically the Sentai Filmworks re-release), the focus is on function over collector flash.
Case Type
The set usually comes in a standard, thick Blu-ray case.
It's functional and durable, designed to sit neatly on your shelf.
Slipcover (if any)
Many initial printings included a cardboard slipcover, which adds a nice touch of collectibility.
However, this is not guaranteed and often depends on the retailer's stock.
Disc Art
The disc art is generally simple but effective, featuring key characters or iconography from the series.
Build Quality
The build quality is solid.
It's not the high-end, multi-volume digipack of the original Aniplex release, but it's a sturdy, practical way to house the discs.
Pros & Cons
A balanced look at the set's strengths and weaknesses.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Pristine Technical Quality (1080p, LPCM 2.0 audio) | Standard Packaging (Lacks the premium feel of the original Aniplex release) |
| Excellent Value (Affordable price for the complete season) | Limited Extras (Only textless OP/EDs, no physical collectibles) |
| Complete Story (Includes all 24 episodes + 2 OVAs) | Region Locked (Region A, limiting access for international buyers) |
| Easy to Find (Currently in print and widely available) | Potential for Bootlegs (When buying from third-party sellers) |
Who Should Buy This Blu-ray?
This durarara season 1 blu ray set is not for everyone, but it is perfect for most.
First-Time Viewers
Yes, buy it. This is the best way to watch the series for the first time. The superior quality enhances the experience, and the complete set is the most straightforward purchase.
Collectors
Yes, but with a caveat. If you are a collector focused on the most premium packaging, you'll need to hunt down the expensive, out-of-print Aniplex volumes. However, if you prioritize technical quality and a complete set, this is a must-buy.
DVD Upgraders
Absolutely, buy it. The jump from DVD to Blu-ray is significant in both picture and, especially, sound quality.
Budget Buyers
Yes, buy it. This is the most cost-effective way to get the complete first season in high definition.
Conclusion + Final Verdict
The durarara season 1 blu ray set is a fantastic release and an easy recommendation.
It delivers on the promise of high-definition anime: a pristine 1080p transfer and uncompressed LPCM audio.
While the packaging is standard, the value for money and the technical quality are undeniable.
If you are looking for the definitive way to own the first season of Durarara!!, this is it.
It’s a solid, reliable, and high-quality set that is absolutely worth buying.
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