Pioneer DV-420V-K Multi-Format 1080p Upscaling DVD Player Review

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(More customer reviews)We originally tried the Samsung DVD-1080P9 after moving up from an old 480i Sony, but the 9P had trouble reading some of the more scratched up DVDs. Also, the Sony would remember your last play spot for the last 6 DVDs that you played, which the Samsung didn't. Not quite satisfied with the Samsung we decided to try out the Pioneer DV-420V-K and after one night of fiddling we're returning the Samsung.
As other's have said, it has all the important remote buttons on the face of the player, it has a high quality video output, and I have had no problems yet reading scratched up DVDs. As a bonus it remembers at least the last two DVD's play spots which is very handy if you have kids and want to swap out parent's material for the kidstuff. I also like the setup menu and manual better on the Pioneer.
Highly recommended.

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DV-420V-K Multi-Format DVD Player Featuring HDMI, 1080p Upscaling, USB, and ivX/WMV Playback VIDEO FEATURES - Dual-Layer DVD-R/DVD/DVD-R/DVD-RW/DVD+R/ DVD+RW Compatible SVCD/VCD/CD/CD-R/CD-RW Compatible HDMI Terminal for Digital Audio/Video Out HDMI Upscaling (to view on a 1080p display) WMV (Windows Media Video) Compatible Official DivX Certified Product Compatible with All Versions of DivX Video (including DivX 6) with Standard Playback of DivX Media Files 108 MHz/12-bit Video DAC PureCinema 2:3 Progressive Scan I/P Simultaneous Output USB Input for Compressed Video (DivX/WMV) and JPEG HD JPEG Playback JPEG PhotoViewer (Fujicolor CD) Video Adjust Function with Sharpness/Brightness/Contrast/Gamma/Hue/Chroma Level Control Zoom Function AUDIO FEATURES 96 kHz/24-bit Audio DAC USB Input for Compressed Music Playback WMA (Windows Media Audio)/MP3/MPEG-4 AAC Compressed Music Playback Compatible Dolby Digital Output Dialogue EnhancerVirtual Surround Sound Equalizer (Rock/Pop/Live/Dance/Techno/Classic/Soft) CONVENIENCE FEATURES KURO LINK CD ➝ USB Recording Photo + Music Mix (JPEG Slideshow with Music) Advanced GUI Disc Navigator for Easy Browsing Last (Position) Memory: 5 DVD Discs/1 VCD Disc Resume Function Screen Saver Auto Power Off TERMINALS 1 HDMI Terminal 1 USB Input 1 Coaxial Digital Output 1 S-Video Output 1 Audio/1 Video Output Component Video Output (DVD, Video CD)

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Sony DVP-NC875V/B 5-Disc DVD/CD/SACD Changer, Black Review

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(More customer reviews)I bought this recently to replace an older 5 disc Sony model that I spent nearly 200 for just 2 years ago. Some changes I noticed include: they did remove the front panel menu navigation buttons, so make sure you don't break/lose your remote. Also gone is the cool 2 color front panel lights around disc buttons 1-5. One good thing though is that they made it shorter in height, thin is in. Never had a problem w/ my old one, Sony is among the leaders in reliability. I like the dot matrix display a lot- which features a 3 stage dimmer.
This model DVP-NC875V(Black) is a great value. I bought the black because it matches the rest of my AV gear, but it's also available in silver. I got mine from a local retailer for 123, new. The on-screen menu is clear and easy to use. The manual is also easy to understand and well written. Set up was painless, I had it out of the box and playing with-in minutes. The remote is sleek/thin, easy to use, tons of buttons, and fits my hand well w/ the bottom finger groove. Some cool buttons are the (2x & 4x) zoom and instant replay. It can be easily programmed to control the volume on your receiver(lacks a mute button) as well as control your TV.
It features hi-fi. multichannel SACD - though unfortunately only playable through the analog 5.1 outputs, would be MUCH better if it was playable through the superior digital outs instead.(Running one wire is also a much cleaner install than having to run 6 for audio to the machine's rear) I hope they someday get this right.
It features a list of various play modes, including program play, shuffle(random) play, repeat play, A-B repeat play. CD/DVD text compatible(if available). Built-in dolby digital/DTS decoding, great for people who don't already have decoding in a receiver, lacks pro logic II decoding I've seen others have. Of course, selectable progressive scan.
It has BOTH optical & coaxial digital outs. Superior 108MHz/12 bit video DAC! 192kHz/24 bit audio DAC! Sony's new precision drive 3 system. 40 disc resume memory- very convenient feature and a lot more than others offer! region 1 or all region/NTSC only. Built-in screen saver(after 15 min.). Energy star! It shuts off after 30 min. of inactivity. Great feature! Power consumption is 14w. S/N 115db. Distortion: .003% Dynamic range: DVD video & SACD =103db/CD=99db.
Just a couple cons: lacks(higher end)HDMI output, doesn't play WMA, DVD-RAM, DVD-ROM, CD-ROM(photo CD format)or DVD-audio discs. However, it is extremely hard to find a player that's compatible w/ every single format out there. What it will play: DVD, CD, SACD, VCD, JPEG, Kodak picture CD, MP3, CD-R/RW, DVD +/- R/RW, CD-ROM(music CD/video CD format).
Also, a personal issue, I still wish DVD players had built-in digital clocks like VCRs did. I also wish you had a choice to rotate the open tray either way when exchanging discs. Keep in mind the 5 disc models are quite a bit larger/wider than the single disc models, but they do offer you more flexibility in return.
One final piece of advice, please use component video for your video signal (if you can) and invest in quality set of wires, like monster cable. S-Video is the next best thing. Composite aka A/V cables should NEVER be used for a DVD player, even though they are usually thrown in the box for free. Composite: Good for VCRs, Horrible for DVDs. Anyways, hope my review helps... this is a great product so go get one!

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Video and audio buffs rejoice: Sony's 5-disc, DVP-NC875V/B changer handles all your DVD, CD, and Super Audio CD (SACD) needs--including playback of MP3 music and JPEG image CDs. The player gives you all the convenience of a carousel changer--continuous playback, play exchange--as well progressive-scan video outputs with Precision Cinema Progressive technology and cool enhancements like Sony's Precision Drive 3 system for playing damaged discs.The DVP-NC875V/B plays just about any disc out there, from DVD-Video to DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+R, and DVD+RW. And whether your living room is currently home to an HDTV or you're merely thinking of "someday," the DVP-NC875V/B stands ready to deliver the full potential of your DVDs through Sony's Precision Cinema Progressive de-interlacer (scanning) with 3:2 pulldown processing. Progressive scanning, referred to as 480p for the number of horizontal lines that compose the video image, creates a picture using twice the scan lines of a conventional DVD picture, giving you higher resolution and sharper images while eliminating nearly all motion artifacts.Precision Cinema Progressive technology uses a 12-bit video DAC (digital-to-analog converter) with high-bandwidth, 108 MHz processing to detect image changes at the pixel level, rather than at the level of whole scan lines. That makes this player's picture more faithful to the source--whether film or video--because it uses separate, optimized algorithms to handle different pixel behaviors. Separate algorithms are also used to process the moving and still parts of an image, resulting in sharp backgrounds with moving objects that are free from motion artifacts.DVD mastering introduces a common distortion when adjusting 24 frames-per-second movies to 30 fps video; 3:2 reverse pulldown digitally corrects this distortion, removing the redundant information to display a film-frame-accurate picture. Composite- and S-video outputs bring compatibility with nearly any television.Depending on the disc, SACD music releases provide super high-fidelity multichannel and/or stereo sound. As an anti-piracy measure, the DVP-NC875V/B performs its own decoding of SACD signals, passing high-resolution analog, not digital, audio to your integrated amplifier or surround receiver. This means you'll need an audio/video receiver with multichannel analog-audio inputs to appreciate multichannel SACD releases. Built-in SACD bass management helps you tailor the output level of the ".1" LFE (low-frequency effects) channel to your system, as an appropriate level may differ from the output level appropriate for Dolby Digital and DTS surround mixes.If you're not planning to use the SACD capability for multichannel programming, both Dolby Digital and DTS 5.1-channel surround-sound signals can also be routed through the player's digital-audio outputs (1 each RCA coaxial and Toslink optical) for simpler connection to a compatible receiver (multichannel analog and digital-audio interconnects are not supplied).Precision Drive 3 provides a mechanism for reading DVDs that are in less than perfect condition, eliminating errors in playback due to imperfect, scratched, or warped discs.As soon as you hook up the DVD player, a special Quick Setup screen appears ready to guide you through configuration, step by step, screen by screen. DVD resume memory kicks in whenever you stop a DVD. Later, when you come back to it, the player will pick up right where you left off before. The player holds resume points for an impressive 40 discs.Other playback features include 10-second instant replay, DVD/CD Text display (with applicable discs), a digital video enhancer, digital video EQ (equalization), custom parental control memory for 40 discs, as well as Advanced SmoothScan and SmoothSlow Modes.What's in the Box DVD player, remote control, 2 AA remote batteries, a stereo analog audio/composite-video interconnect, a user's manual, and warranty information.

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OPPO OPDV971H Digital HD-Ready Up-Converting DVD Player Review

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(More customer reviews)I just got this player thru Amazon, and ran two region1 DVD disks: LOTR Return of the King Platinum and Dying Young. The short review: The wife is so impressed with the Oppo's picture quality (that's probably the most important consideration when buying anything like this). I was expecting the quality, since I was able to demo a Samsung earlier that could do DCDI/Faroudja/upconvertion. ADDED: I also tried Star Wars DVD. WOW!! The picture quality really blew me away. I can see details in the movie I have never seen before on a TV.
Our Oppo/HT setup: Panasonic AE700 widescreen lcd projector hdmi, ht=61" x wd=108" diy "blackout" screen (viewing distance=3.5meters), Yamaha RXV2095 receiver, Pioneer DV515 (old non-progressive dvd player via 12meter sVideo, 1.5meter fiber optic audio), Oppo DV971H (via dvi-to-hdmi adapter, 5meter hdmi cable, 3.7meter 75ohm component video cable, 10meter 75ohm coax audio), Speakers: Wharfedale Diamond 8.4 L/R/C and Bose AM10 L/R/C/Surr, Wiring AWG12. Home Theater PC setup (6meter VGA output, 1.5 meter fiber optic audio, Asus Pentium 4-2.67GHz notebook, ATI Radeon 9000-64MB, 512MB, 40GB HDD, ZoomPlayer, FFDShow, PowerStrip, WinDVD6, PowerDVD6). (1meter = 3.28ft)
I have observed a significant video improvement over our old pioneer DVD player. I also tried a 1970's movie (I won't mention the title) that was so poorly transferred to DVD (region3), and I noticed a significant improvement in the video playback over the old player. The noise artifacts were minimized, and the sharpness had a significant improvement. I guess that was the DCDI/Faroudja chip doing its work.
I've tried the 480p,720p,1080i upconvertion using the "dvi" button on the remote and although I couldn't really notice the difference in quality between the three modes even on such a large screen, the lcd projector saw the difference and reported the corresponding "input source signal". I may have to observe some more and change the projector's picture mode, we usually leave it at "Cinema1 mode".
ADDED: okay, I've now looked A LOT closer using Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon region3 DVD. Basically, as I move up the DVI resolution from 480p to 720p to 1080i, I did noticed that less and less horizontal lines were becoming visible (a good thing).
BUT, since our projector uses hdmi, the picture does suffer from hdmi cropping issues (varies with the resolution being used). Using component/analog gives the largest picture that can occupy the screen (unfortunately there is no upconversion using component, only the Oppo's DVI output has the upconversion). At the projector side: Using hdmi input, the picture appears cropped (black bars at the left and right, sometimes at the top and bottom, sometimes a combination of both). I also cannot change aspect ratio using hdmi, while you can using component/analog inputs of the projector.
ADDED: The Oppo I have can play DVD-Audio, something not stated in the manuals or the unit's array of logos. The DVD-Audio sampler disc I used came from Creative Lab's Audigy 2 for the PC.
ADDED: I also compaired the Oppo's component output vs. the dvi-to-hdmi output, basically, there's a big difference in the picture quality, you should connect using the dvi output if possible.
I also noticed that the subtitles on the movies are much easier to read now when compaired to the old dvd player, but on one brief moment the subtitles on Dying Young were garbled -that's never happened before on the Pioneer.
ADDED: Okay, this has now happened to a bunch of other DVDs, sometimes it garbles one single line of subtitle per entire single dvd I watched. That is still an acceptable problem to me.
I also heard no apparent difference in audio quality between the Oppo and the old Pioneer despite the length of the coax. Naturally I set all audio sound effects to off when compairing audio CDs.
I also compaired the Oppo to our HTPC. Basically, the HTPC could output better video than the old Pioneer, but when compairing with Oppo, I prefer the Oppo. I don't want the hassle the HTPC is giving me. I saw no significant video quality difference between the HTPC and the Oppo. So my take on this is if you're happy with your HTPC, stick to it. If you want convenience then Oppo is something to look at. If you can't demo an Oppo, try looking at anything with DCDI/Faroudja.
Bottom line: I am happy with the purchase. Good value for the money. It's region free and can upconvert, and that's what's important to me. I chose Oppo vs. Momitsu V880 because I prefer Faroudja over Sigma Designs. BUT, BUT, here are my Oppo gripes....
1. I don't like the remote's key layout, it also seems flimsy, it could use a backlight.
2. I don't like the el-cheapo plastic disc tray. It looks like it will break easily. It's weird having to insert a disc if the tray doesn't comeout 100% all the way. I just hope this is the design, not a defect.
3. I don't like the bright blue light which is distracting in a completely dark home theater room.
4. The player's buttons are a little hard to press, well, maybe because it's still new. As with other players, not all remote functions can be found on the unit itself. So take care of the remote.
5. I wish the unit was color black instead of silver.
6. I don't like the OSD font, could use a better readable font.
7. The setup menu could be more descriptive, the manual helps but not enough...
8. I wish it was HDMI rather than DVI, but the adapter solved that issue.
ADDED: 9. Subtitle display is sometimes garbled (sometimes happens once on a single line per DVD watched).
ADDED 05/28: Okay, after 3 months and almost 200 hrs of use, I am still happy with this purchase. However, not all DVD titles appeared fantastic thru the DVI upconversion output (hdmi input on our projector), such as Top Gun r1. I had to watch it thru the component output. It appeared too visually noisy via DVI.

Eric Gutierrez
Manila, Philippines

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Improve the picture quality of DVD movies shown on your high-definition television with the versatile OPPO Digital OPDV971H DVD player, which provides 480p/540p/576p/720p/1080i resolutions and can upconvert 480i video from DVDs to the high definition 720p/1080i formats. Featuring a slim and elegant design, it featurs a sleek, silver design that will fit in nicely the rest of your home theater's components. In addition to standard DVD move and CD audio discs, it's also compatible with DVD-R/RW, DVD+R/RW, (S)VCD, HDCD, and CD-R/RW discs as well as WMA and JPEG digital content. It also plays DivX 5, DivX 4, DivX 3, and DivX VOD video content (in compliance with DivX Certified technical requirements).
The OPDV971H features Faroudja's Emmy award-winning DCDi deinterlacing and scaling technology to up-convert standard video in DVDs to HD resolutions. DCDi (Directional Correlational Deinterlacing) technology eliminates the jagginess that conventional upconverters introduced to diagonal edges in video. FaroudjaÕs unique DCDi algorithm identifies all the moving edges in a scene and adjusts the angle of interpolation at each pixel so that the interpolation always follows the edge instead of crossing it, eliminating staircasing or jagged edge artifacts.
Other features include a 108MHz/12bit video D/A converter, super error correction with twin laser and intelligent laser wavelength control, NTSC/PAL output (from both NTSC and PAL formatted discs), multi-angled view capability, virtual surround sound, and built-in Dolby Digital and DTS decoders. Future upgrades to the firmware can be updated to the player via a CD-ROM disc. It offers the following connection options:
DVI Out: 1 (480p, 576p, 540p, 720p, 1080i resolutions)
S-Video Out: 1
Composite AV Out: 1
Component Out
Subwoofer Out: 1
Optical digital audio Out: 1
Coaxial digital audio Out: 1

Tech Talk DivX is a video codec (a piece of software encoding and decoding video) based on the MPEG-4 compression format, that blends good quality video with a low bitrate. This translates to a smaller file size (around 15 percent of a standard DVD's video file), making it easier to transfer to portable devices as well as quicker to create (encode).
HDCD (High Definition Compatible Digital) is a disc encoding format for audio CDs and DVDs. It can encode 20 bits of audio information into a conventional CD 16-bit channel, yielding a greater dynamic range and a more true-to-life sound when decoded. HDCD-equipped players will improve audio quality for even traditionally recorded CDs and DVDs. Conversely, because of the recording process, HDCD-encoded media will also sound better than traditionally CDs and DVDs on players that don't have the HDCD chip.
DVI (Digital Video Interface) provides an uncompressed transfer of high definition video from a digital video source to a digital display device. HDCP (High Bandwidth Digital Content Protection) ensures copy protection of the content. The DVI output is also essential if you want to watch copyrighted DVDÕs at a higher, upconverted resolution (other video connections do not provide upconversion).
What's in the Box DVD player, remote control (with batteries), video cable, RCA L/R audio cable, printed operating instructions

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Panasonic DVD-RP56 Progressive-Scan DVD Player Review

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(More customer reviews)I upgraded from the previous 310 model Panasonic DVD player and am absolutely amazed by the performance of this little machine. While the actual box is a bit smaller and lighter than the previous Panasonic I owned, the machine itself is much better. The progressive-scan output on component video is truly the best I've ever seen. I am currently using it on the new 34" Sony wide-screen HDTV and I can't imagine a better picture. The colors are clear and crisp, the optical sound output is bright and lively. The menus are clear and attractive and seem to be programmed better for 16:9 tvs. The previous model had some distortion in the menus because it did not seem to output them in amamorphic wide-screen. While I'm not sure if the menus on the new model are anamorphic, they certainly look much better on a wide-screen tv.
The manual warns that there may be compatibility issues with progressive-scan output, but even on my non-Panasonic TV, I did not have to do the adjusting solution. It worked like a charm from the very first try. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon blew my socks off!
While the previous version did not have too much trouble with layer changes, it still had trouble with a few disks. This new model, on the other hand, handles the most problematic disks I had with great success. Fear and Loathing in Las Vagas, for example, used to pause almost 3 seconds (and sometimes froze). Now it switched layers with lightning speed.
Another great feature is the MP3 playback capability. With this feature, I can play mp3 disks which can hold around 600+ minutes of cd-quality music. Very useful for parties or entertaining, where I can stick in a CDR of my own make and not worry about changing the cds during the evening.
My only complaint, and it is a very small one, is that the remote is not as nice as the previous models. All the buttons are visible from the get-go, whereas the previous model's had a nice little flap that covered the lesser used buttons. Also, the buttons must be pressed a bit harder than the previous model's. Nevertheless, this is a very small complaint considering the great performance of the component.
All in all, for the money, this is a fantastic progressive-scan dvd. Given how expensive similar models were a year ago, it is clear that this technology is evolving to a cheaper production method with great success.

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Panasonic's DVD-RP56 DVD player uses 54 MHz 10-bit video digital-to-audio converters that process the video signal four times faster than the original 13.5 MHz rate. Combined with the DVD-RP56's progressive-scan output, the result is vivid, texturized image reproduction from your DVD discs. Additional video features include color, brightness, contrast and sharpness picture controls, as well as video black level control for dynamic color contrast. A component-video output is also included for optimal connection to compatible TVs.
High-speed, five-step smooth-motion scan lets you scan forward or reverse in five speeds, up to 100 times faster than the normal playback rate. Or use frame advance to move ahead just one frame at a time for a detailed look at the program. Enhanced video features include cinema mode, which improves the visibility of details in dark scenes and gives a more cinema-like luminance and color to the picture.
With twin-laser pickup, the Panasonic DVD-RP56 will also play your audio CD discs, including home-recorded CD-R and CD-RW discs with MP3 files. For an enhanced home-theater experience, use the digital-optical output to connect the DVD player to a Dolby Digital capable receiver. With DTS signals channeled through the digital output as well, the DVD-RP56 will playback both majoro formats of 5.1-channel audio for complete digital surround sound. Or if you have just two speakers, the V.S.S. mode will simulate five-channel surround sound. Enjoy other audio features like dialogue enhancer, which makes the dialogue more audible in certain scenes, and Bass Plus for an enhanced bass kick from your subwoofer.
Convenient features include disc stabilizer, which increases playability while reducing the chances of warping discs, chapter preview, onscreen menu icons, and a remote control with large cursor for simple menu navigation. A jog/shuttle dial is also provided on the front of the player, as are other controls for added access to DVD functions.
The Panasonic DVD-RP56 DVD player comes with a warranty of one year on parts and 90 days on labor.

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Sony BRAVIA DAV-HDX285 5.1-Channel Theater System (Black) Review

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(More customer reviews)I bought this product but am not using it for any kind of video display so I can't speak to it for that. I'm using it as a sound system for my ipod and computer and it hasn't let me down. The sound really packs a punch and is really nice if you use the right equalizer to get the proper balance in sound. The only drawback is that it doesn't put out any sound when using these functions through the center speaker so really its just like having a 4.1 system unless you use it as a surround system for a tv. It goes pretty loud considering i haven't really gone above 22 volume even though it goes up to 34. The balance is really good, although I tend to like a little more bass in my music, which it offers plenty of. Great system that isn't too pricey. Would recommend to anyone who wants an easy way to get out of having to use a 2.1 system on a laptop.

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Coby DVD-224 Compact DVD Player (Black) Review

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(More customer reviews)I wanted to be able to watch DVDs from the UK that weren't available in NTSC. So far the Coby has handled everything I've put in it with no trouble. It impressed a friend so much he got one too.
I'm not expecting it to last forever - it is a mega-cheapie after all - but at this price, I can buy a new one every year, and consider it worth it. I haven't found any other box that does multi-region with on-the-fly PAL/NTSC conversion at any price.
UPDATE - I've had my Coby for two years now, and it is still working fine. I have found some commercial DVDs don't play well in it, but it is a fault of the DVD manufacturer, not the player (I work in the industry). Basically, Technicolor don't test for compatability with the software codec used in this box, and frequently the only way to play DVDs duplicated by Technicolor is to go to the Select Scene menu and pick the first scene. It plays fine from there. This affects many cheaper DVD players, who all use the same software codec.

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Forget thinking outside the box--now you can stop worrying about the box altogether. Coby's DVD-224 is about the size of a hardcover book, so whether you're ferrying the player between the kitchen and the bedroom or hooking it up for periodic use by the kids, the DVD-224's small size permits enjoyment of DVD programs and music CDs in just about any room you want. While not portable in the traditional sense--the unit has no screen and requires AC power--the DVD-224 is much easier to move around, set-up, and use than a traditional component DVD player.It handles not only your DVD-Videos (both NTSC- and PAL-formatted discs, depending on your TV), but it plays your music, too--everything from standard CDs to home-burned CD-Rs, CD-RWs, and MP3-encoded CDs. Further, you can load a disc brimming with digital photos for custom slide shows in the comfort of your home theater.An onscreen display simplifies setup and operation, and the unit comes with a compact, full-function remote control. Other features include parental controls (with PIN lock), frame-by-frame slow motion, picture zoom (2x, 4x), and multiple-angle viewing (with applicable discs).Like to travel? The DVD-224 won't hog space in your bag, and an auto-switching universal power supply handles inputs from AC 110 to 220 volts (50/60 Hz) for use in most countries. Accordingly, the unit's onscreen display offers a choice of 5 setup languages: English, Spanish, French, German, and Italian.A composite-video output ensures compatibility with nearly any television and many newer computer monitors. Both Dolby Digital and DTS 5.1-channel surround-sound signals can be routed through the player's digital-audio outputs (choose from either optical or coaxial) for direct connection to a full-featured audio/video receiver. A set of standard left/right RCA analog outputs simplifies hookup with traditional integrated amplifiers and most televisions.What's in the Box DVD player, remote control, remote batteries, a user's manual, and a stereo analog audio interconnect/composite-video cable.

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Sony DVP-NS700H/B 1080p Upscaling DVD Player, Black Review

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(More customer reviews)Just hooked-up this player to my new Sony 40" LCD TV via HDMI cable and the results from standard DVDs is excellent. Not HDTV quality, but very, very close and an improvement from my older Panasonic player. By the way, the complaint about this unit not displaying older 4:3 aspect ratio films, ie older classic movies, is not correct. I just watched a portion of the Wizard of Oz and several other older movies in the correct OAR. The answer is on page 56 of the manual. I am always amazed at how people complain about products without reading the manual. After a 15 second click of several buttons on the remote, the player automatically shows both widescreen and old-style 4:3 format films in the correct aspect ratio.

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PIONEER DV-220V-K 1080p HDMI UPSCALING REGION FREE DVD PLAYER w/ USB Input Review

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(More customer reviews)I will only buy region free DVD players. This is super easy to use, weighs next to nothing, and doesn't take up much space in my cabinet. I plays DVD's from Germany, the U.S. and just ordered a DVD from Amazon UK. I have a few DVD's that are slightly scratched and haven't had any skipping with this player like I did with my older player. If you ever think you might be purchasing a DVD outside of the U.S. this is the economical player for you.

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OPPO BDP-80 Blu-ray Disc Player with SACD and DVD-Audio (Black) Review

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(More customer reviews)You should look closely at this player if any of these descriptions fit you:
-You own SACDs or DVD-As and want to play them on the same player you use for Blu-ray and DVD;
-You want to upgrade to a universal player that can transmit all audio and video formats (including SACD and DVD-A) via HDMI;
-You own a high-end video processor (separately or built into your receiver or display) that you want to use instead of the one built into your player;
-You own a processor that does not accept HDMI but does have analog 7.1/5.1 inputs, and want to use them to hear lossless audio (TrueHD/DTS-MA) from Blu-ray Discs.
-You prefer to do business with a smaller company that has a reputation for responsive and effective customer support.
You are not the target market for this player if:
-You require that your streaming solution (for Netflix, Amazon, YouTube etc.) be part of your Blu-ray player -- this player does not stream;
-You own a very large display and need the very best available upconversion of standard DVDs (which would make you a candidate for Oppo's $499 BDP-83);
-You don't want to spend more than the minimum for standard Blu-ray audio and video performance, and you have HDMI-enabled equipment.
-You feel you can benefit from the audio performance of very high-end DACs for stereo or multichannel analog audio (which would recommend the BDP-83 or BDP-83SE).
While I've only had my BDP-80 for a few days, I've become very impressed with the thoroughness and elegance of its design. This is a very well thought-out player, aimed at users who have a reasonable grasp of the technology they're using.
I should note that I did not spend much time on the file-playback capabilities of this unit. I did play a couple of MPG files I had on a thumb drive (there's a port on the front of the player) and found a very nice menu and very straightforward operation. There is a long list of supported file formats.
Some of the things that jumped out at me:
-The very well-packed player arrives, inside the box, wrapped not in plastic, but in an Oppo tote bag made from recycled material.
-The manual is clear, well-written in English, and printed with premium materials. (Updated versions can be downloaded as well.)
-A 6' HDMI cable is included.
-The unit has a very solidly-built feel to it.
-It is silent in operation (no cooling fan) yet does not run hot.
-Tray operation feels and sounds solid, well-damped, and not a bit flimsy. There is no ambiguity about whether the disc is properly centered in the tray.
-Menus are attractive and unambiguous.
-The remote has a number of unusual but useful controls, but is still comfortable and intuitive for basic operations. (Note that it is not backlit; the backlit version costs more and is available direct from Oppo. This is moot if you plan to use a universal remote, as I do.)
-The player is very quick in all modes of operation. It powers up and boots very fast; the tray is ready to open in a few seconds. Blu-ray operations are on a par with the PS3; other types of discs load and play as fast as most regular players.
-In my installation, at least, I connected to my home network, the player immediately configured itself, contacted the mothership, found and downloaded the latest firmware, all in a couple of minutes.
Detailing every feature of the player and remote would basically be to reproduce the owner's manula which, since it's available as a pdf on Oppo's site, you can do for yourself. So I'll end by saying that the player appears to do everything that Oppo says it will do, and does it quickly and without fuss. The company includes a one-year parts-and-labor warranty, and has an excellent reputation for customer support.
You can pay a lot less for equivalent performance in Blu-ray playback via HDMI, even in players with support for streaming services. If that's all you need there may be no reason for you to pay more for a player like this. But particularly if you can use a universal player with Blu-ray, this is not just a great performer, but it's a stone bargain.

Click Here to see more reviews about: OPPO BDP-80 Blu-ray Disc Player with SACD and DVD-Audio (Black)

Overview : The BDP-80 is a full-featured universal Blu-ray Disc player that supports BD Profile 2.0 (BD-Live and BonusView), DVD-Video, DVD-Audio, Super Audio CD (SACD), HDCD, CD and other popular media formats such as AVCHD, MKV video files, digital photos and music. Sharing the same decoder and similarly optimized firmware as OPPO's award-winning BDP-83, the BDP-80 features fast disc load times, quick response to user operations, and robust audio and video controls. In contrast to the BDP-83, which utilizes an onboard VRS by Anchor Bay video processor, the BDP-80 design has been optimized for use as a digital audio/video transport, emphasizing the accuracy of its digital audio/video outputs. At the same time, the BDP-80 is versatile enough to be used as a stand-alone universal Blu-ray player, thanks to its full array of output connections and audio/video decoding capabilities. For video, the BDP-80 features an HDMI 1.3 port that supports 1080p Full HD, 1080p 24Hz, Deep Color and Source Direct modes. Component video, S-Video and Composite video connections are also available for legacy analog displays. In addition to its faithful reproduction of high-definition pictures on Blu-ray Discs, the player can up-convert DVD from standard definition up to 1080p to maximize DVD picture quality. Its "Source Direct" output mode makes the BDP-80 incredibly well suited as a digital transport to feed into an external video processor, a high-end A/V receiver or display device with built-in video processing. Unique features such as subtitle shift and vertical stretch zoom mode makes the player an ideal source component for home theaters with 2.35:1 CIH (Constant Image Height) displays. For audio, the BDP-80 supports internal decoding and bitstream output of the latest sound formats including Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master audio. The BDP-80 also features a configurable 7.1-channel analog output that can be set as 7.1-channel, 5.1-channel, or stereo.

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Sony DVP-NS700P Progressive-Scan DVD Player Review

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(More customer reviews)The magazine reviews rightfully claim this to be the best progressive scan DVD player under $1,000. You can use it as a regular DVD player at 480i or click a setting and see a true progressive scan 480p. The difference is breathtaking. Then you can tailor other settings to extend the range digitally, to your own liking.
After seeing the competitors from JVC, Philips, and others near this price point, I felt bad for the rest. It's not just the picture. Many of the features that used to be buried in menus are now buttons on the remote such as Subtitle languages, Audio Options, camera angle, Noise Reduction, etc. The instant replay option is great fun. The Surround sound options are also an easy to find button and include all the current options (Dolby 5.1, PCM, DTS, etc.) The DTS sound was amazingly better than our previous DVD player.
As one reveiwer pointed out, don't buy this DVD unless you have or expect to have HiScan or HDTV which will have the composit video inputs that progressive scan DVD players need. You also get a variety of outputs for 5.1, RCA, SVideo, digital fiber optic, and digital coax so you should no trouble outputting the sound to your receiver. If you have a choice, use digital coax, if not digital optical to really hear the DTS come alive.

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Equipped with both progressive scan (with 3-2 pulldown) and digital video equalization, the Sony DVP-S700P DVD player makes your favorite movies come alive. Progressive scan output delivers a higher scan rate (480p) than traditional DVD players--which interlace the frames rather than scan each separately--making film images appear more intensely lifelike when seen on a HD-compatible TV. Digital video equalization optimizes the picture quality of these images, allowing the user to seek the best video option between factory preset and custom settings. Other options include a digital video enhancer, which improves the contrast and picture detail, and block noise reduction, which minimizes the data noise that often interferes with DVD images. The unit also includes a 12-bit/54 MHz video digital-to-analog converter for 480p output, and a 10-bit/27 MHz video DAC for 480i output.
The DVP-S700P also delivers enhanced performance from an audio standpoint. The player's Dolby Digital and DTS outputs provide 5.1-channel surround sound when connected to a compatible receiver. In addition, the Digital Cinema Sound feature simulates the acoustic performance of Hollywood's greatest sound stages, while the TV virtual surround lets users simulate surround sound in a two-speaker setup, or even through the TV's built-in speakers.
Functionally, the player includes SmoothScan fast forward and reverse and SmoothSlow slow motion for crisp, clear scene searching, along with bookmarking, picture memory, and strobe playback. Parents will rest easy with the included parental lock feature, while everyone will appreciate the convenience of CD and DVD Text, which display artists, titles, and even jacket covers on the front panel and TV. The unit is compatible with CD, DVD, CD-R/RW, and Video CD formats.
What's in the Box DVD player, AV cord, component video cord, remote control, two AA batteries, user's manual.

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Sony SLV-D350P DVD / VCR Combo Review

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(More customer reviews)When I first bought this, DVDs would freeze at times and the image would decay to pixels at times. I contacted Sony customer service and they said that it was due to finger prints or scratches on the DVDs. After I had the machine for about 2 to 3 months, the DVD player stopped reading DVDs completely. I again contacted customer service and they told me to ship it to Texas and that they would send me a refurbished machine for ninety dollars. Actually, ninety was the minimum cost for labor since the warranty only covered parts. It could cost more if any of the parts were not covered by the warranty. Considering the cost of the machine, this was not a good option. I am stuck, but I hope that others won't make the same mistake and buy this machine. Also, after I ran into problems, I looked on Amazon for reviews of similar Sony DVD players. Sure enough, others had the same problem.

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With its WEGA-styled chassis, Sony's SLV-D350P is the perfect high-convenience complement to today's silvery home-entertainment components. This versatile combination deck offers the convenience of VHS recording and playback and high-end progressive-scan DVD performance, handling just about any conceivable media format, from VHS and S-VHS tapes (which it plays at standard VHS resolution) to DVD-Video, video-mode DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+R, and DVD+RW, as well as MP3 CD and JPEG picture CD. From your library of VHS videos to your digital music files and digital photos, the SLV-D350P lets you enjoy them all in the comfort of your living room or bedroom.Whether your living room is currently home to an HDTV or you're merely thinking of "someday," the SLV-D350P can deliver the full potential of your DVDs. Progressive scanning, referred to as 480p for the number of horizontal lines that compose the video image, creates a picture using twice the scan lines of a conventional DVD picture, giving you higher resolution and sharper images while eliminating nearly all motion artifacts. Other DVD functions include bookmarking, picture zoom, parental lock, and a screen saver.The VCR section offers one-month, eight-event advance programming to commercial skip. Your camcorder or gaming console plugs right into the front panel for hassle-free connections. Its four-head design ensures smooth slow-motion play (forward and reverse) and clear still-frame images, and with hi-fi sound the unit records and plays back stereo audio tracks. Its 19-micron heads deliver the clearest possible picture when recording or viewing in EP (extended-play) mode.Commercial skip makes it easier than ever to zip past commercials and unwanted "coming attractions," jumping forward 30 seconds for every press of the commercial-skip button.Connections with combo units are often inconvenient, forcing you to use separate video hookups for each section (DVD, VCR), a problem for older TVs. This player has it figured out: a single RF or composite-video connection to a television will display either the DVD or the VCR signal, depending on which format you're viewing. If you want to view DVDs in S-video or in component-video (either interlaced or progressive-scan), you will need to use two inputs, as the device will not upconvert the signal from the VCR to either of those higher-resolution formats. Not to worry, though: any component- or S-video-equipped TV will offer sufficient inputs for both of the SLV-D350P's formats.It's a different arrangement for audio: you can listen through a single set of stereo analog-audio cables for each component (one is supplied), or--if you want to enjoy DVDs in discrete 5.1-channel surround sound--you can send the DVD's audio to a compatible audio/video receiver and a multichannel speaker system through a digital-audio interconnect (either optical or coaxial, not supplied). The unit also comes with an RF cable that will transmit DVD/VHS audio and video to your TV, a multilingual onscreen display (English, Spanish, French), and a multibrand TV/DVD/VCR remote control.What's in the Box DVD/VCR combo, remote control, remote batteries (two AA), user's manual, stereo analog audio interconnect/composite-video cable, coaxial video cable, and warranty information.

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Sony DVP-FX701 7-Inch LCD Portable DVD Player Review

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(More customer reviews)I purchased my Sony Port/DVD Player a year ago from CC. Last week I had to take it in to CC to have it returned to Sony for repairs. It started to freeze up as another reviewer stated.
But we have run this thing like crazy for the last 12 months. Between my husband and I we have put at least 750 hours of viewing time into it before this problem occurred. Having purchased the extended maintenance program, if Sony can't fix it I get a new one. To me the price was well worth the enjoyment we have already received from this player, not to mention the future with the repaired/replaced unit. Can't find one better by me...and I looked around alot before purchasing last year.

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Finally, a way to turn downtime into prime time. Sony's stylish, slender DVP-FX701 offers a 7-inch widescreen TFT liquid-crystal display whose 16:9 aspect ratio matches that of your favorite feature films. Built-in stereo speakers offer virtual surround for a more spacious effect, and the unit plays CDs, too--leave the screen down, plug your headphones in, and crank it up (but not too loud). The DVP-FX701's 3-hour lithium-ion battery ensures uninterrupted viewing of all but the longest movies, and an included AC power adapter lets you watch from the hotel room--you can even plug it into a TV on the road or at home through the unit's minijack S-video and composite-video outputs.Use the player to listen to your MP3 CDs and to view slideshows of your most recent or most precious digital photos--perfect for those infrequent visits to mom and dad. A compact remote control affords ready access to the device from up to several feet away, and its brushed-aluminum finish lends an air of refined elegance.Both Dolby Digital and DTS 5.1-channel surround-sound signals can be routed through the player's digital-audio output (through a .125-inch minijack-to-Toslink optical cable, not supplied) for direct connection to a full-featured audio/video receiver. The outputs are switchable as AV inputs, too, in case you want to use the screen as a monitor for a camcorder or video-game device.The resume feature automatically restarts playback from the point where you last stopped a disc. The model measures a mere 7.4 inches in length and 5.9 inches wide and a mere inch thick (without the battery). Headphones are not included.What's in the Box DVD player, remote control (RM-D163A), 2 AA batteries, one 7.4V lithium-ion battery, an RCA-to-minijack analog audio/composite-video interconnect, an AC adapter, and a user's manual.

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Panasonic SC-HT700 CD/DVD Home Theatre Sys Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)We purchased the Panasonic SC-HT700 last week so I can only give you my initial impressions of the machine. First let me say that we are extremely happy with our purchase. This system replaced a stereo, dvd player and sub-woofer that we had been using for quite a few years. This sound quality of this new system is far superior to what we had been listening to for both DVD's and Music. The system comes nicely packaged in a fairly large box, it is well organized and comes with everything you should need to get up and running. While I was shopping for a home theater system I had discovered that this unit was a bit different than most, part of the electronics for the unit apparently reside in the subwoofer, there is a special fairly heavy electronics cable that attaches the control unit to the subwoofer and then all of the speaker wires attach to the subwoofer along with the power cord, the special cable is probably about 8 feet long so if you are considering this unit you may want to keep this in mind, the sub will have to be within about 8 feet of the control unit and all of your speaker wires (including the center channel) will attach to it. Depending on your room and where you want to place your components this may or may not work for you. For me this was not a problem, I did give a bit of thought to the fact that if anything ever goes wrong with the sub it will probably render the entire unit worthless. Once I had the unit installed and the speakers all hooked up I pulled out the manual and remote control, the manual is very good, it is well written and easy to understand, the remote is a universal remote and while it will control my TV the buttons are small and it is a bit confusing. There are more functions on this unit then I will ever use. The on-line information that I found (not much since this unit just came out) while I was researching this unit was not always correct on every feature, I happen the have a VCD (predecessor to DVD) and this unit plays them fine, this was not listed anywhere that I could find. The speakers also have brass threaded inserts in them so that they can be mounted to brackets, the on-line information indicated the speakers did not have these inserts. Once again, we are quite happy with our purchase, if I were doing it again today I would purchase the same unit.

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Early Adopters Pick: April 2003. This home theater system includes the world's slimmest 5-Disc DVD changer, as well as a six-speaker system.
The SC-HT700 handles the audio end of a home theater, giving you surround sound decoding, amplification, and playback through a specially matched six-speaker system (left, center, right, left and right surround, and low-frequency subwoofer). The five-disc carousel system's DVD-Audio playback makes it adept at music as well as movies, offering super high-fidelity (192 kHz/24-bit) sound. DVD-Audio discs provide multichannel and stereo sound, incredible storage capacity, and unique bonus materials not available on regular audio CDs.
DVD movies will look and sound great through the system's 54 MHz/10-bit video decoder, video depth enhancer, progressive-scan video output (for use with high-definition and HD-ready televisions), and Dolby Digital and DTS discrete 5.1-channel surround decoding and rendering. Progressive scanning, referred to as 480p for the number of horizontal lines that compose the video image, creates a picture using twice the scan lines of a conventional DVD picture, providing higher resolution and sharper images while eliminating nearly all motion artifacts.
The speaker set includes four satellite speakers (front and rear left and right) powered by 45 watts each, a 90-watt center-channel speaker (critical for handling most of a movie's dialogue), and a powerful, 170-watt subwoofer specially designed for unobtrusive placement. All speakers are magnetically shielded to protect your TV from distortion induced by the speakers' magnetic fields. In addition, a digital-synthesized FM/AM tuner lets you listen to your favorite radio stations.

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Sony DAVTZ130 Home Theater System Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This is the most basic of basic units. It's a DVD player with speakers. It has surround for your DVDs and one stereo (RCA) input for your TV and thats it. Again, only one analog RCA input. No other inputs and no digital inputs. This could be livable if the unit offered Dolby Prologic II for your TV input but this unit doesn't. It has the old Prologic surround for your TV input which is terrible for surround. No tweeter in the speakers. I would value this system at about $99 but not much more.

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Oppo DV-981HD Universal DVD Player with HDMI, 1080p Up-Converting, DivX & SACD Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Unbelievalbe picture quality like all other reviewers are saying. Changing the player to Region 0 (all region) is easy: 1. Press Setup on remote control to access the setup page, 2.Enter 9210 on the remote 3.A service menu will pop up, 4. Select a region: 0- 6 in region code. 0 is all-region. Press Setup on remote again to exit. It should play all region and PAL discs. Hope that helps.
(added 12/18/07)
I've been using this player for a year now and I still LOVE it. My friend gave me a DVD with several movies in AVI and an XVid formats. Typically, I would have to watch these movies on my PC. I was pretty psyched to find that Oppo will play the files. When I popped in the disc, I see a blue menu with all the files. The player decodes each selected file and it had no problem playing 3 out of the 4 AVI files. For some reason, one of the AVI files won't play. The XVid file played fine. The quality of these compressed AVI files, as you can imagine, isn't great. But depending on the source of the AVI file, the output quality to a 46" HDTV is almost as good as a DVD and much better than VCD or VCR quality.

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The DV-981HD is the latest incarnation in Oppo's highly aclaimed line of upconverting DVD players. It offers an HDMI interface (HDMI Specification 1.1), with HD upconversion ouput resolutions of 720p, 1080i, and full 1080p. This is Oppo's most full-featured player yet, and as such, it's not a DVD player for people with regular analogue sets. While the DV-981HD doesn't offer component output, and doesn't output standard or native resolution, it does represent one of the best (if not the best) upconverting DVD players out there, and it's perfect for people with HDTVs up to full 1080p who aren't ready to jump on the HD DVD or Blu-ray bandwagen. In addition to excellent upconversion, the DV-981HD offers playback of a whole host of formats including DVD-Audio, Super Audio CS (SACD), Audio CDs, HDCD, WMA, Kodak Picture CDs, all version of DivX including DivX6, as well as Xvid, .SRT, .SMI, .IDX, and .SUB file formats.
Audio Features The DV-981HD outputs audio in stereo or in 5.1 channel surround, either via HDMI, or through the included 5.1 analogue outputs. Other connections include S-Video out, and digital coaxial and optical audio outs. It features 24-bit, 192 kHz high resolution audio D/A converters, supportsvirtual surround in six settings, and has built-in equalizer, channel trim, and channel delay functions.
Farudgja DCDi Technology Rather than trying to build their own upconversion technology for this machine, the Oppo DV-981HD the DCDi Faruja technology from Genesis Microchips. In addition to upscaling a DVD's native 720x480 interlaced video to 480p, 720p, 1080i, or 1080p, Farudja technology also detects content that has gone through 3:2 pull down to convert film content to NTSC for video, and recreates the original frames by blending the fields back together. It then processes for any edit mistakes and reconstrucs an accurate signal, producing an image free of motion artifacts. The unique DCDi algorithm can also identify moving edges within an image and adjust interpolation at a pixel level to create smooth edges for on-screen objects, eliminating the jaggy edges that commonly result from other upconversion techniques. Farudja processing also uses a proprietary "TruLife Enhancement" technology to identify transitions in the image considered to be details such as skin texture, freckles or hair, and enhance those to bring more detail in an image to life on the screen. This approach avoids image artefacts common with the peaking filter approach used by other systems for detail enhancement. The Farudja system uses temporal filtering for noise reduction, and can achieve 6 to 10 dB of Noise reduction without introducing artefacts or losing sharpness in the image.
Connections:
HDMI - High Definition Multimedia Interface: 1
Analog Stereo Audio (Mixed 2-Channel Left/Right): 1 group (2 connectors)
Analog 5.1 Channel Audio: 1 group (6 connectors)
S/PDIF (IEC-958) Coaxial Digital Audio: 1
S/PDIF (IEC-958) Optical Digital Audio: 1
Composite Video: 1
S-Video: 1
No Component Video (YPbPr/YCbCr) on the DV-981HD model. This model is designed for use with a display device with HDMI or DVI digital video input.

Compared with Other Oppo DVD player models At the time of this writing, Oppo also has the DV-970HD upconverting player, and their originalOPD971H model. Of these three models, the DV-981HD is the only that upconverts to full 1080p, the other models offer upconversion to 720p or 1080i only. Both the DV-981HD and the DV-970HD offer Super Audio CD (SACD) playback, the OPDV971H does not. The other major difference to consider is that the DV-981HD and the OPDV971H both use Farudja processing for video upconversion. The DV-970HD uses a different upconversion system that may not be as full featured as the Farudja. For this reason Oppo recommends the DV-981HD, or the OPDV971H for use with larger screen HDTVs 50 inches or greater, while the DV-970HD is only recommended for HDTVs smaller than 50-inches. Oppo recommends the DV-970HD for use with external video processors or scalers, and suggests careful calibration of both the DV-981HD and the OPDV971H when used with DLP HDTVs. Both of these players are good for use with DLP HDTVs, but for the best picture, some setup time is required. For disply with a DVI input on your HDTV, an HDMI-DVI adapter is required with both the DV-981HD and the DV-970HD models.
What's in the Box Oppo DV-981HD upconveting DVD player, a High-quality certified HDMI cable with gold-plated HDMI connectors, Remote control with "glow in the dark" keypad (batteries included), Stereo audio cable, Composite video cable, and User manual and warranty information.

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Sony DVP-NS425P Progressive Scan DVD Player, Silver Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I was running through the many DVD players that would support all the formats I needed. Typically I was thinking of staying in the 80 dollar range. Then I saw this Sony on sale for 99.99. I thought, Great a DVD player that plays ALL the formats, and Im getting a Sony.
Much like the other user, I have stalling issues through out any DVD I put in. It is NOT issues with the disk. But even worse is the terrible problems it has with darker transitions. For instance:
When its a black screen and you have credits that pop up....you see a darker patch of black across the screen fully -------Directed By Ridley Scott----------. Like that. It also has similar problems during movie play. One scene, A guy was in a darkened closet, and clearly your meant to see him vaguely. Instead, I got negative (like a negative from a picture) effect over his face. It did this same thing with several other movies.
Lastly, the ease of use is just horrific. I dare any of you to buy this product and think this Unit is convenient. Lack of FF, or RW speeds, Menu options that are poorly put together. Skipping through scenes is a horrific battle.
On the plus sides, the picture, when not affected by this units darker places problems, is pretty dag gone crisp.
Has lots of nice picture quality setups, and sound setups.
Plays all the formats for those of you who needs a guaranteed play em all unit.
Was the best looking unit I saw in many online and retail markets.
Overall, the studdering, and the picture quality issues makes this unit a big ol negative. I suggest finding something better.

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Indulge in the entertainment Sony's DVP-NS425P DVD Player brings home along with its chic style to complement your home decor. You willl enter a world of sharp images and incredible sound as you experience the benefits of Sony DVD first-hand. Featuring DVD+RW/+R Playback, MP3/CD-R/CD-RW Playback, 10 Bit Video DAC with 54Mhz Processing, Dolby Digital and dts Decoding Compatible, and Component Video Output, this Progressive Scan DVD/CD Player is just what your looking for in digital entertainment. Where style and performance meet - the DVP-NS425P.

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Philips DVP642 DivX-Certified Progressive-Scan DVD Player Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)First of all, let me say that this unit is very well worth the money. As "just a dvd player" I give it FIVE over FIVE points (or ten/ten if you wish).
The unit comes locked for Region 1 DVDs, but can be easily unlocked (just google for the asnwer) to make it region-free. I have tested my unit purchased on amazon.com and unlocked with Region 1, region 2 dvds purchased from Britain, and region 4 DVDs purchased in South America. It just works.
The unit's COMPONENT-VIDEO output is superb, even if you use an CRT TV. I recommend you get a quality component video cable and use that instead of the "composite video" output.
When playing MPG and AVI files, the component video output shows pixelation and artifacts on low-quality or low-resolution avi/divx/mpg files, but when playing back the same files and switching the tv to component video, these problems go away!.
Component video, it should be noted, is superior to "s-video" (which just separates color information from luminance), as each basic color (Red-Green-Blue) travels on a separate shielded cable.
Now, the "extras" besides basic DVD playback
1. DIVX and XVID are supported. But some .avi files will play back with NO SOUND if the original file was encoded with a "codec" (compression algorithm) that is not supported by this unit. Just because a file plays back ok on your PC with "Windows Media Player" it doesn't mean it will playback in this unit.
2. DVD-R media *IS* supported. You might need, however, to update the firmware (it's available for download from the philips.com web site. You have to download a .iso image, burn the data to a cd-r, press a key combination on the remote and then insert the cd-r disc).
Now the problems:
1. Even while DivX is supported, mpeg4/divx files compressed with the Divx Pro software using the "QPEL" (advanced motion optimization and prediction) will NOT PLAY on the unit. The unit will display an ugly "QPEL CODEC NOT SUPPORTED" message and stop there. There's no way to play back QPEL encoded files on this unit (it would require a much faster processor inside).
2. ZOOM LEVELS ARE INCONSISTENT. On DVD movies, zoom levels featured are 1.5x, 2x, 3x, 4x. However when you are playing back ".avi" (mpeg4/divx) files, you will find that often the only zoom levels available are "normal" (no zoom) and "2x", and that's it!. There is no 1.5x zoom level when paying back mpg and divx files! So forget about watching that wide-screen (4:3 format) movie in full screen by switching to 1.5x zoom mode. If it's a DVD movie you can. But if it's a DivX/MPEG4 movie you can't!.
3. A-B loop doesn't work most of the time on DivX/AVI files. Sometimes, when it does work, after you selct an a-b loop, you turn the feature off by pressing the a-b key once again, and when you want to create another a-b loop, the feature no longer works! (unless you press STOP and PLAY the file once again). VERY annoying.
4. PHILIPS doesn't seem very interested in updating the firmware. The last update is dated May 2004, and there has been no update since then, even while the number of bugs is high (see above).
However, even after all this, I think that for ~$70 dollars or less including Amazon.com's free ground shipping, you can't go wrong with this unit, as DVD playback is superb, and the ability to play most (but not all!) .mpg / .avi (DivX/MPEG4/Xvid) video files is just a nice extra to have in there as a "bonus".
Burning .avi and mpg files to DVD recordable media also works.

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Tap into multimedia fun with Philips' broad-format, high-style, and ultra-slim DVP642 DVD player. The DVP642 is not only a high-end progressive-scan DVD player equipped to offer scintillating images on high-definition and HD-ready TVs, it's a tech-savvy player that spins your MP3- and JPEG-encoded recordable CDs (as well as Kodak's and Fuji's variants of the same) and CDs loaded with MPEG-4 and DivX video (3.11, 4.x, and 5.x files), perfect for viewing Internet-sourced content in your home theater. Want more? The player also converts Region 1/All Region PAL-formatted discs (the video standard in Europe) for viewing on standard NTSC televisions (and vice-versa, if only for video CDs). The player will play JPEG images one by one automatically, letting you zoom in, rotate, or flip the picture vertically or horizontally. For MP3 playback, the player offers track time display, album and track selection, and repeat (disc/album/track). The DivX media format is MPEG-4 based video compression that lets you save large files like films, movie trailers, and music videos on recordable media.
Philips' 4x video upsampling offers smoother images even when viewing interlaced (nonprogressive) signals through the player's component-video, S-video, or standard composite-video outputs. SmartPicture provides optimum picture settings for color, brightness, saturation, contrast, sharpness, etc., to enhance your overall viewing experience at all times.
The player will play JPEG images one by one automatically, letting you zoom in, rotate, or flip the picture vertically or horizontally. For MP3 playback, the player offers track time display, album and track selection, and repeat (disc/album/track). The DivX media format is MPEG-4 based video compression that lets you save large files like films, movie trailers, and music videos on recordable media.

A set of left/right analog-audio outputs channel audio to Dolby Pro Logic receivers and stereo televisions. Dolby Digital 5.1-channel surround-sound signals can be routed through the player's digital-audio outputs (one each of RCA coaxial and Toslink optical) for direct connection to a full-featured audio/video receiver.


What's in the Box DVD-Video player, remote control with batteries, a user's manual, and an analog audio/composite-video interconnect.

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