LG DN898 1080p Upconverting DVD Player Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)The LG DN898 is a very good player with a lot of great features: it does a good job of upscaling DVDs, it can output at a full 1080p, it supports playback of.mpeg, .avi (xvid/divx) and .srt files, and it can read from most recordable DVD formats as well as from USB. For the most part I have had a very good experience with this player and I would have rated it better if I had not discovered one glaring flaw. The LG DN898 is incapable of displaying 4:3 content in a pillarbox on a 16:9 screen. A pillarbox is the widescreen TV equivalent of a letterbox, the two black bars that appear on the top and bottom of a regular TV screen when playing a movie recorded in widescreen (16:9) format, only on a widescreen TV these bars appear as two black pillars on the left and right sides of the screen when playing fullscreen (4:3) content. This means that any video recorded in a 4:3 aspect ratio will be automatically stretched to fill the screen on a widescreen TV. If you prefer to have your video stretched to fit the screen then this shouldn't be a problem to you, in which case this player might be a good choice. However, if you prefer to watch video in its original aspect ratio then this is not the player for you. I have used other upconverting DVD players that let you choose whether or not you want to stretch the video. Considering the price of this player I am a bit disappointed that the LG DN898 does not offer this option.

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Product Description:
1080P DVD Player, USB Media Plus

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Panasonic DVD-RV30 DVD Player Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This Panasonic DVD player is made in Japan, and comes with a plethora ofuseful features; cinema video setting, dialogue enhancer,"resume" function (will resume movie from where it was left offeven after powering off the unit), DTS and DD output (you still need areceiver with the decoder) and excellent image quality.
It plays all ofthe major DVD titles including problem discs such as "the Matrix withoutstanding picture quality and sound. I liked that this unit did notdisplay the annoying layer change delay common in other models. It wasseamless
On the down side, there was no Chapter access from the remote.What I mean is that I was unable to access the Chapters directly via thenumeric pad. I think the only way to access the Chapter directly (say fromChapter 1 to Chapter 18) is by pressing the display button first, thenpressing the fast forward button once to C, and then enter the Chapternumber via the numeric pad. This is very cumbersome.
The remote couldalso be larger and backlit.
Overall, the image and soud quality areexcellent and the player performs well with any DVD. It dous not earn fivestars because of the faulty chapter access feature and the remote - butthese may be flaws many users will not mind at all.
Hope this helps.

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Product Description:
It's a digital world. A world where sound surrounds you and pictures dazzled the imagination. It's a world where the excitement of the movies is captured and brought to life on a simple five-inch disc - the size of a CD. Welcome to the incredible world of DVD. As a leader in digital technology, Panasonic made possible and forever changed the face of home theater. Panasonic has packed big-screen excitement into the world's smallest and lightest DVD player. Come and experience the ultimate in home theatre entertainment.The DVD-RV30 comes with advanced features to offer you a full cinema experience. It features advanced virtual surround sound (AVSS), letting you enjoy the thrilling sounds of the cinema without an elaborate home theater system. In addition to the usual left and right channel audio jacks, the DVD-RV30 comes equipped with an exclusive subwoofer output. Through an on-screen menu icon, you can choose to send bass tones to the subwoofer output for reproduction. Cinema mode lessens glare, giving you colors that are more cinema-like and improves the visibility of details in dark scenes by automatically adjusting picture contrast. Discrete Component Video Out allows for high quality transmission of digital video to compatible video equipment. 10-bit Video D/A Converter gives amazing picture quality. Still Picture Display (I/P/B) freezes an image to allow for precise picture quality adjustments. Dialogue Enhancer makes the dialog channel clearly audible over the other sound channels.

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Sony DVP-SR500H 1080p Upscaling DVD Player, Black Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This is a fine product and the picture shown through a HDMI cable is astonishing.My only complaint is the remote control does not have a button for opening and closing the drawer.A small thing, I know, but surprisingly annoying.

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Product Description:
Enjoy your DVD collection with Sony DVP-SR500H upscaling DVD player. It upgrades your DVD collection to near high definition for an improved picture quality at an incredible value. In addition, you save energy as it meets ENERGY STAR standards.

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Yamaha DVD S2500 - DVD player Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This is a GOOD DVD player, but there are few things it could do better.I have a 5 year old Sony DVD player.Also, compared this side by side with Denon DVD 2910, using two of the same music CDs (regular CDs, not SACDs) so I can switch from one to the other instantly.I played them together at the same time so that the transition from the Yamaha to the Denon was as seamless as possible.Here's my conclusion.

1.Sound quality.I believe Yamaha has better sound than Denon DVD 2910.The difference is very little and not very noticeable.But, the Denon has brighter sound at the higher frequency.This is noticeable when playing violins.But over all, I think Yamaha has a smoother and unexaggerated sound.Compared to my old Sony DVD player, the difference was more readily noticeable.My Sony had more exaggerated brightness at higher frequency.

2.Disc loading.The biggest draw back for Yamaha is that it takes longer than the Denon to recognize the disc.I didn't time the difference, but it was noticeable.The display in the display window also reacts slower in Yamaha also.Also, unloading the disc takes a little longer as well.Compared to that, my old Sony was the fastest, then the Denon, and the Yamaha.

3.Remote control.Remote control for the Denon was better.More controls for movies, e.g., Denon had separate buttons for fast forward, etc.

4.Connectivity.Denon had DVI connection.Yamaha didn't.But this wasn't a big deal for me because I am using component output anyway.But Yamaha has HDMI connection (so did Denon).

5.Picture quality.Both seemed good.Couldn't tell the difference much on my 27 inch screen TV.

Bottom line:I chose to stay with Yamaha because of the sound quality.But I give only 4 stars because of the reason in #2 above.Both players are almost the same size.As for build quality, both feel solid.Before comparing the Yamaha and Denon, I tried Marantz 4500 (at around $300, it's almost half the price of either Yamaha or Denon), but Marantz 4500 just felt cheap; it was flimsy and my old Sony felt much more solid than the Marantz (so I returned it).

My system consits of the following:
- Cambridge Soundworks New Ensemble speakers -- very nice speakers -- been looking for a better looking replacements and did side by side comparison with many others costing more, but haven't found one yet.If you have a good recommendation, please let me know.
- Velodyne HGS-12 sub
- Onkyo TX-DS 777 receiver
- Sony DVP-S525 DVD player -- this is the one I'm replacing.

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Product Description:
This incredibly high quality DCDi Progressive Scan DVD player features 1080i Upconversion via HDMI output and DVD-Audio and Super Audio CD player capabilities.

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Sony DVP-S530D DVD Player Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I'm a SONY freak. From my XBR projection set to my pro-DV cameras at work, it's all SONY.I love the company but they, like anyone else, can drop the ball once in a while.The lip-sync problem gets worse as time goes onbecause newer DVD releases employ the latest MPEG-2 codes which theseplayers were not properly set-up to decode.So SONY will now pick-up viaFED-EX any 530-550 player still under warranty and install a new processorchip and firmware and deliver it back home within 2-3 weeks free of charge. (Not Bad, right!) However, a buddy of mine had this done and it still hasthe lip-sync problem! Oh Nooooo!..as Mr.Bill would say.
Not surewhat I'm going to do.My player is 3 months old.One other thing, thisplayer will not play CD-R and CD-RW discs, the new PIONEER 626D's will. Youmay want to look into this one.I wish I did.Good luck out there!

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Product Description:
DVD Player with built-in dolby digital decoder and 5.1 channel output. Plays DVD's, Audio CD's, and Video CD's.

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Coby DVD-588 5.1 Channel Upconversion DVD Player with HDMI Output & Progressive Scan Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This does a nice job on the upconversion. Looks and sounds good using the HDMI output. Plays just about anything you throw at it as do most Coby's. Surprisingly will also do DTS sound although it doesn't specifically mention it in the spec's. Only question is how will it hold up in the long run.

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Product Description:
Coby Super Slim 5.1 Channel Upconversion DVD Player with HDMI Output

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Toshiba SD-3109 DVD Player Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I bought this player 4 months ago when it was first released from Japan while on a trip to Asia. I did extensive researches prior to buying this player and I bought it for its value for money, performance, picture/soundquality and ease of use.
Now, I'm not a serious audiophille or do Iintend to spend huge amount of dollars to get those top of the range DVDplayer (ie. Onkyo, Yamaha, etc). I want something practical, which Ibelieve most of you do as well. And guess what?Surprise, surprise -- I'vegot so much more than what I bargained for.
The picture is superb,sharp and crisp on my 30 inch Loewe TV. Colour is bright and does not"bleed". Sound is excellent when connected to my Yamaha 795a andno audio-sync problems. In addition, the zoom function, built-in DD5.1,DTS(sounds better than DD!) and HDCD(remarkable audio quality) encoders,component-colourstream and S-video output, dual disc trays and virtual N2-2surround sound for those with a 2 speaker setup system made this unitcomplete with features. Mine has got two additional mic inputs for Karaokeand it's gold in colour but are of the same parts and build. It's easy tosetup and use as well. Having said this, find me a DVD player that is closein comparison in regards to price, performance and function.
Aboutcompability issues -- ZIPPO! Now, do bear in mind that my DVD is Region 5,and although it has been multi-zoned, it played Saving Private Ryan (DTS --Region 1), Haunting, US Marshalls, Deep Blue Sea (all DD -- Reg 1),Matrix,Mummy, Fifth Element, Tomorrow Never Dies(DD -- Reg 4), T2, True Lies (DD-- Reg 5) flawlessly without any lock-ups, freezes, pauses (except forchanging layers for dual-layered discs) or audio-sync problems.
Iguess it is unfortunate that some reviewers have problems with this player.Maybe you should examine your connections properly and call up Toshiba forassistance before jumping the gun about this unit?I have 2 otherrelatives who bought this unit from here (Reg 4) upon my recommedation andthey too did not have any problems with it.
Maybe I do agree with somereviewers that the remote is chunky but it serves its purpose very well.Besides, who buys a unit (VCR, amp, tv for that matter) for it's remoteanyway?Get a Universal remote and that should solve the problem.
Inconclusion, I would say this is an awesome purchase. It's definitely worthevery dollar spent on it. Have a read in those DVD magazines and you'llfind the SD-3109 unit get very good ratings and reviews from professionalaudiophilles. I would suggest you visit your local electrical outlet to seeit for yourself. Get it, you won't regret it!
Hope my contributionhelps.

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Product Description:
Toshiba DVD features Dual Disc Twin Trays.Plays DVD, Audio CD, and Video CD formats.Included Dolby Digital Surround Sound Processor.4X picture zoom.Remote Control.

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

Average Reviews:

(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.

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Product Description:
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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OPPO DV-980H 1080p Up-Converting Universal DVD Player with HDMI and 7.1CH Audio Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Just to add my vote, this is an excellent DVD player.I use it with an older Sony LCDtv (XBR1, only goes to 1080i), and compared the picture, using a standard widescreen DVD, with my older Panasonic progressive scan Panasonic dvd player (480p output).The picture with this one is clearly superior.

As others have said, the whole thing reeks quality and attention to detail.A good quality HDMI cable is included, as well as standard video/audio cables in case you need them for troubleshooting.The packaging is a class above the industry.

If you want something for watching standard DVDs with a good HDTV, consider this one or the 981HD model.

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Product Description:
The OPPO DV-980H up-converting DVD player is designed to make your DVD collection look & sound its very best on HDTV. With support for 1080p displays, 7.1ch audio, USB2.0 & HD-JPEG viewing the unit is engineered to impress. The unit will play DVD-Video, DVD-Audio, SACD, HDCD, CD, DivX, XviD and much more.

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JVC XVN670B 1080p Upconverting Digital Progressive Scan DVD Player Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)i own this player and compared it with a samsung blu ray player, both connected via a HDMI cable to a samsung HDTV and to be honest with the exception of minute visual details this player and its upscaling ability is worth it. the blu ray costs over 300 dollars and this player made me realize blu ray still has along way to go to be worth the money, but until then buy this play, invest in a HDMI cable and enjoy crisper scenes and details and the new life this player brings to your "old" dvds.

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Product Description:
DVD DVD R/RW CD CD-R/RW VCD SVCD MP3 JPEG and WMA playback DivX(version 5.0)720p/1080i hi-def up-conversion192kHz/ 24-bit audio D/A converter HDMI component S-Video composite and coax outputs 17" W x 1 7/16" H x 7 11/16" D Includes remote

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OPPO DV-970HD Up-Converting Universal DVD Player Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This machine played all regions right out of the box for six months until I put in a Chinese movie.Then a Hongkong Region 3 did not work but a Korean Region 3 did work.I had to find the hack from a review for the 971 model also sold by Amazon.

It took less than a minute and Oppo's record is back to perfect.Here is the relevant information from the other review:

There is also a multi region hack on videohelp which is:
Press Setup on remote control to access the setup page
* Enter 9210 on the remote
* A secret menu will pop up
* Select 0 to 6 in region code. 0 is multi region
* Press Setup on remote again to exit

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Product Description:
OPPO Digital's DV-970HD was developed following the success of the OPDV971H, the award-winning upconverting DVD player which scored the highest against hundreds of brands and models in independent DVD player benchmark tests. With experience garnered from the OPDV971H and insightful input from the A/V enthusiast community, OPPO packs the DV-970HD with high performance and enthusiast grade features, all at an incredible value. Today's traditional DVDs and DVD players are intended for low resolution, standard definition televisions. The DV-970HD, designed for every HDTV owner, up-converts standard DVD to high-definition signal, producing clearer, smoother, and crisper video on HDTV and projectors. Its HDMI output ensures a pure, straight digital path for video and audio. In addition to its up-conversion feature, the DV-970HD can output a native 480i/576i resolution over HDMI, making it an incredible digital transport for use with high-end video processors or scalers. Featuring a stylish, slim, and modern design, the DV-970HD includes an integrated 4-in-1 flash memory card reader to allow viewers to enjoy their digital pictures and music. It also offers a USB interface for expanded connectivity. The DV-970HD is one of the most versatile players on the market, providing support for DVD-Video, DVD-Audio, Super Audio CD (SACD), DVD+/-RW and CD-R/RW. It is also compatible with DivX(R) video, XviD, Audio CD, HDCD, Kodak Picture CD, WMA and other digital audio and video media formats. The DV-970HD supports NTSC or PAL disc and television systems. As video is only part of the equation, the DV-970HD also features excellent audio with Dolby Digital surround sound and Pro Logic II decoding. A high-quality certified HDMI cable with gold-plated connectors is included, adding even more value to the already feature-packed product. The OPPO DV-970HD provides most of the performance of the highest-rated OPDV971H, but at a lower price and includes even more features.

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Toshiba SD4200 Digital Progressive Scan DVD Player, Black Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)For under forty dollars and free shipping this is a great value.It is a basic DVD player with a basic remote.We have had this for about 3 months and have had no problems.It actually handles scratched DVDs better than the Sony DVD player we have.The controls on the face of the unit are just the basics which makes it nice for children to use.

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Product Description:
Digital DVD player

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OPPO BDP-83 Blu-ray Disc Player with SACD, DVD-Audio, and VRS Technology Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This is my second high definition player. I bought a Samsung BD-UP5000 when they were first released since it played both HD DVD and Blu-Ray discs. Poor support, lack-luster performance and the end of HD DVDs left me wanting something "better". I found what I was looking for in the Oppo BDP-83.

Oppo is a customer-driven company and conducted an extended beta test to uncover bugs. The beta testers had to accept the state of the player before it could be released! I've emailed Oppo support a few times and they are prompt to respond with real answers not just an automated or canned response - usually the same day. I can't say enough good things about the company.

The '83 is rock solid. It has not frozen or even hiccuped once. It plays all the discs I've put in. (The 5000 had trouble with some and often required the discs to be fingerprint free and occationally locked up requiring restart to even eject a disc.)

To me, one of the important features of a disc player is SD DVD upscaling. Standard definition can look pretty bad on a HDTV. Even the networks and cable channels often do a marginal job up-converting. My 5000 had a very good upconverter (Reon) but the '83 is better - something you'd expect from a company that focused on SD DVD players long after the introduction of HD DVD and Blu-Ray. Sometimes I forget I'm watching SD material!

Most high def players are sluggish, acting more like underpowered computers than audio/video gear. Boot and disc load times often exceed 30 seconds. Not the '83 - it's responds more like a DVD player than a computer. The tray opens in under 3 seconds from pressing the eject button (with power off) and playback begins in under 10 seconds (for SD DVD). For Blu-Ray, play start does depend on what enhancements the content provider loads before playback can begin (custom menus, etc.). (Remember Blu-Ray discs allow the content provider lots of control over the player and playback of the content.)

The '83 decodes all advanced audio formats: Dolby TrueHD, DTS HD Master Audio, etc. So the lossless audio is available via 7.1 analog outs as well as PCM over HDMI. You don't need an A/V receiver that includes decoders for these formats - the player does the work. Speaker management provided by the '83 makes the 7.1 analog outputs usable, but with some limitations: The bass management frequency is fixed at 80 Hz, and there are limitations to speaker distance delays.

The user manual explains things so that the user/installer can make important setup and usage decisions. For example, there is a section that explains the various output resolutions and which is best for various scenarios; and another that helps choose the correct "zoom" for various disc and TV aspect combinations.

So often, modern computer-based A/V gear is released without a complete set of features with the promise of adding them later. Again the '83 was released fully featured so there's little to wait for. But Oppo realizes there will be bugs to fix and new features to add as well as new disc behavior to support. They've provided THREE separate ways to upgrade firmware: via a network connection, via CD/DVD or USB memory.

I use a universal remote to control all my A/V gear and thanks to a document provided by Oppo, I was able to program my remote prior to receiving the unit. Most of the commands use the same data as their previous players so I was able to start with the configuration for an older mode. Oppo provided an Excel file with all the control codes in a format that can be imported into Universal Remote Control and Pronto remotes (maybe others). I've never seen this level of support from any other consumer electronics company and this material existed BEFORE product release. Where documentation was lacking, customer support provided the missing information.

There's been one (public beta) firmware update and a user manual update since the '83 was released at the beginning of June 2009. The firmware update was fast and painless (via USB memory).

My one compliant of the BDP-83 is it's power cord. It uses a 2-pin connector resembling an IEC connector found on many pro and prosumer equipment, however there is not sufficient holding tension and the cord has unplugged itself from the unit twice. I had to wrap the cord around one of the feet to prevent it from happening again.

Click Here to see more reviews about: OPPO BDP-83 Blu-ray Disc Player with SACD, DVD-Audio, and VRS Technology

Product Description:
Complete Media Support: Blu-ray Disc; BD-Live; DVD Up-Conversion; DVD-Audio; SACD; Additional Media Formats - Additional disc and file formats, such as audio CD, HDCD, Kodak Picture CD, AVCHD, MKV, and other audio/video/picture files on recorded discs or USB drives can be played back on the BDP-83. Unparalleled Video Quality: VRS by Anchor Bay; Full HD 1080p Output ; True 24 Video ; Source Direct Mode; Multiple Zoom Modes; HDMI; High Fidelity Audio: Dolby TrueHD; DTS-HD; 7.1-Channel Analog Output; Dedicated Stereo Output; Digital Optical and Coaxial Outputs; Ultimate Convenience: Dual USB Ports ; PAL/NTSC Conversion ; Back-lit Remote Control; Universal Power Supply ; External IR ; RS232 Control (optional) ; HDMI CEC

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Philips DVDR3505/37 1080i Upscaling DVD Recorder with Built-In Tuner Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)The Phillips DVDR3505/37 has the best "digital tuner" picture quality out of the two other DVD recorders that I have tested with "digital tuners" (Panasonic and Samsung). The Phillips DVDR3505 produces an amazingly clear OTA digital picture on my old 27 inch Sanyo analog "box" TV using an indoor antenna. The Phillips 3505 and the 27inch TV are connected with regular "composite cables". The resulting OTA digital picture is amazingly detailed and clear with little or no annoying "dot crawl". Another important feature for me in selecting the Phillips DVDR3505 is that it allows you to choose "4.3 pan & Scan" to view OTA digital programs in full screen on a "box" TV (no black bars caused by "HD" OTA programs). In the 4.3 pan & scan mode the OTA digital picture is shown in full screen but is not distorted looking (no long and stretched faces) and the picture framing matches the full screen picture seen on my analog OTA TV in a side by side comparison. In addition the picture clarity/sharpness in the "4.3 pan & scan" full screen mode is superb! The same effect should be achieved when watching a purchased or rented "widescreen" DVD movie on your "Box" TV in the 4.3 pan & scan mode. The cons for the Phillips DVDR3505 are its slow channel change and slow recording set up. One additional problem I have experienced is that the unit looses its channel set up under certian conditions. At this point in my life, the quality of the picture that you see from your cable, Sat, or OTA programs is what is most important to me and my family when watching TV. The truth is that I have put up with poor reception using analog TV with "rabbit ears" antennas long enough, so the amazing picture quality of the Phillips is what sold me. The Phillips DVDR3502 wins hand down in that category and is the main reason that I sent the other more expensive feature rich DVD recorders back to the store. My family and I have been able to work around or forgive all of the "cons" reported about for the Phillips DVDR3505 and because we are basic users the Phillips meets our needs for recording OTA TV programs while providing a "Wow factor" in picture clarity when watching "real time" OTA digital TV through our analog "box" TV. Also, a "Wow factor" is achieved even when watching OTA digital program recorded on DVD using the Phillips DVDR3505. Image reproduction is excellent in two highest image recording modes. Before buying see if the features on the Phillips DVDR3505/37 matches your basic needs. If viewing pleasure has been lacking for OTA broadcasts then get ready to receive the "Best Picture" award from friends and family when using the Phillips DVDR3505.

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Product Description:
DVD Recorder, Dual Media-records and plays in DVDR-R-RW and DVD+R+RW, Built ATSC digital SDTV tuner to receive digital HD TV broadcasts, HDMI 1080i upscaling to deliver true HD picture performance, DivX to play downloaded PC movies and video DVD's, Progressive Scan, i-Link for easy connection to play and record your camcorder recording,Plays MP3/WMA, CD's, CD-R-RW, Video CD's

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Toshiba DR560 1080p Upconverting DVD Recorder with Built-in Tuner Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This is a review of the Toshiba DR560 Upconverting DVD Recorder with built in high def tuner.

BACKGROUND:
I bought this unit to handle a few needs with one piece of hardware:
1. I wanted a high def tuner for my tuner-less Sharp Aquos 26" LCD TV (purchased in 2007 before the new rule requiring tuners in TVs!)
2. I wanted to be able to take old analog home movie footage and transfer it directly to DVD with no editing.My old VHS tapes were approaching their shelf life limit.
3. I wanted to upconvert standard 480 resolution DVDs to make them look better on the Sharp TV.

SETUP:
The setup of the device was simple.I hate the fact that manufacturers still don't include HDMI cables with hardware that costs this much.So I grumbled for a minute and then purchased an HDMI cable for it (don't get me started on how most electronics stores charge an obscene price for digital cables!I bought one at a large discount retailer).All I had to do was connect the HDMI-out from the Toshiba to the HDMI-in on my high def Sharp.That's it.No audio plugs needed.I like having just a one wire connection.

OVERALL IMPRESSIONS:
For the remote control I don't have many complaints.It does not appear to be capable of controlling my TV - I didn't see anything in the guide about programming other devices.Someone please comment and correct me if I'm wrong on that.The keys are not lighted.

When I first started the player I went through the simple setup prompts.The instructions said I might need to hit the HDMI button on the remote to match up to the display of my TV, but it automatically selected 1080 for me.(there are lighted 480, 720, and 1080 indicators on the player itself, so you can tell what mode it is in)If you are not connected via HDMI then these lights don't function.I initially tried a component video connection and noticed that the resolution selection was not available.

When I first opened the DVD tray I thought I had activated a paper shredder!It is the loudest, oldest sounding motor noise I have ever heard from a DVD player.To me it sounds like it is straining just to open the tray.I hope that holds up long term.

I found the disk read and startup time to be a little long.

SPECIFIC IMPRESSIONS:

UPCONVERTING DVD PLAYER:
I put in a DVD - "Star Wars Attack of the Clones" - to test the upconverting video quality.I was immediately concerned with how loud the motor was in spinning up the DVD.But my worry went away once I hit "play".Once you start playing the movie the motor noise goes away and is very quiet.

To test the upconverting quality I played a scene from the movie on the DVD player, and then switched over and played the same scene on an Xbox 360 connected to the same TV via a component video connection.To my untrained eye the upconverted picture was brighter and had a slightly higher level of detail.So I was satisfied with it.

DVD RECORDER:
I have only used DVD-R recording media.Once I try a DVD+-RW disk I will update this review.But using the DVD-R was very user friendly.You pop in a blank DVD-R disk and the machine has it ready to go in a few seconds.No interaction needed.

I then hooked up a VCR using the RCA video and audio ports (the recorder included RCA and S video cables).There's one set of inputs on the back and one on the front.I used the back ones because it was just as convenient for me.

Before recording I went into the DVD recording options menu and selected it to do automatic 5 minute chapter breaks.

All I had to do what hit play on my VCR and hit record on the DVD recorder.A little red disk of light displays on the panel so that you know it's recording.Going from memory I believe the recording quality options were 1 hour, 2, 4, 6, and 8.

I was able to record successfully from both VHS and a HI-8 Camcorder feeds (both using the RCA jacks).

Once the tape finished I hit stop on the recorder, and it finished writing the recording very quickly (less than one minute for 2 hours of recording).I then had the option to edit the title that appears on the menu, which is not the most intuitive process using the remote control.I had also expected it to create a DVD menu with chapters for every 5 minute break, but it only had one menu selection.When playing back the disk it did skip 5 minutes every time I hit the Chapter+ button.

As a final step I "finalized" the DVD to make it able to play on other DVD players.I tested the disks on a circa 1997 Sony DVD player, and also a 2005 Toshiba.DVDs that I created from VHS played fine on both players, but the DVD I recorded from the Hi-8 tape source would not play correctly on the 1996 DVD player.It played fine on the 2005 player.I still need to test more Hi-8 recordings to see it that was an isolated problem or not.

UPDATE 05/30/08: I think it's just my 1997 Sony DVD player that just can't handle DVD-R media very well.After replaying VHS source and HI-8 source videos, they are both hit or miss as to whether they play correctly.I don't think this will be an issue for most people with newer DVD players.

I still need to test recording from a mini-DV digital source.

HIGH DEF TV TUNER:
I have a large UHF antenna mounted in my attic receiving local HD quality broadcasts (see my other reviews for that).I ran a coaxial cable from that antenna down to the DVD recorder and connected it to the antenna-in port.Then using the same HDMI-out feed to the TV I was able to tune in and watch local digital broadcast stations.I watched the season finale of American Idol on it (David vs David), and the picture quality was excellent.Changing channels does take about 2 seconds, as another reviewer said.That is a little slow, but I am willing to put up with slow channel changing for free high def!

Overall I would rate this DVD Recorder 4 of 5 stars.It certainly does serve the three needs I outlined at the start of this review.

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Product Description:
DVD Recorder with 1080p Upconversion with Built-in Digital Tuner

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MAGNAVOX H2160MW9 HDD and DVD Recorder with Digital Tuner, Black Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)TIP: read the "original review", then SEE the update history at bottom
** 05/05/2010 UPDATE newly released firmware update to correct the E19 error
** 11/10/2009 UPDATE: "workaround" for the known "Finalize disc bug fix")
** 9/25/2009 UPDATE regarding my defective unit)
--------------------------- MY ORIGINAL REVIEW ---------------------------
The Magnavox H2160MW9 is is a mixed bag of fantastic abilities and a few disappointing failures rolled into one product. My 4-star rating is very generous, considering the negatives.

If you've invested time doing research on HDD recorders, then you know how limited the choices are. With further research, you'll find that the problems I'm having are not isolated incidents. Google the model number and you'll see.

FAILURES:
*** DVD player does not - will not play DVD discs: --> see the UPDATE 9/25/2009 <--
I tried 14 discs - 2 from Blockbuster, 2 from Netflix, 4 store bought, and 6 created on my computer.
Most discs are not recognized and will not load. Magnavox will say "no disc". Some will play up to 30 seconds. The record breaker for me - Star Trek Generations, played for 4 minutes before crashing.

*** If you plan on recording or dubbing to DVD disc, there is a known bug; the DVD recorder cannot FINALIZE a disc IF you have ANY upcoming recordings pending in your "LIST". (like a repeating Thursday favorite weekly program) The Magnavox will give you an "E19" error message. This is NOT a problem until you want to play the recorded disc on a different player, such as a computer or a DVD player at a friends house. This problem can be solved by deleting ALL of your pending upcoming recordings ... OR ... if FUNAI, the actual manufacturer of this product ever decides to create a firmware patch, which so far is not likely even though they are aware of the problems. (the older Magnavox models worked fine)
---> SEE the UPDATE 11/10/2009: an easy workaround fix <---

*** Only records one program at a time and NO, you cannot watch a DVD disc movie while it's already recording - even if it's recording in HDD mode (but you CAN WATCH an already recorded program in your saved "LIST" while Magnavox is recording the current aired program). NOTE: for maximum viewing flexibility: connect your ANTENNA CABLE to the INPUT jack of the Magnavox - then connect a 2nd CABLE from the OUTPUT jack of the Magnavox TO the TV INPUT. Now use the TV remote "SOURCE" button to switch between the Magnavox or your TV tuner. In a nutshell, this gives you the ability to use your TV and/or other devices connected to the TV (PS2, Wii, Blu-ray, etc) while the Magnavox is busy recording shows.

FANTASTIC:
*** This model does a flawless job of recording upcoming shows AND will even WARN a family member if they attempt to change the channel while a recording is in progress or upcoming within the next hour.
*** You too can now pause live TV! Imagine being able to go to the bathroom, answer the door, make a call, turn the oven down, all without missing one second of your favorite program.
*** Fire your cable or dish company! No more monthly bills if you're satisfied with your available off-air local channels - absolutely FREE by installing an off-air antenna. (that old antenna on the roof will actually work)
*** Who needs the DVD recorder? Even though it's able to record to a blank DVD disc, why bother when you have a built-in HDD! You'll agree after owning this machine for a while. However... and on the plus side, you can dub from HDD to DVD - to save a copy of a favorite HDD recording. (and send this disc to a friend if you can deal with the "finalize problem")

In summary, this Magnavox is a bit of a mess but there's a lot to like. I ordered a replacement and maybe that DVD player will actually work. The way I see it, I would keep this Magnavox just for its HDD recording ability - EVEN IF it had zero DVD functionality. I'd simply buy and connect an LG Blu-ray disc player. Blame it on China if you wish.

Good luck,
Jeff

---------------------------- UPDATE HISTORY -----------------------------------

~~> UPDATE 9/25/2009:
I'm happy to report that Walmart quickly sent me a 2nd replacement Magnavox which does play EVERY single DVD disc I've tried. (Amazon was out of stock)

I must mention that I'm a loyal Amazon fan, with over 250 orders in 12 months, but Walmart was also very gracious and made it easy to return my defective product (drop it off at any store, including online orders) PLUS they even refunded my $25 one-day shipping cost for the 1st unit! (they don't cross-ship; you buy a 2nd unit, wait for delivery, and return the 1st unit within 30 days)(same as Amazon policy)

~~> UPDATE 11/10/2009 BUG FIX!!! (finalize disc bug workaround) Thanks to Wajo from AVS Forum!!!
In order to finalize a disc WITHOUT deleting all of your upcoming program timers:
1) - Press the SOURCE button on the remote and choose "L3 (DV) input"
2) - Insert the disc, go to the "Disc Edit Menu" and choose FINALIZE.
------- Notes -------
*** It is NOT necessary to delete your upcoming timer programs with this workaround.
*** Do not finalize a disc IF you have an upcoming program to record within the next hour.
- OPTIONS: wait until later OR change/set the clock forward 1 or 2 hours but RISK losing an upcoming recording
*** You can also FORMAT and ERASE RW discs while on INPUT L3.
(tune to L3 BEFORE inserting the disc - it starts automatically)
*** You can DUB several recordings onto 1 disc - depending on the quality/size of recording.
*** Funai recommends using DVD+R or DVD+RW discs rather than DVD-R or DVD-RW

~~> UPDATE 5/5/2010 FIRMWARE UPDATE RELEASED!
Thanks to "ieee488" for discovering the recent firmware update information.
Funai Statement:
"For problems finalizing the disc while a timer recording is intact. (error code E19). This firmware update is for model number H2160MW9A only. If you attempt to upgrade another model or model number of Magnavox DVD recorder, the firmware disk will be ejected. **Please follow the instructions carefully. A failed update may result in voiding the manufacturers warranty."
---------------------------------
DIRECT DOWNLOAD "Instructions" file, READ before installing the firmware update:
- find this file link in my May 21, 2010 post (click "Comments" - bottom right)
DIRECT DOWNLOAD "Firmware" file:
- find this file link in my May 21, 2010 post (click "Comments" - bottom right)
(I had file hyperlinks here but Amazon removed them - they ARE in my post though)

ATTENTION --> I have NOT tested this firmware update. Proceed at your own risk!

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Product Description:
HDD and DVD Recorder with Digital Tuner

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