Upconverting DVD Player Options/Impressions [Text View] - Page 9

ab2ab

05-22-07, 12:19 PM

wmcclain

05-22-07, 01:00 PM

For now, I'll keep the Oppo 981 because the audio capabilities on this thing is impressive, but when Samsung updates the 1024 FW "upgrade" (Justcan Mode), I'll have the firmware installed to allow for 1:1 pixel mapping, but if there's no improvement in Oppo's PQ, it will be listed on Ebay.

Thoughts?

I don't think there is much point to 1080p without 1:1 pixel mapping.

Whatever you decide, use a calibration disc on each player/input combination to get the best results: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9889995&&#post9889995

-Bill

ab2ab

05-22-07, 01:39 PM

I don't think there is much point to 1080p without 1:1 pixel mapping.

Whatever you decide, use a calibration disc on each player/input combination to get the best results: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9889995&&#post9889995

-Bill
Thank you very much, Bill!

substance12

06-07-07, 03:22 AM

I just hooked up the oppo 970 to my vizio 42 using hdmi. the main purpose of my test was to see the difference between 480p, 720p, and 1080i upconversion modes on the oppo and the difference between those results and my generic progressive scan dvd player which is connected via component.

I watched various scenes of batman begins, spidey2, and swingers.

While I will caveat this by saying I did not run a separate calibration configuration for the oppo (my original dvd player was already calibrated), I could not tell any difference at all between each of the scenarios listed. I did not watch the whole movies... this was a short test where I basically flipped between scenes and players trying to be impressed.

FLRich

06-19-07, 07:14 PM

This is just personal opinion, but if your TV's native resolution is 1080p, then go with the latest model of Oppo which does 1080p. If not, then go for the 970HD.

Been away from the forum for a while and didn't want to search. Didn't the Oppo 971 have the Faroudja chip and the 970 not? Is the picture quality on the 970 as good as the 971? I know there are some new features on the 970 as well as HDMI -v- DVI from the 970 to 971 but wanted to know if the picture quality was the same with the different video processing chip.

Irrivirsible

06-19-07, 09:00 PM

The way Oppo explained it to me on the phone was that the 970 would be sharper and the 971 and 981 more filmlike.

Descardo

06-23-07, 01:36 PM

You may want to add the Samsung 1080P7.
I just bought one at amazon and so far I am happy with it. Uit connects to a Panasonic Plasma through HDMI.

Descardo

gshelley61

06-28-07, 11:11 AM

I've got the Samsung 4096 1080P LCD panel HDTV. I've been using the Toshiba SD 3950SU with component cables up until about a month ago. I had no complaints but I was attracted to the Oppo 981 (read the many positive online reviews of this unit) so I had to give it a try. Well, after about a month (actually a day), I have come to the conclusion that the old Toshiba (purchased in 2003) looks better than the glorious Oppo 981! You read it right, the Oppo did not improve picture quality over the Toshiba! And, yes, I did have a reasonable expectation of what this unit was designed to do, and no, I did not think it would give me an HD DVD or Blu-Ray performance, either.

Now, I'm not as technical as you guys but it seems that the old Toshiba performed better set a 480I or 480P, then allowing the Samsung's scalers / internal processing to do the rest of the work. I don't know why I don't see the spectacular results that you all testify to, but maybe the Samsung's scaler / processor just isn't all that bad. I'm starting to think that if you have a good scaler in your higher-end HDTV, one just doesn't need an upconverting DVD player.

For now, I'll keep the Oppo 981 because the audio capabilities on this thing is impressive, but when Samsung updates the 1024 FW "upgrade" (Justcan Mode), I'll have the firmware installed to allow for 1:1 pixel mapping, but if there's no improvement in Oppo's PQ, it will be listed on Ebay.

Thoughts?

With that relatively small 40" widescreen display at typical room viewing distances, I would not expect you to see much of a difference between component video and HDMI with any player, upscaling or otherwise. It may be that the analog to digital sampling and processing the Samsung is doing when component video is being used appears to have a slightly different (and preferable to you in your particular viewing situation).

In fact, even true HD sources probably only look a little better than a good DVD with that set (unless you usually sit pretty close to the screen).

I guarantee you that on larger fixed pixel 1080p displays (56" and bigger) from typical room viewing distances (8-12 ft) a good quality upscaling player connected through HDMI or DVI is generally superior to analog component video 480i or 480p processed to digital 1080p by the set.

Gordon Shumway

06-28-07, 11:25 AM

About a week ago I bought the newly released RCA DRC290 5-Disc Upconverting (1080P) DVD player sold only at Wal Mart for $79.

I have it hooked up to my Hitachi 57F59 CRT via HDMI and I'm happy to report that the picture quality so far is really great. I set the player to 1080i since my set is a 1080i set btw.

I really wanted a 5 disc set up plus HDMI since I got a new JVC HDMI receiver and this fit the bill perfectly.

For anyone in the market, I'd suggest trying this out.

INFO HERE (http://www.rcaaudiovideo.com/en-US/modeldetail.html?ProductID=DRC290)

http://www.rcaaudiovideo.com/rcaav06/AudioVideo/images/ProductImages/DRC290_E.gif

mbabauer

07-05-07, 12:37 PM

I have just entered the HD game with the purchase of a Sharp Aquos 46" LCD (1080p). I currently have a very high-end, but very old Pioneer 3 disc changer. It dates to about y2k, and was very expensive (like ~$400 on sale, from what I remember) at the time, considering most other DVD players were ~$100. I am not sure if its Progressive Scan or not, but I doubt it since it doesn't specifically say it is, but it does have a "Widescreen" setting.

I am not quite ready to buy BlueRay or HD-DVD, since I feel that whole battle has yet to be won, plus I really don't want to drop $600 on a player, so I was thinking that maybe an upconverting DVD would be the ticket for me. I have been reading the forum for the last few hours, and coupled with a trip to BestBuy where I got some obvious smoke blow up my arse, I am willfully looking to you, the experts, for some advice on the matter.

My first question is simple...would an upconverting DVD player really give me a noticeably better experience, or would it be a waste of money? My Pioneer looks good, but its no were near as good as BluRay or HD-DVD is, but I also am not expecting it will be.

Second, do the brand/type of HDMI cables REALLY make that much of a difference. The BestBuy rep told me that since I have a 1080p panel I should buy the Monster 800 or 1000 cables, which were $99/$149 respectively. My understanding is that HDMI is supposed to be all digital, in which signal loss isn't that much of an issue as with analog. Am I thinking in the past, and this guy is right, or is he trying to sell me a $150 cable when all I need is a $20 one?

Third, and most important, if upconverting is indeed that much better, and I should be looking, are there any models I should steer away from? I have a bunch of BestBuy gift cards, and was looking at two models, either a Pioneer that did 1080p or a Sony that had a 5 disc changer (which I would prefer), but only did 1080i. I would also like to keep the purchase sub $150.

Thanks for any advice.

kiwi2000

07-05-07, 01:44 PM

Oppo players are good, and cheap. They also play dvd audio and superaudio through the hdmi output if you have a reciever or preamp so equipped. I would check them out. You can search for the Oppo players on this site.

I have both a upconverting and standard dvd player and the difference in pq is slight, at best. Although I find the upconverted picture just a tad smoother.

It does not hurt to give it a try and see what you think.

Gordon Shumway

07-05-07, 01:47 PM

Upconverting player will probably make for a much better viewing experirnce than an old DVD player that most likely doesn't have Component outputs (or does yours?).

I got a 12' gold plated connector HDMI cable at Big Lots for $12...works like a charm...don't let salesdrones tell you that you HAVE to have this or that brand etc of cable...heck, just order one at monoprice.com or New Egg.com..there are a bunch there going for $10-20.

I'm happy with my RCA 1080P upconerting 5 disc (see above) but I'm sure pretty much any player you find will be a bit better than the old player you have.

Good luck in your quest!

BobKat6

07-05-07, 02:06 PM

mbabauer

Shop Monoprice.com for a good HDMI cable (see link at the top of this page). You don't need to spend $150 for a Monster. And, with the money you save, buy a HD-DVD player now selling for $299.00 at your local retailer (or cheaper on eBay) and enjoy full HD. You can also get 5 free HD-DVD movies through Toshiba (not sure if a cable is included). It will also upconvert your SD DVDs to near HD, so you can then choose which format to purchase later on your perception of the difference in picture quality. The war is going to last a long time.

Good luck.
BOB

wmcclain

07-05-07, 02:10 PM

My first question is simple...would an upconverting DVD player really give me a noticeably better experience, or would it be a waste of money? My Pioneer looks good, but its no were near as good as BluRay or HD-DVD is, but I also am not expecting it will be.

I replaced my 1999-era Toshiba (which still works fine) with an Oppo 971 and then a 981 and the improvement was striking. Partly it's just newer technology, partly quality deinterlacing, partly good upscaling.

Second, do the brand/type of HDMI cables REALLY make that much of a difference. The BestBuy rep told me that since I have a 1080p panel I should buy the Monster 800 or 1000 cables, which were $99/$149 respectively. My understanding is that HDMI is supposed to be all digital, in which signal loss isn't that much of an issue as with analog. Am I thinking in the past, and this guy is right, or is he trying to sell me a $150 cable when all I need is a $20 one?

He's feeding you BS. Forum sponsors monoprice.com and bluejeanscable.com get consistently good reviews for good quality cheap cables. See the HDMI forum here for more. Bluejeans also has a good cable info library: http://www.bluejeanscable.com/articles/index.htm

Third, and most important, if upconverting is indeed that much better, and I should be looking, are there any models I should steer away from? I have a bunch of BestBuy gift cards, and was looking at two models, either a Pioneer that did 1080p or a Sony that had a 5 disc changer (which I would prefer), but only did 1080i. I would also like to keep the purchase sub $150.

I always check to see if a player has been reviewed here: http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/cgi-bin/shootout.cgi

-Bill

mbabauer

07-05-07, 02:16 PM

Upconverting player will probably make for a much better viewing experirnce than an old DVD player that most likely doesn't have Component outputs (or does yours?).

Not sure. I know when I bought it, DTS was the BIG thing at the time, and it has that, plus a schlew of other output options. Right now, I have it hooked up with an S-Vid cable and a split RCA (r/l) for audio. I don't have an A/V receiver any more, so I am just using the speakers on the TV for now until I can afford the Yamaha I want.

I will check out Monoprice for the cable(s). I have an HD DVR on order from my cable company Brighthouse, and I am fairly sure they are not providing the HDMI cable, so I will need one anyway.

mbabauer

07-05-07, 02:26 PM

And, with the money you save, buy a HD-DVD player now selling for $299.00 at your local retailer (or cheaper on eBay) and enjoy full HD.

I am still not sure about HD-DVD vs BlueRay. On one side, XBox and the Pr0n industry both chose HD-DVD, which usually is the nail in the coffin, but on the other Disney went the other way from what I read. Its like VHS vs. BetaMax all over again, and I really want to avoid choosing sides until some of the dust has settled. I know Toshiba has a player that does both, but if I dropped $1200 on a player my wife would have me neutered then beheaded, and my dead limp body drug through the streets. It took me almost 2 1/2 years to talk her to clear me for an HD TV, and even then I had to cash in on both my birthday and anniversary presents to get it.

Now, I have considered getting an XBox 360, then springing for the $180 HD-DVD player. My company has a reward program, and if I can spring some more reward points I might be able to get one at no cost. It may be a while, though, so I am not betting on that one at the moment. Since I just bought a Wii in December, the chances of me getting an XBox 360 too is rather slim.

The way I figure it, either BlueRay or HD-DVD will eventually get to the $100 to $150 mark, just as DVD did when it first came out. At that point, I have a much better chance at getting one, and the format that reaches that price point has a better chance of becoming more "Main Stream" and wind up the winning format. Until then, I am probably stuck with regular TV broadcasts and my very extensive, but very SD collection of DVDs.

mbabauer

07-05-07, 02:33 PM

I replaced my 1999-era Toshiba (which still works fine) with an Oppo 971 and then a 981 and the improvement was striking. Partly it's just newer technology, partly quality deinterlacing, partly good upscaling.

I have seen both mentioned often here in the forums. I will definitely look into them more.

He's feeding you BS. Forum sponsors monoprice.com and bluejeanscable.com get consistently good reviews for good quality cheap cables. See the HDMI forum here for more. Bluejeans also has a good cable info library: http://www.bluejeanscable.com/articles/index.htm

I figured he was. The cheapest cable they had there was some brand AR, which I never heard of. I know back in the analog days, the cabling was WAY important, since signal noise meant a bad picture since it changed the characteristics of the signal itself (amp, freq, etc) which controlled the information for the picture. But in the new digital world, its not the characteristics of the wave, its the data contained (1's and 0's), which is much less susceptible to noise pollution. Plus the digital stuff usually has some sort of error correction built in. At least, thats how I am to understand it.

[QUOTE=wmcclain]
I always check to see if a player has been reviewed here: http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/cgi-bin/shootout.cgi

Awesome site, I will definitely check it out!

brettwf

07-05-07, 11:18 PM

Third, and most important, if upconverting is indeed that much better, and I should be looking, are there any models I should steer away from?

I have the LG 3510a HDTV tuner/upconverting DVD combo that I have to trick to get it to upscale across component connection on a Sony KDS 60A2000. For PQ, I have not noticed a significant difference btw upscaled (1080i) vs not. I have been playing with the DVD settings letting it upscale or keeping the DVD at 480p. Upscaling gives me a bigger picture. I was using Willow as the test subject and the height of the picture would change from 18.5" (480p) to 23" when upscaled. Tonight, we watched the Mask of Zorro (Superbit) and the picture almost filled the whole screen. I do not know if there is a setting that will allow the TV to upscale the incoming DVD signal. The Samsung 4226 DLP would not upscale to 720p either w/ the same set up.

Unless there is a setting that I am missing, my opinion is buy an upconverting player to fill your HDTV screen to the max extent possible of the movie.

Oh for the inquiring minds asking why I do not have the HDMI connection: I need a 40+ ft cable run that would have cost in the hundreds of dollars when adding a booster. Blue Jean guarantees theirs up to 50' and less than $100 now. I am not sure if I would be able to get a fishing line down the wall, make a 90 deg turn, and then thru a step to get to my A/V cabinet. I be-LIEVE I am one of the many who cannot tell the difference btw upconverted 1080i and true 1080p. Yes, sir, its true and it will be a waste of my time trying to fish a line thru that step cause I won't be able to see the difference anyhow, no ways, nada...How much was that cable again?

Brett

Crash11

07-23-07, 04:17 PM

What do you guys recommend for an up-converting player that does 720p really well. I have the panasonic 42" 720p plasma monitor. My regular dvd player just puked last night.

BobKat6

07-23-07, 05:07 PM

What do you guys recommend for an up-converting player that does 720p really well. I have the panasonic 42" 720p plasma monitor. My regular dvd player just puked last night.

Number 1 recommended is Oppo.

http://www.oppodigital.com/

Bob

Crash11

07-23-07, 05:17 PM

Number 1 recommended is Oppo.
Bob
Oppo 970? Where's the cheapest I can find it?

BobKat6

07-23-07, 05:47 PM

Oppo 970? Where's the cheapest I can find it?

Probably eBay, which includes direct from Oppo. The 970 is the only model that will upconvert via a Component Interface (hacked) but I think your Panny has HDMI.

Crash11

07-24-07, 08:56 AM

Probably eBay, which includes direct from Oppo. The 970 is the only model that will upconvert via a Component Interface (hacked) but I think your Panny has HDMI.
Well I checked ebay, but all I found were used or refurbished players so I went with another member's suggestion of amazon. I signed up for their credit card to get the $30 off coupon, and with free shipping it came to $120. I'm not worried about the little blip it's going to put on my credit report. I'm not planning on getting a loan for awhile.

BobKat6

07-24-07, 02:06 PM

Well I checked ebay, but all I found were used or refurbished players so I went with another member's suggestion of amazon. I signed up for their credit card to get the $30 off coupon, and with free shipping it came to $120. I'm not worried about the little blip it's going to put on my credit report. I'm not planning on getting a loan for awhile.

Great. Good luck with it!

mrsmith

07-25-07, 08:05 PM

Number 1 recommended is Oppo.

http://www.oppodigital.com/

Bob
Yup, the Oppo produces a superb upconverted image - largely indistinguishable from native hi-def, according to their P/R(I've had a V880 for years which is also excellent).

Only question right now is, how long before the Toshiba HD-A2 hits about the same $169 street price as good upcon players?(it was at $199 online yesterday with no shipping or sales tax). And, as you may have read, all the Toshibas produce extraordinarily good upconconversion - purportedly better than units costing hundreds of dollars more. So at that price why not get native hi-def availability in the bargain?

Were it not for this recent pricing development, I would continue to wonder precisely what the real "need" is for hi-def disk formats, so close are really good upconversions. I bought an HD-A1 on the CHEAP cheap from a private party months ago only because it amounted to little more than pocket change. The HD-DVD image is sharper, more detailed - especially in backgrounds - than many upconversions, true, but I certainly would not recommend paying anything more than price for HD-A2. The image outputted on either a 720 or 1080 display from the Toshibas is excellent and, IMO, marginally better than BluRay on most hi-def disks.

BSTNFAN

07-26-07, 12:24 AM

Yup, the Oppo produces a superb upconverted image - largely indistinguishable from native hi-def, according to their P/R(I've had a V880 for years which is also excellent).

Only question right now is, how long before the Toshiba HD-A2 hits about the same $169 street price as good upcon players?(it was at $199 online yesterday with no shipping or sales tax). And, as you may have read, all the Toshibas produce extraordinarily good upconconversion - purportedly better than units costing hundreds of dollars more. So at that price why not get native hi-def availability in the bargain?

Were it not for this recent pricing development, I would continue to wonder precisely what the real "need" is for hi-def disk formats, so close are really good upconversions. I bought an HD-A1 on the CHEAP cheap from a private party months ago only because it amounted to little more than pocket change. The HD-DVD image is sharper, more detailed - especially in backgrounds - than many upconversions, true, but I certainly would not recommend paying anything more than price for HD-A2. The image outputted on either a 720 or 1080 display from the Toshibas is excellent and, IMO, marginally better than BluRay on most hi-def disks.

While the Toshiba HDs have very good upconversion (I have the A1), they do not do DVD-A/SACD nor can they be made region free. For anyone who cares about those things (I do for all 3), the OPPO is a great solution.

Anubys

07-26-07, 07:08 AM

should the PlayStation 3 be added to the list of upconverting players?

bigsnyder

07-26-07, 10:14 AM

I don't think it upconverts DVDs. I could be wrong.

Anubys

07-26-07, 10:16 AM

I don't think it upconverts DVDs. I could be wrong.

sure, the latest firmware gave it that function (version 1.8)...

garytjia

07-26-07, 10:25 AM

Hi,

I am looking for a region-free upconvert DVD player and found Pioneer DV-400V-K on regioncodefreedvd.com web site. The DVD player has a 1080p output with HDMI. Has anyone seen this DVD player in action or heard much about it? Any input will be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

Gary

Big Pauly

07-26-07, 03:36 PM

What do you guys recommend for an up-converting player that does 720p really well. I have the panasonic 42" 720p plasma monitor. My regular dvd player just puked last night.

SONY DVPNS75H....it's a year old and pretty cheap now...theres a new version coming out soon...

but the "75" is the dogs bollocks

MKaram

07-27-07, 12:36 PM

Hello all,

I've skimmed the thread (at least the last few pages of it, seemed silly to venture too far back) and it seems like most people are hailing the upconverting ability of the Oppo models or the Toshiba.

I must admit that I haven't looking into an upconverting player in a long while, but last I did the most reccommended chip was the faroudja.

I must also admit that I'm a bit of a Denon Fanboy. I've always had great success with their stuff (albeit somewhat overpriced) in the past.

What separates the Oppo model you're all reccommending from the Denon 1930CI?

I see that the Oppo is cheaper, and that the Toshiba HDDVD models are only a bit more.... But this one has the RS232 controller and the BurrBrown DACs plus the faroudja chip.

I'm sure you all have your reasons, and I'm not asking to be spoon-fed but if you could just point me in a direction I'd really appreciate it.

Pharcyde23

07-30-07, 10:56 PM

Picked up the Sammy 1080P7 2 days ago. Hooked it up to the 42" Aquos (although I bought it with intent of using it with the Sammy HLT5689s which is due to arrive Wednesday) put in Blackhawk Down..it looked totally washed out. Put in Ghost Rider, that was a bit better. Put in Snatch, during the black scenes of the opening credits noticed sparkles and a "snow" effect. This went away about 5 minutes into the movie, however the colors still didnt look natural.
All these movies looked much, much better on my Sony 1080i upconvert/Sammy 32" LCD.
I'm not going to return it until I have a chance to see what it looks like on the 5689s...then I will return it and get the Oppo.

Oh and it froze during Blackhawk Down when I hit the menu button and I had to unplug the unit from the surge to get it to reset.

lumila

07-31-07, 10:43 AM

Just returned the Samsung 1080P7 (european version). Had an annoying problem: I could only see cable TV with it on. Sound was OK but image was gone if I had the dvd player off (connected via SCART).

Help in choosing a cheap player that can outlast my CRT will be most appreciated!!

Plan is to replace CRT with a Full-HD plasma and afterwards the upconverting sd-dvd with a hd-dvd (once HD becomes more common and affordable).

tdcarlson95

08-01-07, 10:37 PM

Hey, I have a TH-42PX60U and was wondering if getting an upconverting player and connecting it via HDMI would be a step up from my current Panasonic DVD S-29 progressive scan dvd player? My panasonic player is about 1-2 years old, and does not upconvert. Any thoughts, experience?

Pharcyde23

08-02-07, 01:35 PM

Does anyone get a rainbow flicker all over the screen in various shapes and sizes with their 1080P7?
I'm using HDMI, tried switching through all the resolutions and the problem didnt go away.

topsolid2k

08-06-07, 11:54 AM

I have a projector that accepts RGB through a VGA port ... so i just basically bought the RGB compoent to VGA adapter .. now i am looking for the best dvd player i can find in a local store (like Best buy), to up convert my dvds ... HDMI is not an option...

I know most players do it through HDMI, is it worth going from HDMI to DVI and then using a VGA adapter? Will i be better off just finding a player that upconverts through component?

(i know its off topic, but)
Will a blu ray or HD DVD player up convert my standard dvds through component? can i watch a blu ray movie or hd dvd movie using the player via component in 1080i??

Im not looking to spend over 200 on a DVD player, especially something bought online. If best buy has something, that would be great, as i have a friend who works there....

wmcclain

08-06-07, 12:02 PM

(i know its off topic, but)
Will a blu ray or HD DVD player up convert my standard dvds through component?

No.

can i watch a blu ray movie or hd dvd movie using the player via component in 1080i??

Yes. The industry has threatened to turn off this ability in the future, but not for a few years if ever. See: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image_Constraint_Token

-Bill

topsolid2k

08-07-07, 01:11 PM

wmcclain

08-07-07, 01:20 PM

ok cool...

now ... if i buy any upconvert ... lets say the new samsung or pioneer ... I use HDMI to DVI .. then DVI to vga adapter .... will my projector do 1080i .... (it currently can using a RGB component to VGA adapter)..

im just wondering if the up convert ... throwing out 1080p/i ... and going through converting the cable three times. reduce quality or the signal ..

thanks

-mike

You might check the HDMI forum here. I think there are problems with your scheme in that you are losing HDCP with this conversion and I thought that was not allowed, although I have heard of people doing something like it.

-Bill

Pharcyde23

08-08-07, 02:01 PM

Dont buy the Samsung 1080P7. Its a pos. Wont play burned dvd's past 10 seconds into a movie. Skips regular dvd's and freezes audio cd's as well. This thing is a $99 piece of junk. Should've known.

bigsnyder

08-11-07, 12:52 AM

ok cool...

now ... if i buy any upconvert ... lets say the new samsung or pioneer ... I use HDMI to DVI .. then DVI to vga adapter .... will my projector do 1080i .... (it currently can using a RGB component to VGA adapter)..

im just wondering if the up convert ... throwing out 1080p/i ... and going through converting the cable three times. reduce quality or the signal ..

thanks

-mike

The Oppo 970 will upconvert over component with a simple hack. I am sure I have seen a component to VGA adapter somewhere, so this is probably your best bet.

rgroves

08-17-07, 08:55 PM

Ok, I think I've read enough on this thread to ask this question...

I'm looking for an upconverting DVD player (standard DVD not HD or Blu), BUT I need to use component since that's all my Dell 42" Plasma has available (720P). My HTPC is using the DVI port.

From what I've read, the Oppo 970 will do this (with a hack), Am I correct?

What is the hack to do this?

Also, from what I've read, the few placed to get the 970 would be Amazon or a few other internet shops, correct?

Last question.... Since I'm going to use the component, does the Oppo have optical output for the audio? The pics I could find of the 970 were too small to see the ports clearly.

wmcclain

08-18-07, 05:30 PM

Ok, I think I've read enough on this thread to ask this question...

I'm looking for an upconverting DVD player (standard DVD not HD or Blu), BUT I need to use component since that's all my Dell 42" Plasma has available (720P). My HTPC is using the DVI port.

From what I've read, the Oppo 970 will do this (with a hack), Am I correct?

Yes.

What is the hack to do this?

Older hacked firmware here: http://www.lament.us/oppo

A utility to modify current firmware is described here: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=832356

Also, from what I've read, the few placed to get the 970 would be Amazon or a few other internet shops, correct?

Most people buy from Oppo directly, else: http://www.oppodigital.com/wheretobuy.html

Last question.... Since I'm going to use the component, does the Oppo have optical output for the audio?

Yes.

The pics I could find of the 970 were too small to see the ports clearly.

You can look at the Oppo info on their pages: http://www.oppodigital.com/dv970hd/dv970hd.html

...and there is plenty of info on the main 970 thread: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=682896

Note that the 970 will be replaced by the new 980, but no component upconversion hack has yet appeared for the 980.

-Bill

WireJockey

08-18-07, 05:45 PM

And, as you may have read, all the Toshibas produce extraordinarily good upconconversion - purportedly better than units costing hundreds of dollars more. So at that price why not get native hi-def availability in the bargain?

I certainly would not recommend paying anything more than price for HD-A2. The image outputted on either a 720 or 1080 display from the Toshibas is excellent and, IMO, marginally better than BluRay on most hi-def disks.

So you feel that 1080i upcon is good and 1080P upcon does not necessarilly improve PQ?

valav

08-21-07, 12:27 PM

That's a very helpful list. Thanks for all of your help. Can anyone recommend a great player under $200? I'm on a very tight budget. Thanks!

Anubys

08-23-07, 08:06 AM

That's a very helpful list. Thanks for all of your help. Can anyone recommend a great player under $200? I'm on a very tight budget. Thanks!

I was very happy with my Oppo (until I replaced it with a PS3)

http://www.oppodigital.com/

mrsmith

08-23-07, 05:00 PM

So you feel that 1080i upcon is good and 080P upcon does not necessarilly improve PQ?
When the output is for watching FILMS, there is NO difference. This is nothing but a marketing gimmick started by Samsung when it brought out its first-gen BD(1080p) player. Here's the straight information:

From EVAN POWELL, technical expert at Projector Central:
"The truth is this: The Toshiba HD-DVD player outputs 1080i, and the Samsung Blu-ray player outputs both 1080i and 1080p. What they fail to mention is that it makes absolutely no difference which transmission format you use—feeding 1080i or 1080p into your projector or HDTV will give you the exact same picture. Why? Both disc formats encode film material in progressive scan 1080p at 24 frames per second. It does not matter whether you output this data in 1080i or 1080p since all 1080 lines of information on the disc are fed into your video display either way. The only difference is the order in which they are transmitted. If they are fed in progressive order (1080p), the video display will process them in that order. If they are fed in interlaced format (1080i), the video display simply reassembles them into their original progressive scan order. Either way all 1080 lines per frame that are on the disc make it into the projector or TV. The fact is, if you happen to have the Samsung Blu-ray player and a video display that takes both 1080i and 1080p, you can switch the player back and forth between 1080i and 1080p output and see absolutely no difference in the picture. So this notion that the Blu-ray player is worth more money due to 1080p output is nonsense."

The latest to repeat this silliness is Toshiba, trying to peddle the extra $100 MSRP above the HD-A2(1080i) prices for its other units. To their credit, however, you will notice that Toshiba is verrrrrry circumspect in its current assertions on the subject, perhaps due to fear of false advertising allegations(?) In any case, if you're using the player for watching 99% FILMS, save the $100 for other purposes. (NOTE: there may be a difference on video[60fps]).

EchoTony

08-23-07, 05:38 PM

Ok, I think I've read enough on this thread to ask this question...

I'm looking for an upconverting DVD player (standard DVD not HD or Blu), BUT I need to use component since that's all my Dell 42" Plasma has available (720P). My HTPC is using the DVI port.

I had the same problem until a few days ago (new TV has HDMI ports!) I have the 970 and was able to easily upgrade the firmware to the upconvert over component for my old TV.

From what I've read, the Oppo 970 will do this (with a hack), Am I correct?
Yes. There are a number of theads on how to do this, but you simply download the .iso of the firmware (with the hack) or get the hack utility and image that. Burn to CD-R. Put into player and follow OPPO's instrucitons on how to update firmware. Takes less than 20 minutes to do everything.

What is the hack to do this?
See above for links.

Also, from what I've read, the few placed to get the 970 would be Amazon or a few other internet shops, correct?
I would go directly with OPPO or with Amazon. Amazon gives you free shipping and no tax in many states. For me in CA, that would be the best since OPPO charges us Tax in CA. :( Also worth considering is their refurbished players. Many have had very good experience with their refurbished units (me included). You can call customer service to see if they have any in stock.

Last question.... Since I'm going to use the component, does the Oppo have optical output for the audio? The pics I could find of the 970 were too small to see the ports clearly. It's got optical, coaxial, everything... It's a sick little player. Worth every penny IMHO.

WireJockey

08-23-07, 05:41 PM

When the output is for watching FILMS, there is NO difference.

(NOTE: there may be a difference on video[60fps]).

Thanks, I appreciate good quality info! :)

surfrider890

08-25-07, 07:40 PM

Hi guys, Love this forum, got a lot of good info from here. Just got a 50" Panny plasma th-50px600u. Still breaking it in, got the breakin dvd from this site, great. We have a huge dvd collection, so i think i should get a upconverting dvd player. Our main thing is watching movies, and football. Walmart has this Phillips player for like $44, and thats cheaper than most places online for that player.

My question is, the tv display is 768p, and the dvd player says it does 720p and 1080i. Do you think it will make it 768p? Or do i have to get a dvd player specifically for 768p? The tv can take broadcasts up to 1080i, so i'm guessing it'll convert 1080i or 720p from the player to 768p. Any help is appreciated.

The picture is so good, i don't know if it's really worth it...and i should prob go with a Toshiba or better quality player. I dont' know, this just seemed like such a good price, almost half what i'd pay for most. Here is a link to the player info: http://electronics.pricegrabber.com/dvd-players/philips/m/38519635/details/

Thanks for any help.
FYI, i found a 3' monster hdmi cable via pricegrabber for $40, really cheap.

wmcclain

08-26-07, 08:27 AM

My question is, the tv display is 768p, and the dvd player says it does 720p and 1080i. Do you think it will make it 768p? Or do i have to get a dvd player specifically for 768p? The tv can take broadcasts up to 1080i, so i'm guessing it'll convert 1080i or 720p from the player to 768p. Any help is appreciated.

There are players that produce 768, but they are rare.

Your display, like all fixed-pixel devices, will take any supported input resolution and convert it to its native resolution. Common wisdom is that you should use 720p with a 768 display, but there is no reason not to try the other combinations and use what you like the best.

You should also consider non-upscaled resolutions 480i and 480p; it is possible your display deinterlaces and upscales better than your chosen player, but there is no fixed rule.

For fair test, use a calibration disc with all these combinations.

FYI, i found a 3' monster hdmi cable via pricegrabber for $40, really cheap.

Forum sponsors monoprice and bluejeanscable are often recommended here for their inexpensive, good quality cables. Some people like monster, but it does not have a big fan base here.

-Bill

FingarBangar

08-26-07, 03:10 PM

Not sure if this is the appropriate place to ask about upconverters for specific TV models, but I'm looking for a sub-$200 player to go with a Samsung 4053H. Thanks in advance.

wmcclain

08-26-07, 03:22 PM

Not sure if this is the appropriate place to ask about upconverters for specific TV models, but I'm looking for a sub-$200 player to go with a Samsung 4053H. Thanks in advance.

You'll see a lot of threads about specific models here. All have their supporters (and sometimes detractors). You might also check the HD-DVD and Blu-Ray player forums; they also upscale SD-DVD, though none are under $200 yet.

I have been pleased with my Oppo players. The new 980 is $169.

-Bill

FingarBangar

08-26-07, 03:46 PM

Thanks for the advice man. If I decide to go with an actual high def player it'll probably be a PS3, but I'm not too excited about the idea of $30 movies. I'll definetly look into the Oppos though. Thanks again.

surfrider890

08-27-07, 12:29 PM

Thanks for the advice wmcclain. Sorry about the cable thing.

tsheley

08-31-07, 08:48 AM

wmcclain

08-31-07, 09:22 AM

I have a quick question. I have a 32" Philips LCD with a Samsung Progressive Scan DVD player hooked up with component cables and set to 480p. If I were to buy a Philips DVP3960 upscaling DVD Player and hook it up HDMI do you think I would see a huge difference over by 480p Samsung?

Thanks!

I'm not familiar with any of that gear, but in the general case, a huge difference: no.

Of course, it depends on your viewing preferences and how fanatical you are about your dvds. When I can see even subtle differences they tend to loom large in my mind.

-Bill

mechael

08-31-07, 11:51 AM

Hi, I'm looking for a DVD player for my dad mostly for divx files (TV shows). What is the best divx player out there?

How's Oppo 970 and 980's performance on divx?

Thanks.

ngn33r

08-31-07, 01:13 PM

In any case, if you're using the player for watching 99% FILMS, save the $100 for other purposes. (NOTE: there may be a difference on video[60fps]).

I don't know much about this stuff. Can someone tell me how to tell if I'm watching something encoded at 1080p 24fps or 60fps?

T.I.A.

tbberman

08-31-07, 03:07 PM

wmcclain

08-31-07, 03:53 PM

Does anyone know the difference between the Oppo DV-980H vs. the DV-981HD, other than price? I recently got a sharp aquos 37" LCD tv. I see that they both upscale to 1080p, which my tv can go up to as well. I have a ten year old Panasonic dvd player (non-progressive scan) and would like to get a player to upscale my old dvds.

Tom

Comparison chart: http://www.oppodigital.com/dv981hd/dv981hd_comp.html

The big difference in video quality is due to their different chip technologies. The 980 is sharper, with slightly rougher deinterlacing, where the 981 is "smoother, more film-like", which some people call "soft". The 981 has better PAL playback. The 980 has a USB port and new audio features.

I have both and a Westinghouse LVM-37w3 LCD. I use both and could live with either, but I like the 981 image better. The 980 is a great package for DLP and plasma owners who sometimes report enhanced macroblocking with Faroudja-chip players like the 981. LCD owners can use either.

Note that at the $229 price of the 981, you are getting into HD-DVD territory, which players have received good reviews for SD-DVD playback. They don't play all the video and audio formats that the Oppos do, however.

-Bill

tbberman

08-31-07, 04:20 PM

Thanks Bill,

I'll check out the comparison chart. I started with the reviews on Cnet but they were pretty much identical for the two units. I'm really just looking to play back regular old dvds, no PAL or other formats. You are right though that for $229 I could get an actual HD-DVD player. But I'd rather wait out the format war for now. Its a tough choice. I think I would prefer the 981 for its better film quality but it pricey!

tom

albymack

09-01-07, 01:39 PM

Just picked up a Sony NS77H to pair with my Toshiba 46LX177 TV.

DVD movies are simply amazing. I've watched LOTR, Batman Forever, Happy Feet, Casino Royale, Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon, Sin City, and Pitch Black. Some scenes from Casino Royale are so sharp that it looks like I'm seeing it through a window. Amazing how much detail the upconverting can squeeze out of DVD's, and paired with the TV's 120Hz and reduce judder capabilities everything just looks amazing.

The remote could use lighting, and feels pretty light and cheap. The machine itself is very flat and unobtrusive.

Overall very happy with this upconverting DVD player. I can hold out a couple of years now until the HD format wars are concluded before pickup up one of those, since regular DVD's look so darn amazing as it is.

beowulf7

09-03-07, 12:43 PM

Comparison chart: http://www.oppodigital.com/dv981hd/dv981hd_comp.html

The big difference in video quality is due to their different chip technologies. The 980 is sharper, with slightly rougher deinterlacing, where the 981 is "smoother, more film-like", which some people call "soft". The 981 has better PAL playback. The 980 has a USB port and new audio features.

I have both and a Westinghouse LVM-37w3 LCD. I use both and could live with either, but I like the 981 image better. The 980 is a great package for DLP and plasma owners who sometimes report enhanced macroblocking with Faroudja-chip players like the 981. LCD owners can use either.

Note that at the $229 price of the 981, you are getting into HD-DVD territory, which players have received good reviews for SD-DVD playback. They don't play all the video and audio formats that the Oppos do, however.

-Bill

That's a great link for comparison. I wasn't even aware of the 980 model. :o For DLP TV users (which I hope to soon be one day), the 980 is recommended by Oppo.

Now as you said, for those getting the 981, its price is encroaching into Toshiba HD-DVD player price range. Some trade-offs will have to be made, of course.

Another viable option is to get an up-converting, HDMI-capable DVD player that is below $100, such as Philips. I'm also considering that.

Mile Hi

09-14-07, 04:24 PM

wmcclain

09-14-07, 04:48 PM

kiwi2000

09-14-07, 08:43 PM

Can't find an answer, maybe someone here can help. I have a Panasonic ED, I believe it is model 42PD50u which has an HDMI hook up, and my dvd player is 480p without HDMI. Question is, will an upconverted DVD player with the HDMI give a significantly better quality picture than the 480p without the HDMI hook up?

There are to many variables in your question Mile High.

I can relate though that I have a 720 display and have both an HDMI upconverting player and a component 480i player. I find the original 480i player superior to the upconverted picture in many, many ways and is the one I usually watch.

It all depends what you are going to purchase and how much you are going to spend. Just because you have a certain connector does not make it automatically superior.

I know this does not answer your question but you must not assume that one connector or technology is going to make a huge difference in performance. What you suggest would be very subtle at best, either a bit better or a bit worse.

If you have read any of this thread you know that is the common theme.

Zulaab

09-15-07, 06:28 PM

Just got a Phillips DVP3960/37
When attempting to set the resolution in the HDMI menu the only option I have is "auto" the 4 others are "grey'd out".
Is there a way to get this fixed ?
Called Phillips who told me to unplug the unit for an hour and try again.. beyond that they seemed clueless about the unit.

rookerdo

09-19-07, 04:18 PM

Hi,

I was wondering if someone had any experiences or information that might be of help to me. Basically I have this DVD player that can upscale to 1080p and when I watch movies on my 1080p Samsung TV I get quite a bit of graininess. Some scenes look pretty good, while others look poor! Is it that my LNF4665F is so detailed that it picks up every flaw?:confused:

SBrudzinsky

09-19-07, 04:51 PM

EchoTony

09-20-07, 02:53 PM

rookerdo,
Try to turn off your DVD player's upconverter and see how picture will looks then. Or set it down to 480i / 480p. I do not know anything about your HDTV set but it might be doing better upscaling and de-interlacing by itself. Very often using DVD player's cheap upconveter will degrade quality of image. Simply will make picture quality worse. Do not believe in DVD player's good upscaling job. Not exist. Nowadays HDTV sets make better upscaling and/or de-interlacing job by themselves. IMO

I don't agree with this. I believe my Oppo 970 does a slightly better job than my Panasonic 700u's interal scaler. I like the softer, more film like quality the Oppo puts out. But that being said, everyone should try various resolution settings on the TV and the DVD player to see which produces the best picture.

SBrudzinsky

09-20-07, 05:03 PM

I believe my Oppo 970 does a slightly better job than my Panasonic 700u's interal scaler. I like the softer, more film like quality .

EchoTony,
How can you define "Oppo 970 does a slightly better job"? Making "softer" image can be a side effect of DVD player's up-converter work. But if you like it then you probably benefit from such effect. I personally thought more clearer, crisp but noiseless image are what we should expect from proper up-conversion/upscaling job. I'm expecting from up-conversion/up-scaling process to see HD-like or close to HD image quality, but not "softer" image as it sounds like downgraded picture quality to me. But I can be wrong of course as no one is perfect . Please educate me if I'm wrong.

Greenhorn21

09-25-07, 05:28 PM

wmcclain

09-25-07, 05:43 PM

I have been looking into one of these Oppo players all day and everything I read talks about how the Genesis/Faroudja chip set is amazing. But the only model listed on Oppo's website that carries that chipset is the 981HD model. They only reccomend that player for 1080p displays or DLP's over 45". I have a brand new Panasonic 42PX77U plasma display, which is 720p. Am I wasting my money buying one of these other players?

Plasma and DLP owners often report enhanced macroblocking with Faroudja chip players. Some people are able to reduce or eliminate the effect with the careful calibration, but if you don't want to worry about it, the 980 is the other choice from Oppo.

-Bill

Greenhorn21

09-25-07, 05:59 PM

Plasma and DLP owners often report enhanced macroblocking with Faroudja chip players. Some people are able to reduce or eliminate the effect with the careful calibration, but if you don't want to worry about it, the 980 is the other choice from Oppo.

-Bill

So the Faroudja chip works better with LCD displays? I was running a progressive scan DVD to a Toshiba tube TV with component audio/video, not even S-Video. Anything on this new display will look worlds different, but I want the best. Go with the 980 or 970?

wmcclain

09-25-07, 06:17 PM

So the Faroudja chip works better with LCD displays? I was running a progressive scan DVD to a Toshiba tube TV with component audio/video, not even S-Video. Anything on this new display will look worlds different, but I want the best. Go with the 980 or 970?

The 980 replaces the 970, has new features and you lose nothing. Except: there is an unsupported firmware hack that allows component upconversion on the 970 which has not yet appeared for the 980. It doesn't matter if you are using HDMI.

-Bill

zoopdubin

09-30-07, 12:53 AM

Hey all,

I'm looking for a region-free DVD player with 1080p upconversion abilities, in the sub-150 price range, and the Pioneer-400VK seems to have generally favorable reviews. Problem is, I'm not sure if it's region free out of the box (or with a freely-available hack), and the different between buying it from e.g. regionfreedvd.net and amazon.com is $50.

Does anyone know if this is region-free out of the box? Does anyone have positive/negative impressions to share? If negative, can you suggest alternates?

Thanks in advance,
Zoop

SBrudzinsky

09-30-07, 11:13 AM

...Does anyone know if this is region-free out of the box?

There is region free version of Pioneer DV-400V. Check "Pioneer DV-400V Owners Thread" thread.

...Does anyone have positive/negative impressions to share? If negative, can you suggest alternates?...

I have very positive experience with Pioneer DV-400V. Very pleased so far. Hooked to my 42" plasma Panasonic. It does everything that I need and it does it very well. Well made good quality player. IMO

rdjam

10-01-07, 05:20 PM

The Toshiba XA has been stellar at upscaling.

gmanas

10-02-07, 08:45 AM

New HDTV owner here needs a little help. My setup Westinghouse LCD TX-47F430S, a 47” 1080p LCD HDTV connected to my Windows Media Center 2005 pc through ATI x300 DVI-HDMI. Set to 1080p to the TV.

I have Nvidia's Pure video decoder, PowerDVD decoder, and CCCP w/ffdshow installed. I also have the Windows Decoder checkup utility installed for switching between these decoders until I can get the desired result. My goal is to output DVD and TV to 1080p. Here are my questions.

1.When I play DVD’s using MCE 2005 it still has the black bars on the top and bottom of the screen. Is this normal? I thought that upscaling would take care of the black bars and fill the screen to whatever resolution I have the video card set to.

2. From what I've read ffdshow can do this as well, and seems to be the preferred method when using an HTPC, just not when using MCE 2005 as it does not play nicely with it. Is this correct?

3. Then I read that all I needed to do was install AnyDVD and it would remove some kind of protection on the DVD and allow MCE 2005 to upscale the DVD. Is this correct?

4. Is it possible to upscale standard definition live TV within MCE 2005? I'd really like to get rid of the black bars on the right & left side of the screen while watching TV with out having the overscan turned on, on the TV as it cuts off most of the picture..

5. I also have an xbox360 hooked up to the TV through component and I get the same result as the MCE 2005 pc when playing DVD’s. Somewhere I read that for the Xbox to upscale DVD’s to 1080p you have to use HDMI or VGA. Anybody know different?

6. I'm just wondering that if I'm not able to do this with MCE2005 would you recommend I try an open source HTPC program that could do the trick. Say something like Media Portal, as I know it supports my hardware.

Thanks for your time. Any help on this is greatly appreciated.

wmcclain

10-02-07, 02:09 PM

1.When I play DVD’s using MCE 2005 it still has the black bars on the top and bottom of the screen. Is this normal? I thought that upscaling would take care of the black bars and fill the screen to whatever resolution I have the video card set to.

This is normal and correct for titles which have an aspect ratio wider than 16:9 = 1.78:1. See: http://www.highdefdigest.com/news/show/High-Def_FAQ/Joshua_Zyber/High-Def_FAQ:_Why_Dont_the_Black_Bars_Go_Away/764

You might try the HTPC forum for your other questions.

-Bill

TallGuyMe

10-07-07, 05:52 PM

Anyone know of a region-free hack for my Sony DVP-NC85HB ?? Please?? PLEASE??

bahamabart

10-13-07, 06:13 PM

I had ordered a Samsung DLP (HTL-6187S) and contacted OPPO to discuss which player was best for me. They directed me to the 980H and it arrived the same day as the TV.

Bottom line - really nice unit. DVD picture quality is outstanding and no "ill" effects of any kind. Under 200 bucks makes this a no brainer purchase for me.

DanLieb

10-14-07, 11:28 PM

Hello:

Can someone please suggest a narrow DVD player (Less than 15.5" wide)? I've run into trouble with the setup for the new plasma in the bedroom as they all seem to be around 17" wide.
Thank you,
Daniel

Betaguy001

10-15-07, 12:05 AM

My trusty (and 3 year old) upconverting LG 7832 player is starting to act up - freezing and unable to play disks. I've cleaned it - no help.... So... I'm starting to look for a replacement, and the Oppos look pretty good!

My challenge - I have a Sanyo Z2 and I prefer to use the component inputs because there is a 'white crush' issue on the DVI input. The Oppo 970 with a hack for the component upconversion would fill the bill for me, but there's that little issue of adding at least 50 bucks to the cost to get it shipped to Canada....

Does anyone have some recommendations on a good unit available in Canada that upconverts thru component (or can be hacked to do so?).

Thanks!

wmcclain

10-15-07, 05:26 AM

Betaguy001

10-15-07, 05:24 PM

I believe there are Canadian Oppo resellers: http://www.oppodigital.com/wheretobuy.html

-Bill

Thanks, Bill. I checked with them and they unfortunately only offer the 980 and the 981....:(

marciecat

10-17-07, 12:46 PM

I have a good Sony progressive scan DVD player with component (but not hdmi) output. Will the Mitsu HD46131 upscale / upconvert a SD DVD to 1080p?

Is it better to run the DVD player through my Onkyo 705 then to the TV via HDMI or direct to the TV with audio to the A/V receiver?

bigsnyder

10-17-07, 01:33 PM

The 980 is an improved version of the 970, so its possible that it can still be hacked.
Check the Oppo 980 thread for more info. Hopefully the 980 retained that "feature".

wmcclain

10-17-07, 02:04 PM

I have a good Sony progressive scan DVD player with component (but not hdmi) output. Will the Mitsu HD46131 upscale / upconvert a SD DVD to 1080p?

All fixed-pixel displays will deinterlace (if necessary) and scale (if necessary) any supported input signal to their native resolution.

-Bill

wmcclain

10-17-07, 02:06 PM

The 980 is an improved version of the 970, so its possible that it can still be hacked.
Check the Oppo 980 thread for more info. Hopefully the 980 retained that "feature".

No, it hasn't been possible on the 980 yet. Maybe never.

-Bill

shawfwey

10-17-07, 09:57 PM

Folks: Follwing are some of the DVI/HDMI/COM Upconverting DVD Players. I shall continue to update this post on new player options and their release date (as that info is made available). If I have

missed some, please let me know and I shall add them.

DVD Player Release Date Upconversion Region MSRP Best Price @ Universal Network
Free $ (Check store/website) Player Capable

Momitsu V880 Deluxe Available COM/DVI Yes 259 Extremephono/HiviZone No No
Zenith DVB318** Available DVI/COM* Yes 249 Amazon/Gochnauers No No
Denon 1910 Available DVI ?? 269 Tweeter/Crutchfield/Abt No No
Samsung 841 Available DVI ?? 249 Amazon/BB/Newegg No No
Samsung 941 Available HDMI ?? 299 Amazon/ABT Elec Yes No
Panasonic S97 Available HDMI ?? 299 J&R/******* DVD-Audio No
Bravo D2 Available DVI ?? 249 Vinc No No
Sony DVP-NS975V Available HDMI ?? 299 J&R/******* SACD No
Denon 2910 Available DVI/HDMI ?? 729 Tweeter Yes No
Denon 3910 Available DVI/HDMI ?? 1299 Tweeter/Crutchfield*** Yes No
Pioneer DV59-AVI Available HDMI ?? 1600 ?? Yes No
LG DVB418 Available HDMI ?? 199 Best Buy No No
NeuNeo HVD108 Available COM/VGA Yes 199 NeuNeo Website No No
Toshiba SD-5970 Available HDMI ?? 199 ?? No No
Onkyo DV-SP1000 Available HDMI ?? 1999 Crutchfield ?? Yes No
Bravo D3 Q1 2005? DVI ?? ?? Vinc No Yes
Momitsu V880N Available COM/DVI Yes 379 Extremephono/HiviZone No Yes
AVeL LinkPlayer2 Available COM ?? 249 Iodata website No Yes
Oppo DV971H Available DVI ?? 249 Extremephono No No

* Zenith's new Firmware disables upconversion over component! Therefore new lot shall not have upscaling over component.
** Zenith's New Firmware disables upconversion over component! Grab the few remaining while you can at Amazon/Gochnauers/Best Buy or other online retailers.
*** NeuNeo Player does not have DVI/HDMI and therefore no upconversion over them.

DVD Players Product Information

Momitsu V880:
http://www.momitsu.com/dvd_880spec.html

Momitsu V880N:
http://www.momitsu.com/dvd_880nspec.html

Bravo D2:
http://www.vinc.com/product.asp?ID=56&PID=21&SEQ=2

Samsung 841:
http://www.samsungusa.com/cgi-bin/nabc/product/b2c_product_detail.jsp?eUser=&prod_id=DVD-HD841%2fXAA

Zenith DVB318:
http://www.zenith.com/sub_prod/downloads_pdf/DVB318.pdf

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=421473

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=411532

Panasonic S97:
http://www2.panasonic.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/vModelDetail?displayTab=O&storeId=11251&catalogId=11005&itemId=71539&catGroupId=11059&modelNo=DVD-S97S&surfModel=DVD-S97S
http://www.panasonic.com/consumer_electronics/pressroom/cont2.asp?Filter=12&cont_id=578

Sony DVP-NS975V:
http://www.sonystyle.com/is-bin/INTERSHOP.enfinity/eCS/Store/en/-/USD/SY_DisplayProductInformation-Start;sid==?ProductSKU=DVPNS975V&Dept=hav&CategoryName=hav_DVD_DVDPlayers
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B0002KQR28/qid=1091711958/sr=8-1******sr_8_xs_ap_i1_xgl23/103-4491388-6073452?v=glance&s=electronics&n=507846

Denon 1910, 2910 & 3910
http://www.usa.denon.com/catalog/products.asp?l=1&c=4

LG DVB418
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?id=1087341116425&skuId=6738257&productCategoryId=cat03013&type=product
http://us.lge.com/index.do

NeuNeo DVD Player
http://www.neuneo.com/products/DVD/hddvd_feature.asp

Toshiba SD-5970
http://www.tacp.toshiba.com/dvd/product.asp?model=sd-5970

Samsung 941
http://product.samsung.com/cgi-bin/nabc/product/b2c_product_detail.jsp?eUser=&prod_id=DVD-HD941%2fXAA

Onkyo DV-SP1000
http://www.us.onkyo.com/model.cfm?m=DV-SP1000&class=DVD&p=i

AVeL LinkPlayer2
http://www.iodata.com/usa/products/products.php?cat=HNP&sc=AVEL&pId=AVLP2%2FDVDLA&ts=2&tsc=

Pioneer DV59-AVI
http://www.pioneerelectronics.com/pna/product/detail/0,,2076_15020671_30442807,00.html

Oppo DV971H
http://www.extremephono.com/Oppo_DV971.htm

Master Threads for the above players on the forum

Momitsu V880

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=405786

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=390833

Momitsu V880N

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=344021

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=422467

Zenith DVB 318

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=328403

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=400480

Denon Players

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=422108

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=368827

Samsung 941

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=422282

Samsung 841

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=350992

Samsung Players

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=350992

Bravo D2

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=406356

Bravo D3

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=394135

Panasonic S97

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=463025

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=409422

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=412731&highlight=s97

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=347960

Sony DVP-NS975V

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=462166&perpage=20&pagenumber=1
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=428992&highlight=sony+hdmi
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=465186

Denon 1910

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=437950
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=441939

Denon 2910 & 3910

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=431354&perpage=20&pagenumber=22
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=422108
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=368827

LG DVB418
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=426637

NeuNeo DVD Player
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?threadid=461430

Samsung 941
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=471637&perpage=20&pagenumber=1

Onkyo DV-SP1000
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?threadid=468036&perpage=20&pagenumber=1

AVeL LinkPlayer2
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=484807
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=459759

Pioneer 59-AVI
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?threadid=494699

Oppo DV971H
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=491306&highlight=oppo
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=482239
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=493616&highlight=oppo

This is very informative to a lot of users.. Please continue to post updates. Many thanks...

PJO1966

10-17-07, 10:08 PM

Does anyone have any experience with the Sony RDRVX555?

PJO1966

10-17-07, 10:43 PM

Actually I meant to ask about the Panasonic DMR-EZ47K.

moxie1617

10-18-07, 10:31 AM

Here is a whole thread about the DMR EZ-47K DVD Recorder.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=856924

You'll probably find a thread there for the Sony also.

DanLieb

10-18-07, 02:33 PM

Hey:
I've searched all over the major internet sites - to no luck. :(

Daniel

moxie1617

10-18-07, 03:25 PM

Hey:
I've searched all over the major internet sites - to no luck. :(

Daniel

For what?:confused:

DanLieb

10-19-07, 12:54 PM

Sorry - it didn't copy my original post. I am looking for a narrow (15.5" wide) upconverting DVD player. Any suggestions?
Daniel

pappyiii

10-28-07, 02:15 PM

Question: regarding color purity, saturation and quality: HD players seem to have significantly better color when playing SD discs. What SD players provide good color presentation. IMHO, color is more important than resolution regarding movie pleasure. Since my present display is plasma, I need to avoid macroblocking. In fact, the HD player problem with scratches and 'guber' causing skips, blocks and freezes is a deal breaker for me and I plan to stick with SD medium for now. I like to use rentals, library and my own DVDs.

I have a Toshiba A1 and am sick of problems with rental HD, but SD looks great and plays well. Also have the Philips DVR5982 which plays everything (no HD). Thinking an OPPO 980 would be nice.

DavidML3

10-30-07, 08:48 PM

This thread is too long

What is the updated list of players that upconvert over component and actually notice the difference?

tutelary

11-06-07, 12:56 AM

This thread is too long

What is the updated list of players that upconvert over component and actually notice the difference?

seconded. I'm looking for ~$200 and hdmi with GREAT upconversion.
I have a toshiba A2 ($99) but the whole "can get some movies HD, can't get others" thing really pisses me off. I'm really thinking about just dropping back into dvd for the time being with a really good upconverting player.

I want dedicated hardware for upscaling in the player itself.

Fussy viewer

11-06-07, 02:01 AM

The Oppo players are highly regarded and frequently mentioned around here. My Oppo 971 has a great image on my 720p DLP screen.

smooth3d

11-06-07, 06:34 PM

seconded. I'm looking for ~$200 and hdmi with GREAT upconversion.
I have a toshiba A2 ($99) but the whole "can get some movies HD, can't get others" thing really pisses me off. I'm really thinking about just dropping back into dvd for the time being with a really good upconverting player.

I want dedicated hardware for upscaling in the player itself.

Your a2 is a great upconverter, why spend the extra money on another dvd player?

tigerkc

11-06-07, 09:59 PM

Your a2 is a great upconverter, why spend the extra money on another dvd player?

I was thinking about the A2, but since I need a player that can play VCD, I need to look at a non-HD DVD player.

redjr

11-07-07, 08:52 AM

I was thinking about the A2, but since I need a player that can play VCD, I need to look at a non-HD DVD player.
tigerkc,

If I could interject... Another thing to consider is the amount of use the A2 transport will be subject to playing SD or other non HD-DVD discs. I have the XA1 ($900) that I use pretty much exclusively for all HD-DVD discs just so the transport mechanism doesn't get accidentally damaged. My young kids are not allowed to use it without my supervision! It's also on the top shelf of my rack in the media room. :D But I also have an Oppo(purchased before the XA1) that we all use when playing SD discs. Most of the kid's DVDs are SD anyway. The upconversion quality is comparable. It would be way more costly to repair your A2 should the transport be damaged due to over, or misuse(read kids!). Kids are not always user friendly when it comes to DVD drawers. Upscaling DVD players are easily had for around $79 these days. Just a thought. But then again, if the A2 can be had for $99 this holiday season, what the heck? :cool:

tigerkc

11-08-07, 03:21 AM

tigerkc,

If I could interject... Another thing to consider is the amount of use the A2 transport will be subject to playing SD or other non HD-DVD discs. I have the XA1 ($900) that I use pretty much exclusively for all HD-DVD discs just so the transport mechanism doesn't get accidentally damaged. My young kids are not allowed to use it without my supervision! It's also on the top shelf of my rack in the media room. :D But I also have an Oppo(purchased before the XA1) that we all use when playing SD discs. Most of the kid's DVDs are SD anyway. The upconversion quality is comparable. It would be way more costly to repair your A2 should the transport be damaged due to over, or misuse(read kids!). Kids are not always user friendly when it comes to DVD drawers. Upscaling DVD players are easily had for around $79 these days. Just a thought. But then again, if the A2 can be had for $99 this holiday season, what the heck? :cool:

I totally agreed. I recently purchased an Elite Blu-ray player which cost me $$$, so I am looking for a high quality but yet (relatively) inexpensive player so that I can play everything else.

buddy39

11-08-07, 09:23 AM

Without reading through all the threads .... I have a few questions.

1) I recently purchased a full 1080p hdtv, will my old progessive dvd player
(which doesn't have any hdmi inputs/outputs) work ok?
2) Should I get a upconverting dvd player?
3) Will it make a big difference if I purchased one that upconverted to 1080i
vs. up to 1080p?
4) Do hd /blu ray players upconvert regular dvds ?

Thanks for any helpful inputs :)

wmcclain

11-08-07, 09:46 AM

Without reading through all the threads .... I have a few questions.

1) I recently purchased a full 1080p hdtv, will my old progessive dvd player
(which doesn't have any hdmi inputs/outputs) work ok?

Yes, presuming your TV has component connections. You need component or HDMI or DVI to get a progressive scan signal.

2) Should I get a upconverting dvd player?

Well, I did when I bought an HD display. The current players produce a better image than my 1999-era Toshiba player. An upconverting player is not mandatory (although I think all current players do upconversion) but it lets you fiddle with more options, such as whether scaling is done in the player or in the display: you get to pick which you like the best. But note that some people try all sorts of options and see no difference.

3) Will it make a big difference if I purchased one that upconverted to 1080i
vs. up to 1080p?

My opinion: SD-DVD upscaling works best on progressive signals, such as 720p or 1080p. Using 1080i introduces an extra interlacing step which you don't want. But if you have the option you should try all the combinations and pick the one you like the best.

4) Do hd /blu ray players upconvert regular dvds ?

Over HDMI or DVI: yes. Over component: no.

For best results, use a calibration disc. Brief notes here: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9889995&&#post9889995

-Bill

startingwaudio

11-09-07, 02:15 PM

Hi guys!
My apologizes if this is not the right place to post this question. I'm a little overwhelm with all the different options for a home teather, and hope you can help me!

My main concern is about what components do I need. Originally, I was planning to buy Bose equipment. I see the thread "Why Not Bose"... it seems Bose generates a lot of controversy! My main requirements:
- Speakers that are not intrusive with the layout of the department. I supposed size matters in terms of speakers, but I prefer smaller speakers.
- Great sound quality. I'm not an expert nor someone with an educated ear, so I'm not looking for perfection. I'm targeting this to see movies and hear music.
- Since I will have a HD-TV, I prefer a player that transmits HD signal directly to the TV.
- Multiregion DVD.

I have decided to go with a OPPO DV-981HD as my DVD player, since it can be multiregion player, and it seems the upconversion capabilities are awesome! Anyone considers this a bad option?

For the audio part, has anyone tried the Bose® Lifestyle® V30? It seems an interesting option, considering I will use a DVD player from another brand.

Thanks!

Jorge.

moxie1617

11-09-07, 04:48 PM

You should select your TV first. Depending on your choice of TV's, the Oppo 981HD could be a poor choice. ie macroblocking with DLP's and certain plasmas. For more info see the 981 brain dump thread.

sandyg1418

11-13-07, 10:38 AM

Has anyone done a comparison of the upconversion performance between an oppo and a cheap upconverting dvd player, like the Philips 5960? I'm wondering if it's worth the extra money to buy an oppo. I will be using it with a home theatre projector with 92" screen. Thanks!

jsganz

11-14-07, 04:46 PM

scrapdiggs

11-14-07, 07:41 PM

Actually the Philips DVP5982 is the newest one with 1080p upconversion
and USB connection. It's 100 bucks cheaper than the Oppo DV-980H and I've heard it does a great job. I wonder how they compare. :confused:

Im just waiting to be able to find one locally.

As for the Oppo I love them but their best one does not have USB. Thats worthless to me. If im going to have an Xvid and DivX machine I need USB>

BobKat6

11-15-07, 04:50 PM

jsganz
sandyg1418
scrapdiggs

Without your locations it's hard to tell if you have a CircuitCity nearby. I would pick one up to try if my TV would accept HDMI. There must be some other E Store close to you with a very liberal return policy!!

http://www.circuitcity.com/ccd/Search.do?c=1&searchType=user&keyword=Philips+DVP5982&searchSection=All&go.x=10&go.y=9

Bob

jsganz

11-15-07, 07:37 PM

BobKat6

11-15-07, 10:51 PM

Hey Bob,
Well, I actually do have one on order from Amazon.
They give you 30 days to return it. Only thing is, they're out of them for another few weeks, so I'll have to wait awhile (since their price is a bit less). By the way, does anyone know if the upconversion applies to movies played on a HDD (connected to the USB port) the same as if it was played on a DVD? I would think so, right?

Tough question. I would think so too, but when I try to play self made DVDs recorded in SD the result is that I see the 1/16 inch border around objects clearer. If you're talking about HD content from a Camcorder, it may work well. My Camcorder is an older Pany that records to mini DVDs. Also my TV is a four year old Mitsu with component only. You may be able to get a sharper picture via HDMI on a newer set.

Good luck.

scrapdiggs

11-15-07, 11:11 PM

BobKat6

11-16-07, 12:54 AM

Actually Circuit City shows that they are not carried in stores.

Oh, sorry, didn't check the details. Anything bought online can be returned to a store without a problem, even if the store doesn't carry it. So if you can get free shipping (their most frequent promotion) it'll only cost you Gas to return.

I was also told Amazon has it cheaper. They are always free ship over $25. So, either way, it's pretty cheap to test yourself.

Then, Oppo owners really love their players...................................?

cathpah

11-16-07, 03:03 AM

can anyone point me in the direction of an upconverting dvd player that plays dvd+r discs...ideally one that has a 3-6 disc carousel?

I'd be forever in your debt :)

edit: I'd love for it to upconvert to 1080p if possible.

jsganz

11-16-07, 10:23 AM

alfbinet

11-16-07, 05:15 PM

Your a2 is a great upconverter, why spend the extra money on another dvd player?

I agree. I don't understand his logic. Going back to SD because he can't get all HD titles on HD DVD. For $99 he gets a great upscaler that just also plays HD DVD? :confused:

cathpah

11-16-07, 09:28 PM

I have a Philips DVD recorder with a digital tuner and upconversion to either 720p or 1080i. It plays DVD+R's and RW's without a problem. I would guess many other players should handle them as well. Just check out the specs before you buy one. It's possible they might only play DVD-R discs.

yup, many specs don't even include the info as to whether or not they play the dvd+r's. I originally used dvd+r's because the onkyo dvd player i had at the time read dvd+r and not dvd-r...now i look at the onkyo lineup and they don't even list whether or not they play dvd+r on the spec sheet.

anyone know of anything that'll do 1080p, dvd+r, and 3-6 discs at a time?

bhoier

11-16-07, 10:18 PM

Can anyone tell me which STANDARD def dvd players have HQV processors? I'd like a list of all known. I don't get why the ones I see cost $800 or more, yet there are HD DVD and Blu Ray players WITH HQV for under $500. What the heck?!?

wmcclain

11-17-07, 07:10 AM

jps1952

11-17-07, 09:41 AM

jsganz

11-17-07, 09:50 AM

Well I'll tell ya....I have a Philips recorder from awhile back that does have HDMI, but without any upcoversion. Then I picked up one last month that does upconvert to 720p or 1080i and there definitely is a difference.
A sharper overall picture with more detail.
That's why I ordered a Philips DVP 5982 with full 1080p upconversion to see how that compares. I'll have 30 days to check it out.

wmcclain

11-17-07, 09:58 AM

We just bought a Sharp 46" LCD, the new one. (By the way, Best Buy matched the Amazon price). We have a Phillips DVDR 3355 recorder which has progressive scan and component outputs (but not HDMI).

Is it worth buying a new DVD player recorder for the upconversion capability? I know it won't get it to HD quality.

Thanks in advance for any help.

"Worth" is subjective.

An upconverting player is not mandatory. HDMI is not always better than component. A new player make may a perceptible difference, but is unlikely to be "night and day".

On the other hand, DVD recorders do not have a good reputation for playback quality. (I've never had one, so I can't speak from experience).

Are you fanatical about your DVDs? If so, then a better DVD player is something you might pursue. If not, not. If I were spending money now, I would look hard at the HD-DVD or Blu-Ray players.

For best results, try a calibration disc with your current player: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9889995&&#post9889995.

-Bill

GoodJobTim

11-17-07, 10:38 PM

wmcclain

11-18-07, 08:03 AM

I have a Toshiba 57HX81 TV that apparently has a bad hyper convertor card that causes unwatchable picture with 480i signal. It works great with my DirecTV HR20 DVR as it did with my old E86 but not with a standard DVD player.

My question is, does anyone have a guess whether a upconverting player would work? TV only has component inputs. Thanks for any help, I really don't want to have to go into this set.

So your good sources are producing a 480p signal? If that's the case, I would expect a progressive scan player would work.

Progressive scan means converting the 480i signal on the DVD to 480p. Upconverting means scaling 480 to 720 or 1080. I think all current players do both.

Since you have component only you are going to be limited to 480i or 480p anyway. License restrictions do not allow copy protected discs to be upscaled over component.

-Bill

GoodJobTim

11-18-07, 11:07 AM

Thanks wmcclain, I thought it would work but needed someones educated guess. The HR20 senses the native signal it recieves and outputs that, I had to manually lock it to 1080i otherwise it did the same thing a DVD player does. What I do not know is does the HR20 upconvert SD signals to 480p or 1080i, so I am not clear if the TV "likes" a 480p signal.

Thanks much for your response.

GoodJobTim

11-18-07, 11:29 AM

I just answered the question. I set the HR20 to 480p and the TV went fuzzy, so I must get a 1080i signal in order for the TV to work.

wmcclain

11-18-07, 12:00 PM

I just answered the question. I set the HR20 to 480p and the TV went fuzzy, so I must get a 1080i signal in order for the TV to work.

If so, then you need a DVD player that will provide 1080i over component.

That's not allowed, but there are unsupported firmware hacks to do it. The Oppo 970 has been a popular solution in this regard recently. It is no longer manufactured, but they are still around.

Or get a new TV. Or get the old one fixed.

-Bill

taxman48

11-19-07, 10:07 AM

My tv is only 1080i with a dvi input..Can't swing a 1080p tv now. Is there an upconverter that meets those 2 conditions? thanks in advance..

wmcclain

11-19-07, 10:16 AM

My tv is only 1080i with a dvi input..Can't swing a 1080p tv now. Is there an upconverter that meets those 2 conditions? thanks in advance..

If your TV has HDCP on the DVI port, then any player with HDMI will work with a simple HDMI->DVI cable.

If it doesn't have HDCP then no HDMI connection will work. You might look for a DVI player without HDCP; the Oppo 971 for example. It's no longer made but might be available used.

-Bill

neilb5

11-20-07, 10:48 AM

wmcclain

11-20-07, 11:36 AM

So, I just bought a Sony 40 inch XBR4. Its amazing!

Now I need a DVD player. I hear that the Oppo players are highly recommended. I was looking at the DV-980H but was wondering do I even I need it since my TV is 1080p? Will I be able have good PQ with something cheaper like a Sony DVP-NS75H?

You can certainly get good results with the Sony. Here's a test report:
http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/cgi-bin/shootout.cgi?function=search&articles=all&type=&manufacturer=5&maxprice=0&deInt=0&mpeg=0#SonyDVP-NS75H%20(HDMI)

The Oppo 980 test has not appeared yet, but it will probably score about the same.

Having a 1080p display is not really an issue here. All fixed pixel displays will scale any supported input signal to their native resolution. You don't need an upscaling player at all, although people sometimes get better results that way. It depends on the gear and your viewing preferences.

-Bill

bhoier

11-20-07, 05:04 PM

I'd still like a list of any known standard def players with hqv processors. Anyone?

moxie1617

11-20-07, 08:28 PM

Look at HQV's website. They list all products that use their processor.

http://www.hqv.com/products.cfm

Billy_Blanks

11-22-07, 05:30 PM

Last month i was interested in getting a blu ray player then when i found out about the 1.0 and 1.1 difference after the 31st i decided to wait for the samsung combo play but i'd still like to spice up my dvd's so i was wondering whats the best upconverting dvd player
thanks

wmcclain

11-23-07, 06:27 AM

Billy_Blanks

11-23-07, 03:37 PM

around 200 but i dont want to buy an hd dvd player to watch upconverted sd dvd's if i dont have to however if it's night and day between a sd dvd upconverting player and hd dvd then i might think about it.
Thing is i dont want to spend over 200 just because i am going to get the combo samsung player when it's avaliable this is just sort of to help me by time
i was thinking about the samsung DVD-HD1080P7

olow442

11-23-07, 03:43 PM

stupid question, but how does one download the newest firmware? i havent bought my ps3 yet, would it have it already on it when i do?

jerbone

11-23-07, 04:03 PM

wmcclain

11-23-07, 05:47 PM

around 200 but i dont want to buy an hd dvd player to watch upconverted sd dvd's if i dont have to however if it's night and day between a sd dvd upconverting player and hd dvd then i might think about it.

HD-DVD and Blu-Ray can be dramatically better than SD-DVD when playing their native HD formats, but when playing SD-DVD the better players are all in the same ballpark.

Thing is i dont want to spend over 200 just because i am going to get the combo samsung player when it's avaliable this is just sort of to help me by time
i was thinking about the samsung DVD-HD1080P7

For some reason Samsung SD-DVD players do not get a lot of respect around here. I've never had one so can't say if that's fair.

At under $200 I like the Oppo 980 at $169.

-Bill

Billy_Blanks

11-23-07, 06:29 PM

HD-DVD and Blu-Ray can be dramatically better than SD-DVD when playing their native HD formats, but when playing SD-DVD the better players are all in the same ballpark.

For some reason Samsung SD-DVD players do not get a lot of respect around here. I've never had one so can't say if that's fair.

At under $200 I like the Oppo 980 at $169.

-Bill

I'm not sure about the model names but what's the difference between the two oppo players
thanks alot for the help bill

wmcclain

11-23-07, 06:41 PM

I'm not sure about the model names but what's the difference between the two oppo players
thanks alot for the help bill

The 980 and 981 are the current players. They use different chip sets and the images have a slightly different look. What sort of display are you using? The 980 is often recommended for DLP and plasma.

A comparison table: http://www.oppodigital.com/dv981hd/dv981hd_comp.html

-Bill

Billy_Blanks

11-23-07, 10:01 PM

hey bill i use Sony's KDSR60XBR2 60" SXRD as my display

glen12

11-24-07, 09:32 PM

What is the difference between the A2 and A3? It seems they can be had for under $200. Seems like a good deal to me even against the Oppo, as you get HD-DVD, even if you loose 1080p output.

Planned TV is the Pioneer 5010.

wmcclain

11-25-07, 07:54 AM

What is the difference between the A2 and A3?

Try here: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/forumdisplay.php?s=&daysprune=&f=151

-Bill

BobKat6

11-25-07, 02:16 PM

I guess I waited too long to get an Oppo to convert over component. What is left? My TV does not have HDMI or DVI. Are there any decent HDMI to component converters? I am willing to bet something like that would have horrible PQ but I would really like to update my DVD player to something that supports my HD tv.

To my knowledge, there are no HDMI to Component converters available. Since this would require conversion from Digital to Analog, I don't even know if it is possible. Certainly it is not likely.

While the list of upconverting via component players has not been updated, several are still available used or refurbished on eBay. In addition, you may be able to get a refurbished Oppo from them directly. One new player available direct from China is the Kingwell 6900i for $139.00. I bought a prior model from them and was very satisfied. Here's a link:

http://www.kingwelltechnology.com/

Good luck,
Bob

jerbone

11-26-07, 02:52 PM

Thanks BobKat. I found that www.hkflix.com had some Oppo 970s left. I ordered one on Saturday. With any luck I will get it this week. Interesting though, I would be curious if any members have tried that kingwell player.

aks434

11-27-07, 11:26 AM

hduser123

11-27-07, 07:36 PM

wmcclain

11-27-07, 07:57 PM

I am not very savvy about the options so need expert advice.

I have got the Samsung 1080p LN-T4671 and am not sure of what DVD player to buy. I plan to use the TV only for watching Dish Network-HD and DVD's (both HD and regular ones). I do not plan to use the TV for my computer or for gaming. I am leaning more towards buying a 1080p HD DVD player which will also upconvert regular DVD's to 1080p.

1. Is that the right approach, if so what 1080p DVD player should I get ? I would strongly prefer DVD players which are region free and can handle both PAL as well as NTSC. I would like to stay below $350 for my budget.

HD-DVD players are a different forum. None of the SD-DVD players discussed here, including the Oppos, will play HD-DVD discs.

And: none of the HD-DVD players will play both NTSC and PAL or can be made region free for SD-DVD discs

2. If the better approach is to just buy an upconverting 1080p DVD player. Which one should I buy. Seems that Oppo is the right choice but which Oppo is more compatible with this TV.

Either the 980 or 981 would work fine. But again: neither plays HD-DVD.

3. What other cables do I need to buy and from where ?

What other cables other than what?

Buy them from forum sponsors:

http://www.monoprice.com/
http://www.bluejeanscable.com/

-Bill

Blazin Si

11-27-07, 10:59 PM

My dad was given a Sony Bravia DAV-HDX500 home theater system through work, which I promptly took from him and hooked up to my 1080p 42" Aquos. The DVD player upconverts to 1080i and I currently have it connected through the component cable that came with the system (it does have an HDMI output).

I put in Fantastic 4 just to see if there was going to be a difference and I was impressed! Much clearer than my old DVD player. One thing caught my eye, however. It seemed as though the highlights and shadows on the actors faces lagged behind their facial expessions. I found it quite annoying.

After a few minutes, I put in The Departed and this time everything looked fine. No lag in the highlights.

Does anyone know why it did that? When the characters moved, the light on their faces kinda 'floated' around a little until they stopped moving, then they would settle back into place.

Dalelutz

11-30-07, 12:13 PM

[ One new player available direct from China is the Kingwell 6900i for $139.00. I bought a prior model from them and was very satisfied. Here's a link:

http://www.kingwelltechnology.com/

Good luck,
Bob[/QUOTE]

I am interested in this too. I would be interested to know if anyone has any information on the kingwell in actual practice and how good it does on dvd upconversion via component. also is it region free.
thanks

Dalelutz

12-05-07, 08:04 AM

bigsnyder

12-05-07, 09:49 AM

What brand dvd was it. I am looking for one that will upconvert through component and do a good job of it.

The Sony Home Theater system has a dvd player built in. Only problem, this
unit (as most) will not upconvert over component. 480p is the best that
connection will do unless a hack has been applied.

SBrudzinsky

12-07-07, 01:56 PM

error .... Sorry!

wmcclain

12-07-07, 01:58 PM

I recently purchased a very inexpensive 42" LCD TV (Polaroid TLX-04240B)
It has a "3D comb filter" that supports de-interlacing (according to its spec sheet) and is capable of 1080p resolution.

So, I DO see a definite difference between 1080i, and 480i when looking at over the air TV stations.

But I also purchased a very inexpensive (magnavox) "upconverting" DVD player.
**ALL** the images coming from the DVD player to the TV look great ! It doesn't matter whether I choose 480i output from the DVD or 1080p output. They both look nearly as good as the best 1080i network TV programs.

I have verified that when I set the DVD player to 480i, the TV also thinks it is receiving a 480i signal. Same with 720p, 1080i, and 1080p. But they all end up LOOKING virtually the same (very good) on the screen.

Is my TV tuner automatically upconverting all signals that come in through the HDMI cable ?
Is an "upconverting" DVD player unnecessary because the TV can upconvert internally ?
No info at the Polaroid site about this. Any info from here ?

Thanks !

Yes, all flat panel displays (like your LCD) will deinterlace (if necessary) and scale (if necessary) any supported input signal to their native resolution. So an upscaling player is not mandatory. People sometimes feel they get better results from them, but it is just a question of where the deinterlacing and scaling is done: in the player or in the display. You can see differences by trying different gear and settings, but they can be subtle compared to the overall image.

-Bill

DtroitPunk

12-09-07, 11:55 AM

Hi,
I just bought an Olivia 537H for my bedroom. Don't want to spend too much but could someone recommend inexpensive DVD player that can do progressive scan and upconversion to 1080i? Multi-region would be desirable too since we watch a lot of Bollywood movies.
Thx.

I believe your TV has a native resolution of 720p, so that would be your best bet.

I have the 532H and I recently bought a SpectroniQ PD-3000HD upconverting DVD player for $37 at my local HH Gregg. I am very pleased with it at this price, it has a few quirks but nothing that shutting down and turning back on cant fix.

3Seconds

12-12-07, 09:42 PM

Ronin1

12-12-07, 10:08 PM

Sorry if this is a stupid question, but I am new into the HDTV world.

How good is the scaler in the Samsung 5054? I was going to buy one of those upconversion DVD players, but from what I am reading most are not as good at the upscaling than what is in the TV. I am not going to spend alot as this is just going to be used for about a year or so....because...

I am not quite ready to commit yet to Blu or HD-DVD and was wondering should I buy a upscaling DVD player or just get a better 'regular' DVD player?

Thanks for any help or recommendations!

PS. If I buy one I was going to most likey get this one...the Samsung 1080P7

http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Samsung-DVD-1080P7-Upconversion-DVD-Player-DVD-1080P7/sem/rpsm/oid/178671/catOid/-12872/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do

I can not comment on that specific unit, but both Circuit City and Best Buy have useful return policies. I purchased one unit from Best Buy, I don't recall the brand, and it choked on several of my favorite DVDs such as Lawrence of Arabia and so I returned it and wound up with a Sony unit that cost only a few dollars more and has worked very well with the DVDs that the other unit could not handle.

So if you get it test it out with your DVDs as soon as you can and keep the box and receipt handy.

:)

rrr925

12-13-07, 01:34 AM

how does the toshiba HD-A3 rate on its upconversion performance? is there an upconverting dvd player that will do a better job than the hd-a3 while costing no more than $150?

todbnla

12-17-07, 11:23 PM

I just purchased the phillips dvp3960 only because it does up convert, has hdmi, plus its for a bedroom setup so I wanted a lower end unit. Anyone have any feedback on this unit? I watched a movie with it last night and it does a great job and for under $40 it can be beat.
Philips DVP3960 (www.consumer.philips.com/consumer/en/us/consumer/cc/_productid_DVP3960_37_US_CONSUMER/DVD-Player+DVP3960-37)

Erik Tracy

12-19-07, 02:46 PM

Doesn't the whole decision process of whether to get an upconverting player really depend on how well the HDTV does this?

I mean, the rage now days is to get 1080p HDTVs, whether they are plasma or LCD or DLP.

If you have not made the jump to HD-DVD or Blu-ray and still have an older DVD player, but one of the newer HDTV sets - why automatically assume that you have to go buy an upconverting DVD player?

How many have actually just tried letting their HDTV do the 'upconverting'.

It would be interesting to read about direct user experiences in comparing PQ between upconverting players and then outputting SD DVD as 480i and letting the HDTV do the 'upconversion' to whatever its native resolution is.

Also what about the potential of PQ loss with multiple conversions? Suppose you have a progressive scan DVD player or you have selected 720p output from your upconverting player -but your HDTV is 1080p - which means the original SD DVD 480i signal is converted twice: once by the upconverting player and once again at the HDTV.

One would think that doing fewer format conversions the better end PQ.

Even if the upconverting DVD player will output 1080p does that necessarily mean that in all instances it will be 'better' than if you simply kept your legacy DVD player and send the 480i signal directly to your HDTV to do the upconverting?

Erik

wmcclain

12-19-07, 03:31 PM

Doesn't the whole decision process of whether to get an upconverting player really depend on how well the HDTV does this?

It's certainly a factor.

If you have not made the jump to HD-DVD or Blu-ray and still have an older DVD player, but one of the newer HDTV sets - why automatically assume that you have to go buy an upconverting DVD player?

It's not mandatory.

How many have actually just tried letting their HDTV do the 'upconverting'.

I've always presumed that everyone has tried all combinations of deinterlacing and scaling. I do.

It would be interesting to read about direct user experiences in comparing PQ between upconverting players and then outputting SD DVD as 480i and letting the HDTV do the 'upconversion' to whatever its native resolution is.

Although it is not a night-and-day difference, I can see an improvement with my gear when doing scaling in the player. But this is not true in all circumstances.

Also what about the potential of PQ loss with multiple conversions? Suppose you have a progressive scan DVD player or you have selected 720p output from your upconverting player -but your HDTV is 1080p - which means the original SD DVD 480i signal is converted twice: once by the upconverting player and once again at the HDTV.

One would think that doing fewer format conversions the better end PQ.

True. But maybe more true in theory than in practice

Even if the upconverting DVD player will output 1080p does that necessarily mean that in all instances it will be 'better' than if you simply kept your legacy DVD player and send the 480i signal directly to your HDTV to do the upconverting?

There are no firm rules as to this, so no it will not be better in all instances.

Just about everyone who posts says this, by the way. The forum motto should be "it depends".

-Bill

prienn

12-19-07, 05:41 PM

wmcclain

12-19-07, 05:54 PM

jerryq2

12-19-07, 09:13 PM

prienn

12-19-07, 09:43 PM

Yeah, it's got the hdmi ports.

wmcclain

12-20-07, 06:59 AM

Do you have to have an hdmi port to get the effects of the upscaling? My projector has component vga and video nad my DVD player just died last night and I dont want to buy hd or blue ray just yet. Thanks

Short answer: yes, you need HDMI for upscaling.

More accurately: there is no technical reason why this should be so, but the industry no longer allows component scaling for feeble anti-piracy reasons. Some older players have hackable firmware that turn component upscaling back on.

The Oppo 970 has been popular for this. It is no longer made but you can find them used.

Else, the Oppo 980 ($169) has both component and HDMI, but you are limited to 480i and 480p over component for copy-protected discs.

-Bill

prienn

12-20-07, 10:42 PM

Are there any upconverting players to avoid because of poor upscaling pq?

wmcclain

12-21-07, 07:23 AM

Are there any upconverting players to avoid because of poor upscaling pq?

The most important factor is deinterlacing performance. It happens before scaling and constrains how good the image can look. There are objective tests for deinterlacing; scaling quality is more a matter of personal preference. (I don't have a answer for your specific question).

You might look at the scores various players receive in the big database here: http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/cgi-bin/shootout.cgi

Unfortunately, updates to that site have slowed way down. Many newer players are not shown.

-Bill

Erik Tracy

12-21-07, 11:32 AM

I just got my HT setup installed yesterday - no upconverting DVD (yet), just an old Sony that has component out to my Yamaha 1800 that I set to "Passthru" - but it does transcode component to HDMI and from there it goes to a Panasonic TH-50PZ77U.

I put in some SD DVDs and checked out the PQ - letting the Panny do the upconverting to 1080p. The only thing the AVR doing is the transcoding from analog component to digital HDMI at 480i since the Panny will support 480i over HDMI.

The PQ was really quite good - even standing up close about 4ft from the display.

I think for me, I don't see a need for an upconverting player.

Or, are there telltale details I should look for on an SD DVD that might suggest an upconverting DVD player would do a better job? Is there a specific movie/scene that would really push the envelope to reveal shortcomings that I can look for?

Thanks,
Erik

wmcclain

12-21-07, 01:47 PM

Or, are there telltale details I should look for on an SD DVD that might suggest an upconverting DVD player would do a better job? Is there a specific movie/scene that would really push the envelope to reveal shortcomings that I can look for?

That would he hard to do without A/B switching between two players to see the differences.

Deinterlacing errors are easier to see. There is a big article here: http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/volume_7_4/dvd-benchmark-part-5-progressive-10-2000.html

...and the index to the whole test suite is here: http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/cgi-bin/shootout.cgi

-Bill

rbtg

12-21-07, 11:03 PM

"Worth" is a subjective issue.

A new player may make a difference, but it won't turn SD-DVD into HD-DVD or Blu-Ray.

Are you fanatical about your DVDs? That would help in justifying the expenditure. But note that the HD-DVD and Blu-Ray players also play SD-DVD.

-Bill
I have the same situation. Just purchased a Samsung LNT4661. I have an old Toshiba SD DVD player SD-K730 with component video out. Switching from composite to component video connections did noticeably improve the detail in the picture. Then I compared the present setup with the Toshiba HD-A2 using a HDMI connection and upconversion to 1080p. It was really hard to see much difference at all. Then I purchased a Oppo DV-980H and hooked it up via HDMI 1080p mode and played the same SD DVD's to compare to my Toshiba SD-k730. While the Oppo seemed slightly better, it was only a marginal difference. To describe it another way, in more static scenes, I really could not see any difference but scenes became more complex and dynamic, the nod went to the Oppo but it was not an earth shattering difference. In the end, I decided the improvement was not worth the $180+ dollars to replace my current setup.

If I were starting from scratch, I would spend the extra for the Oppo as there are other advantages such as the superior audio quality and Divx capability but for right now, I'll keep my wallet fatter and wait.

mr9.8

12-26-07, 11:44 PM

I too am new to the HD experience.
I have a 42" Panny PX75U and a Panny DVDS35.

When I play any DVD it plays through at 480i as indicated on the TV screen. Is there any way to get the TV to upconvert to 780p or 1080i? I can't seem to find any info anywhere. The DVD player does not have an HDMI port.

If I cannot do the above then I am considering purchasing an upconverting DVD player or HD/Blueray. My home theatre receiver does not have HDMI capability. Is this a problem?

If I do have to purchase a DVD player then there is another question that I have. My receiver has the option to use a DVD player with a 6 channel output. I have not been able to get much information on the latest DVD players with this feature. Is there an advantage to this technology? How much does it cost and where can I find further info?

With BlueRay and HD-DVD, would I see a clear difference from an upconverting player? Is it worth the investment at this stage or do you feel that they will go the way of the 8-track/cassette tapes?

Thank you, as always, for any advice you can give.
G

mr9.8

12-26-07, 11:51 PM

As asked, how important is DivX when purchasing an upconverting DVD player?

wmcclain

12-27-07, 07:02 AM

When I play any DVD it plays through at 480i as indicated on the TV screen. Is there any way to get the TV to upconvert to 780p or 1080i? I can't seem to find any info anywhere. The DVD player does not have an HDMI port.

All fixed-pixel displays convert any supported input signal to their native resolution. An upconverting player is not mandatory, but they do sometimes give marginally better results.

If I cannot do the above then I am considering purchasing an upconverting DVD player or HD/Blueray. My home theatre receiver does not have HDMI capability. Is this a problem?

To get a HiDef signal you must use any of: component, DVI, HDMI. The older composite and s-video won't do it.

The new HD-DVD and Blu-Ray players will display their native formats over component, but neither they nor upconverting DVD players will upconvert old-style DVDs over component. This is for reasons of Digital Rights Management; the industry wants you to use HDMI.

If I do have to purchase a DVD player then there is another question that I have. My receiver has the option to use a DVD player with a 6 channel output. I have not been able to get much information on the latest DVD players with this feature. Is there an advantage to this technology? How much does it cost and where can I find further info?

This is for surround-music formats, also used in modern movies. You need a room full of speakers. See the forum: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/forumdisplay.php?s=&daysprune=&f=112

With BlueRay and HD-DVD, would I see a clear difference from an upconverting player?

Yes, for their native format discs. They are about the same for upconverting SD-DVD.

Is it worth the investment at this stage or do you feel that they will go the way of the 8-track/cassette tapes?

There are many threads on this here: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/forumdisplay.php?s=&daysprune=30&f=114

No one knows and most discussions have more heat than light. I think a reasonable consensus is that one or both of the new formats will survive but not displace SD-DVD. They may be a large niche format like Laserdisc, which lasted many years and had about 20,000 titles.

-Bill

wmcclain

12-27-07, 07:33 AM

As asked, how important is DivX when purchasing an upconverting DVD player?

If you have divx files you need to play, it's pretty important. If not, then not.

-Bill

Rose4uKY

12-27-07, 08:34 AM

There's too many pages here to read on DVD players and I am new here. Buying a 40 inch Samsung flat panel LCD 720P in the next week or so. I don't want to go HD or Blueray yet and read about upconvert DVD players using an HDMI cable. I ordered 2 HDMI cables already from Amazon so I would have them for when I buy. I want a good upconvert player that's around a 100 bucks or less. I was recommended at CC this Samsung one for 103.99 on sale for 79.99. He said it would be ocmpatible with my TV where the remote for my TV would also run the DVD player. I don't care about that much cause I am buying an HD Tivo and will mostly use that remote but I will still need to use my TV remote for settings but having one extra remote is no big deal to me.

I think the Samsung model # was 1080P7. I read somew good reviews and some horrible ones also. Just wondering which upconvert players you guys think is one of the best. I read someone review on the Samsung where it has some kind of Optical where you don't have to use a coaxial and I wasn't sure what that meant and if others had that and if that's good or not. I don't watch movies alot but will be now when I get this new TV and an upconvert player and I have a lot of standard DVD's. I have been reading reviews on Amazon and other places but wanted to get more opinions on who likes what brand. I an getting this 40 inch Samsung LCD Model LNT-4053H

Thanks, Rose

wmcclain

12-27-07, 08:54 AM

I want a good upconvert player that's around a 100 bucks or less.

In that range the Sony NS75 and NS77 have been well-reviewed, as has the Sylvania DVL1000F.

-Bill

KAB53

12-27-07, 09:18 AM

In that range the Sony NS75 and NS77 have been well-reviewed, as has the Sylvania DVL1000F.

-Bill
Ditto the Sonys. I have both. Sylvania is a cheap build.

spelunker

12-29-07, 10:25 PM

Just bought the v888n last night, awaiting shipping.
The links for the MMC download for this on momitsu's site aren't there apparently.

Anyone have a copy of the 1.6 MMC (newest according to momitsu's site) MMC so I can get it installed and ready?

Thanks!

NYY

01-01-08, 05:39 PM

There's too many pages here to read on DVD players and I am new here. Buying a 40 inch Samsung flat panel LCD 720P in the next week or so. I don't want to go HD or Blueray yet and read about upconvert DVD players using an HDMI cable. I ordered 2 HDMI cables already from Amazon so I would have them for when I buy. I want a good upconvert player that's around a 100 bucks or less. I was recommended at CC this Samsung one for 103.99 on sale for 79.99.

Hi Rose,

I was in this same dilema 7 months ago. I have a Samsung 4665 LCD (1080p) screen. After a lot of research and mostly negative feedback, I decided not to go with the lower end upconverting players. I choose the Denon 757 (open box from CC). At the time it was about $300 new, it is now $169. I realize you wanted an inexpensive model. All I can say is this player is worth it. MY SD DVD's really look like they are in HD. You will hear all of the usual rhetoric about upconverting players making a marginal difference. It is totally not the case with this player. I always have friends telling me how great the picture is. I hear the oppo is fantastic as well. I think CC has a good return policy (I usually shop at Best Buy or on the web). You could buy the Denon and the cheap one and return the one that looks the worst.

NYY

01-01-08, 06:02 PM

I need some advice. We just purchased the Samsung 46" 1080p 4661, and hooked it up to our old dvd player. Looked pretty good.

Is a 1080p upconverting dvd player worth getting, and if so any recommedations for brand/model?

All of this is pretty new to me, the 4661 just replaced a 10 year old 27" failing crt. :)

Hi,

You may have already pulled the trigger on your DVD player purchase. If you are like me and waiting for the format wars to come to resolution, then an upconverting player will be a good solution. I have the Samsung 4665 tv. My 2 yr old regular DVD player just looked horrible on this panel (even tweaking the output). I tried the Denon 757 and looked no further. Fast scenes, waving objects and whatever look spectacular. If you look back in this thread, there was a guy who tried several players and took them back. He settled on the Denon. I figured I would start with this and take it back if it didn't work for me. I still get compliments from my friends when they come over. I will say that older movies (< mid 70's) do not look nearly as good as newer ones, but they are certainly improved. I hear the Oppo is another good player.

whoster69

01-01-08, 08:54 PM

After a LOT of research, I went with the Oppo 980H (as many people here recommended). I have to say, it is the best DVD player I have ever owned. It's upconversion is noticeably better than anything else I've seen. At $170 it is a steal.

SHOWTIME07

01-02-08, 11:02 AM

Hi Rose,

I was in this same dilema 7 months ago. I have a Samsung 4665 LCD (1080p) screen. After a lot of research and mostly negative feedback, I decided not to go with the lower end upconverting players. I choose the Denon 757 (open box from CC). At the time it was about $300 new, it is now $169. I realize you wanted an inexpensive model. All I can say is this player is worth it. MY SD DVD's really look like they are in HD. You will hear all of the usual rhetoric about upconverting players making a marginal difference. It is totally not the case with this player. I always have friends telling me how great the picture is. I hear the oppo is fantastic as well. I think CC has a good return policy (I usually shop at Best Buy or on the web). You could buy the Denon and the cheap one and return the one that looks the worst.

So Circuity City does not charge a restocking fee on DVD players?

BobKat6

01-02-08, 01:09 PM

Some people are perfectly happy with the cheapest available, Philips. So much depends on the player's compatability with the TV. You might be better served talking to Samsung TV owners. There has to be a thread here somewhere. Or just buy three and keep the one you like best!!

Bob

zero hectic

01-04-08, 02:21 AM

Hi all. I've spent the last several days sifting through various threads and I'm feeling a little overwhelmed, so I hope you folks can give me a hand picking a dvd player.

I have a Panasonic TH-42PZ700U and a Onkyo TX-SR875 on order and I'm looking for the best pick of upconverting multi-region DVD player w/ HDMI output for my situation.

To give you of an idea of what I'm working with, I have a pretty large SD DVD collection with a mix of NTSC & PAL discs, multiple regions, current and classic b&w films, TV series and animation from all over.

My original intent was to either pick up an Oppo 981 or the Yamaha DVD-C961. Both upscale to 1080p and can be made all region, and the Yamaha is a 5 disc changer, which is attractive when going through a season of television.

Reading up on the Onkyo TX-SR875 though, it seems that the preferred approach is to feed it a 480i signal, and let it's Renon do the deinterlacing and upscaling for you. Of course, neither the 981 or the C961 can do 480i over HDMI (lowest you can go is 480p), which has me looking at the Oppo DV-980, which can. Of course now I've read the 981 does a better job with PAL discs. Which brings me to where I am now.

Should I let the Oppo/Yamaha's Faroudja handle the deinterlacing/upscaling or the Onkyo's Renon? Is it a bad idea to go for 480p into the Renon or is 480i really that much more preferable for the Renon? How much better is the 981 with regards to PAL playback? Has anyone out there used a C961? I've found very little information, let alone reviews regarding it.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

wmcclain

01-04-08, 07:25 AM

Of course now I've read the 981 does a better job with PAL discs. Which brings me to where I am now.

Should I let the Oppo/Yamaha's Faroudja handle the deinterlacing/upscaling or the Onkyo's Renon? Is it a bad idea to go for 480p into the Renon or is 480i really that much more preferable for the Renon? How much better is the 981 with regards to PAL playback? Has anyone out there used a C961? I've found very little information, let alone reviews regarding it.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

The Oppo 981 is better than the 980 at deinterlacing PAL sources. If you are using 480i (NTSC) or 576i (PAL) from the 980 this is moot; the player is not deinterlacing. The receiver or display will be doing that.

Whether it is better for the 981 or your receiver to do the deinterlacing, I don't know. I've heard much praise of the Reon chip but not used it myself.

-Bill

whoster69

01-04-08, 11:29 AM

EchoTony

01-05-08, 12:20 PM

I'v got the Oppo970 and it does a pretty good job with the few PAL discs we have. Haven't seen what the 981 can do.

zero hectic

01-05-08, 03:03 PM

4x4rock

01-05-08, 04:11 PM

wmcclain

01-05-08, 04:20 PM

Can someone explain the "upconverting via components"?

This is the note I saw with the Oppo 970

(*Note: Component output for CSS-encrypted DVD discs (almost all commercially pressed DVD discs) is limited to 480i/480p only.)

Wouldn't this be the same as Progressive Scan or 480P output from other DVD players?

I have an older 55" Mitsu RPTV and use components for 480p, do I see an improvement if I hook it up with the Oppo 870?

Is the OPPO better than the Sony NS77?

I also plan to use this with the new SOny 40S3000.

Thanks

A standard definition signal (480i or 480p) must be scaled to fit on a high definition screen. The display will do this, but people sometimes get better results by scaling the image before it gets to the display and providing the display with a 720 or 1080 signal.

Scaling of copy-protected discs over component is no longer allowed for reasons of Digital Rights Management. The industry wants you to use HDMI. There are unsupported firmware hacks to get around this restriction, but no current players support it.

-Bill

4x4rock

01-05-08, 04:52 PM

Thanks Bill for the explaination. I went back and read a bunch of previous posts and got more details.

Now, I on the fence between the Sony NS77, which got pretty good review, the OPPO 980 or the Toshiba HD-A3.

I don't know if the A3 can play both DVD-R and +R as I have a lot of movies for my kids backed up in these format. I onlty see -R from the info sheet.

KAB53

01-06-08, 07:52 AM

BobKat6

01-06-08, 12:21 PM

The general opinion is the best is Oppo. Others have been satisfied with lesser players as am I.

I only heard of Oppo after buying LG and Zenith (made by LG.) Were I to look for an upconverter via component now I'd turn every rock to get a good used or refurbished Oppo 970. I'd rather spend my time doing that then trying other players with no praise on these forums.

foil174

01-06-08, 11:15 PM

Hey Zero Hetic Do some research on MACROBLOCKING and Panny plasmas.
The Oppo 981uses a chip that is prone to Macroblocking.
The 980 and 970 would be fine for you.

zero hectic

01-07-08, 03:28 AM

Thanks. I ended up ordering a 980, but apparently the TH-42PZ700U is not susceptible to the macroblocking issues you mentioned. Of course now I just ran into some posts on the tx-sr875 thread mentioning that the TV Format menu on the American edition of the receiver is disabled. Apparently, you would need to set it to AUTO so that it can properly accept and deinterlace/upscale 576i from a PAL DVD. Gotta say I'm a little worried.

Dalelutz

01-07-08, 07:32 PM

BobKat6

01-08-08, 01:26 AM

Does anyone have any knowledge of the Kingwell KW-HD6900i upconverting dvd player?
I need an upconverting player that uses component output, and this looks like a good one. it is certainly inexpensive (139.00). I am interested in how well it upconverts. I talked to the people at kingwell and it does zoom functions in and out. they also said "This player uses Amlogic 3433G chipset". I have never heard reference to this one before and am curious.

I answered your question on the Best Affordable thread. The price sounds like the newest model that was not a knockout beauty to me. I'll check the manual for the chipset if I have a chance later today.

Bob

BobKat6

01-08-08, 02:54 PM

dasher123

01-09-08, 05:34 PM

It's not widely known that the Onkyo DV-CP704, a dvd changer, is an Upconverting dvdp; for some reason this fact seems almost "hidden" in their product pages, so I think this model should also be added to the front page of this thread.
Here's the product page from onkyo:

http://www.us.onkyo.com/model.cfm?m=DV-CP704&class=DVD&p=i

carljanderson

01-10-08, 02:46 AM

Thanks, all. I really appreciate the input. I'm definitely leaning toward the 980 at this point, but just want to see if anyone out there has any experience with the Yamaha DVD-C961 before I make my final decision?

Thanks. I ended up ordering a 980, but apparently the TH-42PZ700U is not susceptible to the macroblocking issues you mentioned. Of course now I just ran into some posts on the tx-sr875 thread mentioning that the TV Format menu on the American edition of the receiver is disabled. Apparently, you would need to set it to AUTO so that it can properly accept and deinterlace/upscale 576i from a PAL DVD. Gotta say I'm a little worried.

Well, I guess I am late to this... I don't have the C961 yet, but it is coming this week (Friday). However, I intend to use it as a carousel music player. I couldn't find a SACD/DVD-A player to do the SACD over HDMI.

I have (for now) the Samsung BD-UP5000 for my video (with the REON HQV). However, I was interested in the upscaling of the 961, and for that matter my 3800. Should be a nice weekend for me.

zero hectic

01-10-08, 05:37 AM

Well, I guess I am late to this... I don't have the C961 yet, but it is coming this week (Friday). However, I intend to use it as a carousel music player. I couldn't find a SACD/DVD-A player to do the SACD over HDMI.

I have (for now) the Samsung BD-UP5000 for my video (with the REON HQV). However, I was interested in the upscaling of the 961, and for that matter my 3800. Should be a nice weekend for me.

Hey, I'd still like to hear your impressions of the 961 once you've had a chance to play with it a bit. At some point down the line I'll be back in the market for a disc changer and it's still looking pretty attractive.

iamian

01-10-08, 10:14 AM

Just wanted to clarify, I 'm expecting delivery of my first LCD this Friday (KDL-40S3000) and my DVD players is like ancient, don't think it has progressive scan, if I should get a new DVD player?

wmcclain

01-10-08, 10:23 AM

Just wanted to clarify, I 'm expecting delivery of my first LCD this Friday (KDL-40S3000) and my DVD players is like ancient, don't think it has progressive scan, if I should get a new DVD player?

Well, try it and see if you like the picture.

But: ancient DVD players should probably be replaced. The average technology has gotten better.

And, of course, you should consider the new HD-DVD and Blu-Ray players.

-Bill

iamian

01-10-08, 12:55 PM

Well, try it and see if you like the picture.

But: ancient DVD players should probably be replaced. The average technology has gotten better.

And, of course, you should consider the new HD-DVD and Blu-Ray players.

-Bill
Didn't want to commit to any format at this time. First thought was to go with something cheap, like Philips for $50. Then I read more and I'm looking at Sony NS77 for $90 or Oppo for $170.

bilbo3660

01-10-08, 01:22 PM

Didn't want to commit to any format at this time. First thought was to go with something cheap, like Philips for $50. Then I read more and I'm looking at Sony NS77 for $90 or Oppo for $170.

Content is king so it's likely that the format decision is being made for us. With Warner's recent announcement, five of seven studios have committed exclusively to BluRay. Of the last two, it appears that Paramount has some type of out clause. Stay tuned.

iamian

01-10-08, 04:25 PM

Content is king so it's likely that the format decision is being made for us. With Warner's recent announcement, five of seven studios have committed exclusively to BluRay. Of the last two, it appears that Paramount has some type of out clause. Stay tuned.
:D Actually, the format choice is exactly why I decided to stay with my SD collection.

bilbo3660

01-10-08, 05:10 PM

:D Actually, the format choice is exactly why I decided to stay with my SD collection.

Hehe, me too. :D I've got an AVR that upconverts. I've got a HDTV that upconverts. I'm in no hurry. ;)

Hockeytown Fan

01-11-08, 10:40 PM

wmcclain

01-12-08, 07:46 AM

I've got a question, I have a Hitachi 65swx20b rear projection set. It's 1080i with a DVI. The DVI is compatible with HDMI, I get no hand shake issues at all so far anyway and I have an DVI to HDMI adapter I use. My set has what's called Virtual HD, Basically it upconverts any NON HD signal it recieve's. Would I be better off using the Virtual HD Thats in my set or with an Up converter DVD player? If the up converter is sending the 1080i signal to my TV, the tv will then shut off the virtual hd. I dont know which would be better. If anyone has this set and use's an up converter, Please tell me what you think. Of course any advice is welcome. Thank You

I'm not familiar with your Hitachi, but all fixed-pixel displays do the same thing.

Whether it is better to scale in the player or in the display: there is no fixed rule. It varies by combinations of gear and viewer preferences. Unless the player or display is a real dog, the differences between these combinations is going to be subtle rather than dramatic.

-Bill

BobKat6

01-12-08, 10:53 AM

Tiger Direct has HD-DVD players for $129, didn't look to see if NEW or FURB.

Bob:):)

Hockeytown Fan

01-12-08, 04:20 PM

I'm not familiar with your Hitachi, but all fixed-pixel displays do the same thing.

Whether it is better to scale in the player or in the display: there is no fixed rule. It varies by combinations of gear and viewer preferences. Unless the player or display is a real dog, the differences between these combinations is going to be subtle rather than dramatic.

-Bill

Thanks for replying, This Model Hitachi was the Flagship model when I bought it in 02. The Scaler is top notch, but its considered old now. I was thinking that a Scalers from 07/08 could be more advanced now then what my set has. Your right though, It'll be subtle changes either way and I'll just leave well enough alone and let my set scale it.

greenpaw

01-12-08, 08:47 PM

wmcclain

01-13-08, 07:27 AM

I have this older TV:

http://product.samsung.com/SamsungUSA/PRODUCT/20030710/HCN653W.pdf

Samsung HCN653W 65 in. HDTV

It's older and does not have HDMI, should I bother getting an upconvert DVD player? And if so, will it work via component cables? It has DVI - HDTV input, but it doesn't seem like many DVD players have that anymore?

Can't keep up ! LOL

thanks in advance for any advice :)

That display has HDCP on the DVI port, so you can use any HDMI player with a simple HDMI->DVI cable. Check forum sponsors http://www.monoprice.com/ and http://www.bluejeanscable.com/ for cables. You'll need to run audio separately.

Upconversion over component is no longer allowed for reasons of Digital Rights Management. But: your display might do well with 480i/480p from component.

Whether an upconverting player will make a difference: hard to say. If your current DVD player is very old then it may be worth replacing simply because the average technology has gotten better.

CRTs are different than fixed-pixel displays and it's not clear to me how much they benefit from a upconverting SD-DVD player. You might ask in the rear projection forum for other opinions.

-Bill

greenpaw

01-13-08, 04:45 PM

That display has HDCP on the DVI port, so you can use any HDMI player with a simple HDMI->DVI cable. Check forum sponsors http://www.monoprice.com/ and http://www.bluejeanscable.com/ for cables. You'll need to run audio separately.

Upconversion over component is no longer allowed for reasons of Digital Rights Management. But: your display might do well with 480i/480p from component.

Whether an upconverting player will make a difference: hard to say. If your current DVD player is very old then it may be worth replacing simply because the average technology has gotten better.

CRTs are different than fixed-pixel displays and it's not clear to me how much they benefit from a upconverting SD-DVD player. You might ask in the rear projection forum for other opinions.

-Bill

Thanks! I got the cable and ended up getting a Samsung upconvert dvd recorder. So at the very least, I upgraded to a recorder :p

I can't tell a big difference in picture quality, but I can record with this one.

thanks for your help! :)

2ms

01-14-08, 09:55 PM

moxie1617

01-14-08, 10:58 PM

Just have to read these.
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=11178817#post11178817

BobKat6

01-14-08, 11:20 PM

Crap 75 pages? Tell me to read the 75 pages if I really should and my post is annoyingly redundant.

However, if you'd be willing to just outright tell me what the best cheap upconverting DVD player to get if you have an HDTV that doesn't have HDMI or DVI (just component video), then please just tell me. I would be immensely greatful!

I have the same problem, component only. I have the LG DVB418 and am very happy with it. Furbs are available for $50.00 plus freight ($10.00?) on eBay. I know the seller from past experience, so I reccomend. You will need a simple "hack" but I can help there too. If you decide it's right for you, let me know. :)

Bob

greenpaw

01-14-08, 11:38 PM

Thanks! I got the cable and ended up getting a Samsung upconvert dvd recorder. So at the very least, I upgraded to a recorder :p

I can't tell a big difference in picture quality, but I can record with this one.

thanks for your help! :)

BTW, I already returned the Samsung for this:

Sony DVP-NS77H/S 1080p player

It's probably more than I need, but If I ever upgrade that TV to a 1080p I'll be ready LOL

I wish I read the reviews here for the Samsung before the impulse buy. :( I ran into a lot of the same issues, so I returned it. That's what I get for trying to save a buck.

Sorry I strayed to another brand Sony, won't happen again:D

leukoplast

01-22-08, 02:45 PM

Ok, rather than reading through this mammoth thread, I'll just ask the question. I want to get my Dad a upscaling DVD player for his birthday. I was going to get him a Blu-Ray player, but as of now, they are still quite expensive and still lack in over features for price. Plus I will let him get himself one that he has studied and is satisfied with. (probably a year or two from now when prices and features level out)

But right now he currently has a Phillips 1080p 42" LCD, and a old Samsung HDMI upconverting DVD/VHS combo player. And let me tell you...this player has a LOT of problems (putting it lightly). So a new good upconverting DVD player will be a welcomed addition to his HT.

This may be a vague question, but what would be the BEST upconverting DVD player on the market right now? One that has every feature you can think of, and is very high quality. Keep in mind since his bad experience with the Sammy DVD player..he will NEVER buy a Samsung DVD player, or any Sammy player ever again for that matter. So if you could, avoid recommending a Samsung ;)

Thanks, hope to get some definitive answers so I can go out and start researching.

wmcclain

01-22-08, 03:00 PM

BobKat6

01-22-08, 03:33 PM