I'd like to know again, what bugs this firmware is supposed to fix.

From what the PDF says, it looks like it fixes some sort audio drop-out problems on the L&R front channels with some DVD-Audio. Which is also a problem I never even noticed so far. But then again that also may be because most all of my multi-channel music disks I have so far, is almost all SACD and not DVD-Audio.

My two biggest gripes about the 2500 still are. Is that it loads just way too damn slow, it's just totaly ridiculous how slow it loads a disk. And it seems to really hate anything on DVD-R media. Although it will play DVD+R media more often than not.

I did the firmware update to 58 -- my old firmware was 54 -- and region 1 users need to know that afterwards, my S2500 Setup-->TV menu settings had defaulted to 'PAL' and 4:3 screen -- this caused it to output a PIP error message to my RPTV. I reset the player menu options to NTSC and widescreen and all was well again. Applied the region hack again, and all was even better.

I note too that the one disc I recently had a problem with -- Bowie's 'Stage' DVD-Audio, an all-region import from the UK which for some reason failed to output *surround* channels in DVD-Audio mode -- works fine now. :)

krabapple,

could you be so kind to email me the firmware update files to info(at)reinhard-net.com ?
I am on holidays in asia at the moment, returning in Jan... so I have no opportunity to DL and save the files myself.

Thank you and Merry Christmas! :)

Stefan

Took the plunge and decided to upgrade the firmware as well, hoping that perhaps it would fix more than the problem mentioned in the ReadMe - not that uncommon. Also not uncommon that it breaks new things as well, but hey! :)

Followed the instructions to the letter and can confirm this disk indeed upgrades your player to version 58 and the region-free hack still works (didnt check if i had to re-apply, but did so anyway).

Unfortunately, the 2 things that bug me most are still there:

- on the Yamaha, the HDMI resolution setting offers 480p, 576p, 720p, 1080i and auto. auto picks 720p, where i would like it to be 480p for NTSC and 576p for PAL disks, since I have my scaling done externally. apparently the philips player it is based on, *does* offer a 480/576/auto setting. the setting is burried deep in a menu, so its a pain to change.

- on 480p, the HDMI connection sometimes produces some strange artifacts in bright colours, which aren't there on the component output or when using 720p. weird.

The audio of the earlier mentioned Jarre DVD still skips as well, though that is the only disk so far that I've found a problem with - might be some copy protection.

Secrets has published Kris D's bench review of the S2500

Lots of familiar HDMI-related issues. He confirmed that component works better than HDMI. We need to start agitating for another firmware update . ;> But it actually did pretty well otherwise.

http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/cgi-bin/shootout.cgi?function=search&articles=124#YamahaDVD-S2500%20Universal%20DVD%20Player%20(Component)

So, with the firmware upgrade, is the firewire for multi-channel working as expected now? I've been lurking somewhat on this thread and contemplating this player. The best connection I have is component anyway, and this may be the ticket.

As I noted above in post #503, the only problem *I* had ever encountered with any multichannel disc, was eliminated after the firmware update. I use the firewire connection exclusively, for audio.

I use my unit for audio only and have it connected via firewire. The problem I'm encountering is that at least once a week I'll turn the unit on and have no sound. I'll have to unplug and re-plug the firewire connection back in on the back of the unit and I get the sound again. Very annoying. Anyone else using the firewire connection encounter this? I'm using a monster firewire cable.

Secrets has published Kris D's bench review of the S2500

Lots of familiar HDMI-related issues. He confirmed that component works better than HDMI. We need to start agitating for another firmware update . ;> But it actually did pretty well otherwise.

http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/cgi-bin/shootout.cgi?function=search&articles=124#YamahaDVD-S2500%20Universal%20DVD%20Player%20(Component)

would be suprised if it *didnt* perform well, since ive been watching movies using this player for a few months now, and despite a few minor issues i am quite pleased with the player's performance :).

i found it interesting that the component output seems to perform better than the HDMI. might try that out in the near future, as i am considering moving all my gear around to the back of the room and use shorter cables.

can anyone tell me how a Y/C delay of almost 1 pixel manifests itself on screen?

I am interested in this player but have reservations based on obvious complaints posted here. The load up time is "terrible" but this may be relative for me as my CP72 seems to take forever. Can someone time the length of time from inserting the DVD to start up? Is it 10 secs, 30 secs, a minute?
I here the layer change is fairly slow on high bit rate stuff but what about normal viewing. This only bugs me when it is so long I think the player has stopped. You know... when you go to reach for the remote to see if something is wrong...
I have an RXZ9 so I can't do HDMI switching anyway so if component is great that would be fine for me. It sounds as this may be one of the best "component" output players out there. Of course the real reason to get this over a Panny is the I-link and support for SACD and DVD-A. Is it worth another 300 bucks versus an S97? I do have DVI inputs but would have to either move my DISH HD 942 to component or plop down a truckload for a switcher.
Thanks for any advice. Have been reading this thread for months....

Hi
I just purchased a Yamaha S-2500 player, and i can confirm it plays back videos recorded on DVD+Rs. The first thing i did was to test the unit with a very problematic DVD+R video i reburned a couple of times, and it would freeze on my Kenwood DVD-5700 changer using three different discs i made. The disc played without a hitch on the S-2500.

The loading time is NOT that bad!
10 seconds at most.
If you think this is slow, you should try my Kenwood DV-5700 changer!
Hey, if you want a unit that loads discs instantanously and plays everything with horrible quality, go and get yourself a $70 chinese elcheapo unit!

The unit is very easy to operate, when playing DVD-Audio discs i don't even have to turn on my plasma monitor.


I also tested PAL DVD playback using my Immortel DVD ordered from France, and the video quality is astounding, just as good (if not better) as the Kenwood DVD-5700, which also has a Faroudja chipset.

I am also testing DVD-Audio playback using Philip Glass's Koyaanisqatsi DVD-A.
Something i found very puzzling was that the DVD-Audio playback audio quality from the analog 2 channel outputs is noticeably better than the digital optical output going through my Musical Fidelity tri-vista tube DAC, which is one of the best DACs ever made. Maybe the DVD-A audio is being downsampled to 44/16 for digital output and then it gets upsampled in my DAC, which is why it sounds inferior??

One thing i know, is that the DVD-A playback quality on the S-2500 is superior than that of the Kenwood DV-5700.

Soon i will be testing SACD playback quality and i will do a shootout between this unit and the Denon 3910 i just ordered.
The winner stays in my rack, the loser gets sold :)

I have one request: Could someone be so kind and email me the files for the firmware update? i would like to update my unit.
The links to the files on this thread are not working anymore. Once i get the files i will host them in on of my websites and post the link here, so everyone can grab them. Thanks!

... get yourself a $70 chinese elcheapo unit!


Actually, Elcheapo is a Mexican brand, and the Elcheapo DV-443x is one of the better sub-$100 progressive players out there (no upscaling, though).

Actually, Elcheapo is a Mexican brand, and the Elcheapo DV-443x is one of the better sub-$100 progressive players out there (no upscaling, though).

We are talking apples and oranges Elcheapos here.. because the elcheapo DV-443x cannot play SACD or DVD-As..

Hi
I just purchased a Yamaha S-2500 player, and i can confirm it plays back videos recorded on DVD+Rs. The first thing i did was to test the unit with a very problematic DVD+R video i reburned a couple of times, and it would freeze on my Kenwood DVD-5700 changer using three different discs i made. The disc played without a hitch on the S-2500.

The loading time is NOT that bad!
10 seconds at most.
If you think this is slow, you should try my Kenwood DV-5700 changer!
Hey, if you want a unit that loads discs instantanously and plays everything with horrible quality, go and get yourself a $70 chinese elcheapo unit!

The unit is very easy to operate, when playing DVD-Audio discs i don't even have to turn on my plasma monitor.


I also tested PAL DVD playback using my Immortel DVD ordered from France, and the video quality is astounding, just as good (if not better) as the Kenwood DVD-5700, which also has a Faroudja chipset.

I am also testing DVD-Audio playback using Philip Glass's Koyaanisqatsi DVD-A.
Something i found very puzzling was that the DVD-Audio playback audio quality from the analog 2 channel outputs is noticeably better than the digital optical output going through my Musical Fidelity tri-vista tube DAC, which is one of the best DACs ever made. Maybe the DVD-A audio is being downsampled to 44/16 for digital output and then it gets upsampled in my DAC, which is why it sounds inferior??

Leaving aside the , um, curiosity of using a *tube* DAC...

Usually you can't output 'native' resolution DVD-Audio digitally except via firewire/ilink or HDMI. So whatever you are hearing via optical is either a downsampled DVD-A version (some discs allow this), or a DVD-video track (which can be either Dolby Digital, DTS, or linear PCM).

Also, the S2500 menu settings are not all applied to the dedicated 2-channel outputs the same as they are to the front left/right outputs of the 6-channel panel. So that can produce an audible difference too.


One thing i know, is that the DVD-A playback quality on the S-2500 is superior than that of the Kenwood DV-5700.

But that is quite possibly due to different bass management settings, or other speaker-control settings, between the two. Or even simply different default output level.

Leaving aside the , um, curiosity of using a *tube* DAC...

Usually you can't output 'native' resolution DVD-Audio digitally except via firewire/ilink or HDMI. So whatever you are hearing via optical is either a downsampled DVD-A version (some discs allow this), or a DVD-video track (which can be either Dolby Digital, DTS, or linear PCM).

Also, the S2500 menu settings are not all applied to the dedicated 2-channel outputs the same as they are to the front left/right outputs of the 6-channel panel. So that can produce an audible difference too.




But that is quite possibly due to different bass management settings, or other speaker-control settings, between the two. Or even simply different default output level.

Tube DACs are not a curiosity, they are very popular among 2 channel audiophiles. Actually you even have companies that mod high end universal players such as the Denon 3910 with tube output stages to warm up the cold digital sound.

Anyway, i have created a few 2 channel 96/24 DVD-audio discs in my studio, and when i play them on the S2500, there is no audible difference between the analog and digital stage, so the difference heard on the store purchased DVD-A disc i have must have something to do with some kind of downsampling copy protection scheme..

Can someone be so kind and email me the S2500 firmware update files?

Thanks

Krabapple --

Is the downmix light lit on the 2500 when you you play the Glass DVD-A?

Krabapple --

Is the downmix light lit on the 2500 when you you play the Glass DVD-A?

actually i am the one experimenting on the S2500.
Yes, when i play the Philip Glass DVD-A, the downmix light is lit on the unit..

If *downmix* algorithms are being applied , even to a 2-channel source, then I would not be surprised if it sounds different from something that is not being downmixed.

Tube DACs are not a curiosity, they are very popular among 2 channel audiophiles. Actually you even have companies that mod high end universal players such as the Denon 3910 with tube output stages to warm up the cold digital sound.

You mean, add 'euphonic' distortion to a clean signal. Yes, I realize some people like that, and even pay ridiculous amounts of money to *add* such mods to devices. In fact tube DACs *are* a curiosity -- a tiny, tiny segment of the DAC universe. Personally, I prefer to add DPL II if anything. At least I can turn that off if I want to.

FWIW ,this player got a really nice write up in the latest issue of Home Theater Magazine.

I thought it was disappointing. Lamest 'at a glance' sidebar ever. Unlike the other components in that review, the S2500 had nothing in the way of technical/bench performance data.

About the only thing that both S&V and HTM ever say negative about a product anymore, is that they don't like the remote that it came with.
You almost never see even them do any sort of negative criticism about a product at all, other than for minor things.

The review of the Samsung dvd-hd950 in that same issue was pretty harsh.

Can someone be so kind and email me the S2500 firmware update files?

I tried the region free hack:

1. Switch the player off and on again
2. press Play
3. enter 274 - you will now see "------------" on the display
4. enter 222222005255 - this does not fit on the display !!
5. press Play
6. Switch the player off and on again

Now how do I check the what firmware I have?

To get firmware version:
-Open the disc tray
-Press Menu on remote.

The firmware version is the last number in the second row.

I tried that but nothing happens. What am I missing?

I tried that but nothing happens. What am I missing?


The firmware revision will not likely show you if your player is region free. You'll need to try a non-R1 disc to be certain.

The player just got panned in The Perfect Vision.

The player just got panned in The Perfect Vision.

Thaks for the heads upl, I'll have to check it out. I doubt their review of the video is as thorough as Secrets', though, which gave it better marks for component output than HDMI.

http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/cgi-bin/shootout.cgi?function=search&articles=all&type=&manufacturer=25&maxprice=0&deInt=0&mpeg=0#YamahaDVD-S2500%20Universal%20DVD%20Player%20(Component)

If it was an audio review, I wouldn't take *anything* about comparative quality that Perfect/Abolute/Stereophile -type magazines have to say seriously, without some serious independent measurements and blind listening tests.

The official US version of the S-2500 firmware upgrade v58, is no longer on the Yamaha US website.



Sorry guys, Yamaha has removed the upgrade files.

I've been trying to burn this iso image with Toast on my Mac and I can't seem to make it work. The player only says "Reading" but doesn't ever do anything. Any suggestions?

I can't help you with burning a ISO using a Mac. But the ISO file is legit and direct from Yamaha, and works fine when burned using a PC.

How does the picture quality of this player at component 480p compare to the Panasonic XP-30?

I can't help you with burning a ISO using a Mac. But the ISO file is legit and direct from Yamaha, and works fine when burned using a PC.

Really shouldn't be that differnt, though....maybe I'm just a mo-ron :D

The official US version of the S-2500 firmware upgrade v58, is now on the Yamaha US website. Use the links below.

(Note: It looks to be the same as the 'international' one was, that was posted before)

But for you other that are in countries, unless you have a US region 1 model. I would not advise that you try using this. Even though it appears that it may be the same as the international version that was posted about before.
And if do, you are doing it at your own risk!
So if you do so, and you muck it up, you did so at your own risk! Even though I tried to warn you.


HERE (http://www.yamaha.com/yec/dealers/firmware/DVD-S2500/DVD-S2500_FW_Update.pdf) is the PDF file that has the instructions on how to do it.

And HERE (http://www.yamaha.com/yec/dealers/firmware/DVD-S2500/S2500_V58.zip) is the actual zip file that has the firmware files.
John,
Since you know the direct link to the dealer site for this upgrade, do you know how to get to updates for projectors? I'm trying to get hold of the LPX-510 firmware update.

There is no such thing listed there for the LPX-510. In fact the only projector that they even have a downloadable upgrade for, is the newer DPX-1300.

Followed several threads, good information here. I just bought S2500. Found that DVD-Video DTS looks and works great. Enjoyed multi-channel SACD, works and sounds great. Tried DVD-Audio. Front mains were silent. Tried 2 diff. DVD-A's. Lynyrd Skynyrd's "Then&Now" even has a DVD-A speaker check, which did work! Followed threads to check bios. I'm at ver. 56. JohnLA's threads to firmware upgrades aren't working anymore. :(

Can someone reply with current link? Or e-mail firmware and instructions?

Thanks.

Can someone reply with current link? Or e-mail firmware and instructions?

Yamaha has removed the firmware upgrade files, I don't know if they are coming out with a new one or not. But all the other stuff they have available to D/L for receivers is still there.

Well after deciding I wouldn't get one I found one for a reasonable price on Ebay and it appears to work fine. It is version 54 firmware. Somebody has to have this elusive v58 file still on their computer. If they could email it to me or repost it that would be swell. Any idea if the Philips firmware will work? I'm afraid to try it but it looks like they've upgrading loading times and readibility issues on that end.

Overall I'm very impressed. I am using the component outs and the i-Link to my Z9. I was using a Panasonic CP-72 via component and optical connections. I have a Hitachi 65SWX20b as the monitor.
Load times - reasonable but slower than the CP-72 by a hair, and the latter is a 5 disc changer.
Remote responsiveness - way better on the 2500
Picture - Richer brighter color as commented on before, finer detailing appreciated. No real artifact or macroblocking noticed on limited viewing. Mind you the CP-72 is also a Faroudja player just the last generation.
Sound - This is where the 2500 is a real step up. Using the i-Link the sound appears to be better localized (Yes I have all 9.2 channels of the Z9 working!). It is more articulate and punchier.

I have yet to do a thorough sampling of all of my DVD's. I kind of don't want to find MB if it exists (ignorance is bliss).
Overall it was worth the low price online, but I would be hardpressed to plop down 700$ on it. I mostly wanted a player with i-Link (it just seemed the right thing to do), and stable component connections.

Any help on the firmware would be good.

Been meaning to ask --how are DualDiscs working for people with the S2500? Mine used to play them with no problem (at least, the one DualDisc I had then -- Nine Inch nails), but after getting it back from the shop a few weeks ago (for an unrelated issue, which they fixed) I now find that it stops playing DualDiscs after a few minutes (including NIN and the new Bjork discs). CD, DvD, DVD-A, SACD, etc still work fine. DualDiscs have been problematic for some players because they're thicker than other discs. Anyone else having issues with them?

I updated the firmware in Dec 05 (to v 58, Sept 2005, posted on this thread). In April , I loaded an unlabelled CDR (thinking it had music on it) that turned out to be a data disc -- and the player balked so bad it went completely dead. Don't know why. Eventually I took it to a local authorized Yamaha shop and (nearly a month and half later, grrr) I got it back with a new main circuit board, and supposedly, the latest firmware...and found a month later, that it would no longer play DualDiscs ( I hadn't tried playing any up to that point since the repair). On a hunch I also tried the David Bowie ""Stage" DVD-A -- and that was not working right any more either. Grr. So I checked to firmware and it was v. 56 (April 2005) which the repair shop said was the latest. Grrr. Had no idea where my copy of the 58 firmware had got to (we had moved house in the interim). Grrr. A desperate search through every CDR and hard drive in my possession finally located it as an .rar archive. Unpacked it, burned it to a disc, reloaded the firmware, and now everything works fine again. My question is , did the repair shop lie to me, or did Yamaha lie to the repair shop, about v 56 being the latest firmware? Did anyone ever find out why Yamaha removed the v 58 firmware from its download site, or if there's an even newer version?

Btw, if someone wants to host the v 58 archive on their site, PM me.

I have their flagship changer+2500, where can I get new firmware man?
thnx

I think we would be very grateful if you made the v58 version available again. I doubt the tech even knew about v58 and Yamaha clearly isn't excited about developing or supporting any firmware for this model.

Please upload it to some kind of file server or email it to each of us.
Thanks,

I think we would be very grateful if you made the v58 version available again. I doubt the tech even knew about v58 and Yamaha clearly isn't excited about developing or supporting any firmware for this model.

Please upload it to some kind of file server or email it to each of us.
Thanks,

I have a copy of firmware from one of the great members here. Please pm me if you want it also.

I've put the v58 .rar archive up on a free public file sharing site. Don't know when it expires.

http://www.4shared.com/file/3336605/8ab8fa25/dvds2500_updata-1.html

click the 'download ' button near the bottom of the page. After it's downloaded you'll have to have some software to unpack the .rar archive too (I use WinRAR). Then just burn the unpacked files to a CDR (without any directories). Yamaha's instructions for upgrading are in a pdf doc in the archive. Follow them carefully. Btw, I found that where the Yamaha instructions says 'repeat three times' it means perform the operation three times *in total*. At least, it worked for me that way. In any case, use at your own risk; it worked for me but my player also broke down a few months afterwards....I make no guarantees nor will I take responsibility if anything goes wrong. You might want to check your firmware version beforehand, and see if you already have v58 or better. Those are the last two numbers on the second line of the firmware display. Instructions for displaying the firmware are at the end of the .pdf.

Thank you, Krabapple!

I just purchased the Yamaha DVD-S2500 and connected it to a Panasonic 50" Plasma and to a Pioneer A/V VSX-82TXS. and I encountered the following problems.
I connected the DVD with HDMI to the TV and it worked Audio and Video. Then I changed the connection and connected the dvd to the Pioneer Receiver with Hdmi and an optical audio toslink cable and the receiver connected to the TV with hdmi cable. the problem started here.
I get only Video on the tv but not audio , niether from the A/V receiver nor from the TV, but if I open the DVD's menu and disable the HDMI audo, then I can here audio from the receiver , but not from the TV.
But if I turn Audio on over HDMI again the audio from the A/V fisappears again , but if I disable the GDMI fromthe A/V receiver then I can hear the audio from the DVD player.
Why can't I have audio on the TV and the A/V with both connections at the same time .
Any ideas guys.

I just purchased the Yamaha DVD-S2500 and connected it to a Panasonic 50" Plasma and to a Pioneer A/V VSX-82TXS. and I encountered the following problems.
I connected the DVD with HDMI to the TV and it worked Audio and Video. Then I changed the connection and connected the dvd to the Pioneer Receiver with Hdmi and an optical audio toslink cable and the receiver connected to the TV with hdmi cable. the problem started here.
I get only Video on the tv but not audio , niether from the A/V receiver nor from the TV, but if I open the DVD's menu and disable the HDMI audo, then I can here audio from the receiver , but not from the TV.

Why can't I have audio on the TV and the A/V with both connections at the same time .
Any ideas guys.

Because the S2500 mutes other digital audio outputs, when HDMI audio is selected. See p. 16 of hte S2500 manual.

Also,if you want HDMI audio from your TV but not your AVR, but still want to connect through your AVR, you have to set the HDMI input (in the AVR) to 'THROUGH" rather than AMP (see p 66 of the AVR manual).

Careful reading of manuals is always a good thing. Another is to download pdf copies of hte manuals from the mfr sites, which can then be searched with Adobe Acrobat reader.

Thanks for the reply , will try to do what you mentioned and will get back on this.
thanks again.

PLaying around more with the S2500, it seems that even via ilink, the DVD-A signal must go through the player's DSP first ; this is why the Analog Output setting (stereo or multi) , as well as speaker size, channel level, etc. settings still affect DVD-A output even over ilink. In fact, in my experience you MUST set the 'Analog output' setting to 'multichannel' in order to get correct multichannel playback via ilink , for DVD-A (I presume also for Dolby Digital and DTS, though I haven't tested that). So 'analog output' appears to be misnamed, at least as far as ilink goes. (I don't know if it affects optical output). If you leave it at 'stereo', it will downmix a multichannel DVD-A to two-channel, even from the ilink output.

This btw is also true of SACD *unless* you set SACD Direct to 'On'. If you do that, you get true 'raw' streaming of DSD output from ilink to your outboard processor -- that is, for the SACD surround mix, you'll get multichannel output regardless of how 'Analog Output' is set; it also bypasses all SACD level, speakers size, distance settings. If you leave it at 'Off', then the DSD will be converted to PCM first (confirmed by the 'format' readout on my AVR), and be subject to whatever the channel, level, etc settings are in the player.

It's too bad the player doesn't seem to have a 'DVD-A Direct' option. (I wonder how many univeral players with a digital out for hi-rez, actually have such an option) > Given this, if you have an outboard processor that accepts hi-rez digital input (e.g. an AVR with an ilink input) then it's best to set the DVDA/V output to speakers LARGE, channel boost/trim at 0 , delays all the same (e.g. 1 ft) . IIRC, this automatically also sets subwoofer to OFF, and LFE output is redirected to the mains. The outboard processor's bass management should be able to split the LFE back out and direct it to the subwoofer along with any low bass that was mixed into the other channels.. [CORRECTION: Setting speakers to LARGE doesn't
turn the sub off, though that remains an option for the user.]

In fact, in my experience you MUST set the 'Analog output' setting to 'multichannel' in order to get correct multichannel playback via ilink , for DVD-A (I presume also for Dolby Digital and DTS, though I haven't tested that). So 'analog output' appears to be misnamed, at least as far as ilink goes.

I checked multichannel DD/DTS via ilink tonight, and 'Analog Output' does NOT have any effect on them. So apparently only *hi-rez* multichannel goes through the analog out circuitry before ilink output ...with the exception noted above for DSD using 'SACD Direct'.

Further as regards 'SACD Direct' -- it does not bypass the SACD channel level settings. These still apply, even when 'SACD Direct' is ON.

I also noticed that when set at '0', the two channel analog output of an SACD was *clipping* hard up against 0dbFS (I was digitizing the output with Adobe Audition, at 88 kHz/'32' bits). The Yamaha output was going right into my soundcard, so it wasn't a matter of some outboard amplification (though it could have been a limitation of the card) I found that lowering the 'SACD channel level ' for the front left and to -5dB in the player gave me enough headroom to capture the full dynamic range.

Does anyone - krabapple? - still have the v58 firmware update they could send me please?

It would seem that even being an authorised Yamaha dealer doesn't get me access to such things... and I have a customer with one of these players that's been having all sorts of problems. Here's hoping that the firmware update improves matters.

Thanks.

Does anyone - krabapple? - still have the v58 firmware update they could send me please?

It would seem that even being an authorised Yamaha dealer doesn't get me access to such things...

If you are a dealer. Then you should be able to enter in your dealer info, register. And then D/L the files from here.

http://www.yamahapab.com/

I am looking for the v58 firmware as well. Please send me a copy via PM.

Greatly appreciated.

If you are a dealer. Then you should be able to enter in your dealer info, register. And then D/L the files from here.Thanks, that looks interesting... but sadly I'm not based in the US and that looks pretty US specific. Certainly the guy from Yamaha didn't mention anything about it when I spoke to him the other week.

They (Yamaha UK) couldn't seem less interested about the firmware thing to be honest.

Thanks, that looks interesting... but sadly I'm not based in the US and that looks pretty US specific.

Yes it is a site for the US dealers only. I would not have mentioned that specific info if I had known you were not in the US, but you never mentioned where you were located until just now.

Yes it is a site for the US dealers only. I would not have mentioned that specific info if I had known you were not in the US, but you never mentioned where you were located until just now.Sorry, didn't think. I was kind of hoping that a kind soul might just email me the file! Oh well, I'll try Yamaha again tomorrow now that I know the file is available in the US.

I posted the firmware file to a public server awhile back (those aren't permanent, and the file is gone now) and also sent it directly to a few people over the last year or so. C'mon, folks, I'm sure SOME people here other than me have it by now ...it's time for them to share the love - post it to a server or PM it to people in need. It's shouldn't be up to me to provide it every time someone needs this firmware; *I* got it from a kind soul here too, originally! :mad:


As for Yamaha , the seem to have offered this firmware update briefly, then writhdrew the offer; I have no idea why. Maybe they think it's buggy.

Actually, while we're here, I wanted to ask a question.

Does the DVD-S2500 in the US have RS-232 control on the back?

The DVD-S2500 I have here does not, and doesn't mention it in the manual. On closer inspection the model number appears to be DVD-S2500T which probably has something to do with it. Just something to be aware of if this is important to anyone!

I could still use that firmware though if anyone out there is feeling generous. I'm happy to put up a "permanent as long as my webserver lasts" link to it after I have it.

The S2500 I have has the RS232 and I also have the firmware. PM your email and I will send it to you.

I have the file but it is an ISO and I need to find a way to either zip it or if anyone want to host it I will upload it. But right now it is about a 300mb ISO file and I cant email to anyone.

Also I am using a mac. if someone has a zip or stuff it program.

Zipping a 300mb ISO, won't help to make it small enough to email. You will probably need to upload it to someplace where it could be downloaded, or to setup a FTP program so people could download it from you. A good free and simple to setup FTP server program is CesarFTP. But unfortunately it is a Windows only program, and is not compatible with a Mac. I don't know if you can run it on Mac by using a Windows emulator program or not. But if you would like to try, you can download it from here. http://www.aclogic.com/

Thanks. That probably explains why no one else has sent it so far! Sorry I didn't realise it was so big - I assumed it would be a tiny little file...

Johnla, you're quite correct, it wouldn't normally reduce the size by enough to make it sensible, although in this case I might be in luck. There's no way there's 300mb of storage in the player, so my guess would be most of it is padding to push the content further out on the disc. You get that sometimes to make reading from almost empty discs faster and/or more reliable. So with any luck a large proportion of that 300mb will just be blank and will compress to almost nothing. Here's hoping anyway.

No idea how to do that on a Mac though, sorry. I did a Google search for "mac zip" and found a couple of promising results though.

Thanks for your time.

I received this as an .rar file originally. Your ISO image should also consist of the same files. Why not burn the ISO to disc, then extract the data back to hard drive, not as an ISO but as individual files? Then pack them back into an .rar archive.

The files in the .rar were

1junk.xxx
awaredvd.bin
PRODINFO.TXT
xjunk.xxx

Thanks krabapple,

I suspect that those "junk.xxx" files are the ones taking up most of the space and are the padding I mentioned above. They should probably compress fairly well though unless they're full of random data - can you remember how big your original RAR was?

The total of original files are 281 M uncompressed, 2.5 M compressed. The junk files are large but compress way down. The bin file stays about the same size.

I'd like to get a copy of the firmware also. My player is running .54. I have quite a few audio problems I'd like to resolve. I love this player, I would appreciate the opportunity to upgrade it..

Not sure if there is any activity here but I am also interested in the firmware and would pay someone for their trouble in sending me a copy. Many thanx

I uploaded the file, but the forum wont let me post a link

Apparently. I have to make 5 posts before I can

Sorry for the multiple posts

but i really dont use this forum too much

One last post to raise my post count to 5. Sorry...

Finally!
This is the exact same .rar file that krabapple put up.

http://www.badongo.com/file/1877297

Fantastic.
Who has the instructions on how to update? I saw krabapple's message that you are supposed to do it 3 times?
Who has the instructions on HOW to do it though?

I only had to do it once, but you do need to do stuff like set the region code to the same as what you have now, load the file and then shut the player down and pull the power plug and then reboot it. And there is a certain way and order that it all MUST be done! Total it's like a 10-12 step process. The upgrade process for this player is like no other I have seen, it's actually a poor joke the way it needs to be done. I have a Pioneer universal player, where all you needed to do was "play" a CD with the new firmware on it, shut it off and then restart it. With the Yamaha, you damn near need to stand on your head to do it...

Anyway the instructions are on a PDF file, and it is small enough for email. If you send me a PM with your email info, I will send you the instructions PDF file.

I ran the upgrade and it worked like a charm. You definitely need those instructions though!

I have to admit a moment of sheer terror and panic, after upgrading the firmware and seeing the screen scroll in black/white. I thought "Oh my God what have I done!?!?!"

It pays to read the instructions. Following them makes the upgrade easy.

I ran the upgrade and it worked like a charm. You definitely need those instructions though!

I have to admit a moment of sheer terror and panic, after upgrading the firmware and seeing the screen scroll in black/white. I thought "Oh my God what have I done!?!?!"

It pays to read the instructions. Following them makes the upgrade easy.



Glad it worked for you......
Is the way you need to do it all crazy or what though? It's like rub your belly while standing on your head.... ;)

Yes, it's a little involved. It would be nice if you just had to put the cd in.
I think the fact that you can just burn the 4 files to any old cd-r is kind of nice, and don't have to burn a dvd iso and do all kinds of crazy stuff
But it is certainly not possible to figure out the upgrade w/o the manual.

what is the procedure to do the upgrade ?
what are the steps in order ?
thanks

I have a .pdf of the instructions, but I can email them to you if someone else hasn't already

What are the benefits to this upgrade?

Thanks in advance.

Sorry for the multiple posts, but I need 5 to use url's

Sorry for the multiple posts, but I need 5 to use url's, post2

Sorry for the multiple posts, but I need 5 to use url's, now the 3rd

Sorry for the multiple posts, but I need 5 to use url's, here comes the 4th

Sorry for the multiple posts, but I need 5 to use url's, at last the 5th, sorry again, and thanks

bump

I just ordered one of these for dirt cheap. I am mainly interested in SACD playback. i have read all sorts of horror stories about this unit and have read through all of these threads. I have 15 days to try it and/or send it back. Is it really so bad?? Is the sound for SACD and DVD-A worth it from this unit?

Thanks!

Hmm, dead thread, that 's O.K.

:)

Got mine the other day, don't know if I can post this but picked it up for $200 including shipping, can't beat that!

so far, yes the loading time is a little long but didn't really bother me. it has played every sort of disc that I have thrown at it. Once it didn't like a regular CD, but all I had to do was eject it and put it back in.

I won't be using it for video, I think that the fact that it will only output 1080i signal instead of 1080p is the real deal breaker here. I have an Oppo 981 that I will use for video via HDMI to my 47" Westinghouse.

I bought it for the SACD and DVD-A playback. the Oppo just didn't cut it for me soundwise. I don't have much to compare it to but the sound on SACD and DVD-A is very good, noticably better than the Oppo. all those things that don't get measured, transparancy, slam and energy, imaging, all seemed MUCH improved. the sound to me is what I would expect from a $700 universal player. i didn't want to invest too much in SACD as it seems to be a dying format (though can't wait for the last of the Genesis box sets) and this is a way to get satisfying sound from that format. I still have 12 days to return this unit and if there is even the slightest hiccup in terms of reading discs, back it will go, but so far so good.

Wwell, that goes to show ya! My model has firmware v56 and lacks output of the front L and R channels on many DVD-A discs. Have the firmware update, now looking for instructions. BTW I think the unit sounds very nice, just need to work it a little.

:)

Send me a PM with your email, if you want the PDF instructions sent to you for the firmware upgrade procedure.

I need 5 posts, so...

sorry....

well, I'll be ok soon

me again, sorry about that

this is the last one, finally...

The UK manual states:

When playing DVD-Audio with a sampling frequency of over 88.2 kHz,
all speaker sizes are set to [Large] and the subwoofer is set [On], regardless of the settings you adjusted.

Since most DVD-A's are 96 kHz, this essentially means there is no DVD-A Bass Management.
Is this true for the U.S. model as well?

Yes, it's in the US manual too. This player can't really do much *processing* of PCM signals with a sampling rate higher than 88.2 , so in this case it bypasses bass management.

There's actually a number of caveats related to high sample rates with this player (and probably others too) -- mostly listed on p 16 of the manual:

-- for Analog Output choice in the Audio menu, if you select Dolby Surround, 3D Sound or the Multichannel options the player will apply Dolby Surround/3DSound/Dolby PL II to all 2-channel sources EXCEPT FOR SACD and PCM signals with a sample rate >88.2 kHz (requires too much processing power). (For the multichannel output option, this is actually a good thing for SACD/DVD-A in my opinion -- I don't want DPLII applied automatically to stereo sources)

-- even if you select 96kHz in the PCM digital output option (vs 48 kHz, the other choice), anything >96 kHz is converted to either 88.1 or 96kHz. Supposedly this affects only the DIGITAL output, and by that I take it to mean, the optical/coax, not HDMI or ilink (but see caveats about HDMI below), and thus it doesn't affect SACD or DVD-A per se.

-- over HDMI, the manual says the unit can only output either
2 channel PCM @32/44.1/48 kHz sample rate
or
bitstream (Dolby Digital, DTS, MPEG)
It cannot output SACD at all via HDMI, and any PCM signal over 88.1 kHz is downsampled to a 2-channel 44.1 or 48 kHz signal. So it doesn't seem like DVD-A (typically 96 or 192 kHz) passes unscathed.

-- speaker sizes are set to LARGE/Sub ON when DVD-A signal exceeds 88.1 kHz, as noted above. You would think this only affects the analog output... Note to that it doesn't say anything about SACD. But in fact, you also have an 'SACD Direct" option that does the same thing: bypasses the bass management specifically when playing SACD. To me, this suggests that when you AREN'T using SACD Direct, then the DSD is converted to 88.1 PCM (as in the Oppo 970 and probably others players too)


-- ilink: it's a mystery what gets applied and what doesn't, to signals with high sample rates. You woudl think the signal would be passed 'raw' to an ilink receiver, but who knows for sure. I'll probably investigate this some day.
.

I'm also considering a purchase of this unit at $200 shipped for my bedroom system for both video and multi-channel audio. Anything else at that price that you'd consider or recommend? Thanks,

John

Even at $200 I have to say it is not worth the trouble. I went through two of them. They are older units, require a firmware upgrade to get full DVD-A support. When the second one would read the SACD layer of one of the discs from Fillmore East but not the second one I decided it was just too funky. Read the thread, many problems with this unit. Oppo 981 doesn't sound as good but has a better picture and will be rock solid realiable.

just my 2 cents.

Thanks. Looks like the feedback here and at Audioreview is that the machines are flaky and unreliable. Guess I'll look for a mint used Denon...

John

the audio on the Pioneer DV-79 is superior at least to the 3910 with the 3910 having the better picture so that is the way that I went, it should be here today.

:)

there is a DV-79 on e-bay right now.

Hi guys,

I just bought yamaha s2500. Can anyone send me email: [email]vbox@operamail with instructions how to upgrade firmware to v.58. What steps? I downloaded v.58,will burn ISO, and what is next???

Thank you!!!

Hello, I have a yamaha dvd-s2500, and I would like to upgrade the firmware please, but I cannot find the firmware anywhere on the yamaha site, could someone please help me out please - if you have the most recent firmware, could you please email it to me with detailed instructions and steps on how to do the upgrade please, I WOULD REALLY TRULY APPRECIATE your taking time out to help me please.

please help, I thank you in advance for any and all help rendered.
thanks a bunch
thanks

The firmware file itself is too large for email. Just the firmware file alone is about 300mb uncompressed and 250mb compressed in size, so you will need to find somewhere to D/L it from. As for the just instructions on how to apply the firmware, I can't help with those anymore for the time being. My laptop that I had them on took a big puke, so I can't send them out anymore. But I have sent them to quite a few people here in the past, so maybe one of them can return the favor and forward those instruction PDF files to those that need it now.


This link posted below, still appears to be valid for D/L the firmware file. But as always, use at you own risk!

And DO NOT try to apply the firmware update unless you have the instructions on how to do so, and have read them!!!! It is not just a simple 'pop it in and just play the disk' type upgrade! You must manually enter in some info before the upgrade process starts and also shut it down and remove the power in a certain way when it is done and then reboot it. And if you enter the wrong info and screw it up, or shut it down wrong, you definitely probably could end up messing things up with your player.

http://www.badongo.com/file/1877297

I'm just curious but has anyone had any problems with random lock-ups on DVD video and standard CD's with this player? I've had mine only about 5 months (was a gift) and lately it just hard freezes randomly while watching movies or listening to CD's. I'm talking clean scratch free discs that never gave me any trouble before. Have since put my Denon 1600 back into service which over the course of several years has never choked on anything I've played through it. The Yammy is heading for the service center next week. :(

Hello, thanks for the link to the firmware file - I truly appreciate it, I am hoping that there is someone out there who has the step by step instructions on how to install the file please.
Please let me know
Thanking you very much in advance
Thanks

Hi. I also need the instructions for the firmware upgrade. (mardelgo2001@yahoo.com).Thanks

DVD-S2500 FIRMWARE REINSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS


1. Use your CD authoring software to open the disc image file named “S2500_V58.iso” and burn the compilation to a new CD-R or fully erased CD-RW disc.

2. Connect separate video and audio outputs from the DVD-S2500 to a TV set. (It is important that there be NO HDMI cable connected to the DVD-S2500 during the entire firmware reinstallation procedure.)

3. Turn the Power ON, and make sure “NO DISC” is displayed on both the player and the TV’s screen.

4. Open the disc tray and push the < MENU > button on the DVD-S2500’s Remote Control. The current firmware version and region code are displayed on the TV’s screen.

5. Write down the 8-digit Region Code exactly as you see it displayed on the TV’s screen.

6. Place the upgrade disc that you prepared in step 1 on the disc tray, and close the tray by pressing the DVD-S2500’s front panel < OPEN/CLOSE > button.

7. The DVD-S2500 reads the upgrade disc, re-programming starts automatically, and the DVD-S2500’s fluorescent display shows “UPGRADE”. It will take about 1½ minutes to complete the re-programming.

8. Wait for the re-programming to be completed, and for the disc tray to automatically open; then, disconnect the DVD-S2500’s AC power cord and remove the upgrade disc from its tray.

9. Re-connect the DVD-S2500’s AC power cord, wait for 1 minute, then turn the Power ON and wait until “No Disc” appears on the fluorescent display. (At this time, the YAMAHA graphical user interface will appear on the television’s screen, and the video will be in the PAL format.)

10. Use the DVD-S2500’s Remote Control to set the Region Code as follows:
a. Press and release the < Play > key; then, press and release the < 2 >, < 7 > and < 4 > keys (the fluorescent display will now show “– — – – – – –“).
b. Press and release the number keys to enter the 8-digit Region Code exactly as you wrote it down in step 5; then, press and release the < Play > key.
c. Wait approx. 30 seconds, and the firmware rewriting process will be completed.

11. Open the disc tray and push the < MENU > button on the DVD-S2500’s Remote Control to confirm the Firmware Version number is now SD5.2-2500-58.

(During re-programming, the unit is unstable until step 9 is finished. Do not press any key on the front
panel or Remote Control as you perform step 8; then, press only the Power ON key, when instructed
in step 9. If the firmware reinstallation fails, it will likely be necessary to replace the MONO PCB.)

Thank You,
and google.
The firmware link is still valid too.

Hi,
I know that it's kind of "late" to be asking questions about the S2500, but (if anyone is reading this), I just bought one and it will only read the CD layer of multi-layered hybrid SACD's. I tried a couple of RCA Red-Seal multi-layered discs as well as Moody Blues "Days of Future Passed". It reads single-layered discs just fine and recognizes them as SACD's, but it always reads the CD layer of multi-layered SACD's. Does anyone have any helpful advice on solving this problem? Thanks!

Fred E.
Wilmington, OH

See page 22 of the manual: "Playing a Disc" to read how to set the default SACD playback to DSD stereo.

If for some reason that doesn't work, use the SOUND MODE button on the remote to cycle through the different formats.

Krabapple,
Thanks very much for your advice and your quick response! Here's what I've done to try to get the player to recognize the SACD multi-channel layer on a hybrid SACD:

1) I used your helpful link to download and install the latest firmware release (v58).
2) I connected the unit to my Yamaha RX-V3900 receiver using the 6 channel analogue outputs and Component Video outputs (no HDMI, I-Link, or digital audio connections).
3) I turned off HDMI and digital audio in the Setup.
4) I specified "Multi-Channel" area in Setup->Audio Menu-> Analog output.

As I said before, I have no trouble playing SACD only discs. It's only if the SACD is multi-layered that I run into problems. The disc is recognized by the player as a CD (not as an SACD) and no amount of pressing the SOUND MODE button changes the disk layer being read!

Is there anything else that I've forgotten to do or am doing wrong? I kind of hate to go back to my Marantz SACD/DVD deck since this Yamaha matches my new receiver! Thanks for any other help that you can give me.

Krabapple,
Thanks very much for your advice and your quick response! Here's what I've done to try to get the player to recognize the SACD multi-channel layer on a hybrid SACD:

1) I used your helpful link to download and install the latest firmware release (v58).
2) I connected the unit to my Yamaha RX-V3900 receiver using the 6 channel analogue outputs and Component Video outputs (no HDMI, I-Link, or digital audio connections).
3) I turned off HDMI and digital audio in the Setup.
4) I specified "Multi-Channel" area in Setup->Audio Menu-> Analog output.

As I said before, I have no trouble playing SACD only discs. It's only if the SACD is multi-layered that I run into problems. The disc is recognized by the player as a CD (not as an SACD) and no amount of pressing the SOUND MODE button changes the disk layer being read!

Is there anything else that I've forgotten to do or am doing wrong? I kind of hate to go back to my Marantz SACD/DVD deck since this Yamaha matches my new receiver! Thanks for any other help that you can give me.


First of all, I thought you were having trouble playing SACD *stereo* tracks, not SACD multichannel too.

Second, please confirm to me that you've followed my earlier advice and read p 22 of the manual, where it tells you how to set the DEFAULT SACD playback -- particularly the section that begins with the words "[Analog output]". If you haven't, there's no point in advising you further until you do... you need to do what it says on that page and make sure your player isn't defaulting to CD when it has the option to do so.

Third, confirm to me that you are getting multiCHANNEL output from all speakers, when you do play a non-hybrid, multichannel SACD (assuming such a thing even exists.... or try the multichannel PCM part of a DVD-A).

I am also assuming that you have disconnected/deactivated all the digital inputs on your AVR, for purposes of tracking down the problem. You have also selected the 'Analog multichannel' input on the AVR, or whatever it's called.