I have Pio Elite 59AVi. Can I have a through component output resolution of 720p or 1080i or can I have this resolution only through HDMI. (If I'm corrent, from this player's through component output I can get resolution of 480i max?) Is there a way to get a HD resoluiton (720p or 1080i) from this player throught camponent output? (My PDP has just one HDMI in, and I would not like to use any HDMI swithers) Please respond, thanks.

For the owners of 1140 Pio Elite, is the display glass or plastic? (In the store, they say it is glass, but it sounds like plastic)

Hey...quick audio question for you...

I bought the "Pulse" DVD recently and I'm not hearing anything from the 640kbps soundtrack. I'm hooked up with the iLink connection and I don't believe that I even have the digital outputs connected.

Any suggestions? I can hear both soundtracks on my other systems that ARE hooked up with either Coaxial or Optical connections...is this the problem?

Well...don't everyone rush in all at once...I won't be able to handle all the input :)!

I did a little digging around in the rack last night and I do have a coax connection hooked up to the receiver. When I went into the 74TXVi and selected the coax connection on the digital input, I still received no sound on the 640k audio track.

I'm a bit stumped here and I can't seem to locate the answer elsewhere but I'll keep digging.

I've seen threads here on AVS that state that Pioneer DVD players do not read 640k Dolby Digital tracks because they are not part of the DVD spec. However, Pioneer receivers will decode 640k DD, so you might have some luck with a non-Pioneer DVD player if you have one.

Yeah...isn't that just my luck?!?!?! My freakin' el-cheapo DVD players handle the 640kbps track just fine but my reference system won't.

Thanks for the input. At least I can stop pulling my hair out looking for a solution to this predicament.

I'm sure the player can read 640K DD streams. I have the Pulse DVD and the 79AVi, it outputs the the 640K DD soundtrack fine over HDMI. If I get a chance I'll check the S/PDIF output.

Obie,

Just so you know, I'm not using HDMI for audio...just for video (see my posts back aways for the reasons...it's kinda weird but not unusual). Currently, I'm using the iLink connection for all my audio but I did make sure I had the digital hooked up to the coax input and I still didn't get anything. Works fine everywhere else in the house...just not in here.

How does the audio sound with i-link? No different?

iLink sounds great on most things...I just get absolutely NOTHING on the Pulse DVD when I select the 640kbps audio track.

Other than that, I can say I LOVE the iLink connection on everything else...one cable...DONE!

Clarification needed: So, this player WILL output 640 over HDMI? I played the pulse disc last night and got no sound from the 640 option. I'll have to try switching the signal selection on my 84tsxi to hdmi and see if that does the trick, although I thought the receiver defaulted to hdmi. I will be very disappointed if a thousand dollar dvd player and a fifteen hundred dollar receiver, both brand new, can't work together to decode and play back the 640 kbit/s DD track.

Thanks-
Jimmy

I haven't been able to get the 640kbps track to work at all with this DVD player and I have the 74TXVi so I've basically got the same setup you have.

If, and I say "If", you are able to get the 640kbps track working via HDMI, I'd really be interested to know...I'd like to hear it in here.

I don't know how true it is, but I've heard something to the effect that 640kbs is not an officially supported DD format, and that's why some players won't recognize it or play it. fwiw. Might want to check with Pio customer support to see what they officially say. Who knows, maybe there's a firmware upgrade for it.

According to Tom (obie_fl):
"I'm sure the player can read 640K DD streams. I have the Pulse DVD and the 79AVi, it outputs the the 640K DD soundtrack fine over HDMI. If I get a chance I'll check the S/PDIF output."

Just want further verification from others that it will pass 640 over hdmi. Worked for Tom- must be doable. is "doable" a real word? Anyone else had any success?

Jimmy

79AVi owners:

Looking for a little guidance, I'm on the fence between this deck and the HD1 (when it's released). I have a good collection of SD DVD's that may or may not come out on BD any time soon.

Question is, what would do a better job at up converting picture quality, the 79AVi or the HD1. I've asked this in a few other thread areas but to no avail.

Appreciate any input.

I'll try to hook mine up via HDMI this weekend for a test.

Ok if I can kick the wife out of the HT I will try Pulse at DD 640 over both HDMI and S/PDIF. Maybe it is the receiver at fault here and not the 79AVi.

640kbps Dolby Digital is not permitted on DVDs. Nevertheless, if someone makes a malformed DVD with 640kbps DD on, some players will handle it anyway. Some won't.

But there's not much point whinging about it to your player manufacturer - whinge to the person who made the broken DVD.

OK I have some serious egg on my face. I re-tested the Pulse DVD last night with the 79 HDMI to my D2. No combination of settings would make the 640 DD soundtrack work. :( I was pulling my hair out because I was positive the first time I watched it I had the 640 track going. I then tried the DVD in my Toshiba HD DVD player and it worked! The only thing I can think of is that I must have used the HD DVD player the first time I watched it. I never use the HD DVD player for standard DVD so I can't imagine why I would of watched it that way.

Sorry to get anyones hope up but iit does in fact appear that the 79 does not pass the 640kbps track. My apologies if I misled anyone.

But there's not much point whinging about it to your player manufacturer - whinge to the person who made the broken DVD.The Pulse DVD under discussion has a regular default DD track too. The 640 track is a "bonus".

Did anyone else get this notice?. I haven't had a particular problem w/ my 59AVi, but evidently Pioneer is required to give out a free firmware upgrade or a voucher for some kind of artifacts.

Important: Notice To Purchasers of Pioneer/Elite DVD Players
Pioneer has provisionally settled nationwide class action lawsuits alleging compatibility/playability problems with Pioneer DVD Players. According to our records, the Pioneer DVD Player that you registered with us (DV-59AVi) is an affected model.
This means that you may be a "Class Member" and may be entitled to a benefit under the settlement. To learn more, please review the attached official Notice of Settlement And Hearing (the "Notice"). The Notice was authorized by a California court.
To see a copy of the Notice, click here.
The Notice is also available for viewing on Pioneer's main website at www.pioneerelectronics.com.


Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc.

The Pulse DVD under discussion has a regular default DD track too. The 640 track is a "bonus".

I also tried the 640 track and it did not work on my 79avi either.

Bill

Did anyone else get this notice?. I haven't had a particular problem w/ my 59AVi, but evidently Pioneer is required to give out a free firmware upgrade or a voucher for some kind of artifacts.

Important: Notice To Purchasers of Pioneer/Elite DVD Players
Pioneer has provisionally settled nationwide class action lawsuits alleging compatibility/playability problems with Pioneer DVD Players. According to our records, the Pioneer DVD Player that you registered with us (DV-59AVi) is an affected model.
This means that you may be a "Class Member" and may be entitled to a benefit under the settlement. To learn more, please review the attached official Notice of Settlement And Hearing (the "Notice"). The Notice was authorized by a California court.
To see a copy of the Notice, click here.
The Notice is also available for viewing on Pioneer's main website at www.pioneerelectronics.com.

Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc.

Thanks for the info. I have two 59-avi's and a 79-avi, but hadn't heard anything from Pioneer yet. I guess I need to check my email...cannot remember if I gave it to them or not.

Mark

Well, since our power was out most of the weekend due to what I'm told were hurricane force winds I didn't get to try via HDMI. Now that we've pretty much confirmed that it won't do the 640kbps track, I don't really need to worry 'bout it.

Thanks for all your help!

Thanks for the info. I have two 59-avi's and a 79-avi, but hadn't heard anything from Pioneer yet. I guess I need to check my email...cannot remember if I gave it to them or not.

Mark

It's on their main web site. Look to the right:
Product Upgrades and Notices Important:

Notice To Purchasers of Pioneer/Elite DVD Players

79AVi owners:

Looking for a little guidance, I'm on the fence between this deck and the HD1 (when it's released). I have a good collection of SD DVD's that may or may not come out on BD any time soon.

Question is, what would do a better job at up converting picture quality, the 79AVi or the HD1. I've asked this in a few other thread areas but to no avail.

Appreciate any input.

Denon 3900CI - Read this -
http://www.audioholics.com/productreviews/avhardware/denon-DVD-3930CI-DVD-playerp1.php
"I can’t tell you how impressed I was with this player. It is an enigma and I predicted how hard it would be to review the DVD-5910CI following this report. The DVD-3930CI is simply such a stellar performer it doesn’t leave much left to be desired. Video quality is above par as is the audio fidelity coming form this unit. Whether you are going analogue or digital, audio or video, the Denon isn’t going to let you down and it will be very hard, if not impossible, to find anything that competes with this product at or below this price. At $1500 this player isn’t for the weak of heart (or light of wallet) – this is an audioholic’s and videoholic’s transport. Highly recommended is an understatement. "

I also have the Pulse DVD and the Panasonic XP30 handled it without a problem. ( 640)

Does the 79 do a DSD-PCM conversion?

This has been asked a few times in the past (by others), but I've yet to see a reply posted.

Has anyone done a region-free mod to their 79AVi? Would love to find a DIY solution. Trying to decide whether to pursue this, or use a second cheaper player for this purpose, since the other-region disc is the rare exception for me... disabling UOP would be nice though, I'd take that as a mod by itself!

On a related note, has anyone had an SDI mod installed; the consensus seems to be that HDMI/480i should be clean, just wondering if anyone's went the extra step and found a difference.

I picked up a 79avi on sale at a local Pioneer Elite dealer at a substantial discount last week. This player has amazed me. I'm mostly a 2 channel audio person, but I do also play DVDs and I have a few DVD-As and SACDs around. It has played everything I've thrown at it except for the 2 channel layer of the Eagle's Hotel California DVD-A. It's SACD and redbook CD rivals my Sony XA9000ES player, and it's transport into my 2 channel Constantine DAC is incredible! I haven't heard much about this player, but it must be a real sleeper, especially at the price i paid for it.

Do tell,what did you pay. $750?

i sent you a PM...

I picked up a 79avi on sale at a local Pioneer Elite dealer at a substantial discount last week. This player has amazed me. I'm mostly a 2 channel audio person, but I do also play DVDs and I have a few DVD-As and SACDs around. It has played everything I've thrown at it except for the 2 channel layer of the Eagle's Hotel California DVD-A. It's SACD and redbook CD rivals my Sony XA9000ES player, and it's transport into my 2 channel Constantine DAC is incredible! I haven't heard much about this player, but it must be a real sleeper, especially at the price i paid for it.
Same situation for me. I purchased a new 79AVi last week at a great price ;) to replace my Denon 2910. What I am really anticipating is SD DVD playback with the combination of the 79AVi connected via 480i to a Lumagen HDQ video processor.

Next week my display (Mitsubishi 65813) is receiving a full calibration, which will include the installation of the Lumagen. My hope is that the 79AVi/Lumagen combination will match, and hopefully exceed, the current SD DVD upconverted PQ from my Toshiba HD-XA1, which is already excellent.

My experience is the same as yours with the 'Hotel California' DVD-A. When selecting the 2-channel stereo tracks, the 79AVi display function shows that 2-channel output is active at that point, but there is no sound from either the 5.1 analog connections or 2-channel stereo connections. When the 5.1 tracks are selected both the analog 5.1 multichannel connections and 2-channel stereo connections are active with sound.

I tried the same thing with a couple of other DVD-A disks (Seal and Chicago V) and in both cases selecting 2-channel stereo tracks resulting in 2-channel stereo output/sound to both the analog 5.1 multichannel and 2-channel stereo connections. The last test was with the Dire Straits "Brothers In Arms 20th Anniversary Edition" DVD-A ('killer' disk :D ). It has three sets of audio tracks: 5.1 lossless, 5.1 Dolby Digital, and 2-channel stereo (CD). When each type of output was selected, the 79AVi displayed the appropriate information (Display button on the remote) and the correct playback occurred.

The sound quality of this unit is awesome and is really messing with my schedule of work over this weekend :p .

web

After reading all 68 pgs, is the 79AVI still available to order from somewhere???

After reading all 68 pgs, is the 79AVI still available to order from somewhere???

You can find them on ebay, look under single disc dvd players. I second the comments above about the awesome CD/SACD/DVD=A audio quality.

You could try Tweeter Ect. or Best Buy`s Magnolia stores.
They are getting hard to find , they have been around a while.
Tweeter`s web site has them listed as a store pick up only at a reduced price.
I would try there first.
I have one , and it`s a good player , video is on par with many of the better upconverting players and the audio is top notch for both cd and sacd`s , I don`t have any dvd-audio disc`s so I can`t say much about them , however I would see no reason way they too would not sound very good.
Best of luck in your search , it will be worth it !! :D
Gary

You could try Tweeter Ect. or Best Buy`s Magnolia stores.
They are getting hard to find , they have been around a while.
Tweeter`s web site has them listed as a store pick up only at a reduced price.
I would try there first.
I have one , and it`s a good player , video is on par with many of the better upconverting players and the audio is top notch for both cd and sacd`s , I don`t have any dvd-audio disc`s so I can`t say much about them , however I would see no reason way they too would not sound very good.
Best of luck in your search , it will be worth it !! :D
Gary
Thanks Gary and mlBrand.....I'll check it out.......Mike :)...P.S....just pm'ed a couple of people from Videogon who are selling the 79avi, one was listed as new and the other 9/10.....we'll see what happens...

UPDATE......going to pick one up tonite from a guy who had it posted on Videogon......3 months old with receipt, box and warranty cards........550.00 obo......me bringing 525.00.........cant wait to get it!!!

Bibnunz, I don't think you will regret it one bit... my 79AVi has been serving me well for over a year now... both as my main DVD player (also using the analog 5.1 output) and as my stereo CD player using the dedicated analog stereo out.

Bibnunz, I don't think you will regret it one bit... my 79AVi has been serving me well for over a year now... both as my main DVD player (also using the analog 5.1 output) and as my stereo CD player using the dedicated analog stereo out.
Good to hear......I'll be using it with my 49TXI via the i link for my DVD and SACD audio......

Good to hear......I'll be using it with my 49TXI via the i link for my DVD and SACD audio......

You'll be amazed at how good CD's and SACD's sound on this player. I have had mine for over a year, and I'm stil impressed. You are getting it for a very good price as well. Enjoy!! :D

You'll be amazed at how good CD's and SACD's sound on this player. I have had mine for over a year, and I'm stil impressed. You are getting it for a very good price as well. Enjoy!! :D
Thanks for your replys and help......See....sometimes it's worth reading 67 pages......Mike :)

Just picked up a open box 79 from a magnolia home theatre for $200, they are clearanced out, however the hdmi port is busted, the pins are smooshed, so i was wondering if pioneers warranty would cover it? Btw sounds awsome with i link hooked up to my 74! Thanks

You got it from a store so i would think they would.

I have had this unit for about a year and for the most part I'm pleased with both the audio and video. I recently picked up Sony PS3 and it's been my first experience with PCM audio. It really made my system shine and was surprised it sounded better than my Elite. I'm rewiring my system today (new furniture and new set on the way) which makes wonder if I have set it up incorrectly. I'm using the iLink direct to Pioneer receiver. HDMI out to receiver which manages all of my components. If Sony upgrades the PS3 to offer upconversion, is there any reason to keep this unit (outside of SACD which I haven't used much). I'm also planning on adding the HD-DVD 360 add on, so wondering if it makes sense to have 3 DVD players in my setup.

TIA

I have had this unit for about a year and for the most part I'm pleased with both the audio and video. I recently picked up Sony PS3 and it's been my first experience with PCM audio. It really made my system shine and was surprised it sounded better than my Elite. I'm rewiring my system today (new furniture and new set on the way) which makes wonder if I have set it up incorrectly. I'm using the iLink direct to Pioneer receiver. HDMI out to receiver which manages all of my components. If Sony upgrades the PS3 to offer upconversion, is there any reason to keep this unit (outside of SACD which I haven't used much). I'm also planning on adding the HD-DVD 360 add on, so wondering if it makes sense to have 3 DVD players in my setup.

TIA

Not sure if the PS3 outputs 480i, but that is another benefit of the 79, especially if you have a scaler or a really great panel. The 79 is a great SD-DVD and SACD transport - maybe save the PS3 blue laser for BDs?

As always, your eyes and ears are the best judge, though.

Have you read the Secret's review of the PS3 for SD DVD playback? Not too good....

larry

Have you read the Secret's review of the PS3 for SD DVD playback? Not too good....

larry

Sony has promised a firmware update to provide for upconversion of SD DVD's. I agree, right now, it's pitiful.

Upconversion has nothing to do with poor deinterlacing - it happens afterwards.

larry

Not sure if the PS3 outputs 480i, but that is another benefit of the 79, especially if you have a scaler or a really great panel. The 79 is a great SD-DVD and SACD transport - maybe save the PS3 blue laser for BDs?

As always, your eyes and ears are the best judge, though.
That is exactly what I am doing with my 79, 480i via HDMI to a Lumagen HDQ, which handles the upscaling to 1080i (Mitsubishi 65813, ISF calibrated). PQ is great, not on the same level of HD DVD or Blu-ray, but definitely 'top notch' for SD DVDs :p.

ewb

That is exactly what I am doing with my 79, 480i via HDMI to a Lumagen HDQ, which handles the upscaling to 1080i (Mitsubishi 65813, ISF calibrated). PQ is great, not on the same level of HD DVD or Blu-ray, but definitely 'top notch' for SD DVDs :p.

ewb

Do you happen to have a Toshiba HD-XA2? If so, would you be willing to do a comparison to the 1080i upconversion of that machine to the 79/Lumagen combo?

Thanks for any help.

Mark

That is exactly what I am doing with my 79, 480i via HDMI to a Lumagen HDQ, which handles the upscaling to 1080i (Mitsubishi 65813, ISF calibrated). PQ is great, not on the same level of HD DVD or Blu-ray, but definitely 'top notch' for SD DVDs :p.

ewb

For an all around transport, I think the 79 is hard to beat at its price point. I just can't justify letting it go for the few dollars I would get - I'd rather keep the blu laser just for BD/HD-DVDs now. I would agree, it is top notch for SD-DVDs.

Do you happen to have a Toshiba HD-XA2? If so, would you be willing to do a comparison to the 1080i upconversion of that machine to the 79/Lumagen combo?

Thanks for any help.

Mark

Mark,

I have the Toshiba A1, and have to say that I think it upconverts SD-DVD better than my 79 feeding 480i to my Anthem D2 (Gennum scaler). The Toshiba HD players are known for excellent upconversion. I still love my 79 for its awesome audio qualities though.

Do you happen to have a Toshiba HD-XA2? If so, would you be willing to do a comparison to the 1080i upconversion of that machine to the 79/Lumagen combo?

Thanks for any help.

Mark
No I do not have a XA2. The 79AVi/Lumagen combination definitely exceeds the upscaling PQ of my XA1 and I thought the XA1's upscaling was excellent.

For "grins" when I have some free time, I intend to borrow a friend's XA2 and compare that with the 79AVi/Lumagen combination. I am willing to bet that even with the XA2's improvement in upscaling PQ, it will not equal my 79AVi/Lumagen combination. The Lumagen provides many more calibration adjustments at a finer granularity. For example, 11 point parametric grayscale and gamma correction, hue/saturation correction for red and green push, etc. It is like getting a "super" service menu.

In addition, my 79AVi/Lumagen combination was setup by one of the best professional calibrators (http://cir-engineering.com/), so it is definitely "dialed in" for maximum quality PQ.

web

For "grins" when I have some free time, I intend to borrow a friend's XA2 and compare that with the 79AVi/Lumagen combination. I am willing to bet that even with the XA2's improvement in upscaling PQ, it will not equal my 79AVi/Lumagen combination. The Lumagen provides many more calibration adjustments at a finer granularity. For example, 11 point parametric grayscale and gamma correction, hue/saturation correction for red and green push, etc. It is like getting a "super" service menu.

web

Thanks Web, I look forward to your analysis. I think Lumagen is a great bang for the buck, and their support is top-notch. It will be interesting to see if the Lumagen can hold its own against the vaunted Silicon Optix Reon chip in the XA2.

Mark

Just wondering what every ones settings are set on runing through hdmi? Just returned and exchanged the broken on i had picked up, wanted to optimize my picture quality, thanks

Just been to demo a combination of the VSX-AX4ASi and DV-989AVi (that's the VSX-84TXSi and DV-79AVi to you folks in the US).

Not totally thrilled by the player. A few thoughts:

1) Didn't seem to support CD Text or SACD Text at all. :(
2) Didn't seem to be able to jump to track numbers on DVD-Audio, nor could I select groups, except by using the on-screen display. It showed the number as I entered it, but did nothing. It seems a lot of functions have to be done via the display.
3) UI seemed a little sluggish.
4) Can you switch the front panel display between title/group elapsed and track/chapter elapsed? It seemed to have a default for each format, but I couldn't seem to get other modes up without the on-screen display staying up.
5) Can you change SACD area from the remote?
6) Does the player send wide-screen signalling when outputting SD resolutions? I assume it does over SCART, but what about component and HDMI? I was unable to test this at the demo.
7) Have there ever been any firmware updates? If so, what is current firmware?

I was a bit disappointed on the whole, the Denons seem somewhat slicker, at least in UI terms.

Still the Pioneer gets a lot of points just for having i.Link and 2 SCARTS.

Osd

Just wondering what every ones settings are set on runing through hdmi? Just returned and exchanged the broken on i had picked up, wanted to optimize my picture quality, thanks

Our setting might not work for you,you need to try them.

I'm currently using a Pioneer 563a (outputting an analog 480i signal) into a VP30/ABT102. I'd like to upgrade to a digital solution for getting the 480i signal into my VP30.

I'm on the fence about going with an SDI solution. The 79AVi outputs 4:2:2 480i over it's HDMI port. Anyone compare this to SDI? I really like the audio benefits of the 79AVi vs. say an OPPO solution as well.

There are sporadic posts in this thread which mention that the 79AVi is great as a digital transport, but if anyone was on the SDI fence like I am, I'd appreciate some feedback.

If the player outputs the YCbCr 4:2:2 via HDMI as it comes from the MPEG decoder it is no different at all than SDI. SDI still allows you to circumvent HDCP and whatever effects that has downstream. And SDI guarantees that you get the output of the MPEG decoder (with a properly implemented SDI setup). With DVD players it's not a given that the data is unmodified after it leaves the MPEG decoder and before it leaves the HDMI connector. I'd get a Oppo 970HD for 480i via HDMI. It's inexpensive and it appears to output untouched 480i via HDMI.

larry

I know this is going to sound like total pandering, but I need to tell you about my recent experience. I recently bought a Toshiba Regza 37HL67 LCD and had been dying to try the HDMI output of my 79AVi on it. My main tv is a Mitsu WS-65411 run by component. I hooked the player up running at 720p, the native resolution of the Regza and I was floored. It looked so much better than my Mitsu I almost can't watch dvd's on that tv any more. I didn't really play with any settings, I remember setting 12 bit something, but I ended staying up until 1 am looking at all my dvd's again. My superbit version of Fifth Element was, in parts, stunning. The beginning in the desert has always looked grainy, even on hd broadcasts, and that was not as mind blowing as the close up of Leloo's face in the cab. By the way, I really do like that movie, and most of Besson's stuff. Great music.

Getting your CRT RPTV professionally calibrated would probably help a great deal. You'll never get dark level detail on any LCD that is possible on a CRT and most likely the TV is in dire need of a good convergence. I'm not saying you can't like your LCD. :) Looking at things we just bought always makes our eyesight better. :)

larry

I had it calibrated three years ago and at the time it made a remarkable difference over stock. However, I just moved and I am sure it is out of whack. I need to try to adjust the focus this weekend. I agree on the black level. I had Dish for 9 years and have, with the move, had to switch to cable. That may also have something to do with the softer picture. With all the negatives I've heard about LCD and smear I was happy and amazed to see the picture on the Toshiba.

I haven't been able to find any references to anyone actually having a firmware update on the DV-79AVi.

I finally have a display with HDMI input (Epson Home Cinema 1080) and I'm trying to connect the 79 to the display over that connection. I can get the player setup menu, but I can't get any video from the disc (with only HDMI connected). Everything works fine with component connection.

In the player options menu, HDMI is greyed out and it says it can't be selected. So, what do I have to do to get the HDMI port working?

Tim
I'm not aware of a firmware upgrade for the DV-79 but even without that the HDMI setup works fine when connected to my Sony SXRD HDMI input. I know that with my old Mitsu using Component Video connections the HDMI was greyed out in the DV-79 menu. The HDMI must be connected and TV powered on for it to be seen and activated in the 79 menu. Good luck.
Chris

Thanks, Chris.

Well, I've na rrowed the problem. I connected the 79 to an hp plasma with HDMI input and it works fine. So, the problem is not with the 79. Well, maybe not.

In my HT, I have the 79 connected via HMDI->DVI+HDCP to my HD Leeza, then from theHD Leeza DVI+HDCP -> HDMI to my Epson Home Cinema 1080. This should work, but, it's not.

Now I don't know if it's an HDCP problem with the player, with the HD Leeza or something else. Grrrrr.

For the record I used to own the HD Leeza and 79AVi and it worked with my display via DVI. I'm guessing it is a handshake issue between the display and the Leeza. Does the Leeza DVI work with any other source to the display?

Yes. I have the LG 3410A HD DVR. It's connected to the HD Leeza by DVI. It works fine. I ried the 79 on both DVI1 and DVI2 with the same result. The LG works correctly on both DVI1 and 2. Of course, it's ouputting DVI, not HDMI and it doesn't have HDCP (at least, not that I know of).

So, yes, I agree it seems like a handshaking issue. But, I don't know what to do about it. I've sent an email to tech@keydigital.com, but I don't know how long it will take to get a response.

It's not a HUGE issue, as component out does work. I'm sure HDMI out would be better, but I can live with it for now. My bigger concern is when I get a BlueRay or HD-DVD source, will I have the same problem. :(

Tim you could do what I did and trade the Leeza in for an Anthem D2 or AVM-50. :D

Yeah, the D2 is in my sites. Just have to convince my wife I *NEED* it. :D

I haven't been able to find any references to anyone actually having a firmware update on the DV-79AVi.

There is a link to a PDF on the Pioneer website about a class action case with the benefit of a potential firmware upgrade for the 79, however it appears to only address certain playability issues with certain discs that are listed in the document. I never pursued getting the upgrade as I haven't had any playability or handshaking problems with our player.

Thanks. I'll check into it.

I, too, have not had any difficulties playing any discs.

I did speak to Key Digital about the problem. When I connect the player directly to my projector or plasma via HDMI, it works fine. Key Digital suspects the problem might be in the EDID prom associated with the DVI input/output. This is not upgradable by a firmware update. So, I am sending my unit to them and they will inspect and upgrade as necessary. Hopefully that will fix this problem. Great company!

=== Tim

I just downloaded the claim form and the form must have been submitted before June 27, 2007 for the possible future firmware upgrade and before March 29, 2007 for the $50 rebate. So, it looks like I missed out on this one completely. :(

I just downloaded the claim form and the form must have been submitted before June 27, 2007 for the possible future firmware upgrade and before March 29, 2007 for the $50 rebate. So, it looks like I missed out on this one completely. :(

Bummer; I should have paid more attention. I've had the form on my desktop for a while and never followed through because I didn't experience any problems. :(

Whats a better connection firewire or a super high quality( audio quest vdm5) digal coax cable? thanks

UPDATE: I sent my HD Leeza to Key Digital. They confirmed there was a problem with the EDID information on the DVI ports. They replaced my HD Leeza and now the HMDI->DVI connection from the 79 to the HDL works fine.

Just wanted to post a public kudos to Key Digital for their fantastic and continued support of their customers!

=== Tim

I read that the Infocus SP4805 can support 720p over HDMI. How do I ensure that the Pioneer outputs to 720p mode?

I don't know of any upconverting DVD player that does not output 720p - it's a HDTV standard resolution. The 79avi outputs 720p.

larry

Foirgive me. I know this is off topic but i haven't gotten any responses yet from another post. I was hoping someone can help me with my question:

I own the Pioneer Elite DV-47Ai DVD player. I was playing the Pink Floyd "Pulse" DVD which contains two DD tracks. One at 448 kbs and one at 640 kbs. My Elite player won't play the higher bit rate track only the lower bit rate. If i choose the higher bit rate track it is completely silent. the player is hooked to my receiver by the coax digital connection although i tried both the coax and the optical both to no avail. I tested another player (zenith) and it played it just fine. What gives? Is the higher bit rate audio simply not supported by my player?

Foirgive me. I know this is off topic but i haven't gotten any responses yet from another post. I was hoping someone can help me with my question:

I own the Pioneer Elite DV-47Ai DVD player. I was playing the Pink Floyd "Pulse" DVD which contains two DD tracks. One at 448 kbs and one at 640 kbs. My Elite player won't play the higher bit rate track only the lower bit rate. If i choose the higher bit rate track it is completely silent. the player is hooked to my receiver by the coax digital connection although i tried both the coax and the optical both to no avail. I tested another player (zenith) and it played it just fine. What gives? Is the higher bit rate audio simply not supported by my player?

Short answer is "Yes". I had a 45a which is quite similar and had the same issue. The 45a did not support 640 kbs for Dolby and therefore it would not decode it internally (silence from the 5.1 analog outs) nor would it pass it via the digital connection to an outboard decoder. I don't think this is in the "spec" for Dolby via Standard DVD so that was really no surprise for a unit of this age. My Oppo 970 does both things (internal decoding and passing digitally externally) with no problem. The 980 I have ordered no doubt does the same thing.

Thanks. I appreciate the clarification.

I am looking to pick up a used 79AVi to replace my Oppo 970. This will be used for movie watching as well, but my main criteria is audio quality with CD, DVD-A, and SACD. For now, I will be connecting via the analog outputs and coaxial digital to my Sony DA4ES receiver.

I also am considering picking up a Pioneer or other brand reciever with I-link connection.

Do you think I-link offers better audio quality than coaxial?

Thanks much.

I am looking to pick up a used 79AVi to replace my Oppo 970. This will be used for movie watching as well, but my main criteria is audio quality with CD, DVD-A, and SACD. For now, I will be connecting via the analog outputs and coaxial digital to my Sony DA4ES receiver.

I also am considering picking up a Pioneer or other brand reciever with I-link connection.

Do you think I-link offers better audio quality than coaxial?

Thanks much.

Personally I think i-Link is the best way to go for digital audio, although I don't use the 79 for audio primarily. I wish more folks supported it.

Personally I think i-Link is the best way to go for digital audio, although I don't use the 79 for audio primarily. I wish more folks supported it.

Thanks for the reply. I am having trouble now justifying shelling out the money for both an i-Link DVD player AND an i-Link receiver. For a DV79 I am looking at >$400, and likewise for an i-Link receiver.

What's more, all the new Pioneer receivers that will decode DTS MasterHD and Dolby TrueHD no longer have i-Link.

I'm now thinking of pairing an Oppo 980 with one of the new receivers with HDMI 1.3a. That way, I am not limited to a certain brand receiver.

I'm now thinking of pairing an Oppo 980 with one of the new receivers with HDMI 1.3a.

Bingo. I used to have a 59AVi, but I chucked it for the 980H and I'm waiting for more pre/pros to come out with HDMI support.

Bingo. I used to have a 59AVi, but I chucked it for the 980H and I'm waiting for more pre/pros to come out with HDMI support.

how do you feel the 980H compares to the 59avi? i have a 59avi now, and i'm itching for something different... i really want a denon 3930, but the new oppo that's coming sounds awfully good...

My main issue with the 980H are how it operates. The 59AVi was much faster loading then playing discs. The 980H also has an annoying auto-play feature for CDs that cannot be turned off (that Oppo says they might fix in a future firmware upgrade), and it seems to ignore the pre-gap area on a CD for the very 1st track. They also seemed to say they are working on this too. Other than that, no problems video or audio-wise. The 59AVi is a better built machine. What do you expect for $170 for the Oppo? But it does what it needs to do. I am also looking at the 983H, but to be honest, I'm more interested in the LG BH200 and Samsung 5000 dual format players. The 980H might just be my last DVD player. I plan to keep it for SACD and DVD-A anyway.

Thanks for the reply. I am having trouble now justifying shelling out the money for both an i-Link DVD player AND an i-Link receiver. For a DV79 I am looking at >$400, and likewise for an i-Link receiver.

What's more, all the new Pioneer receivers that will decode DTS MasterHD and Dolby TrueHD no longer have i-Link.

I'm now thinking of pairing an Oppo 980 with one of the new receivers with HDMI 1.3a. That way, I am not limited to a certain brand receiver.

If you will use the analog outs from the CD player to your receiver/processor, then the DV79 is worth it. The DACs in the DV79 are very good and IMHO will sound better than the DAC's of most if not all "mid-fi" gear out there. I currently use the 79's six channel analog outs for SACD and DVD-A into my Anthem D2 and it sounds great. The Oppo's are definitely worth considering if you want to use an HDMI or other digital connection into your downstream gear, as of course the DAC's in the CD player don't matter if you are sending a digital signal to the receiver/processor. Just be sure that you are happy with the DAC's and sound quality of your receiver/processor, cause that's where it is happening.

If you will use the analog outs from the CD player to your receiver/processor, then the DV79 is worth it. The DACs in the DV79 are very good and IMHO will sound better than the DAC's of most if not all "mid-fi" gear out there. I currently use the 79's six channel analog outs for SACD and DVD-A into my Anthem D2 and it sounds great. The Oppo's are definitely worth considering if you want to use an HDMI or other digital connection into your downstream gear, as of course the DAC's in the CD player don't matter if you are sending a digital signal to the receiver/processor. Just be sure that you are happy with the DAC's and sound quality of your receiver/processor, cause that's where it is happening.

Well, that was exactly my thinking when I picked up my Oppo 970 and HDDVD player. I thought their analog outputs(for playing CDs, or even DVD movies) would sound better than my several year old Sony DA4ES decoding the digital signal, but I have not found that to be true. The sound just seems to be more immediate and better with the Sony decoding. And I have tried a number of different interconnects from the players to the receiver.

This is what is giving me pause about shelling out a significant amount of cash for another universal player, especially considering the limited number of high rez titles I have.

Perhaps the DV79 is much better than the 970 or the HDDVD player.

Re: Is the 79AVi still a top choice uni player for audio quality?

Another vote for very good audio from 79AVi: CD, SACD, DVD-A . It replaced 6mo's ago Sony XA777ES to be able to play DVD-A, and to my surprise preferred the 79 AVi on all formats. For video using Oppo 970, and was curious of its audio quality after all the talk - was not good enough, so bought the 79AVi (around 500, new) based on positive reports of its audio on these forums.

Feeding analog 2ch to Krell KCT pre (and 6ch to Anthem pre/pro) to Krell FPB 400x amp to Magnepan 20.1. I've been intending to check against a heavier weight universal player, maybe Ayre C-5xe - only 2ch, but haven't gotten to it, i guess because have been pretty content with the 79AVi audio.

Listening,
jori

P.S. Does anybody know about a new Pio Elite DV-58AVi? Saw reports about it couple months ago. When is goint to be out? Might take care of all of it (except HD DVD/Blu-ray of course) for me.

Edit: Just noticed the thread on the 58Avi from yesterday on this forum - should have searched better.

Well, that was exactly my thinking when I picked up my Oppo 970 and HDDVD player. I thought their analog outputs(for playing CDs, or even DVD movies) would sound better than my several year old Sony DA4ES decoding the digital signal, but I have not found that to be true. The sound just seems to be more immediate and better with the Sony decoding. And I have tried a number of different interconnects from the players to the receiver.

This is what is giving me pause about shelling out a significant amount of cash for another universal player, especially considering the limited number of high rez titles I have.

Perhaps the DV79 is much better than the 970 or the HDDVD player.

Before you sink too much money in CD players, I wonder if your other equipment is capable of reproducing the high quality of audio you are looking for. Here is a link to a review of your receiver, and there is some interesting discussion of your Sony's sonic capabilities with SACD. http://www.audioholics.com/reviews/receivers/sonys-ta-e9000es-v-str-da4es/overall-impressions-and-conclusions Scroll to the bottom. Perhaps you should be looking into a better receiver or separates first? I don't know much about your speakers, but obviously they need to be up to par as well.

BTW, some of my fellow Anthem D2 owners are very happy with their Oppos for multi-channel music, but they are outputting PCM through an HDMI connection. In this case they are using the DAC's of the high end Anthem D2. If you have the funds you might look into a receiver or processor that can do this.

Good luck, and be careful to not invest in something that the rest of your system cannot do justice to.

Before you sink too much money in CD players, I wonder if your other equipment is capable of reproducing the high quality of audio you are looking for. Here is a link to a review of your receiver, and there is some interesting discussion of your Sony's sonic capabilities with SACD. http://www.audioholics.com/reviews/receivers/sonys-ta-e9000es-v-str-da4es/overall-impressions-and-conclusions Scroll to the bottom. Perhaps you should be looking into a better receiver or separates first? I don't know much about your speakers, but obviously they need to be up to par as well.

BTW, some of my fellow Anthem D2 owners are very happy with their Oppos for multi-channel music, but they are outputting PCM through an HDMI connection. In this case they are using the DAC's of the high end Anthem D2. If you have the funds you might look into a receiver or processor that can do this.

Good luck, and be careful to not invest in something that the rest of your system cannot do justice to.

Thanks for the suggestions and the link and I will definitely check that out.

Yes I have considered what you are talking about. However, I guess the explanation for my findings would have to be that the multi-channel analog inputs on the Sony are not up to snuff. If the analog audio from my Oppo and HDDVD player is supposed to be pretty good, then what else would explain why I am not finding the analog audio to be better than the digital output decoded by the Sony.

I actually am currently looking to move to another receiver, possibly to use as a pre-pro with my Sherbourn 5/1500A amp(I am not currently using it because I boxed it up to sell, but wasn't offered what I felt it was worth). I would kind of like to find a single box solution, if I can find a receiver with the audio quality I am looking for.(Now looking at Yamaha RXV 1800, Pioneer VSX 92) I did notice that these new receivers offer the option of using the surround back channel outputs to bi-amp the front L/R speakers. I am wondering if this will allow me to go with just a receiver.

My front L/R are Legacy Signature II. Center is Paradigm Studio cc570v.3.

Thanks for the suggestions and the link and I will definitely check that out.

Yes I have considered what you are talking about. However, I guess the explanation for my findings would have to be that the multi-channel analog inputs on the Sony are not up to snuff. If the analog audio from my Oppo and HDDVD player is supposed to be pretty good, then what else would explain why I am not finding the analog audio to be better than the digital output decoded by the Sony.

I actually am currently looking to move to another receiver, possibly to use as a pre-pro with my Sherbourn 5/1500A amp(I am not currently using it because I boxed it up to sell, but wasn't offered what I felt it was worth). I would kind of like to find a single box solution, if I can find a receiver with the audio quality I am looking for.(Now looking at Yamaha RXV 1800, Pioneer VSX 92) I did notice that these new receivers offer the option of using the surround back channel outputs to bi-amp the front L/R speakers. I am wondering if this will allow me to go with just a receiver.

My front L/R are Legacy Signature II. Center is Paradigm Studio cc570v.3.

Yeah, I think the Sony receiver is your weak link. I like your receiver choices, I am partial to Yamaha and Pioneer. However, whatever you do keep your amp! I had a Yamaha RXV-1400 a few years back, and when I added a separate amp it REALLY improved the sound quality substantially. I would not mess with bi-amping, as it takes really high end gear to pull it off right. Do you have a powered subwoofer? If not, get one (even a small one) if you can afford it. Powered subs take a BIG load off of your main amp and speakers, and can really improve the sound of your setup, for ANY type of music. Set the crossover right at 80 hz. Powered subs are basically another better way to bi-amp.

My 79 has been great until now. Movies are great. Cd's are great. DTS cd's are great. DVD-A are great. SACD not so great. Multi-ch and 2ch Hi-Res wont play out of the right main. Bummer.

My 79 has been great until now. Movies are great. Cd's are great. DTS cd's are great. DVD-A are great. SACD not so great. Multi-ch and 2ch Hi-Res wont play out of the right main. Bummer.

That is a bummer; hope there is an easy fix out there.

I'm looking at either fixing it which i would think will be min $100 or a refurb with factory warr Denon 2845ci.$180 shipped.

I'm looking at either fixing it which i would think will be min $100 or a refurb with factory warr Denon 2845ci.$180 shipped.

The Pioneer is superior. Since SACD uses a separate path to the D/A converters and a separate IC for decoding it might be helpful to know if you are able to run firewire to your receiver and have the right channel work.

UPDATE: I sent my HD Leeza to Key Digital. They confirmed there was a problem with the EDID information on the DVI ports. They replaced my HD Leeza and now the HMDI->DVI connection from the 79 to the HDL works fine.

Just wanted to post a public kudos to Key Digital for their fantastic and continued support of their customers!

=== Tim

Tim,

I've been having the same compatibility errors with connecting 1080p over HDMI through my HD Leeza. When selecting component, the signal is fine... but trying to adjust to HDMI, I get a purple screen. I figured it might be an HDCP copyright issue with the software, since everything else is HDCP compliant. I'm currently running my 79-AVi component through the Leeza and out to my projector but I spent a small fortune on cables and installations last year and would like to be able to upconvert to 1080p! I could bypass the scaler altogether and feed straight from the 79AVi into my Projector, but I want the aspect ratio adjustment options and features with the Leeza that are important to me. As it stands, I am only getting a signal with Component SD on the Leeza, but the thing is, I haven't tried the firware upgrade yet which supposedly accepts 480i over DVI... The Leeza just doesn't seem to be compliant with the HDMI cables.

Should I send my unit in to Key Digital also, or should I try the firware upgrade first and see how that works?

It sounds like you were experiencing the exact same problems as I am, Tim. It's incredibly frustrating!!!

Tim,

I've been having the same compatibility errors with connecting 1080p over HDMI through my HD Leeza. When selecting component, the signal is fine... but trying to adjust to HDMI, I get a purple screen. I figured it might be an HDCP copyright issue with the software, since everything else is HDCP compliant. I'm currently running my 79-AVi component through the Leeza and out to my projector but I spent a small fortune on cables and installations last year and would like to be able to upconvert to 1080p! I could bypass the scaler altogether and feed straight from the 79AVi into my Projector, but I want the aspect ratio adjustment options and features with the Leeza that are important to me. As it stands, I am only getting a signal with Component SD on the Leeza, but the thing is, I haven't tried the firware upgrade yet which supposedly accepts 480i over DVI... The Leeza just doesn't seem to be compliant with the HDMI cables.

Should I send my unit in to Key Digital also, or should I try the firware upgrade first and see how that works?

It sounds like you were experiencing the exact same problems as I am, Tim. It's incredibly frustrating!!!


Hello Oliver.

As the Key Digital HD Leeza actually has DVI input and output ports, not HDMI, you can only send it valid DVI resolutions. As such you can't select 480i output over HDMI from the Pio. The lowest resolution you'll be able to select is 480p.

However, it sounds like you are having the same problem I am. That is an HDCP issue. When I spoke to KD, they said this wasn't something user fixable and had to be send in for repair. This did fix the problem and I was able to connect HDMI-DVI from the Pio to HDL outputting 480p or 1080i from the Pio and it worked fine.

It sounds like you'll need to contact KD. I started by sending an email to tech@keydigital.com explaining the problem. We did some troubleshooting by email, then they authorized an RMA.

Good luck!

I have the Pioneer Elite DV-79AVi. There's a DVD I want, but it's only available from the UK. The Region for this DVD is "All" but the Format is "PAL".

I can't find anything in the manual that discusses if or how well this unit will play a PAL formatted DVD. Can somebody let me know whether the 79AVi will have problems playing a PAL DVD. Thanks.

i know i'm kinda bumping a dead thread, but i bought one of these DV79AVI for 200 bucks. i hope its better than my denon 1930ci

YES !!

The DV-79AVi , IMO , is a better player.

The audio section alone makes it way better , just buy "Pink Floyd - Dark Side Of The Moon" SACD and you`ll see {hear} what I mean ! :D

Previous query:

Your PAL disc should play in your computer drive.
If you have a Mac , just keep deleting the preference file after you play it. It will ask you if you want to use that format < yes > , but if you play an NTSC disc it will ask you again < say yes >.
If you don`t keep deleting the preference file , after 5 plays in any one format and the drive will not play the other , just thought U should know.

Have fun !! :D

Later ,

Gary 

Well my 79 kinda died so now i have a 2930 and i must say i loved the 79 but the 2930 just out does it all around for me.

Well , I`m glad your happy with your Denon , I can`t really comment because I have never owned a Denon product,
:D

The only thing that bums me out about the `79 is the lack of "FireWire" support , that sure didn`t last long did it !!

Atleast Apple still likes it :D so much so that there is an 800 bus speed firewire.

Later,
Gary  :) "Hey Nineteen"

The 79 has firewire as well as HDMI.

Right , I know the `79 has Fire Wire , but what are you going to hook it up to ?

The amps and receivers have all but abandoned the technology.

I have the DV-79AVi , but not an amp that has a FW input and they are getting harder to find.

Since the HDMI now carries audio , FW has been left behind , and that is a shame. IMO

FW / audio was a great idea , but now it`s history :(

Later,

Gary 

Agreed - I too was disappointed that firewire seems to be going away with home theater equipment. Still love the 79 though.


Right , I know the `79 has Fire Wire , but what are you going to hook it up to ?

The amps and receivers have all but abandoned the technology.

I have the DV-79AVi , but not an amp that has a FW input and they are getting harder to find.

Since the HDMI now carries audio , FW has been left behind , and that is a shame. IMO

FW / audio was a great idea , but now it`s history :(

Later,

Gary 

Right back @ ya !! :D

The `79 is a very good player ! ;) , so far is has been able to play anything I put in it.

Later :)

Gary 

Fortunately I have a Yamaha RX-Z9 which has firewire. Will take any digital format, although it is hard to beat the analog outputs of the Pioneer direct to the amplifier section of the Yamaha for audio.

I hear `ya Doc !

I have my `79 hooked up to a Yammy DSP-A1 via analog for SACD , and it does sound sweet ;) .

Of course my DSP-A1 is getting along in years , but it still holds it`s own , a great amp.
No tuner , just a ton of sound !! :D

For dvd`s I`m using an optical input , not a big fan of all the different sound fields , but I do use a couple of the 5.1 for movies.

As far as straight cd`s , I just use my mains ( Boston VR-40`s ) and my SPL-1200.
Just stereo , DTS cd`s is straight 5.1 with no effect and flat. ;)

Later, :)

Gary 

Hi all,

I have universal player with HDMI connection. I not getting very good picture quality and it looks no difference than using either the S-Video cable or Composite cables.

I connected the HDMI cable directly to the back of my TV which is a DLP projector with HDTV feature. I believe it is not looking so great because I don't know how to set it up within the MENU selection.

I have a Pioneer Elite Dv-79Avi universal player if that helps. If you need the PDF user's manual, send me an email to landon.luu@gmail.com and I will forward it as an email attachment.

Thanks for any advice!!!!!!!

I was tweaking around with the 79 today and here is what I have so far:

- Resolution : 1920 X 1080i
- Aspect Ratio: 16:9 (Wide)
- Colour: Full Range RGB
- Video Memory: Memory 1
- Audio: Auto

Within the VIDEO ADJUST selection, I did a customized setting to MEMORY 1. Within the MEMORY 1, here is what I got so far:

- PureCinema: Auto2
- YNR: 2 slides to the MAX setting
- CNR: 2 slides to the MAX setting
- Sharpness High: half way to the FINE setting
- Sharpness MID: half way to the FINE setting
- Detail: 2 slides to the MAX setting
- White Level: half way to the MAX setting
- Black Level: NONE
- Black Setup: 7.5 IRE
- Gamma: half way setting
- Hue: half way setting
- Chrome Level: half way setting
- Chrome Delay: half way setting
- HDMI Detail: all the way to FINE setting


You can find the above customize setting by looking at page 58 "Create Your own presets".

I think by me doing this customizing in MEMORY 1, I think it did improve a little bit in the picture quality. However, what do all these settings above means???

My TV again is a 50 inch DLP projector with 2 HDMI connection on the back.

Thanks for any advice!!!!

You should be able to leave the 79avi at default settings and just set the output resolution. Default settings should be correct for movies. What is the resolution of your TV? 1280x720 (720p) or 1920x1080 (1080p) ? I don't believe they made DLP rear projector TVs in any other resolution. You also need to calibrate the TV to match the output of your player. Do you do this using a disc like Avia or Digital Video Essentials (DVE) or any other of the 5 or 6 calibration discs commonly used?

Also, you'll see I merged your thread with the existing 79avi thread. The player was very popular and there are a lot of posts. :)

larry

Hey Larry! Thanks for your advice. I have a Samsung model # HL-S5086W. It looks like I am not allow to add a link here. You can do a search on my model number and find the specs online. There are a lot of info on this Samsung.

Let me know what I should set the 79 to after you look at the specs. Thanks!!!

It's a 720p DLP. So I'd set the output resolution to 720p. On the TV I'd set the color temp to Warm2 or Warm1. After that I would definitely suggest you get a calibration disc to calibrate the TV to match the player output. You can also check in the RPTV forum here for others who have a TV like you.

larry

I can't believe Pioneer eliminated the Black Setup 0 IRE/7.5 IRE option from the DV-79AVI's replacement, the DV-58AV. Unfortunately, I needed the best of both worlds--DSD playback without any conversion to PCM via analog, and raw DSD via HDMI for when I get an HDMI receiver and TV a few years down the line.

Can someone briefly explain the significance of IRE?

My Denon 3930 has this setting. On the whole I like 7.5 better but the picture is a bit dark. Should I be adjusting something else to compensate or go to the 0 setting instead....sorry for drifting off topic.

The DV-79 is a beatiful player, came this close to buying one before deciding on the Denon.

Can someone briefly explain the significance of IRE?

My Denon 3930 has this setting. On the whole I like 7.5 better but the picture is a bit dark. Should I be adjusting something else to compensate or go to the 0 setting instead....sorry for drifting off topic.

The DV-79 is a beatiful player, came this close to buying one before deciding on the Denon.

From what I understand, IRE is how bright something is. If your TV is capable of passing blacker-than-black/below black, you should set your black level to 0 IRE and max your DVD player's and TV's contrast, while leaving brightness, sharpness, gamma, tint, and chroma levels all in their nutral positions. Sometimes, with a black level of 7.5 IRE, it can make the picture blurry.

IRE has nothing to do with digital video. It's related to voltage and basically a "difference" between what has be established as black and then levels above (or below) black. Or something like that. :) It is discussed in the Go to Guide for Source Options sticky at top.

So, a 0/7.5 IRE switch setting is meaningless for digital video. Black is 16 for movies. However, some players use the this option to switch between studio and PC video levels. In NTSC analog video, North America uses 7.5 IRE as a "standard" for black and Japan uses 0. However, with DVD players and analog output it really doesn't matter what you set if you calibrate your TV to match and it can display the full range of Black -> White correctly. For OTA analog signals the display setting for black (0 vs 7.5) would make a difference because the incoming signal would be set to one level or the other for black.

larry

IRE has nothing to do with digital video. It's related to voltage and basically a "difference" between what has be established as black and then levels above (or below) black. Or something like that. :) It is discussed in the Go to Guide for Source Options sticky at top.

So, a 0/7.5 IRE switch setting is meaningless for digital video. Black is 16 for movies. However, some players use the this option to switch between studio and PC video levels. In NTSC analog video, North America uses 7.5 IRE as a "standard" for black and Japan uses 0. However, with DVD players and analog output it really doesn't matter what you set if you calibrate your TV to match and it can display the full range of Black -> White correctly. For OTA analog signals the display setting for black (0 vs 7.5) would make a difference because the incoming signal would be set to one level or the other for black.

larry

I don't have a TV with HDMI or Component Video inputs. I use S-video through an RF modulator. My TV has no user-preference-recall, which requires me to constantly switch the brightness control between minimum for DVD playback, and nutral for TV viewing. If my DVD player had a 0-IRE setting, I wouldn't have to constantly adjust my TV.

A big thanks to everyone.. This thread is great.
(Yes I actually finished reading every one of them)
Thanks PooperScooper for maintaining it so well and your support efforts for so long:)

I purchased a DV-59AVi (about 2 months ago) from a seller on AVS Forums.
It matches and performs fanstastic with my SC-09TX.
I had a opportunity to purchase probably the last DV-79AVi brand new one in California last month at a price I couldn't resist. everything brand new, never used. Kinda cool registering it with Pioneeer and getting a 2 year warranty on a product manufactured Jan 2006.

WOW.. I think I'm keeping them both!:p
I'm using the DV-59AVi for DVD via component/iLink (So I can stream the video to my SC-09's LCD screen as well.. VERY impressed with the picture and performance.
I'm using the DV-79AVi for PQLS audio (iLink) for SACD. I loved the 59AVi for audio, but after a/b'ing them for about 3 weeks, I think I prefer the 79AVi.
Video-wise, whether using HDMI or component, 480i seems the best, either running it through the Marvell QDEO on the SC-09 or letting the Kuro do the upscaling, it's a toss up.

Anyway, great information here! Thank you again. :)

Here's a few pics of my beasts:
DV-59AVi on top, DV-79AVi on bottom
http://www.artistic-realms.com/charles/sc-09/avi.jpg

SC-09TX
http://www.artistic-realms.com/charles/sc-09/avisc-09.jpg

http://www.artistic-realms.com/charles/sc-09/sacdimage.jpg

Video-wise, whether using HDMI or component, 480i seems the best, either running it through the Marvell QDEO on the SC-09 or letting the Kuro do the upscaling, it's a toss up.


Did you try the 59 or 79 at 1080i via HDMI using the auto2 setting?

Then again, I don't have a Kuro and only can do 1080i with the player doing the upscaling... ;)

You know how I said my Magnolia guy wanted my 59AVi? Ran into him at the supermarket this week, turns out they shutdown my Magnolia AV store. I have fewer Pioneer Elite purchasing options now... :(

Fred,
Yes, I did. Followed your suggestions. While the 1080i scaling was good.. I think I preferred running at 480i and letting the rest of my system do the upscaling..

HOWEVER, they both upscale great! I'm just so "AVS conscious" now I figure keeping the source as pure as possible is the best... But I played LoTR last knight again, and used HDMI@1080i and AUTO2 on the 79AVi.. the image popped! The differences are so small, it's impossible to tell.. so I follow the plecebo effect:p

Presently, I have the 59 at 480i via component/iLink and the 79 at 1080i (sometimes 480i) HDMI .. but I'm still playing and having fun;)

Bummer about your AV store., sorry to hear this. it's getting harder and harder to avoid the ID stores.. too bad:(
I much prefer dealing with someone I know.

Hi all!

Anyone of your have this player at home? I have a Pioneer Elite DV-79AVi. I would like to know if it is normal for some of the letters on the LCD screen missing a pixel? For example, when you click on the open button, on the LCD screen in the front of the player, the word "OPEN", the letter "N" is missing a pixel. Is that normal for SOME of the letters on the front LCD screen to be missing a pixel. Again, there are other words read-outs within the LCD that also have missing pixels on letters as well. I am not sure if it is normal to have some letters missing a pixel or not.

However, all the numbers within the LCD screen looks fine with no missing pixel for each number.

Thanks for any advice!!

mantaraydesign;
I'll check tonight..
I never noticed missing pixels, and I have a DV-59AVi and DV-79AVi sitting on top of each other for comparision...
(see picture (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=16761822#post16761822))...

ok mantaraydesign;
They're not missing per say.. it's the way the letters are programmed (probably to make them easier to distingish from a distance).

Here's some shots, click any picture for a larger image:

OPEN
http://www.artistic-realms.com/charles/dv79avi/79display2_tn.jpg (http://www.artistic-realms.com/charles/dv79avi/79display2.jpg)

Closeup of N
http://www.artistic-realms.com/charles/dv79avi/79display3_tn.jpg (http://www.artistic-realms.com/charles/dv79avi/79display3.jpg)

LINK CHECK
http://www.artistic-realms.com/charles/dv79avi/79display4_tn.jpg (http://www.artistic-realms.com/charles/dv79avi/79display4.jpg)

LOADING
http://www.artistic-realms.com/charles/dv79avi/79display6_tn.jpg (http://www.artistic-realms.com/charles/dv79avi/79display6.jpg)
This is the same for the DV-59AVI as well as the DV-79AVi, hope that helps:)

Thanks CHP_VR!

That really helps because we both are seeing the same thing.

Here is what I found out. If you use a flashlight and point it at the LCD screen, you will see very detail circuit board with very tiny dots for letters and numbers. Use your flashlight and point it NOT directly because of glare but point it downward at the LCD screen until you see the circuit board inside the LCD screen. Any letters that has a VERTICAL line that goes straight down, there is 1 tiny led light missing. So, that is the reason why all letters that goes straight down the MIDDLE of the tiny led lights, it will not show.

What you want to do is turn on your player and hit the open button button. Keep it open and you will see a word "OPEN" on the LCD screen. Now take your flashlight and look inside the LCD screen and you will see why the letter "N" missing a pixel. You can also see a missing pixel in words like "STOP" and "LOADING". In the word "STOP", the letter "T" got a missing pixel in the line that goes straight down. In the word "LOADING", the letter "D" and "I" also got missing pixel in the middle. Any letters that goes straight down the middle will have a missing pixel.

Yes, that's the design.
Any letter crossing that pixel space will be blank.. either T, D, N, I..(see images above)

I hope this is not distracting you from enjoying one of the best universal players around.
I just watched ghostrider last night using component 480i with iLink audio through my SC-09TX.. WOW!:eek::D
SACD on the DV-79AVi is unmatched (well, the DV-59AVi is up there;)), IMO.

If I wanted to get the best movie sounds coming from the 79, do I use the single coaxial cable, optical cable or HDMI cable? I have a receiver that will take HDMI connection. Right now, I have connected the 79 with the single coaxial for sounds. I then connected the HDMI cable from the 79 to the TV. My TV also got HDMI connection on the back.

Or do I connect the 79 to my receiver with single HDMI cable to the receiver and then from the receiver to the TV?

I just wanted to know which is the best way to get the best quality sound and picture from the 79.

My receiver is the Onkyo TX-NR905 if that helps anyone.

Thanks for any advice!!!

CHP_VR, the 79 is for sure the best universal player I have ever bought and auditioned. I own the Lexicon RT-20 universal player for $5000 retail and it did not perform as well as the 79 for a lot less. Higher prices items does not mean better quality as I have experienced. The DVD, SACD and regular CD sounds fantastic on the 79!!!!

If I wanted to get the best movie sounds coming from the 79, do I use the single coaxial cable, optical cable or HDMI cable? I have a receiver that will take HDMI connection. Right now, I have connected the 79 with the single coaxial for sounds. I then connected the HDMI cable from the 79 to the TV. My TV also got HDMI connection on the back.

Or do I connect the 79 to my receiver with single HDMI cable to the receiver and then from the receiver to the TV?

I just wanted to know which is the best way to get the best quality sound and picture from the 79.

My receiver is the Onkyo TX-NR905 if that helps anyone.

Thanks for any advice!!!

For convenience, I would use HDMI for audio and video.. audio should be as good as coax or toslink. Scaling, depends on how well your AVR can do the job or your display. I would try it 480i and pass through (pure?) on your receiver if it allows it, and let your display do the scaling first. Then try upscaling from your DV-79AVi and see if you see a difference.. a lot of this is equipment dependant, mantaraydesign, so some experimenting may be necessary.

The reviews and many people (take a bow, Fred;)) suggest HDMI, scaled to 1080i and AUTO2... I've tried it, and it looks great.

With my equipment, I prefer component, 480i and iLink audio.

I see by your post here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=16694499#post16694499), it looks like you've done some experimenting already:)

You may have already nailed it for your system.
Larry made some suggestions, have you tried them?
It's a 720p DLP. So I'd set the output resolution to 720p. On the TV I'd set the color temp to Warm2 or Warm1. After that I would definitely suggest you get a calibration disc to calibrate the TV to match the player output. You can also check in the RPTV forum here for others who have a TV like you.

larry

CHP_VR, the 79 is for sure the best universal player I have ever bought and auditioned. I own the Lexicon RT-20 universal player for $5000 retail and it did not perform as well as the 79 for a lot less. Higher prices items does not mean better quality as I have experienced. The DVD, SACD and regular CD sounds fantastic on the 79!!!!


+1:)
I feel like I've gone a whole new level in audio bliss!
I'm very fortunate to have found mine brand new.
I know a lot of people still looking for these beauties, so I think/hope we may have some more interest in this thread soon.:D

Amazing how a 3/4 year old product is still very much top of the line as far as audio quality.

I know a lot of people still looking for these beauties, so I think/hope we may have some more interest in this thread soon.:D


you called? :D

it'll be in tomorrow... then the "fun" starts... :)

Just as this thread comes back to life, my player dies. Well, not completely, it powers up, but when pressing the Open/Close button or Play, or anything else, the drawer doesn't open, but I can hear a faint, rapid series of clicks. There's no error displayed on the TV or on the player itself.

I did pry the drawer open after it started doing this. The Close button still does nothing with the tray out. Manually closing it again also makes no difference. Also powered the unit off with the hard button on the front, and left it unplugged for some time. Still no luck.

Has anyone else had this problem? Any other suggestions?

Guess it's time to retire it for the new Oppo.

I had a DV-09 , and had the exact same problem , the door to the draw would not open.

I had it serviced and was told the over time the lubricant used can turn to an almost glue like consistency.

The tech had to clean the entire drive mechanism and reassemble and use a synthetic lube so it would not thicken up and happen again.

I no longer have the DV-09 , but I do have the DV-79AVi , same as you.

And mine is about 4 years old and it still works like a charm , ( so far !! ).

It is a good player , but not the best,

I say flip a coin !!

O_BTW , labor for the repair job on my 09 but in 04 was around 300 , but to me it was worth it !

Later ,

Gary 

not on this specific model, but on other players...

might be worth taking it apart and cleaning the drive mechanicals... sometimes they get crudded up and just need a bit of tlc...

edit: i see gary had a similar problem and a similar solution...

Thanks, I'll open it up when I get a chance--not going to pay for a repair. I don't use the player as much as I used to, only for DVD-Audio and when I want to listen to a CD without turning on TV. I got this player not long after they were first released. You're probably right, the combination of age and lack of use has probably let the lube go all gummy.

EDIT: Great news. After thinking about the fact that it might be the grease, turning the player off in hopes of a reset isn't what I needed. I figured maybe letting it warm up would be the answer. Sure enough, after sitting for 30 minutes, the tray opened just fine. :)

That's great, Injector, I hope that's all it needed!:)

My old XP50 quit working in a similar way that yours did (I use it for DVD-RAM)..
I opened it up, and it had shavings all around the cup that holds the disk:eek:

Cleaned it out, and it started working like it was brand new again.
It's still in my system..

So welcome back into fold;)

good deal! glad it worked out...

charles, you gotta stop using those drives as cupholders.... :p

Yeah, what can I say.. after 3 martinis I do find the most amusing cupholders....some aren't even electronic:rolleyes:

Got to say though, right now, I think I prefer the DV-79AVi for music (with PQLS iLink connection) over the DV-59AVi.. through Susanoo.
The difference is so slight as to allow the possibilty that it's a placebo effect...
but I gotta believe the separate power supply in the DV-79AVi is a functional design enhancement...
gotta let us know what you think, Chris!:)

I have the Elite DV-58AV which features 1080p and DSD via HDMI, Burr-Brown PCM1796 DACs, separate power supply, upscaling via component, and WMA/DivX/WMV playback. Even though the DV-79AVI has the outdated I-Link and switchable black level, am I losing out on anything with the 58?

ValjeanPhantom;

For one thing, iLink. (not sure about "outdated" some very high end CD transports are still being built with it)
If you hook up the 79AVi with a Pio receiver with PQLS, the clocks get synchronized, making it pretty much a jitterless connection.
or going by Pioneer's marketing (SC-09 manual):

A precision quartz controller in this
receiver eliminates distortion caused by timing errors
(jitter), giving you the best possible digital-to-analog
conversion from the digital source.To take advantage of PQLS, you must have a player
compatible with rate-control, and it must be switched on
and connected to this receiver through the i.LINK
network.

You may or may not buy into the jitter debate/controversy.. I do.

My first experience with PQLS was with the SC-07 and BP-51FD via HDMI.
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14492468#post14492468.
When I went to the SC-09TX, I wasn't as happy with CDs (and the BP-51 is one heck of a CD transport).. It was good, but not "like I remembered"... when I got the DV-59AVi and then the DV-79AVi, everything I thought I was missing was there again:)
With the added bonus of SACD and DVD-A.

Bottom line to me, is the audio is absolutely superb.. it's difficult to see (hear?) it getting any better:)

ValjeanPhantom;

For one thing, iLink. (not sure about "outdated" some very high end CD transports are still being built with it)
If you hook up the 79AVi with a Pio receiver with PQLS, the clocks get synchronized, making it pretty much a jitterless connection.
or going by Pioneer's marketing (SC-09 manual):

A precision quartz controller in this
receiver eliminates distortion caused by timing errors
(jitter), giving you the best possible digital-to-analog
conversion from the digital source.To take advantage of PQLS, you must have a player
compatible with rate-control, and it must be switched on
and connected to this receiver through the i.LINK
network.

You may or may not buy into the jitter debate/controversy.. I do.

My first experience with PQLS was with the SC-07 and BP-51FD via HDMI.
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14492468#post14492468.
When I went to the SC-09TX, I wasn't as happy with CDs (and the BP-51 is one heck of a CD transport).. It was good, but not "like I remembered"... when I got the DV-59AVi and then the DV-79AVi, everything I thought I was missing was there again:)
With the added bonus of SACD and DVD-A.

Bottom line to me, is the audio is absolutely superb.. it's difficult to see (hear?) it getting any better:)

I don't have HDMI or iLink at this time. So I needed a player with good analog 5.1 output, as well as future proof digital output. The 79 and the 58 both have the separate internal power supplies, yet the 1796 DACs in the 58 provide better dynamic range and s/n ratio than the 1738 DACs in the 79. So wouldn't the 58 be better via its 5.1 analog output?

Possibly, ValjeanPhantom, in your system, yes..

I use iLink, so my system uses the 192 kHz / 24-bit DAC Wolfson WM8741 DACs from my receiver.

One of the things that make the BP-51 a great CD transport using anolog/multi-channel are it's Wolfson WM8740 DACs.

Like most things, a lot of other items come into play.. your transport, your receiver, your speakers, even your room... etc.:)

Possibly, ValjeanPhantom, in your system, yes..

I use iLink, so my system uses the 192 kHz / 24-bit DAC Wolfson WM8741 DACs from my receiver.

One of the things that make the BP-51 a great CD transport using anolog/multi-channel are it's Wolfson WM8740 DACs.

Like most things, a lot of other items come into play.. your transport, your receiver, your speakers, even your room... etc.:)

Right now, I use a 27" CRT. My 58 is connected through an RF modulator via S-video, as well as via 5.1 analog audio to a Yamaha HTR5935 receiver (a cross between the HTR-5930/RX-V459 and HTR-5940/RX-V559 2006 model Yamaha receivers). Also, between DenonLink, iLink, and HDMI, the future seems to be headed in the HDMI direction. HDMI seems to be evolving into a universal standard anymore. I'm really looking forward to the convenience of having just one cable per component handling both audio and video, as well as the audio and video staying digital until it reaches the receiver's and TV's analog sections.

No doubt about it, ValjeanPhantom:)

Even the new SC-25/27 and BDP-23 support multi-channel PQLS over HDMI now.
And I'm sure some day the Blu-Ray Audio format will surplant SACD and DVD-Audio.

But for now, in this point in time, I love my DV-79AVi/iLink>SC-09 combo.:cool:

Next year? Well, we'll see;)

Can anyone help me to go to the thread # (within this huge thread) that will help me to setup my 79AVi? I just got it and still playing around with the setup to get the best picture and audio sound from this player.

Thanks for any help!!!

Can anyone help me to go to the thread # (within this huge thread) that will help me to setup my 79AVi? I just got it and still playing around with the setup to get the best picture and audio sound from this player.

Thanks for any help!!!

For convenience, I would use HDMI for audio and video.. audio should be as good as coax or toslink. Scaling, depends on how well your AVR can do the job or your display. I would try it 480i and pass through (pure?) on your receiver if it allows it, and let your display do the scaling first. Then try upscaling from your DV-79AVi and see if you see a difference.. a lot of this is equipment dependant, mantaraydesign, so some experimenting may be necessary.

The reviews and many people (take a bow, Fred;)) suggest HDMI, scaled to 1080i and AUTO2... I've tried it, and it looks great.

With my equipment, I prefer component, 480i and iLink audio.

I see by your post here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=16694499#post16694499), it looks like you've done some experimenting already:)

You may have already nailed it for your system.
Larry made some suggestions, have you tried them?

was there something else that you were looking for?

ccotenj;

Have you had time to play with your 79AVi yet?:)

ccotenj;

Have you had time to play with your 79AVi yet?:)

well... it's hooked up... and it works...

no comparisons yet though... i was too busy playing with the other new toy this weekend... ;)

i will likely only keep one though, so either the 59 or the 79 will be for sale soon... :)

I dunno, chris..

I'm sure you can find a way to justify keeping both.:rolleyes:

Sometimes you gotta forget sensibility and go for self gratification!:p
Besides, a spare is always good to have.

My biggest problem is the remote is the same for both. So, it eerie watching them try to do the same thing in unison....

well... i'm sure i can figure out a way... :) i could always put one of them downstairs on the kuro junior... :p

it's amusing (to me, anyway)... when i got the bdp-83, i sold my original 59avi and oppo 980h (still have the bdp-s1 tank) and figured, "ok, at last, down from 3 players to 1"...

and now i have 3 again... :rolleyes:

i wonder...

is there possibly an alternate codeset for the remote?

i wonder...

is there possibly an alternate codeset for the remote?

hmmm..... gotta do some experimenting, I think..

Thinking... I'm using SR+ OUT from the display to Control IN on the SC-09... If I put a SR cable from the DV-79AVi CONTROL IN to the Control OUT of the AVR... wonder if that would allow only the one to function...

yes, i think you need to experiment and find a solution for us... :D

because you are correct... it IS rather eerie to watch them work in unison... :eek: almost like a "me and my shadow" routine... :)

spent some listening time last night... it sounds good, that's for sure... i'm going to have to really spend some significant time playing stuff for swmbo to see if she hears any differences (since she hears better than me)...

i'll be honest... i think i like the looks of the 79 better... and it definitely "feels" much solider than the 59...

can't comment on dvd's... back when i used my old 59 for dvd's, it was damn good for it's era... but i'm pretty content with the oppo for all the video applications now...

I'll try to remember where I squirrelled away those cables:p

give the DVD portion a go as well, Chris.

I've forgone my XP50, the DV410 and the BDP-51 in favor of the the DV-59/79AVi (via component) for DVDs exclusively.

With your Susanoo/Kuro combo, I would try 480i first, besides, it's cool seeing the DVD on Susanoo's LCD display as well. ;)

ok... some rainy weekend day, i'll drag out the cable bin and hook them up and do some watching...

great... MORE experimenting... :p

yes, i think you need to experiment and find a solution for us... :D

because you are correct... it IS rather eerie to watch them work in unison... :eek: almost like a "me and my shadow" routine... :)

spent some listening time last night... it sounds good, that's for sure... i'm going to have to really spend some significant time playing stuff for swmbo to see if she hears any differences (since she hears better than me)...

i'll be honest... i think i like the looks of the 79 better... and it definitely "feels" much solider than the 59...

can't comment on dvd's... back when i used my old 59 for dvd's, it was damn good for it's era... but i'm pretty content with the oppo for all the video applications now...

Ok, finally realized I didn't need another SR+ cable and that a mono or stereo cable would work.. (duh:o)

Plugged into the DV-79AVi control IN to the SC-09TX Control OUT plug..
(I'm using SR+ from the display to Susanoo, so it's daisy chained for the remote to function from the display IR sensor.)

Guess what? It works!:)
I point the remote to the display it controls the DV-79.. I point it to the rack, the DV-59 works.. no more "me and my shadow"

So, any problems I have now are of my own doing.

Ok Chris, still waiting for your impressions!:D

cool!

i dunno if that's gonna work for me though... no matter where i point the h1 in my room, it "works"...

there's gotta be a way around this...

maybe this weekend for some experimentation... i have too many new toys right now... :o

If I wanted to get the best movie sounds coming from the 79, do I use the single coaxial cable, optical cable or HDMI cable? I have a receiver that will take HDMI connection. Right now, I have connected the 79 with the single coaxial for sounds. I then connected the HDMI cable from the 79 to the TV. My TV also got HDMI connection on the back.

Or do I connect the 79 to my receiver with single HDMI cable to the receiver and then from the receiver to the TV?

I just wanted to know which is the best way to get the best quality sound and picture from the 79.

My receiver is the Onkyo TX-NR905 if that helps anyone.

Thanks for any advice!!!

Manta:

For DVD I would set the 79AVi as follows
1) pick a HD resolution to output - try 720p after you try 1080i
2) connect it via HDMI only

Turn on your Reon processing on the 905 for HDMI sources and see which is better to your display. The Reon does a great job but on the 905 (I have the INTEGRA DTR-8.8 and it has a fatal flaw most don't know about:

The REON in the 805/905, and the Integra 8.8 and 9.8 does NOT properly transcode SD colorspace to HD colorspace.

The 79AVi likely does with it's scaler. Outputing a HD signal via HDMI from the DV79AVi say 1080i will produce a more natural color reproduction since the reciver does not change the HD colorspace.

No doubt about it, ValjeanPhantom:)

Even the new SC-25/27 and BDP-23 support multi-channel PQLS over HDMI now.
And I'm sure some day the Blu-Ray Audio format will surplant SACD and DVD-Audio.

But for now, in this point in time, I love my DV-79AVi/iLink>SC-09 combo.:cool:

Next year? Well, we'll see;)

I have had i-Link for 5 years. So far HDMI does not impress as much.
Let's hope that like AC3 Pioneer preserves it on their flagships for many many years.

CHP_VR:

So far the implementation over HDMI is nearly as good but I don't think the current compatable receivers can really let it shine. We need an upgrade to the SC-09TX to really see its benefit.

Valejean:

Stick with the better DACS but I honestly would compare them both before deciding. I think you may find the 79 superior.

I have a very old (1994-1997 production) Pioneer PD-F79 50 disk CD changer with legato link 1bit conversion - except for some dynamic range limits it rivals the BDP-51/BDP-05FD for analog two channel reproduction and it was 2/3 the price when new.

They don't make them like this anymore:

WOW, there's enough copper in there to start your own mint!

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=149149&d=1249095245

About time you showed up, eldithomaso:p

You and Chris are the ones who started my obsession with iLink!
I agree, the 79 AVi iLink combined with Susanoo is fantastic!

I know you started with the 59AVi, now that you have the 79AVi for a bit, whatcha think?:)

I'm still leaning to the DV-79AVi for audio.

About time you showed up, eldithomaso:p

You and Chris are the ones who started my obsession with iLink!
I agree, the 79 AVi iLink combined with Susanoo is fantastic!

I know you started with the 59AVi, now that you have the 79AVi for a bit, whatcha think?:)

I'm still leaning to the DV-79AVi for audio.


Now now. Lookie at what I found for the 79AVi fanatics...

http://www.pioneerelectronics.com/pio/pe/images/portal/cit_3424/277940808Elite%20Reference%20Guide%20DVD%20Players.pdf

I know you started with the 59AVi, now that you have the 79AVi for a bit, whatcha think?

I'm still leaning to the DV-79AVi for audio.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
+1, I would like to also here your thoughts/ picture quality between the 59avi and 79avi..

Cheers...

Now now. Lookie at what I found for the 79AVi fanatics...

http://www.pioneerelectronics.com/pio/pe/images/portal/cit_3424/277940808Elite%20Reference%20Guide%20DVD%20Players.pdf

Nice find, eldithomaso! Thanks!:)

I know you started with the 59AVi, now that you have the 79AVi for a bit, whatcha think?

I'm still leaning to the DV-79AVi for audio.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
+1, I would like to also here your thoughts/ picture quality between the 59avi and 79avi..

Cheers...

Well I am still working on the 79AVi I have.

Does anyone note that when they have the unit in default DVD-A mode that the front panel still shows V.part when the DVD-A is playing.

Also does anyone understand the menu that says PQLS is disabled for any DVD-A that has "ANY" video content.

Check out page - wait I can't find the owner manual online so I have to go dig it out.

All of My DVD-A disks have video content so what gives?

Anyone getting DVD-A playback with i-Link or HDMI and NOT seeing V-Part on the front display?

Now I have to compare the 59AVi for this too.

Manual is here, eldithomaso:)

http://www.pioneerelectronics.com/pio/pe/images/portal/cit_11221/278097930DV79AViOperatingInstructions.pdf

Not sure about the video with DVD-A ..
I know it plays PQLS with DVD-A Audio only, but haven't tried it with Video and DVD-A... I'll have to check.

Page 20 of the manual:

When playing DVD-Audio*1, CD or SACD
discs over i.LINK, the digital audio is jitterless
if the connected receiver is compatible with
PQLS (rate control). See the operating
instructions that came with your receiver for
information on compatibility with this feature.
*1 Excluding any part of the disc that features
moving video (Video part).

I think that means any audio encoded with the video..
some of the DVD-As have Video with different audio encoding options..
(But don't quote me on that.. I know nothing about it, speculation only)
I figured it was like a hybrid SACD.. so you can play it on regular cd players if you didn't have a SACD player.
In this case, so you could play it on reg. DVD players that didn't have DVD-A capability

I'm just curious. I have the newer DV-58AV. I notice it has problems when using the analog video outputs. When I adjust the brightness level, it doesn't adjust the brightness of the entire screen. Also, when I try to raise the contrast and gamma levels, the hues become distorted (reds become bright pink, blues almost become bright green, etc.). Yet when connected via HDMI, the controls work correctly! I need good analog video for my old CRT in my livingroom, yet I tested my 58AV on my computer monitor via all its video outputs. How's the analog video performance of the 79AVI in interlaced and progressive modes?