then what is newyork talking about.

then what is newyork talking about.
newyork mis-quoted. v2.7 is for the XA2(or A2 series), and it's not the latest. The latest is 2.8, but some people have had problems with 2.8.

Keep checking Ubid. I just picked up a new one ($115 shipped) to go with my refurb. I wish I hadn't, I've got more players than I can use already!
I got a new one yesterday at FYE. I had seen it a couple of weeks ago. It was marked down to $99 yesterday.

newyork mis-quoted. v2.7 is for the XA2(or A2 series), and it's not the latest. The latest is 2.8, but some people have had problems with 2.8.

Off Topic:
I using 2.8 with my XA2 with any problems since I'm using 1080i. It's been reported that 2.8 with 1080i looks sharper than 2.7. People using 1080p24 or maybe 1080p60 prefer the PQ with firmware 2.7.

...Angelo

why are people asking xa2 questions in this xa1 topic?

why are people asking xa2 questions in this xa1 topic?
We're trying to answer your question - which pertains to the XA2 not the XA1.

received my "new" XA1 today. haven't opened it yet.

Oops. Meant my firmware is 2.3 and don't know if it is worth upgrading to 2.4.
It gets a little confusing sometimes. Sorry.

According to my XA1 box:

DD+ and DTS-HD (CORE ONLY) limited to 5.1 channels
Dolby TrueHD 2.0 only



Is this outdated info or still true? Where there any 7.1 DD+ releases, and if so, has this unit been updated to do it? Is TrueHD still limited to a measily 2.0? I own a lot of discs with TrueHD on them. This is my second XA1, both purchased very recently. I run them to a TV set currently, so no surround - however, I obviously hope to have a nice surround setup soon enough.

According to my XA1 box:

DD+ and DTS-HD (CORE ONLY) limited to 5.1 channels
Dolby TrueHD 2.0 only



Is this outdated info or still true? Where there any 7.1 DD+ releases, and if so, has this unit been updated to do it? Is TrueHD still limited to a measily 2.0? I own a lot of discs with TrueHD on them. This is my second XA1, both purchased very recently. I run them to a TV set currently, so no surround - however, I obviously hope to have a nice surround setup soon enough.

Firmware update 2.0 (or later) provides 5.1 True HD.

Will there be any further firmware updates for this player, or is 2.4 the end of the road? I don't have any major complaints, I'm just wondering if we'll see any more improvements. Has Toshiba made any announcements? Thanks.

How is TrueHD/DD+/DTS through the analogs? It's been mentioned in here how good the analog audio output section is on this player. I'm wondering how it compares to just using HDMI out to a receiver like a Marantz, Yamaha, Denon, H/K, etc...

How is TrueHD/DD+/DTS through the analogs? It's been mentioned in here how good the analog audio output section is on this player. I'm wondering how it compares to just using HDMI out to a receiver like a Marantz, Yamaha, Denon, H/K, etc...

Excellent! In an earlier post someone referred to an Oppo being better than the XA1 as a CD player. I'd have to hear it to believe it. I have a Pioneer 79 AVI and the XA1 compares easily with it. Compared to $2000ish player I don't know. Cd's to me don't warrant that kind of investment. I just purchased an A30 off of UBID for $59 and I know that that player doesn't even come close to the XA1 for CD's or DVD's(whether Hi-Def or SD). The A30 is back in the box for a backup. If any other XA1's go up for bid there I'm back in the bidding war for another one. For my use on my set-up it is by far the best player I have used. I've tried Denon,Yamaha,Sony and none come close. So let the flames begin. I've had many people over and asked if that was a Hi-Def disk playing and told them no, just a plain old SD-DVD. same comments for Cd's,is that SACD or DVD-A, no just a CD. Listen for yourself and you be the judge. You'll probably use the XA1 for Cd's also.

well my xa1 is hosed.

sent it in to tweeter service a month ago.
it stopped playing hd dvds.

i just got a call today toshia tells tweeter that whatever the parts are that are neeeded
to fix the xa1 are not available anymore.
the xa1 is "too old" as she was told by toshiba.

so they are either going to by out my service contract, whatever that means or offer a
compatible player.

How is TrueHD/DD+/DTS through the analogs? It's been mentioned in here how good the analog audio output section is on this player. I'm wondering how it compares to just using HDMI out to a receiver like a Marantz, Yamaha, Denon, H/K, etc...

The analogs are very sweet. In fact, even though the audio components are the same in the A1, the XA1 sounds a tad better to me; and I couldn't tell you why. Maybe the double-walled case and the insulating feet do make a difference. But the XA1 sounds terrific to me.

well my xa1 is hosed.

sent it in to tweeter service a month ago.
it stopped playing hd dvds.

i just got a call today toshia tells tweeter that whatever the parts are that are neeeded
to fix the xa1 are not available anymore.
the xa1 is "too old" as she was told by toshiba.

so they are either going to by out my service contract, whatever that means or offer a
compatible player.

Toshiba is doing warranty service on these, but they probably aren't sending enough parts to third parties. My guess is that many of the extended warranties on HD DVD players may end up as a "buy out" or payment to the buyer of the original purchase price.

Updated and tested my "new" XA1 yesterday. It plays all three of the DVD discs that my refurb won't. Now I'm wishing I had bought a second "new" unit from Ubid. Perhaps then sell the refurb. I almost want to send in the refurb for repair, but the shipping cost would probably make it cost the same had I bought a new one. I might, though they might check the thing and say nothing is wrong with it, as it seems to read any HD DVD and DVD except for a select few DVDs I own.

Hi All. Just bought a RX-V663 Yamaha receiver with truehd decoding. I have a Samsung BD-P1400 blu-ray and Toshiba HD-XA1 HD DVD player which I have both running to the AVR with 1.3 cables. I think I have blu-ray setup properly. As for the XA1 (since it cannot send HD Audio like TrueHD or DTS-HD master audio via bitstream), I'm wondering which is the proper setting under audio for output. I saw two different settings in this thread and I'm not sure which was considered correct, or maybe they both are?
I want to send the older DD and DTS signals out to my AVR to be decoded by IT. For this I would assume the setting to be BITSTREAM. For TrueHD and DTS-HD and DD+ signals, I guess I have to have the player do the decoding and have the signals sent out via PCM correct?
So under audio, do I want the S/PDIF to be BITSTREAM or PCM? And for the HDMI, is this set to AUTO or PCM or BITSTREAM? I think the proper settings are PCM for S/PDIF and AUTO for HDMI. I just want to have DD / DTS to be decoded by AVR automatically and the newer TrueHD & DD+ & DTS-HD to be decoded by player. I'm running the last firmware by the way, I think it was 2.4. Thanx in advance for any help here!

For the Toslink or coaxial set to Bitstream for the 663 to decode. Set the HDMI to Auto. If you want the player to decode MPCM you will need to attach the 6 analog cable to the 663 also. I feel for the best sound on the XA1 the 6 analog connection is best. CD.s and even MP3's sound very good with this connection. Of course opinions vary. If you have all cables handy hook all of them up and judge for yourself. Right now I'm using an A30 using Toslink set to Bitstream and HDMI set to Auto. The A30 in my opinion is not nearly the player the XA1 is. The XA1 just gives you so many more options to connect with. I'm using the A30 to "break it in" and make sure it works properly before boxing it up and putting the XA1 back in service. The A30 was purchased as a backup(new) from UBID. I'll probably use it it for about a month, then it goes into storage hoping I'll never need it. Just remember digital connection receiver decodes, analog connection player(transport)decodes, then decide which sounds better to you. Hope this helps.

What happens if I select DTS 6 audio for LOTR w/ the 5.1 analog out? Should I stick w/ DD 5.1 audio since I do not have the sixth channel?

Brett

Today I tried the Setup -> Maintenance -> Update and found that there is a new firmware. After I completed the Update, the firmware version showed 3.0/1.0A/2.0T. Does anybody know what upgrade/improvement has it brought to XA1?

I use HDMI to connect my XA1 to my AV Amp and to my TV. One thing I notice with the new firmware is that the picture seems to be sharper than before (my original firmware was 2.4).

Check for DTS-HD/MA decoding! Supposedly the 4 DAC's "could" have the power to decode it. Dreaming, but maybe. :)

Today I tried the Setup -> Maintenance -> Update and found that there is a new firmware. After I completed the Update, the firmware version showed 3.0/1.0A/2.0T. Does anybody know what upgrade/improvement has it brought to XA1?

I use HDMI to connect my XA1 to my AV Amp and to my TV. One thing I notice with the new firmware is that the picture seems to be sharper than before (my original firmware was 2.4).

I just tried to update my 2.4 firmware player and it said it was already up to date.

Harry

I just tried to update my 2.4 firmware player and it said it was already up to date.

Harry

I updated the firmware today and you can see from the picture that my firmware version is 3.0.

Check for DTS-HD/MA decoding! Supposedly the 4 DAC's "could" have the power to decode it. Dreaming, but maybe. :)

Can you please give some examples which discs are DTS-HD/MA decoded? I've tried THE BOURNE ULTIMATUM which comes with Dolby TrueHD but my Denon 4308 only showed DTS SURROUND.

Can you please give some examples which discs are DTS-HD/MA decoded? I've tried THE BOURNE ULTIMATUM which comes with Dolby TrueHD but my Denon 4308 only showed DTS SURROUND.

Your going to need some imported movies or Pan's Labyrinth. Or concert disc'.

Your going to need some imported movies or Pan's Labyrinth. Or concert disc'.

I played the DEEP PURPLE Live At Montreux 2006 which has a DTS-HD soundtrack, but my Denon 4308 still showed DTS SURROUND. Too bad!

Strange that there was an update available, after you already had 2.4. I won't have my XA1 til middle of next week, so I can't try.

Strange that there was an update available, after you already had 2.4. I won't have my XA1 til middle of next week, so I can't try.

Yeah, I was also surprised to find this new firmware, and to find that Toshiba, after giving up HD DVD, still makes the new firmware available for download. My XA1 is a Japanese model.

Anybody succeeded in upgrading to 3.0/1.0A/2.0T firmware?

I only firmware I have downloaded are 2.0 and 2.4 from the official firmware link. Anyone have the inbetween firmware?

I'm going to start with 2.0 when I get my XA1 in, and move up only if I need to. I'd rather have more options of getting a good match then being stuck at 2.4 if I need to try 2.4.

tried updating earlier,my machine says its up to date,im on 2.4.Is it possible your machine connects to a different server as its a Japanese model??

tried updating earlier,my machine says its up to date,im on 2.4.Is it possible your machine connects to a different server as its a Japanese model??

Same here. I have an XA1 and an A1. I tried updating my A1 over the weekend and it went out to the net to check for updates. It seemed to have went thru a few processes with "agreement" screens, etc. and then said my machine was up to date as well. The weird thing is after that screen, my beeps went from ON to OFF. I turned the machine off and then back on and now there was no video. I thought I may have bricked the machine but tried reinstalling 2.4. I did and everything is fine again. Don't think I wanna try it on the XA1 since its running fine with 2.4.

Was all excited though when I heard about 3.0! Wouldn't it be cool if there was something out like this for the american models that could decode DTS-HD master! I guess there's absolutely NO CHANCE that firmware could ever enable the first gen models for bitstreaming DD+, TrueHD, etc right???
I just bought the Yamaha 663 and have to set the players to PCM of course.

Same here. I have an XA1 and an A1. I tried updating my A1 over the weekend and it went out to the net to check for updates. It seemed to have went thru a few processes with "agreement" screens, etc. and then said my machine was up to date as well. The weird thing is after that screen, my beeps went from ON to OFF. I turned the machine off and then back on and now there was no video. I thought I may have bricked the machine but tried reinstalling 2.4. I did and everything is fine again. Don't think I wanna try it on the XA1 since its running fine with 2.4.

Was all excited though when I heard about 3.0! Wouldn't it be cool if there was something out like this for the american models that could decode DTS-HD master! I guess there's absolutely NO CHANCE that firmware could ever enable the first gen models for bitstreaming DD+, TrueHD, etc right???
I just bought the Yamaha 663 and have to set the players to PCM of course.

yes it would be v.cool if they could decode DTS MA,but i doubt it will happen,even if it is possible,i mean how many HDDVDs have a DTS-MA track?,and with no new discs being produced plus licencing fees to DTS,there is no way,Toshiba are done spending money on HDDVD

As for bitstreaming,you are correct as the chipset used in the first gen players is compliant to HDMI v1.2 only and isnt upgradeable.....

yes it would be v.cool if they could decode DTS MA,but i doubt it will happen,even if it is possible,i mean how many HDDVDs have a DTS-MA track?,and with no new discs being produced plus licencing fees to DTS,there is no way,Toshiba are done spending money on HDDVD

As for bitstreaming,you are correct as the chipset used in the first gen players is compliant to HDMI v1.2 only and isnt upgradeable.....

Oh well. Yeah, I guess you're right about DTS MA. I have over 25 HD DVD's and I don't think ANY have anything other than DD+ and/or TrueHD on them.

I run both players with S/PDIF set to PCM and HDMI set to AUTO for internal decoding. This is sent out to my 1.3 AVR as PCM. Does this sound correct?

Thinking about the XA2 for nothing more than 1.3 bitstreaming and possible better upconvert to my Panny 1080i plasma. Not sure if the upconverting will be much better though since my TV isn't 1080p (accepts signal but downconverts to 768p). Plus the XA2's are priced out of this world at some stores all of a sudden. Saw some for $900 and $1600!

tried updating earlier,my machine says its up to date,im on 2.4.Is it possible your machine connects to a different server as its a Japanese model??

Ditto,

Brett

If the XA1 was somehow able to do DTS HD-MA at some point, I'd probably replace all my players with this model. I really wish more "new" units were to show up on Ubid. Either that, or that I had bid on a second..

If the XA1 was somehow able to do DTS HD-MA at some point, I'd probably replace all my players with this model. I really wish more "new" units were to show up on Ubid. Either that, or that I had bid on a second..

How do you feel about the XA1 over the XA2 if you only are running into a 1080i TV instead of 1080p? The 1.3 bitstreaming is nice for the XA2, but I'm wondering about PQ? I see the XA2 again on UBID for under three buy it now. But love the build quality and cosmetics (lights, flip down door, etc) that the XA1 has.

How do you feel about the XA1 over the XA2 if you only are running into a 1080i TV instead of 1080p? The 1.3 bitstreaming is nice for the XA2, but I'm wondering about PQ? I see the XA2 again on UBID for under three buy it now. But love the build quality and cosmetics (lights, flip down door, etc) that the XA1 has.

As far as PQ goes with HD DVD on the XA1 and XA2, it's a wash to me. The XA2 does better with SD/DVD material. If I wasn't concerned about DTS HD and was only using a display capable of 1080i, I'd go for the much cheaper XA1. I may go for a second XA2....actually very likely. I own two XA1s but only one XA2. For what's considered the most capable player, I don't own a same model backup.

And as a correction as far as my original comment goes, I'd keep my XA2. I'd replace the lower end ones I own if the prior scenario was the case.

Strange! It seems that I'm the only one who can upgrade to 3.0 FW. Thank God that my XA1 is still running properly and no strange thing happens.

As far as PQ goes with HD DVD on the XA1 and XA2, it's a wash to me. The XA2 does better with SD/DVD material. If I wasn't concerned about DTS HD and was only using a display capable of 1080i, I'd go for the much cheaper XA1. I may go for a second XA2....actually very likely. I own two XA1s but only one XA2. For what's considered the most capable player, I don't own a same model backup.

And as a correction as far as my original comment goes, I'd keep my XA2. I'd replace the lower end ones I own if the prior scenario was the case.

Thanks for your input on this. I have an XA1 and A1 with 1.2 output of course. And only 720p / 1080i sets which I feel look great with the first gen players for both upconverting sdvds and hd dvds. I can't help but think what I'm missing though by not having the 1.3 XA2 since I just bought the Yamaha 663 avr that will decode anything thrown at it. As far as PQ given my 1080i sets, you think there will MOST LIKELY be no noticable difference b/w the XA1 and XA2?

Strange! It seems that I'm the only one who can upgrade to 3.0 FW. Thank God that my XA1 is still running properly and no strange thing happens.

I'm curious what the difference is. I did a quick check on the web and nothing but this website comes up with a google search for the XA1 and firmware 3.0. I would think all players "dial up" the same Toshiba ftp site for firmware if using a USA ISP, but I could be wrong.

Should there be a sticky for firmware 3.0 just like all other new releases. This is going to get buried. MODS?

Thanks for your input on this. I have an XA1 and A1 with 1.2 output of course. And only 720p / 1080i sets which I feel look great with the first gen players for both upconverting sdvds and hd dvds. I can't help but think what I'm missing though by not having the 1.3 XA2 since I just bought the Yamaha 663 avr that will decode anything thrown at it. As far as PQ given my 1080i sets, you think there will MOST LIKELY be no noticable difference b/w the XA1 and XA2?

I get very slight combing with the XA1 on SD material to my 1080p set but I don't know if this would appear on a 1080i set. It doesn't really bother me too much, unlike the A2 and A35 which do bother me with combing - unless I set it to VIDEO instead of FILM or AUTO.

I get very slight combing with the XA1 on SD material to my 1080p set but I don't know if this would appear on a 1080i set. It doesn't really bother me too much, unlike the A2 and A35 which do bother me with combing - unless I set it to VIDEO instead of FILM or AUTO.

On the subject of video / film / auto, what IS the best or most preferred setting? I just have mine set to AUTO for normal viewing. Is this not the norm? Thanx.

On the subject of video / film / auto, what IS the best or most preferred setting? I just have mine set to AUTO for normal viewing. Is this not the norm? Thanx.

This would be a question best suited for someone else to answer. I generally will have it at auto or film, unless I have problems - in that case, I will change it to video. It's too bad you have to stop the disc to change the settings.

i generally have found the picture to be better when the setting is left on film,except on firmware 2.1 where changing the setting seemed to make no difference at all.all viewed through a pioneer 508xd in advance mode,connected via Chord Company HDMI 1.3 silver+,XA1 set to 1080i,enhanced black level off

Figured I put this in 2 places....

The 3.0 FW is now listed on Toshiba's website -->Link Here (http://www.tacp.toshiba.com/resource.asp?resourceid=52)

I can't test to see if it'll download yet as my A1 is boxed up with an A30 in it's place, but I'm sure someone will give it a shot.

i generally have found the picture to be better when the setting is left on film,except on firmware 2.1 where changing the setting seemed to make no difference at all.all viewed through a pioneer 508xd in advance mode,connected via Chord Company HDMI 1.3 silver+,XA1 set to 1080i,enhanced black level off

What differences do you notice? I'll try mine on film when I get home, if I remember, but it would help if I knew what to look for. I don't have to best eye for noticing certain issues without them being pointed out first.

So, I went to update mine with a CD. First it wouldn't read the CD. Used ISOburner at 4x, Maxell CD-R. So I initialized my player. Now I don't get picture! Looks like I'm sending this one back.

Figured I put this in 2 places....

The 3.0 FW is now listed on Toshiba's website -->Link Here (http://www.tacp.toshiba.com/resource.asp?resourceid=52)

I can't test to see if it'll download yet as my A1 is boxed up with an A30 in it's place, but I'm sure someone will give it a shot.

Yes! :) I will download this to my refurb XA1. I wonder if the error at the tail end of my last firmware update has to do with the player not reading a few DVDs. Using 3.0 will hopefully correct this, but at the very least rule out the previous incident as the culprit.

Yes! :) I will download this to my refurb XA1. I wonder if the error at the tail end of my last firmware update has to do with the player not reading a few DVDs. Using 3.0 will hopefully correct this, but at the very least rule out the previous incident as the culprit.


I'm going to wait for a few people to be guinea pigs before I commit to an upgrade. The last updates left alot to be desired.


BTW, I haven't been following this thread. Are you still having problems with your 1 refurb?

I'm going to wait for a few people to be guinea pigs before I commit to an upgrade. The last updates left alot to be desired.


BTW, I haven't been following this thread. Are you still having problems with your 1 refurb?

Just on those select DVD discs.

Stupid as it sounhds a hot water rinse of a DVD sometimes makes it work very well. Maybe the machine is somehow sensitive to static???

I currently have an XA1, XA2, A35, and A30. Got rid of all my A2s.

I have chance to buy another NIB XA1 for $98 from FYE this week. I will use it for some HD DVDs but also many standard dvds.

So the questions are....

Can you think of a more reliable Standard dvd player that I should buy for $100?

Is there a better standard dvd OR HD DVD player in terms of upconverting PQ for $100 (used or new)?

OR would you just find a $50-$80 used A2 and call it a day?

I'm going to wait for a few people to be guinea pigs before I commit to an upgrade. The last updates left alot to be desired.
Wise words... I don't always see the need to jump on a FW upgrade the minute it's released. If you're not having any problems with your current version, there's usually no real urgency to upgrade.

Oh, I've burned the disc and have it ready should the need arise, but I'd rather not risk bricking my player just to have the latest upgrade - that may make no functional, visible or audible difference.

I just updated my XA1 with v3.0 no problem whatsoever. I also noticed that now when I switch input on my TV or my receiver at least the player didn't loose the HDMI connection and it didn't stop playing. So that's good.

I currently have an XA1, XA2, A35, and A30. Got rid of all my A2s.

I have chance to buy another NIB XA1 for $98 from FYE this week. I will use it for some HD DVDs but also many standard dvds.

So the questions are....

Can you think of a more reliable Standard dvd player that I should buy for $100?

Is there a better standard dvd OR HD DVD player in terms of upconverting PQ for $100 (used or new)?

OR would you just find a $50-$80 used A2 and call it a day?

Well everybody found time to PM me regarding where they could get a $99 XA1 (I responded to all) but no one has given me an opinion on the question in my post.

And in the time since my original post above, I found a package deal used A2 and A20 plus 10 HD DVDs for $210 shipped. So now I could take the $100 designated for another XA1 and put it towards this bundle purchase.

Any thoughts??

coolstrategist,

Since you already have an XA1, you know it does an excellent job with upconversions. Unless you just need the extra HD DVD player, I would go with another NIB HD-XA1. Just one man's opinion.

Well everybody found time to PM me regarding where they could get a $99 XA1 (I responded to all) but no one has given me an opinion on the question in my post.

And in the time since my original post above, I found a package deal used A2 and A20 plus 10 HD DVDs for $210 shipped. So now I could take the $100 designated for another XA1 and put it towards this bundle purchase.

Any thoughts??

My thoughts:
About $210 deal. . .can you make good use of the two players vs one? And are the 10 HD DVDs ones you want? If answer to either of above questions is no, it's probably not worth the hassle to re-sell what you don't want to recover the extra $110-160 you'd be spending.

Regarding XA1 vs other choice:
I think the question is whether (and if so, how much) the following have value to you:
- 5.1 analog outs (give you means of getting lossless TrueHD for HD DVD's if your receiver doesn't support it via HDMI)
- CD play quality (some say the XA1 puts out audiophile like CD quality)
- peace of mind knowing your getting NIB vs used/refurb'd
- option of playing HD DVD's (vs standard DVD upconverting machine which never will)
- long-term value of $50

If above don't have tangible value to you, you can pick up a used A2/A3 for $50 or so and save $50. My feeling is that conventional DVD players, even upconverting (which is now almost a standard feature), are fully into ultra-cost reduction mode and I question the long-term reliability. I've had a couple of standard DVD players break down on me after 1-2yrs for what I feel was probably just shoddy build quality. Also, upconversion ability needs to be researched - the really good ones like Oppo may run you more than $100. My thought is the A2/A3 (probably more so the A2) didn't get to the point where they were cost-squeezed to that extent - they were still focusing on other things like faster load times, usability, etc versus ONLY on cost alone.

Personally, the 5.1 capability, NIB peace of mind, and tank-like build quality of the XA1 would make me pull the trigger on the $100 XA1. Even with what I said above, I think by the time the A2 (as esp. the A3) was released, there still was some focus on cost reduction which makes me feel (logically or illogically) that the XA1 is a better built (and therefore potentially more reliable long-term) machine.

Just my thoughts - I may be biased since I have an XA1 though. . .

Well everybody found time to PM me regarding where they could get a $99 XA1 (I responded to all) but no one has given me an opinion on the question in my post.

And in the time since my original post above, I found a package deal used A2 and A20 plus 10 HD DVDs for $210 shipped. So now I could take the $100 designated for another XA1 and put it towards this bundle purchase.

Any thoughts??
btw, thanks for the pointer on fye.

regarding better deal upconverter for around $100, there is none that I know of currently. that is, unless you are including used players such as zenith dvb318 (one of the very few farouja 1080i via components out there). if you want anything decent, the 3 oppos model at $150 and higher are great, but they cost more than $100.

My thoughts:
About $210 deal. . .can you make good use of the two players vs one? And are the 10 HD DVDs ones you want? If answer to either of above questions is no, it's probably not worth the hassle to re-sell what you don't want to recover the extra $110-160 you'd be spending.

Regarding XA1 vs other choice:
I think the question is whether (and if so, how much) the following have value to you:
- 5.1 analog outs (give you means of getting lossless TrueHD for HD DVD's if your receiver doesn't support it via HDMI)
- CD play quality (some say the XA1 puts out audiophile like CD quality)
- peace of mind knowing your getting NIB vs used/refurb'd
- option of playing HD DVD's (vs standard DVD upconverting machine which never will)
- long-term value of $50

If above don't have tangible value to you, you can pick up a used A2/A3 for $50 or so and save $50. My feeling is that conventional DVD players, even upconverting (which is now almost a standard feature), are fully into ultra-cost reduction mode and I question the long-term reliability. I've had a couple of standard DVD players break down on me after 1-2yrs for what I feel was probably just shoddy build quality. Also, upconversion ability needs to be researched - the really good ones like Oppo may run you more than $100. My thought is the A2/A3 (probably more so the A2) didn't get to the point where they were cost-squeezed to that extent - they were still focusing on other things like faster load times, usability, etc versus ONLY on cost alone.

Personally, the 5.1 capability, NIB peace of mind, and tank-like build quality of the XA1 would make me pull the trigger on the $100 XA1. Even with what I said above, I think by the time the A2 (as esp. the A3) was released, there still was some focus on cost reduction which makes me feel (logically or illogically) that the XA1 is a better built (and therefore potentially more reliable long-term) machine.

Just my thoughts - I may be biased since I have an XA1 though. . .
i second the xa1 audio quality. for only $100, xa1 stands well on its own vs $1600 creek cd50classic and $700 rotel rcd1072 standalone cd player, side by side with an old pair of current dumping Quad405 on Vandersteens and Epos monitor. just on the audio quality alone, there is nothing even close to it. and for the "computer parts", you cannot get any sound card combo to even come close. the only weak spot is the xa1 cd transport. but you'd be paying an arm, a leg, plus change for older toshibas, super high end sony es, or higher end pioneer elite / marantz for the more common models, or the more recent cambridge audio models. beyond this, you'd be in the $2000-$3000 transport only range. the real truth is the xa1 not only stands well, it stands out on its own.

as for comparing xa1 and xa2, sound is definitely better on xa1. but pictures is definitely better for xa2 on nice 1080p type flatscreens, but not as obvious if you own a reon upconvert projector (I scored a Benq W500 720p from Amazon for $680; it upconverts all video input (1 hdmi, 2 components, vga, etc) with reon). the only complaint i have is black crush with w500. but then the problem is with projector, not xa2 or xa1.

you really cannot beat owning any of the earlier top toshiba hd dvd models.

Thanks for the help guys!

I have only had my first XA1 for about a week and have not had a chance to test anything. So all the input was needed. I will grab the other XA1 and pass on the used two player deal. That will leave me with two XA1s an XA2, A30, and A35.

The reason I was leaning towards picking up the A2 and A20 was because most feedback here suggests that those players are much less finicky with disk playback overall (sd, rental, hd, used etc). Nothing worse than having a full HT room and the XA2 and/or A35 chokes on the same HD/SD DVD.

I need to have one player in the rack that is my go to solid standby for playback of "challenging" media.

Is the XA1 as picky with playback?

Well everybody found time to PM me regarding where they could get a $99 XA1 (I responded to all) but no one has given me an opinion on the question in my post.

And in the time since my original post above, I found a package deal used A2 and A20 plus 10 HD DVDs for $210 shipped. So now I could take the $100 designated for another XA1 and put it towards this bundle purchase.

Any thoughts??

My thoughts:
About $210 deal. . .can you make good use of the two players vs one? And are the 10 HD DVDs ones you want? If answer to either of above questions is no, it's probably not worth the hassle to re-sell what you don't want to recover the extra $110-160 you'd be spending.

Regarding XA1 vs other choice:
I think the question is whether (and if so, how much) the following have value to you:
- 5.1 analog outs (give you means of getting lossless TrueHD for HD DVD's if your receiver doesn't support it via HDMI)
- CD play quality (some say the XA1 puts out audiophile like CD quality)
- peace of mind knowing your getting NIB vs used/refurb'd
- option of playing HD DVD's (vs standard DVD upconverting machine which never will)
- long-term value of $50

If above don't have tangible value to you, you can pick up a used A2/A3 for $50 or so and save $50. My feeling is that conventional DVD players, even upconverting (which is now almost a standard feature), are fully into ultra-cost reduction mode and I question the long-term reliability. I've had a couple of standard DVD players break down on me after 1-2yrs for what I feel was probably just shoddy build quality. Also, upconversion ability needs to be researched - the really good ones like Oppo may run you more than $100. My thought is the A2/A3 (probably more so the A2) didn't get to the point where they were cost-squeezed to that extent - they were still focusing on other things like faster load times, usability, etc versus ONLY on cost alone.

Personally, the 5.1 capability, NIB peace of mind, and tank-like build quality of the XA1 would make me pull the trigger on the $100 XA1. Even with what I said above, I think by the time the A2 (as esp. the A3) was released, there still was some focus on cost reduction which makes me feel (logically or illogically) that the XA1 is a better built (and therefore potentially more reliable long-term) machine.

Just my thoughts - I may be biased since I have an XA1 though. . .
Another minor point... The XA1 can playback MP3 and WMA files if I remember the manual correctly. This feature was later removed from all 2nd and 3rd gen machines I believe. Someone correct me if I'm wrong.

Thanks for the help guys!

I have only had my first XA1 for about a week and have not had a chance to test anything. So all the input was needed. I will grab the other XA1 and pass on the used two player deal. That will leave me with two XA1s an XA2, A30, and A35.

The reason I was leaning towards picking up the A2 and A20 was because most feedback here suggests that those players are much less finicky with disk playback overall (sd, rental, hd, used etc). Nothing worse than having a full HT room and the XA2 and/or A35 chokes on the same HD/SD DVD.

I need to have one player in the rack that is my go to solid standby for playback of "challenging" media.

Is the XA1 as picky with playback?
The XA1 can be finicky with some discs, but it has been my experience that this only occurs with heavily scratched rental or used discs. Netflix discs seemed to be the worst offenders. So much so, that I quit renting the HD discs. Otherwise, my 20 month old XA1 has been flawless in playback of new discs. I've never had one lock it up, skip, stutter, or quite playing. It may be slow on startup, but it's a solid player. And, personally, I don't think you'll ever miss 1080p output. I have 2. :D

The XA1 can be finicky with some discs, but it has been my experience that this only occurs with heavily scratched rental or used discs. Netflix discs seemed to be the worst offenders. So much so, that I quit renting the HD discs. Otherwise, my 20 month old XA1 has been flawless in playback of new discs. I've never had one lock it up, skip, stutter, or quite playing. It may be slow on startup, but it's a solid player. And, personally, I don't think you'll ever miss 1080p output. I have 2. :D

I have an A1 & XA1 and I agree that they're both awesome for upconverting (plus the build quaility over the 2nd and 3rd gens is no comparison....they're built like tanks). I've been reading about the XA1's going for dirt cheap on many threads in this forum but all of those deals are local for pickup at stores, correct? I checked my local FYE and they said that all the HD DVD players have been long gone (shipped back to manufacturer right when Toshiba announced defeat). So my question is where, if any, online stores are selling these yet (new preferably but most likely all refurbs)? I see online stores selling the XA2 for mucho bucks, but no XA1's. Are they all gone besides for ebay?
Also, not sure where to post this issue on this forum:
I have a cheap RCA upconverting dvd player for one of my rooms connected to my plasma 37" via a 35' HDMI cable and an HDMI extension 6' cable on both ends (didn't figure a long enough cable for new room and 35' is being walls and too short!). I am experiencing fairly severe audio/video sync. Not sure if its the cheap dvd player or my 35' cable with 6' extensions on both ends. I shouldn't be having issues with hdmi if less than 50' length should I?

I have an A1 & XA1 and I agree that they're both awesome for upconverting (plus the build quaility over the 2nd and 3rd gens is no comparison....they're built like tanks). I've been reading about the XA1's going for dirt cheap on many threads in this forum but all of those deals are local for pickup at stores, correct? I checked my local FYE and they said that all the HD DVD players have been long gone (shipped back to manufacturer right when Toshiba announced defeat). So my question is where, if any, online stores are selling these yet (new preferably but most likely all refurbs)? I see online stores selling the XA2 for mucho bucks, but no XA1's. Are they all gone besides for ebay?
Also, not sure where to post this issue on this forum:
I have a cheap RCA upconverting dvd player for one of my rooms connected to my plasma 37" via a 35' HDMI cable and an HDMI extension 6' cable on both ends (didn't figure a long enough cable for new room and 35' is being walls and too short!). I am experiencing fairly severe audio/video sync. Not sure if its the cheap dvd player or my 35' cable with 6' extensions on both ends. I shouldn't be having issues with hdmi if less than 50' length should I?
That's not entirely true about FYE. They had them in stores(still do 2 wks ago), long after Toshiba threw in the towel. That was my local source. I can't speak to where they might be available online - except for Overstock, Refurb Depot, eBay and the like. I think I'm done buying HD players. I'm purple now, with the recent LG multi-drive I added to my HTPC setup.

That's not entirely true about FYE. They had them in stores(still do 2 wks ago), long after Toshiba threw in the towel. That was my local source. I can't speak to where they might be available online - except for Overstock, Refurb Depot, eBay and the like. I think I'm done buying HD players. I'm purple now, with the recent LG multi-drive I added to my HTPC setup.

Maybe the young kid didn't have a clue......

I'll have to check out Overstock and Refurb....I only checked ubid.com.

FYE store in Chicago shipped another $98 NIB XA1 to my local FYE store in Atlanta last week. It is scheduled for delivery this week and they will call me when it arrives. They did the same thing for me two weeks ago.

And, yes....it was that store's last XA1. But I would not be surprised if there are more out there.

FYE store in Chicago shipped another $98 NIB XA1 to my local FYE store in Atlanta last week. It is scheduled for delivery this week and they will call me when it arrives. They did the same thing for me two weeks ago.

And, yes....it was that store's last XA1. But I would not be surprised if there are more out there.

I called my store in the Lehigh Valley PA and the chick there sounded like she thought I was crazy. She said ALL stores "sent them back". Yeah, like she knows...where did EVERY STORE send "them back" to? I mentioned about several stores in the US shipping to stores if somebody wanted an XA1. She said no FYE stores EVER ship out of their region......yeah ok, whatever. I'll just have to keep on looking. I'll most likely just keep both my A1 and XA1 and look for an XA2 for around $300 and keep the other two mostly as backups.

I called my store in the Lehigh Valley PA and the chick there sounded like she thought I was crazy. She said ALL stores "sent them back". Yeah, like she knows...where did EVERY STORE send "them back" to? I mentioned about several stores in the US shipping to stores if somebody wanted an XA1. She said no FYE stores EVER ship out of their region......yeah ok, whatever. I'll just have to keep on looking. I'll most likely just keep both my A1 and XA1 and look for an XA2 for around $300 and keep the other two mostly as backups.

That type of poor customer service really annoys me. The managers CLEARLY have the ability to ship to another store and WILL.

The woman I spoke with at the Chicago FYE was exceptional and very nice. She asked me the store location where I wanted it shipped and I gave her the store number and phone number. She said that she was impressed that I had done my homework and shipped it within two days AT NO CHARGE to me. She even called the manager at the receiving Atlanta store to let him know it was coming. When I called my local store about a day or two later to ensure they were prepared the manager there knew my name and said he would call when it came in. He did just that. When I called to get the second XA1 from Chicago the woman was just as friendly and shipped again.

So yes, the woman you spoke to was "crazy".

I'll most likely just keep both my A1 and XA1 and look for an XA2 for around $300 and keep the other two mostly as backups.
I've had my A1 since August '06 and it's been a nice HD player and SD upconverter.
No offense, but I can't for the life of me, understand the desire to hoard all these "backup" players.
I'm planning on buying a next-gen BR player soon and I really doubt I'll be using the A1 much after that.

I've had my A1 since August '06 and it's been a nice HD player and SD upconverter.
No offense, but I can't for the life of me, understand the desire to hoard all these "backup" players.
I'm planning on buying a next-gen BR player soon and I really doubt I'll be using the A1 much after that.


I got a XA2 for $228, XA1 for $70 and another XA1 for $40. That's why!:D

i second the xa1 audio quality. for only $100, xa1 stands well on its own vs $1600 creek cd50classic and $700 rotel rcd1072 standalone cd player, side by side with an old pair of current dumping Quad405 on Vandersteens and Epos monitor. just on the audio quality alone, there is nothing even close to it. and for the "computer parts", you cannot get any sound card combo to even come close. the only weak spot is the xa1 cd transport. but you'd be paying an arm, a leg, plus change for older toshibas, super high end sony es, or higher end pioneer elite / marantz for the more common models, or the more recent cambridge audio models. beyond this, you'd be in the $2000-$3000 transport only range. the real truth is the xa1 not only stands well, it stands out on its own.

as for comparing xa1 and xa2, sound is definitely better on xa1. but pictures is definitely better for xa2 on nice 1080p type flatscreens, but not as obvious if you own a reon upconvert projector (I scored a Benq W500 720p from Amazon for $680; it upconverts all video input (1 hdmi, 2 components, vga, etc) with reon). the only complaint i have is black crush with w500. but then the problem is with projector, not xa2 or xa1.

you really cannot beat owning any of the earlier top toshiba hd dvd models.


Well said. Especially about the transport.
My XA1 sounds better than my $1000 Njoe Tjoeb tube CD player on alot of material. The fact that these players are dirt cheap right now makes them the audiophile deal of the decade.

I've had my A1 since August '06 and it's been a nice HD player and SD upconverter.
No offense, but I can't for the life of me, understand the desire to hoard all these "backup" players.
I'm planning on buying a next-gen BR player soon and I really doubt I'll be using the A1 much after that.

I'm just a little concerned that if my player(s) dies, I'll have an HD DVD collection with no player to play them on (assuming the dual format players will seize production in the next year).

I got a XA2 for $228, XA1 for $70 and another XA1 for $40. That's why!:D

Wow, where the heck did you get those players at those prices?????!!!!! Wanna sell your XA2? Ha ha.

I'm just a little concerned that if my player(s) dies, I'll have an HD DVD collection with no player to play them on (assuming the dual format players will seize production in the next year).


they might not seize production but they will eventually cease production.

i have and xa1 that just came in as a fix for a broken xa1.
tweeter couldn't fix it so they sent it to toshiba.
toshiba couldn't fix it and i was told a replacement would be an xa2.

to my surprise when i went in to pick up my xa2 it was a refurb xa1.

i called toshiba and they told me this is the policy.

Wow, where the heck did you get those players at those prices?????!!!!! Wanna sell your XA2? Ha ha.


You may be the only one around here that missed the uBid frenzy! :p

I would rather have beavers gnaw off my arms than get rid of the XA2!:D

You may be the only one around here that missed the uBid frenzy! :p

I would rather have beavers gnaw off my arms than get rid of the XA2!:D

The last I saw, UBid still has them for $299 Buy It Now plus shipping but that's for refurbs I think. As long as they're solid, it is tempting. But from what I've heard, the price of even the refurbs will only go up. I think I read on here that they were initially going for like $225 or so, and last I saw $299, maybe even higher now. Some places on the net have them for over 1K, as I'm sure everyone knows. For my 720P plasma, I'm just not convinced I'll see a HUGE difference in upconversion from my XA1 PQ. The dealbreaker may be the bitstreaming ability of the DTS MA and TrueHD which I don't have right now to go with my new Yammy 663.

Any results from firmware 3.0 ???

Any results from firmware 3.0 ???

I have played Happy Feet and Serenity since the upgrade and no glitches but, then again, I had no glitches w/ the previous firmware.

Brett

When I saw firmware 3.0 was out, I thought they must have done something big. Usually the small updates are a .1 type increase (i.e. 2.4 to 2.5).

But from what I read, firmware 3.0 doesn't seem to have any big new features. I have version 2.4 installed and workng great. Is there really any reason to upgrade the firmware?

When I saw firmware 3.0 was out, I thought they must have done something big. Usually the small updates are a .1 type increase (i.e. 2.4 to 2.5).

But from what I read, firmware 3.0 doesn't seem to have any big new features. I have version 2.4 installed and workng great. Is there really any reason to upgrade the firmware?
No.

When I saw firmware 3.0 was out, I thought they must have done something big. Usually the small updates are a .1 type increase (i.e. 2.4 to 2.5).

But from what I read, firmware 3.0 doesn't seem to have any big new features. I have version 2.4 installed and workng great. Is there really any reason to upgrade the firmware?


I downloaded the file for firmware 3.0 but see no reason, at present, to make use of it.

When I saw firmware 3.0 was out, I thought they must have done something big. Usually the small updates are a .1 type increase (i.e. 2.4 to 2.5).

But from what I read, firmware 3.0 doesn't seem to have any big new features. I have version 2.4 installed and workng great. Is there really any reason to upgrade the firmware?


3.0 firmware gets rid of the hdmi handshake issue when switching devices.

Blasst,

Well, that is good enough reason for me. I have sometimes wanted to switch to another source for a few minutes without having to restart the whole movie. Cool...

Darrell

I discovered last night that the XA1 has a really hard time playing Weinstein discs. They'd struggle to load for minutes on end..I found a workaround. Stop the disc and hit play again. It'll start pretty much instantly.

I got xa1 on ebay with no remote. Does any remote from second or third generation players work on the xa1?
thanks..

I got xa1 on ebay with no remote. Does any remote from second or third generation players work on the xa1?
thanks..

Remote from the 2nd and 3rd generation works but they don't have the 'V ouput' and ' Resolution' buttons, So I don't know if you can change the resolution or switch the video output or not.

Remote from the 2nd and 3rd generation works but they don't have the 'V ouput' and ' Resolution' buttons, So I don't know if you can change the resolution or switch the video output or not.

Hi, Just received my xa1 from ebay. Purchased the unit knowing there's no remote. It powers on but has no picture/audio from HDMI. It works using component input. Looks like there's a "V" button on the remote to access hdmi. Anyone know how I can do this with an A2/A30 remote? I contacted toshiba to see if I can order a remote. They referred me to a parts distributor. The distributor didn't have it in stock and said they would have to order it from toshiba. Great help toshiba!! Anyone have an extra remote laying around? By the way, I downloaded the iso image from toshiba and tried updated new firmware with no success. Reads "no disc". Any suggestions?

Hi, Just received my xa1 from ebay. Purchased the unit knowing there's no remote. It powers on but has no picture/audio from HDMI. It works using component input. Looks like there's a "V" button on the remote to access hdmi. Anyone know how I can do this with an A2/A30 remote? I contacted toshiba to see if I can order a remote. They referred me to a parts distributor. The distributor didn't have it in stock and said they would have to order it from toshiba. Great help toshiba!! Anyone have an extra remote laying around? By the way, I downloaded the iso image from toshiba and tried updated new firmware with no success. Reads "no disc". Any suggestions?

You can check around ,this is the remote model # SE-R0200 .The cheapest place is about $50. I also saw one last week on ebay for $20. If you are in So. Cal . maybe I can help you out by letting you program those buttons to your "learning" remote if you have one.

You can check around ,this is the remote model # SE-R0200 .The cheapest place is about $50. I also saw one last week on ebay for $20. If you are in So. Cal . maybe I can help you out by letting you program those buttons to your "learning" remote if you have one.

Thanks for the offer. Sadly, I'm in the south florida area.
Also, I saw it for $60 on toshiba's website. Do the xa1/a1 use the same remote? If so, I might just pick up a cheap
a1 on ebay for the price of just the remote from toshiba..

You can order a new one from here. Price is approx. $59.00

http://www.partstore.com/Model/Toshiba/Toshiba/HDXA1.aspx

By the way, I downloaded the iso image from toshiba and tried updated new firmware with no success. Reads "no disc". Any suggestions?

There's a special way to create an ISO disk. Did you do it correctly?

Have you thought of getting a universal remote that already has the Xa1 programmed in?

Once you have the remote, you can hook up to a ethernet internet connection and download the firmware update directly to the player.

I was not able to figure out how to do it without a remote, but it has been a long time since I did it, and I do not remember the details.

I do remember that I changed batteries and everything worked OK. The menus were timing out faster than I could get the right command signaled to the unit with weak batteries in the remote.

Doug

Thanks for the offer. Sadly, I'm in the south florida area.
Also, I saw it for $60 on toshiba's website. Do the xa1/a1 use the same remote? If so, I might just pick up a cheap
a1 on ebay for the price of just the remote from toshiba..

There's a special way to create an ISO disk. Did you do it correctly?

I think I did it correctly. Downloaded the file and unzipped. I use the same program Active ISO burner which was suggested by toshiba tech and it worked for my A2.

Just a quick question. Is there some special process to play a CD. I get no disc message. Have no manual so I'll have to download it, over 60 pages..:(

Just a quick question. Is there some special process to play a CD. I get no disc message. Have no manual so I'll have to download it, over 60 pages..:(

Same as the A2.

For the Toslink or coaxial set to Bitstream for the 663 to decode. Set the HDMI to Auto. If you want the player to decode MPCM you will need to attach the 6 analog cable to the 663 also. I feel for the best sound on the XA1 the 6 analog connection is best. CD.s and even MP3's sound very good with this connection. Of course opinions vary. If you have all cables handy hook all of them up and judge for yourself. Right now I'm using an A30 using Toslink set to Bitstream and HDMI set to Auto. The A30 in my opinion is not nearly the player the XA1 is. The XA1 just gives you so many more options to connect with. I'm using the A30 to "break it in" and make sure it works properly before boxing it up and putting the XA1 back in service. The A30 was purchased as a backup(new) from UBID. I'll probably use it it for about a month, then it goes into storage hoping I'll never need it. Just remember digital connection receiver decodes, analog connection player(transport)decodes, then decide which sounds better to you. Hope this helps.

hold on my friend...I have the XA1,which I use primarily as a CD player.Primarily for the 4 superb audio DACS in the player.

To take advantage of this,you need use
the 2 channel analog outputs on the XA1 to the 2 channel analog inputs on your AV receiver.(I have the PIO Elite 74TXVI).

DO NOT use the 6 channel analog outputs for CD playing.....WHY?....
because it's stupid.You would be using the audio DACS in the XA1,however,
you will be taking a CD that has been recorded in 2 channel at the mastering
point and spreading the sound out over
5.1 channels.
You don't get 6 discrete channels like SACD,but,simply 2 channels,bloated-up
to play in 6.
This isn't the way it was mastered and it will sound weird.

The 6 analog outputs are used for DD,DTS etc,if you feel that the Dacs in the XA1 are better than the audio Dacs
in your receiver....that's all.

I have found it's better to hook-up both the 6 channel analog as well as the 2 channel analog outputs.This way you don't have to change the audio menu from 5.1ch to 2 ch.
Leave the 6 channel audio set to 5.1ch
and switch your receiver to the analog input when listening to cd's.

what would be wrong with using hdmi for lsitening to cds

Same as the A2.

Still can't get it to play cd. No disc message. There must be some setting with the remote. With my a2/a30, I pop in a cd and it starts playing..

Still can't get it to play cd. No disc message. There must be some setting with the remote. With my a2/a30, I pop in a cd and it starts playing..

There's no setting on the remote to play CD,you may have a bad drive. I remember someone also has that problem, one day it just stops playing CD . I think the NEC drive in the 1st generation players are not that reliable. I still wonder if we can replace the drive with Toshiba one.

You don't get 6 discrete channels like SACD,but,simply 2 channels,bloated-up
to play in 6.
This isn't the way it was mastered and it will sound weird.

Please explain in more detail.

what would be wrong with using hdmi for lsitening to cds

Nothing is wrong. Unfortunately, you don't get the best sound quality with HDMI.

Nothing is wrong. Unfortunately, you don't get the best sound quality with HDMI.

Wouldn't this be dependent on the processor it's going to? I imagine running HDMI to a high end HDMI capable receiver would give good sound.

There's no setting on the remote to play CD,you may have a bad drive. I remember someone also has that problem, one day it just stops playing CD . I think the NEC drive in the 1st generation players are not that reliable. I still wonder if we can replace the drive with Toshiba one.

Great:( This thing looks brand new, not a scratch..

Wouldn't this be dependent on the processor it's going to? I imagine running HDMI to a high end HDMI capable receiver would give good sound.

Yeah, I realized I couldn't defend the statement after I wrote it. There are too many variables in equipment to make such a blanket statement. My bad.

There have been some rumblings in the High End audio mags about the inferior sound quality of HDMI. But those guys put their power cables on wood blocks and spend $1000/ft. on audio cables, so their sanity is in doubt!:D

Another minor point... The XA1 can playback MP3 and WMA files if I remember the manual correctly. This feature was later removed from all 2nd and 3rd gen machines I believe. Someone correct me if I'm wrong.


I have been using my XA1 since day1 to play mp3 discs. The toshiba software is lame as well as buggy though. The visual track layout on the TV is poorly done. Most mp3 discs play fine, and some have track issues, and some have weird distortion issues. I haven't tried WMA discs.

hold on my friend...I have the XA1,which I use primarily as a CD player.Primarily for the 4 superb audio DACS in the player.

To take advantage of this,you need use
the 2 channel analog outputs on the XA1 to the 2 channel analog inputs on your AV receiver.(I have the PIO Elite 74TXVI).

DO NOT use the 6 channel analog outputs for CD playing.....WHY?....
because it's stupid.You would be using the audio DACS in the XA1,however,
you will be taking a CD that has been recorded in 2 channel at the mastering
point and spreading the sound out over
5.1 channels.
You don't get 6 discrete channels like SACD,but,simply 2 channels,bloated-up
to play in 6.
This isn't the way it was mastered and it will sound weird.

The 6 analog outputs are used for DD,DTS etc,if you feel that the Dacs in the XA1 are better than the audio Dacs
in your receiver....that's all.

I have found it's better to hook-up both the 6 channel analog as well as the 2 channel analog outputs.This way you don't have to change the audio menu from 5.1ch to 2 ch.
Leave the 6 channel audio set to 5.1ch
and switch your receiver to the analog input when listening to cd's.

What about if you have a digital receiver? HDMI should work fine since you don't need to do D/AC, but I could be wrong on how the process actually works. The Panny 57 is coming to mind since a lot of people use them with HD players.

There's no setting on the remote to play CD,you may have a bad drive. I remember someone also has that problem, one day it just stops playing CD . I think the NEC drive in the 1st generation players are not that reliable. I still wonder if we can replace the drive with Toshiba one.

This explains why I can't update firmware with cd..:mad:

Quote:
Originally Posted by TuenMuner View Post
There is no way that I'm going to sell my RCA, good luck finding a CD player that has 4 Burr Brown DACs for only a 100 bucks. lol

Are Burr Browns for CD's over analog 2-channel only (not optical or coaxial)?


"The XA1 and the A1 have Burr-Brown PCM1755 on both 5.1 and stereo outputs."

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/archi.../t-935004.html

http://anchorage.craigslist.org/ele/710865278.html

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i'm trying to figure out if my rca hd dvd player is worth keeping as a cd player. it looks like i could resell it for $50-$100 on ebay (about the same amount i paid for it -- possibly a tad more, even). any help? do i have to connect the 2.0 stereo analogs to take advantage of burr browns for cd's?

the 5.1 analog inputs are going to be re-occupied by a new pioneer 05fd blu-ray player.

thanks in advance for any help that can be provided.

bump

i'm trying to figure out if my rca hd dvd player is worth keeping as a cd player. it looks like i could resell it for $50-$100 on ebay (about the same amount i paid for it -- possibly a tad more, even). any help? do i have to connect the 2.0 stereo analogs to take advantage of burr browns for cd's?

the 5.1 analog inputs are going to be re-occupied by a new pioneer 05fd blu-ray player.

thanks in advance for any help that can be provided.

yes, if you connect the 2.0 stereo analog outputs, you'll benefit from the burr browns.

Remote from the 2nd and 3rd generation works but they don't have the 'V ouput' and ' Resolution' buttons, So I don't know if you can change the resolution or switch the video output or not.

I contacted the seller to see if he can find the missing remote. Turns out he had the remote. Finally got the remote but didn't have the 'V output'. It turns out he sent me the remote for the XA2 (se-r0251)instead. It looks almost the same as XA1 but has a button label 'picture' instead of 'v out'. I still couldn't get it to change resolution with this button. I found out this remote cost twice as much as the XA1 . If anyone has an extra XA1 remote to exchange, let me know..