At the german IFA show Toshiba announced their line-up for the HD-DVD launch in Europe. The HD-E1 (599 EURO) will launch in November, and the HD-XE1 (899 EURO) in December. Both have decoders for DD+, DTS-HD and DolbyTrueHD (both in 5.1). The HD-XE1 also has 1080p and HDMI 1.3

See attached PDF-file (in german).

Oli

At the german IFA show Toshiba announced their line-up for the HD-DVD launch in Europe. The HD-E1 (599 EURO) will launch in November, and the HD-XE1 (899 EURO) in December. Both have decoders for DD+, DTS-HD and DolbyTrueHD (both in 5.1). The HD-XE1 also has 1080p and HDMI 1.3

See attached PDF-file (in german).

Oli

Wow 1080p and HDMI 1.3, now that is a news bomb. :)

It also decodes DTS-HD!

I assume the 1080p & 1.3 version won't ship right away, as they haven't started shipping the 1.3 HDMI chips yet, AFAIK. Maybe by the first of the year I can see this being out. And I assume the 1080p is done via de-interlacing chip, like the Sammy BD player (not that there's anything wrong with that). Those are much better differentiating features than the current two tiers of Tosh, though, IMO.

Oh, I believe DTS-HD is the re-name of normal DTS (or something close to that). The lossless version is now called DTS Master Audio.

Will we see any of these new Toshiba players in North America before Xmas?

HD DVD has no region coding for HD DVD.
Does it have region coding for SD DVD?
A1's from Japan came to the US, before the official North American launch.
So, yeah!
When ever these hit European shores, there sure to leap over the pond.
What langauge, does EU A/V equipment 'speak'?

I don't read German but from what I can make out of the PDF file, Toshiba HD-E1 will not have 5.1 analog ,1080p capability, and no HDMI 1.3 for the price of 300EUR?.... Am I correct?......

It also decodes DTS-HD!
The PDF file specifies "DTS core" decoding of DTS-HD for both models, the same as the USA players.

I don't read German but from what I can make out of the PDF file, Toshiba HD-E1 will not have 5.1 analog ,1080p capability, and no HDMI 1.3 for the price of 300EUR?.... Am I correct?......

Yep.
I think, the E1 cannot play the HD-sound-formats in 5.1, since it lacks both HDMI 1.3 and 5.1 analog out.

Yep.
I think, the E1 cannot play the HD-sound-formats in 5.1, since it lacks both HDMI 1.3 and 5.1 analog out.

HDMI 1.1 will pass them as PCM.

599 Euro, hm, that puts it dangerously next to the PS3. It´s a pitty they couldn´t make it 499. But on the other hand, the HD-market in Europe is not that big. Enthusiasts inform themselves and many HT-freaks will probably still choose this HD-DVD player over buying a game-console to watch their movies on.
The unit looks solid and the 1080p output of the HD-XE1 is also exciting.

I assume the 1080p & 1.3 version won't ship right away, as they haven't started shipping the 1.3 HDMI chips yet, AFAIK.

October.link (http://www.audioholics.com/news/pressreleases/HDMI13siliconimagechips.php)

The PDF file specifies "DTS core" decoding of DTS-HD for both models, the same as the USA players.

Well that Sucks!

i guess that 'toshiba engineer' whom people have been quoting for lack of tl hd45 playback until 2007 didn't know what he was talking about...but to be fair, he did preface the interview by saying he did not work in the part of toshiba that handled ce devices but in the computer drive division...but you can't stop the spin machine once it is in full spin cycle mode!


this is great news ... how the hell did they sneak hdmi 1.3 in there...toshiba is really executing their war strategy quite well!

now when the hell are we in the usa and japan going to get these new g2 players since that is obviously what they are!

I assume the 1080p & 1.3 version won't ship right away, as they haven't started shipping the 1.3 HDMI chips yet, AFAIK.

In Europe, the XE1 is shipping "early December", as opposed to "mid November" for the E1.

Those are much better differentiating features than the current two tiers of Tosh, though, IMO.

I agree. In comparison to the US 1g models, the XE1 is a better deal... and the E1 a worse one (no analog multichannel outputs? Come on, even noname $50 players have them now!).

but what about the US and Japan models?
No HDMI 1.3 in US and Japan?

Some better pics for the HD-E1/XE1:
http://www.areadvd.de/news/2006/IFA_2006/010906_Toshiba_HD-DVD_02.shtml
http://www.areadvd.de/news/2006/IFA_2006/010906_Toshiba_HD-DVD.shtml

That's pretty sleek looking.

Ok, I now have high end XE1 euro envy.

Is there any chance that the EU will force these players to be region free so I can play my region 1 disks in them?

I mean huge multi-national government entities have to be good for something right? I mean I would like to take advantage of our European friends VAT tax dollars at work. :D

Some better pics for the HD-E1/XE1:
http://www.areadvd.de/news/2006/IFA_2006/010906_Toshiba_HD-DVD_02.shtml
http://www.areadvd.de/news/2006/IFA_2006/010906_Toshiba_HD-DVD.shtml


WOW! these are beautiful devices :)

HD DVD's ''Look and Sound of Perfect'' Now Playing in
Europe; HD DVD Players and Movie Content Available for the
2006 Holiday Season; European and Hollywood Studios Show
Strong Support for the Format
Sep 1 at 10:15
Profile hits: QU1

BERLIN--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 1, 2006--
In a press conference today at IFA, the HD DVD Promotion Group, a
multinational organization comprised of more than 130 leading consumer
electronics, entertainment, software, IT, and disc replication companies,
announced that next-generation HD DVD players and high-definition content will
be widely available to the European market beginning November 2006. HD DVD will
provide consumers with pristine video and stunning surround sound allowing them
to take advantage of today's high-definition televisions and home theater
systems.
Toshiba Corporation unveiled two new HD DVD players for the European
market that will be available in just a few weeks. The first player is a
mainstream model priced at 599EURO. A higher-end model will be available in
December at 899EURO. Both players offer new, state-of-the-art video processing,
support for the latest video and surround-sound formats, and extensive support
for advanced navigation and interactive features, along with a new, slimline
design. The high-end model adds 1080p output to the Toshiba line-up. This
announcement follows the company's launch of AV notebook PC Qosmio G30 with HD
DVD-ROM drive this June.
Studio Canal announced 10 titles that will be available in November
followed by an additional 15 titles by March including "The Pianist," "Million
Dollar Baby" and "La Haine." Executives from Paramount Home Entertainment
International, Universal Pictures International and Warner Home Video announced
more than 25 titles including "Apollo 13," "Constantine," "Goodfellas,"
"Jarhead," "M:i:III" and "Lethal Weapon" will be available in Europe to coincide
with the release of the Toshiba players. Together, nearly 40 titles will be
available throughout Europe by the end of 2006 and more than 55 in the first
quarter of 2007. The studios also pledged strong support for HD DVD in 2007 and
highlighted plans to offer current theatrical releases as well as choice
selections from their vast catalogs of classics over the next several months.
Pathe Distribution announced that "Renaissance," the French animated
science fiction film, will be available in HD DVD at launch, and 2 Entertain has
committed to release the highly acclaimed BBC/Sir David Attenborough program
"Planet Earth."
"HD DVD has been lauded by early adopters in the US and Japan for
providing consistently high-quality and unsurpassed audio and video
performance," said Yoshihide Fujii, Chairman of the HD DVD Promotion Group and
Toshiba's Corporate Senior Vice President and President and CEO of Digital Media
Network Company. "Europe is seeing fast-growing demand for HDTV, and we are
proud to offer HD DVD as a way to help customers maximize enjoyment of their
home theaters."
As one of the key technology providers for HD DVD, Microsoft offered its
perspective on HD DVD encompassing both IT and entertainment.
"With industry-leading audio, video and interactivity experience, HD DVD
has delighted enthusiasts and professionals alike," stated Amir Majidimehr,
Corporate Vice President for Consumer Media Technology at Microsoft Corporation.
"With the power of advanced compression technology, ease of manufacturing of
dual-layer discs, and superb value of players, HD DVD has set a new standard in
home theater entertainment."
Leading authoring and replication companies including CMC, Cyberlink, DMP,
MPO, Sonic Solutions, Sonopress and QOL were also represented, and MPO announced
that it will produce all of the first Studio Canal releases. Imagion was on hand
to add an authoring company perspective on HD DVD and discussed "Elephants
Dream," the first title the company has authored in the new format.
"One of the most important aspects of making HD DVD a success in Europe is
to make sure that the companies creating or distributing content in the region
have access to all of the tools and services necessary to manufacture discs
locally," said Rodolphe Buet, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing at
Studio Canal. "Working with MPO enabled us to be able to offer so many titles so
quickly and the fact that all of the major players in Europe are already up and
running with HD DVD will allow the format to continue to grow rapidly."

Well we may see new Toshiba American Model at CEDIA after that announcement..

In Europe, the XE1 is shipping "early December", as opposed to "mid November" for the E1.



I agree. In comparison to the US 1g models, the XE1 is a better deal... and the E1 a worse one (no analog multichannel outputs? Come on, even noname $50 players have them now!).

It's all about Feature. Here the 499 have all of them and the AX1 doesn't seem to see very well since it offer nothing more than the 499$ one (Better Chassis isn't a feature that a lot of people check)

Now you have 2 model one that is 1080p , HDMI 1.3, Have Analog Out or one that is 1080i and HDMI 1.2 (still being able to send HDMI PCI in 5.1 like the A1) the price difference are more interesting for people who can afford it

finally Reuter picked up the launch news

http://today.reuters.com/stocks/QuoteCompanyNewsArticle.aspx?view=CN&storyID=2006-09-01T144644Z_01_L0164701_RTRIDST_0_TECH-TOSHIBA-DVD.XML&rpc=66

1080p is nice, although it'll force me to have to upgrade my projector too. oh, the tyranny! :)

This is awesome, awesome news - especially, the 1080p news. The BD supporters are always bashing the Toshiba for not supporting 1080p (even though we all know that the Samsung doesn't output 1080p native). It will really help "even" the spec sheet when compared to BD players for J6P.

Now, HDMI 1.3 is also a nice addition this early in the game. :)

I asked our Toshiba rep a few days ago about the possibility of a player that will be 1.3 and have 1080p output. All she said was to keep on the look out, well that was quick. Very good news, if the newer players have less bugs(slow load times, etc..) then it's time for me to jump in. Well, I lied, I may get one regardless. I'm just wondering how BR will be able to "justify" thier prices now....

I wish they will have the XE-1 here soon!

BTW, are these still PC based hardware like the A1/XA1?

Didn't think I'd be looking at a 2nd HD DVD player this soon, but Toshiba is tempting me.

Toshiba to Ship HD DVD Player at 599 euros (http://www.cdrinfo.com/Sections/News/Details.aspx?NewsId=17899)

Toshiba's vice president for the European DVD business, Masaki Kimura, told journalists at the IFA electronics show here that 10,000 players would be shipped to Europe from Japan to cater to early demand and subsequent shipments would depend on consumer interest.

The company has not given any details of sales in the United States.

Toshiba said the devices were more expensive in Europe than in the United States, even when differences in value added tax were taken into account, because the players that would hit the European market had more features and were thinner.

BTW, are these still PC based hardware like the A1/XA1? From looking at the pics, I would say not as the form factor is very slim. Didn't think I'd be looking at a 2nd HD DVD player this soon, but Toshiba is tempting me. I've thought about this as well. Depending on the exact feature set, my solution is to move my HD-D1 to the bedroom :)

Toshiba said the devices were more expensive in Europe than in the United States, even when differences in value added tax were taken into account, because the players that would hit the European market had more features and were thinner.

The XE-1 in Euros is around what a blu-ray is (and will be) selling for in Canadian dollars. Therefore, if/when the XE-1 becomes available here in Canada at that price point the BR units will be competitive with the top-end Toshiba one. My obvious choice since I have the HD-A1 is to wait and continue to enjoy the beautiful output of my existing player. I have an excellent 1080p set which upconverts the 1080i signal now (HP Pavillion 65").

To get the best of both worlds (unless Toshiba offers a price rebate for existing HD owners on their top end player) is to get the best of the blu-ray players (and that's not Samsung). That's my likely route rather than getting a top end Toshiba player.

Nice slick looking units though. I guess we were used as guinea pigs by Toshiba regarding our existing behemoths.

Nice slick looking units though. I guess we were used as guinea pigs by Toshiba regarding our existing behemoths.

I'd still take my XA1 over the entry level euro player though.

From looking at the pics, I would say not as the form factor is very slim. I've thought about this as well. Depending on the exact feature set, my solution is to move my HD-D1 to the bedroom :)

Boy you guys have alot of disposable incoming to be willing to drop another $600, I'm glad I avoided being an early adoptor

Looks like the Xe1 will do everything I need it to do. With all the support being thrown the HD DVD way, this looks like "the one" I've been waiting for.......

Does anyone know if they've improved on the issues mentioned in a few reviews posted here on the XA1 re: Big Picture Big Sound?

They seemed to actually like that player a lot with only a few issues.

Looks like the Xe1 will do everything I need it to do. With all the support being thrown the HD DVD way, this looks like "the one" I've been waiting for.......

Does anyone know if they've improved on the issues mentioned in a few reviews posted here on the XA1 re: Big Picture Big Sound?

They seemed to actually like that player a lot with only a few issues.
Well, at this point I've probably spent as much on HD DVD discs as I've spent on my HD-A1. When the new ones come out, especially the "X" model, guess I'll be pullin' out the credit card again. Looks like a class act! For the record, I have no regrets buying my HD-A1. Its been worth it for the joy I've experienced.

...the devices were more expensive in Europe than in the United States, even when differences in value added tax were taken into account, because the players that would hit the European market had more features and were thinner.
They're more expensive because they're thinner? Mwahaha! That's sooo funny for some reason :)

They're more expensive because they're thinner? Mwahaha! That's sooo funny for some reason :)

It's all Photoshop - just ask Katie Couric.

I held out for the new players thank god I did. These new players look sweet can't wait to purchase one.

Rob

Lite On HD DVD player.

http://www.hartware.de/media/presse/5243/liteon_hdp_z1.jpg

http://www.hartware.de/press_5243.html

I held out for the new players thank god I did. These new players look sweet can't wait to purchase one.

Rob


LOL, beauty is in the eye of the beholder...

Boy you guys have alot of disposable incoming to be willing to drop another $600, I'm glad I avoided being an early adoptor


I'm glad I was an early adopter. Worth every cent, as most will agree.

Nice slick looking units though. I guess we were used as guinea pigs by Toshiba regarding our existing behemoths.

You may find your behemoth to be more reliable int he long run, don't judge so soon. Just because a player is thinner doesn't make it better. Smaller form factors bring other issues which might crop up later. Time will tell.

Boy you guys have alot of disposable incoming to be willing to drop another $600, I'm glad I avoided being an early adoptor
599 EURO is over 750 US$.

Lite On HD DVD player.

http://www.hartware.de/media/presse/5243/liteon_hdp_z1.jpg

http://www.hartware.de/press_5243.html

wow, their bd player and their hd dvd player are radically different in aesthetics...

any specs other than what discs/formats they can play?

Perhaps a stupid question but since the HD-DVD mentioned above will perform in 1080P, what happens if your hardware does only 720p and 1080i. are we out of luck? :eek:

Perhaps a stupid question but since the HD-DVD mentioned above will perform in 1080P, what happens if your hardware does only 720p and 1080i. are we out of luck? :eek:
Just like a cable box or the current HD-DVD player, you decide what will be output (720p, 1080i, or 1080p).

I'm glad I was an early adopter. Worth every cent, as most will agree.


I agree. I have been enjoying my Toshiba these last few months. If these new players become available, I will certainly get oneand move move my current player to the bedroom, as well.

I don't think I'll be buying a second player until I know who has the war won. That being said, these players do look like a step in the right direction. Looks like Tosh will come out swinging in the EU as well as they did here. Let's just hope the momentum keeps going!

As for the difference between the 2 players, perhaps HDMI is more prevalent in the EU than it is here? That might be why they don't have 5.1 analog outs on the cheaper model. Also, its interesting that they chose to do the 1080p w/hdmi b/c I was under the impression that there is no HDTV in the EU right now. So basically, nobody has a 1080p set. I might be wrong, but I thought I watched some video interviews trying to explain how HD in general was going to be launched in the EU b/c they do not have it yet.

E1
http://www.watch.impress.co.jp/av/docs/20060902/ifa02_03.jpg
XE1
http://www.watch.impress.co.jp/av/docs/20060902/ifa02_05.jpg
http://www.watch.impress.co.jp/av/docs/20060902/ifa02_04.jpg
Link (http://64.233.179.104/translate_c?hl=en&u=http://www.watch.impress.co.jp/av/docs/20060902/ifa02.htm&prev=/search%3Fq%3Dav%2Bwatch%2Bimpress%26hl%3Den%26lr%3D%26rls%3D com.microsoft:en-US)

As of mid-2006, the U.S. and Japan accounted for 91% of all worldwide HDTV households. Other countries with significant numbers of HDTV households include Canada, Australia, and South Korea. So, 9% of 15 million households, or 1.35 million are outsdie the U.S. and Japan.

well actually ... since Reuter picked up the press release and putting the price in their article .. the whole world will know that the HD DVD will be selling from 599 Euros where as (also in the same article) that the Samsung BD player will be selling at <>1,400 Euros . Its actually less than half the Samsung price albeit without builtin 5.1 ch analogue output ..

Does any one know if these players output 1080i/p60 ? i.e. in addition to the "native" 50hz in europe ?

As of mid-2006, the U.S. and Japan accounted for 91% of all worldwide HDTV households. Other countries with significant numbers of HDTV households include Canada, Australia, and South Korea. So, 9% of 15 million households, or 1.35 million are outsdie the U.S. and Japan.
From screendigest.com

USA and Asia-Pacific (Japan, Korea, Hong Kong, Australia), having started HDTV years ago, maintain a significant lead over Europe in terms of HD viewing, with 21m viewers in the US and 2.6m in Asia-Pacific at end 2006. By the end of 2010 we forecast 175m households worldwide will have HD-resolution sets, of which 140m will be HDMI-equipped 'HD ready' displays (38 per cent of all TV households). By 2010, 100m households (28 per cent of all TV households) will be watching HDTV broadcasts on their HDTV sets.

At the end of 2005 there were already 2m 'HD ready' TV households in Europe and by 2010 there will be more than 50m 'HD ready' TV sets, creating large opportunities for European pay TV operators. Screen Digest predicts that by 2010 there will be approximately 100 HD channels available in Europe and more than 11m households will be actually watching television in HD quality (receiving HD broadcasts on HD ready sets and set-top boxes).

Across the globe HD has already made its mark and in early 2006, HD broadcasts were available in 12 countries: USA, Canada, Japan, Australia, South Korea, China, Germany and Austria, and the Nordic markets (Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Norway). By the end of 2005 there were 19m households with HDTV sets in the US (17% of total TV households) with 11m of these watching HD broadcasts. At the same time 14% (6.7m) of TV households in Japan were HD ready.

On a global basis, by the end of 2010 the number of HD ready households will reach 174m or 22% of TV households. The figure will be 59% in the US, 66% in Japan and 30% in Western Europe.

I hope these aren't a sign of the coming G2 models. No mention of 1080/24p output worries me and they stuck with 5.1 analog outs on the high end model. Why not 7.1 for the high end model? 1080/60p is worthless. Give us 1080/24p and 7.1 analog outputs.

Yep.
I think, the E1 cannot play the HD-sound-formats in 5.1, since it lacks both HDMI 1.3 and 5.1 analog out.
The E1 will still play the advanced audio formats. HDMI 1.3 has never been required for this, as evidenced by the current A1 and XA1 players.

It will still be decoded and sent over HDMI and SPDIF the way it is with the current players.

The elimination of the 5.1 analog outputs on the E1 serves to differentiate the players.

Does any one know if these players output 1080i/p60 ? i.e. in addition to the "native" 50hz in europe ?
AFAIK, they will all be outputing 1080i/p 60, not 50hz.

The EU HDTV rules mandate that all HD TVs that carry the "HD Ready" or "HDTV" logos must be able to display both 50 and 60 hz, so this is not an issue.

I'm glad I was an early adopter. Worth every cent, as most will agree.
Absolutely! Worth every penny, and I built a great library with the difference in dollars.

Lite On HD DVD player.

http://www.hartware.de/media/presse/5243/liteon_hdp_z1.jpg

http://www.hartware.de/press_5243.html
Yikes - that's embarrassing (for Lite-On) - so ugly!

Why don't they just paint it black and sharpen the edges a little!?

The good news is that that is not a real photograph, but merely an artist's rendering, so there's hope that they may improve the look. It looks like a child's educational toy right now...

The E1 will still play the advanced audio formats. HDMI 1.3 has never been required for this, as evidenced by the current A1 and XA1 players.

It will still be decoded and sent over HDMI and SPDIF the way it is with the current players.

The elimination of the 5.1 analog outputs on the E1 serves to differentiate the players.


What a crappy way to do it! It's a step backwards. :( Why not include dual HDMI 1.3 and 7.1 analog out on the high end model to differentiate? They went the PS3 route of dropping features. ;)

AFAIK, they will all be outputing 1080i/p 60, not 50hz.

The EU HDTV rules mandate that all HD TVs that carry the "HD Ready" or "HDTV" logos must be able to display both 50 and 60 hz, so this is not an issue.

So even HD DVD's biggest supporter doubts it will output 1080/24p? 1080/60p is worthless for 1080/24p content. :(

What a crappy way to do it! It's a step backwards. :( Why not include dual HDMI 1.3 and 7.1 analog out on the high end model to differentiate? They went the PS3 route of dropping features. ;)



So even HD DVD's biggest supporter doubts it will output 1080/24p? 1080/60p is worthless for 1080/24p content. :(
Spoken like a Blur@y troublemaker - funny that I didn't say what you claim I said - but so typical....

Funny that even the new low-end machine still beats most of the BR players ;)

What? I fully support both formats now. You said "1080i/p 60". I think it's reasonable to infer you don't expect 1080/24p support or you would have mentioned it, correct?

Almost all announced BD players apart from the POS Sammy are confirmed to do 1080/24p and have 5.1 anaolg outs. I think the Panny even has 7.1 analog out as well. How is this step backwards better?

Does still just reencode to DTS or will it have a DD and DTS encoder so people can choose.

It will be interesting to see if the G2 players offer class leading upconverting PQ and excellent DACs like the G1 players. As they push to cut costs down the road, these are two areas I would expect to take a hit.

Hey never mind all the fighting. When will we see these players here in the U.S. for sale???

Never technically, these are European models. But the A2 and XA2 are expected later this year or early next.

Guys, I've found something interesting in these pictures.

http://www.watch.impress.co.jp/av/docs/20060902/ifa02_03.jpg

Two things look funny about the back of this "European player".

1. There's no European style SCART connector, but there are Composite and S-Video jacks. That is very odd.

2. The region indicator on the back doesn't say "2". It looks more like "1" to me.

http://i51.photobucket.com/albums/f383/lyris1/rglobe.jpg

I think we're looking at US models here...

while i like the new slimmer look of these european models, i'm still very happy with my A1. it does everything i need, and very well at that.

i wonder if the load times have been significantly lowered on these new units?

what ce device has 7.1 out? i view analog out as a last resort but my avr will accept 7.1 in so i'm ready if a device ever has this...then of course we would need content with 7.1 discreet audio channels...from audio/industry insiders here it doesn't seem likely unfortunately.

and 1080/24p? i know my set doesn't accept that...not to mention 1080/60p...isn't it all just irrelevant for me :D

seriously though, do we know that some of the upcoming 1g bd players output 24p?

Guys, I've found something interesting in these pictures.

http://www.watch.impress.co.jp/av/docs/20060902/ifa02_03.jpg

Two things look funny about the back of this "European player".

1. There's no European style SCART connector, but there are Composite and S-Video jacks. That is very odd.

2. The region indicator on the back doesn't say "2". It looks more like "1" to me.

http://i51.photobucket.com/albums/f383/lyris1/rglobe.jpg

I think we're looking at US models here...


If this is the US model I am definetly getting one I was just about to pull the trigger on the A1 but now I will wait for the new model.

Rob

??? The current A1 seems much better IMO unless you want to use component for video and HDMI for audio.

Ahh, what we really need is HDMI 1.3 and receivers that decode all the new codecs. Can't be long now. One line from the player to the receiver to everything sounds nice.

am I the only one that thinks these newer units look low rent compared to the current ones ? I should have known that things would move downhill quickly, no one wants high-end DVD players made in Japan anymore :mad:

where are these units made ?

-Gary

I agree 100%. Atleast you are still in the US where quality has its niche. Here in Taiwan price is almost always the "only" factor. :(

am I the only one that thinks these newer units look low rent compared to the current ones ? I should have known that things would move downhill quickly, no one wants high-end DVD players made in Japan anymore :mad:

where are these units made ?

-Gary

I agree somewhat but they do look more like consumer DVD players and I’m sure that was the goal. They don’t want to be seen as esoteric to the masses.

am I the only one that thinks these newer units look low rent compared to the current ones ? I should have known that things would move downhill quickly, no one wants high-end DVD players made in Japan anymore :mad:

where are these units made ?

-Gary


Maybe Toshiba farmed these puppies out to Orion like they often do for a lot of their products.

I think Orion is in Mexico or some place like that.

seems like the entry model is a step down from the current entry model, since it comes without the 5.1 analouge onless you have a compatible HDMI reciever.
So for many with just 5.1 and 7.1 analouge recievers inputs and nohdmi on the reciever the higher price model might be cheaper since there is no need to get rid of your perfectly good reciever for a HDMI 1.2 one.

don't let rdjam hear that ;)

specs and build quality seem to have been downgraded :(

I agree. I have been enjoying my Toshiba these last few months. If these new players become available, I will certainly get oneand move move my current player to the bedroom, as well.

what if the quality of the old is better than the new?
it is possible

if you want 5.1, you buy the xe1...seems simple; maybe we were spoiled by the spoils of the non-differences between the A1 and the XA1

Going backwards is just plain wrong though. Stay the same or improve. I hope from Robert's words that these are just G1.5 and that G2 will really improve in all facets.

Is it just me or do I see a coaxial digital out missing? I thought TrueHD required the coax digital out for full resolution vs. the optical digital out. Also, I guess the lack of analog outputs means that this unit will not support DVD-A or SACD. Bummer.

Is it just me or do I see a coaxial digital out missing? I thought TrueHD required the coax digital out for full resolution vs. the optical digital out. Also, I guess the lack of analog outputs means that this unit will not support DVD-A or SACD. Bummer.

Coax digital out doesn't provide any more resolution than optical. They carry the same digital data. Neither can carry any lossless codecs beyond simple 16-bit 48Khz uncompressed stereo PCM.

--
Steve

Is it just me or do I see a coaxial digital out missing? I thought TrueHD required the coax digital out for full resolution vs. the optical digital out. Also, I guess the lack of analog outputs means that this unit will not support DVD-A or SACD. Bummer.

Connections, I´ve scanned these from the new German Toshiba main catalog.:

http://img37.imagevenue.com/img.php?image=84311_Toshiba_E1_and_XE1_connections_122_359lo .jpg

Detailed specifications on the two models here.:

http://www.hddvdprg.com/press/pdf/060904E.pdf

By the way, two new European HD-DVD info sites will be up and running, over the next couple of days.:

http://www.toshibahddvd.co.uk/

http://www.highdefinitiondvd.eu/

:p

I just stumbled upon this in one of the French websites, It gives you all the SPECS of each player!

Title loosely defined means; Key features! "Oui" of course means yes, and "non" means no. Enjoy. :)

Caractérisques techniques :

Modèle HD-E1 HD-XE1

Prix (TTC) €599 €899

Disponibilité Novembre 2006 Décembre 2006

HD DVD Video*1 Oui Oui

DVD Video Oui Oui

DVD VR *2 Oui Oui

Compatibilités

CD (CD-DA) Oui Oui

HD DVD Video Oui Oui

Twin format Disc (HD DVD & DVD Video) Oui Oui

DVD-ROM (Video) Oui Oui

DVD-R (Video) Oui Oui

DVD-R DL (Video) Oui Oui

DVD-RW (Video/VR) Oui Oui

CD (CD-DA) Oui Oui

CD-R (CD-DA) Oui Oui

Compatible Discs

CD-RW (CD-DA) Oui Oui

MPEG2 Oui Oui

MPEG4 AVC (H.264) Oui Oui

Codecs VC1 Oui Oui

HD output resolutions

720p, 1080i Oui Oui

1080p Non Oui

DVD PAL, NTSC Oui Oui

SD upscale to HD resolution (via HDMI) Jusqu’au 1080i Jusqu’au 1080p

297MHz/12bit Video DAC (analogue) outputs) Non Oui

Video Specifications

Deep Colour (HDMI output) *3 Non Oui

Codecs

Dolby Digital Oui (Jusqu’au 5.1ch) Oui (Jusqu’au 5.1ch)

Dolby Digital Plus Oui (Jusqu’au 5.1ch) Oui (Jusqu’au 5.1ch)

Dolby TRUE HD Oui (Jusqu’au 5.1ch) Oui (Jusqu’au 5.1ch)

dts Oui (Jusqu’au 5.1ch) Oui (Jusqu’au 5.1ch)

dts-HD (core only) Oui (Jusqu’au 5.1ch) Oui (Jusqu’au 5.1ch)

MPEG Audio Oui Oui

PCM Oui (Jusqu’au 5.1ch) Oui(Jusqu’au 5.1ch)

Connectique

Composite 1 1 (plaqué or)

S-Video 1 1 (plaqué or)

Component 1 1 (plaqué or)

Analogue 2ch 1 1 (plaqué or)

Analogue 5.1ch Non 1 (plaqué or)

Digital coaxial Non 1 (plaqué or)

Digital optical 1 1

HDMI output Ver. 1.2 1 Non

HDMI output Ver. 1.3*3 Non 1

Ethernet (10/100BASE) 1 1

Control (RS-232C) Non 1 (bi-directional)

Dimensions et poids à confirmer



*1. HD DVD discs containing high definition content at a field rate of 50Hz or a frame rate of

25Hz cannot be played on HD-E1 and HD-XE1 without a firmware update. Firmware update

is expected in the future. Should you have any question about the frame rate of your disc,

please contact the disc vendor.

*2. CPRM compatible disc cannot be played.

*3. Requires viewing with TVs or monitors and equipment compliant with Deep Colour feature

based on HDMI 1.3. Some TVs or monitors may not be compatible. If you experience

compatibility problems, please contact Toshiba Customer Service.







Communiqué de presse officiel annonçant l’arrivée des lecteurs HD-DVD sur le sol européen.



Berlin, September 1, 2006. Toshiba today announces the launch of Europe’s first commercially available stand-alone HD DVD players, launching a new era of high definition home entertainment and marking the arrival of the next generation DVD format.

Available from mid-November, the HD-E1 will be the first model to offer HD DVD quality to European videophiles, while the step-up HD-XE1, which will follow early in December, will deliver even more astonishing image and sound thanks to its state-of-the-art audio and video processing1. Representing the very latest in high definition technology and boasting a sleek, slim-line, matt-black design, both players offer exceptional value for money.

The two players support the playback of pre-recorded HD DVD discs, offering consumers stunning, digital, high definition picture quality far surpassing that delivered by standard DVD. HD DVD discs also offer crystal clear sound in three new sound formats1, as well as a whole new range of interactive features far more advanced than those available on the current DVD format2.

Both players are also backwards compatible with existing DVD and CD formats3, and the HD-XE1 can ‘upscale’ and output existing DVD content at 1080p for display on HD Ready LCD, Plasma panels and other HD TVs or monitors4 via HDMI terminals.

Breathtaking Image Quality

The HD-E1 and the HD-XE1 deliver breath-taking visual image quality. The HD DVD format delivers an image with a resolution much greater than standard DVD, giving exceptional levels of image detail and clarity.

Both players will also upscale traditional DVDs via the HDMI output to 720p and 1080i resolutions – with the HD-XE1 also offering 1080p upscaling – enabling consumers to rediscover their existing DVD collections in improved picture quality4.

Next Generation Surround Sound

Clarity of image is only half the story; sound quality is also hugely enhanced with the HDE1 and HD-XE1. On top of the audio formats already used in standard DVD, both models support the clarity and realism of three next generation surround-sound formats. Dolby Digital Plus uses a higher bit rate (up to 3Mbps) to improve fidelity and bring increased realism to movie soundtracks; Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD support very high bit rates and larger sampling rates to produce a stunning audio experience.

A Whole New World of Interactive Content

The HD-E1 and HD-XE1 also open up a whole new world of interactivity available on HD DVD titles2. Advanced Navigation and Content features offer new and exciting ways to interact, for example:

• The ability to browse movie chapters with thumbnails while the movie plays, as well as navigating menu features without pausing playback

• Picture in Picture (PIP) with motion video functions, including the ability to play supplementary video over the main programme. This allows viewers to watch bonus content, such as a superimposed director's commentary or a documentary about the making of the movie, while the movie plays2

• Both players come with Ethernet terminals to take advantage of forthcoming bonus features or new functionalities offered by Advanced Navigation and Content features that require internet connectivity or plug-in accessories.

Olivier Van Wynendaele, Deputy General Manager, HD DVD Products, Toshiba Europe, comments: “Since Toshiba commercialised the world’s first DVD players in Japan in 1996, DVD has become one of the most successful consumer products in history. However, the arrival of HD TVs and HD broadcasts is fuelling demand for a higher quality format that can deliver next generation video and audio. HD DVD is such a format; it builds on consumer familiarity with DVD and is very competitively priced, yet offers an amazing home entertainment experience. It is the natural successor to DVD, and public reaction in Japan and the US indicates that consumers are already falling in love with HD DVD just like they did with its predecessor.”

http://www.dvdcritiques.com/news/news_visu.aspx?dvd=1273

Spoken like a Blur@y troublemaker - funny that I didn't say what you claim I said - but so typical....

Funny that even the new low-end machine still beats most of the BR players ;)

I'm sorry you need to constantly attack me and BD. Embrace both formats and enjoy HD I say. It's obvious to anyone that both sides have a long way to go with their players before something really nice comes out. Rock on!

I think current generation products are a better value if you don't need HDMI 1.3 or 1080p output & even then nobody knows how 1080p will be output. With G2 seems like you have to fork out for higher end model if you don't have HDMI receiver or prepro.

I'm sorry you need to constantly attack me and BD. Being funny again? I deal with the info - not the personalities - unlike some...

Embrace both formats and enjoy HD I say.Good for you. Let me know when you've got a nice HD DVD player sitting at home.

Some of the rest of us would rather not be told we should hug both of the formats because one of them is a little bit smelly right now :)

HDMI 1.3 supports SACD and DVD-Audio via HDMI. Does anyone know if this new player supports either SACD or DVD-Audio?

HDMI 1.3 supports SACD and DVD-Audio via HDMI. Does anyone know if this new player supports either SACD or DVD-Audio?

So does HMDI 1.1 on the current player. I do not think we will see support for these. It is too bad, but I think it is the truth.

I think I read that SACD requires an additional chip to work while DVD-A could work with the Toshiba but isn't supported. I have no back up for this. It would be cool if they'd at least support DVD-A. It would just be one more thing to help push some people off the fence.

Here's an idea: Have it as an optional pay only firmware upgrade. I'd pay $25 or so to have DVD-A support.

Connections, I´ve scanned these from the new German Toshiba main catalog.:


Detailed specifications on the two models here.:


By the way, two new European HD-DVD info sites will be up and running, over the next couple of days.:


:p

Interesting to see in the specs that it will only support a 60hz signal and not 50hz (what is actually used in europe for broadcast HD.

Interesting to see in the specs that it will only support a 60hz signal and not 50hz (what is actually used in europe for broadcast HD.I'm quite certain firmware update enabling 50Hz output will be available before any 25fps discs are released. Or at least very soon after.

I'm quite certain firmware update enabling 50Hz output will be available before any 25fps discs are released. Or at least very soon after.

I hope 25fps discs are never released......why go backwards and still have speedup....tsssk.

No 5.1 analog outputs so anyone wanting Dolby TrueHD has to upgrade their amp or receiver....backwards step if you ask me and Europe getting a bad deal again....we don't all have loads of cash to just throw around some of us want to buy something and keep it for several years.

I hope 25fps discs are never released......why go backwards and still have speedup....tsssk.

No 5.1 analog outputs so anyone wanting Dolby TrueHD has to upgrade their amp or receiver....backwards step if you ask me and Europe getting a bad deal again....we don't all have loads of cash to just throw around some of us want to buy something and keep it for several years.

exactly how I feel feel, but it seems that's not acceptable to the hd dvd fanboys :(

Embrace both formats and enjoy HD I say.

I thought you were going to wait till AACS is broken :p

exactly how I feel feel, but it seems that's not acceptable to the hd dvd fanboys :(

You had been missing for a while and now seems to be coming back with a trolling vengence ...

What? I guess you haven't been keeping up on the threads much. I support both formats all the way now. I'm here because I want a HD DVD player, but none are worthy of purchase yet IMO. I wanted to wait until AACS was broken, but I don't have the patience. ;)

I guess now it's trolling to have higher expectations from a player for HD DVD fanboys? I think one should examine one's signature before making such comments. ;)

Surprisingly, it seems the latest BD software is better than anything HD DVD has to this point and the players are coming soon. Everything is good for both sides now.

That's pretty sleek looking.


We must be looking at different players then. I believe Toshiba makes the ugliest players anywhere. I must say, even though I am not a big Sony fan as I used to be, that they know how to design a case, they make great looking gear reguardless of their marketing choices.

I like the look of the RD-A1 a lot. It screams quality to me.http://www.engadget.com/media/2006/06/tosh-hd-dvd-recorder-front-back.jpg

Surprisingly, it seems the latest BD software is better than anything HD DVD has to this point and the players are coming soon. Everything is good for both sides now.

Like which ones ?

I guess now it's trolling to have higher expectations from a player for HD DVD fanboys?

It is trolling to come here and repeatedly write "fanboys". You should read the sticky at the top of the forums and all the "take the high road" threads. You have been gone for too long.

AFAIK, they will all be outputing 1080i/p 60, not 50hz.

The EU HDTV rules mandate that all HD TVs that carry the "HD Ready" or "HDTV" logos must be able to display both 50 and 60 hz, so this is not an issue.

I'm thinking of having a relative get me one when they come out.

Can someone please verify the European models will be powered by (accept)110~240v 50/60hz and not 220~240v 50hz only.

If it is the latter, my experience is the DVD drive will not spin correctly despite using a 110/220 transformer.

Thanks

I wouldn't be surprised to see these released here in the states around Thanksgiving. Especially in light of the region code sticker on the pic - I agree, it looks like a 1.

So does no one think its a backwards step removing the 5.1 analog outs ? You would think they would increase the outputs to 7.1 or at least keep the 5.1 outputs as HDMI isn't the easiest way to get the sound if you don't have a capable receiver ( I don't but i have one with 5.1 analog inputs )

That RD-A1 looks amazing....but what does that cost ?

DVD PAL, NTSC Oui Oui


Wait a sec... Plays BOTH NTSC and PAL SD dvds?!?!?!?

:0

backwards, forwards, who knows...the only thing i am certain of around here is that no matter what, people will complain :D

it is strange to remove the analog outputs, but it remains to be seen if the u.s./japanese models will in fact *remove* them, otherwise, this is europes first player so they couldn't possible go backwards yet :)

i look forward to the XA2 which will have everything

So does no one think its a backwards step removing the 5.1 analog outs ? You would think they would increase the outputs to 7.1 or at least keep the 5.1 outputs as HDMI isn't the easiest way to get the sound if you don't have a capable receiver ( I don't but i have one with 5.1 analog inputs )

That RD-A1 looks amazing....but what does that cost ?

What many current RCA/Toshiba owners don't appear to understand is that the A2 is not targeted as an upgrade machine for them. The upgrade machine is the XA2.

The target of the A2 is the people who have yet to get involved with HD-DVD, and it is positioned to be cost effective both to manufacture and purchase.

In terms of the audio, the high quality 5.1 sound (plus two channel) like on our machines doesn't come cheap. It requires quality DACs and analog amplification, all of which costs money. Yes, it would be nice if the 5.1 was retained on the entry level machine, but it's certainly understandable they'd drop back to the two channel only format. My guess is that it's a pretty good sounding two channels though -- something appropriate to HD-DVD sound.

It's also possible the analog video out has lost some ground relative to our machines (expense for quality analog componentry again), but the digital output is probably still excellent.

As far as build is concerned, of course it had to become less expensive -- it's impossible for any company to provide entry level products with Cadillac build quality. We have been given our bonuses for adoption of the clearly "early adopter" machines, and can expect more via firmware update, but this format cannot survive if the producers of the players cannot produce them profitably.

As has been pointed out MANY times, we got a LOT of player for our G1 purchase. It's simply not realistic to expect that deal to continue at the entry level price point. To keep saying there should be no feature/quality reductions with the new entry players is simply foolishness.

Ultimately, Toshiba is a business, not a charity. The initial players have done their job -- now it's time for Toshiba to have the opportunity to make some money (and likewise, open the door to other HD-DVD participants to do the same).

-- Trevor

What many current RCA/Toshiba owners don't appear to understand is that the A2 is not targeted as an upgrade machine for them. The upgrade machine is the XA2.

The target of the A2 is the people who have yet to get involved with HD-DVD, and it is positioned to be cost effective both to manufacture and purchase.
In terms of the audio, the high quality 5.1 sound (plus two channel) like on our machines doesn't come cheap. It requires quality DACs and analog amplification, all of which costs money. Yes, it would be nice if the 5.1 was retained on the entry level machine, but it's certainly understandable they'd drop back to the two channel only format. My guess is that it's a pretty good sounding two channels though -- something appropriate to HD-DVD sound.

It's also possible the analog video out has lost some ground relative to our machines (expense for quality analog componentry again), but the digital output is probably still excellent.

As far as build is concerned, of course it had to become less expensive -- it's impossible for any company to provide entry level products with Cadillac build quality. We have been given our bonuses for adoption of the clearly "early adopter" machines, and can expect more via firmware update, but this format cannot survive if the producers of the players cannot produce them profitably.

As has been pointed out MANY times, we got a LOT of player for our G1 purchase. It's simply not realistic to expect that deal to continue at the entry level price point. To keep saying there should be no feature/quality reductions with the new entry players is simply foolishness.

Ultimately, Toshiba is a business, not a charity. The initial players have done their job -- now it's time for Toshiba to have the opportunity to make some money (and likewise, open the door to other HD-DVD participants to do the same).

-- Trevor

well stated...

Aren't people curious as to why these will play both SD NTSC and PAL discs while the american players didn't? If they were solely for the european market, why would they need SD NTSC playback capability since the region coding for SD is in effect...?

Aren't people curious as to why these will play both SD NTSC and PAL discs while the american players didn't? If they were solely for the european market, why would they need SD NTSC playback capability since the region coding for SD is in effect...?


It's normal for european AV (VHS, TV, DVD...) to support NTSC Playback. Many people import 'region 1' movies from the U.S.

HD DVD has no region coding for HD DVD.
Does it have region coding for SD DVD?
A1's from Japan came to the US, before the official North American launch.
So, yeah!
When ever these hit European shores, there sure to leap over the pond.
What langauge, does EU A/V equipment 'speak'?

Whatever langauge you need. Typically a minimum of German, English, Spanish Italian, Dutch, Danish and French. But often you will get a choice of 15-25 langauges. :eek:

Aren't people curious as to why these will play both SD NTSC and PAL discs while the american players didn't? If they were solely for the european market, why would they need SD NTSC playback capability since the region coding for SD is in effect...?


Thats because under Region 2 coding for SD DVD includes Japan which is NTSC.

The main interest for me is the fact that HD DVD discs released in europe will be region free and can be played on US machines. Why is this exciting? Well movie distribution rights are different in Europe and companies like FOX sell their content to these companies, which means FOX films which are BD only in the US will get HD DVD releases in Europe along with nearly every other film company. Plus this Euro player will (after an easy handset hack) play R1 & R2 standard def movies too, a no brainer when compared to BD and its DRM systems!

Found an interview on AV Forums podcast 14 from the Head of Toshiba Europe, well worth a listen! No 1080/50hz for time being!

oooops! Direct MP3 link, starts about 40mins in. http://www.avpodcast.co.uk/podcast.mp3?p=17

Ok, I now have high end XE1 euro envy.

Is there any chance that the EU will force these players to be region free so I can play my region 1 disks in them?

I mean huge multi-national government entities have to be good for something right? I mean I would like to take advantage of our European friends VAT tax dollars at work. :D


Well we only have one region in the EU. When SD DVD was introduced the movie industry had planed lots of regions... :rolleyes:

599 EURO is over 750 US$.

When you talk about AV and IT-gear eg. DVD-players and videocards. It's typically 1€ = 1$

In other words buying AV-equipment in Europe is often more expensive then buying the same stuff in the U.S.

I don't think I'll be buying a second player until I know who has the war won. That being said, these players do look like a step in the right direction. Looks like Tosh will come out swinging in the EU as well as they did here. Let's just hope the momentum keeps going!.

It will be interesting to see what happens now that Sony has delayed the PS3 for Europe. :D


As for the difference between the 2 players, perhaps HDMI is more prevalent in the EU than it is here? That might be why they don't have 5.1 analog outs on the cheaper model. Also, its interesting that they chose to do the 1080p w/hdmi b/c I was under the impression that there is no HDTV in the EU right now. So basically, nobody has a 1080p set. I might be wrong, but I thought I watched some video interviews trying to explain how HD in general was going to be launched in the EU b/c they do not have it yet.

There are some HDTV in Europe but not in every country - european countries are after all as different as the U.S., Canada, Mexico and Chile.

That doesn't mean europeans buy CRT-TV's ;)

Maybe Toshiba farmed these puppies out to Orion like they often do for a lot of their products.

I think Orion is in Mexico or some place like that.
The 2nd generation ones will be made by Toshiba in China. Orion in Thailand is developing a HD-DVD/VCR player for Toshiba right now.

China is better than Taiwan. That's good news if true. Living in Taiwan, I know how much our domestic quality sucks. There are always exceptions, but most people here look for the "Made in Japan" sticker.

The 2nd generation ones will be made by Toshiba in China. Orion in Thailand is developing a HD-DVD/VCR player for Toshiba right now.Really? HD DVD and VCR seems like a very strange combination.

Thats because under Region 2 coding for SD DVD includes Japan which is NTSC.
Got that, but if these could be made region Free, they would play all SD discs, NTSC and PAL. Now THAT to me is very interesting as I have a TON of PAL discs that I watch on my oppo....
The American ones can't play PAL at all... or can the new ones?!?!?

Thats because under Region 2 coding for SD DVD includes Japan which is NTSC.
Got that, but if these could be made region Free, they would play all SD discs, NTSC and PAL. Now THAT to me is very interesting as I have a TON of PAL discs that I watch on my oppo....
The American ones can't play PAL at all... or can the new ones?!?!?


It's normal for european AV (VHS, TV, DVD...) to support NTSC Playback. Many people import 'region 1' movies from the U.S.

Only if they have a region free player....

Well I thought that I would just wait out and see what happens in the HD format wars before buying a new DVD player... But now it appears that Toshiba forced me to change my mind.

I was going to buy a Marantz DV6600, but seeing that it is priced at about 70% of what this Toshiba HD-E1 costs. The Toshiba just looks like a better deal, especially considering it is said to be an excellent upscaling DVD player too..

Now the only thing that could stop me from buying the Toshiba HD-E1, would be long delays, or region protections.. I'm never going to buy anything region locked, so there better be ways to "free" it.

Can anyone confirm that HD-E1 and HD-XE1 will actually play US HD-DVD discs?

I know there is no region coding as such, but will 24/25Hz be an issue?


Al Jones

I am pretty shore the 2 hd dvd players are region free if you just read this:

Both of the European players can output from HD DVD discs at 720p or 1080i, and the more expensive HD-XE1 can also output in 1080p. They are backwards-compatible with existing DVDs and CDs and will upscale DVD output to 720p or 1080i, and to 1080p in the case of the HD-XE1. Since the DVD Forum is still making up its mind about region coding for HD DVD, the first two players will be region-free.

there was an article on crave cnet i would link but i need 5 posts lol

Is the XE1 the equivalent of the US XA2 - ie will it have the same Reon chip?

I purchased the HD E1 last weeka day after they became available in Australia

The machine plays all US, European, British, Japanese and Australian HD-DVDs. In other words all HD-DVDs.

At the moment it is region locked locally for Region 4 in Standard Def only (and the Brit Euro models of the E1 are similarly locked to R2 SD.) Everyone is holding their breath for either a remote Region code hack or a firmware hack from Toshiba via the retailers. This is expected in a week or so.

In the meantime I can play all Region 4 PAL or NTSC SDs, all RO Pal or NTSC, and all DVD-R backups/rips. Interestingly a majority of US Criterion discs are Region coded "0" and play without problem. Almost all US Warner titles from the last five years are coded R1 through 4 and the same. A number of independent UK labels like Masters of Cinema also frequently region Code 0 and these are also playable.

As soon as the SD hack is available this (and the HD XE1) will be the ideal players for multi region cinephiles. Im not mentioning BD simply because the A,B,C region coding for BluRay sinmply takes it out of my consideration for worldwide disc purchases.

flixyflox what did you pay for your E1 in ozzie dollars?

I am pretty shore the 2 hd dvd players are region free if you just read this:

Both of the European players can output from HD DVD discs at 720p or 1080i, and the more expensive HD-XE1 can also output in 1080p. They are backwards-compatible with existing DVDs and CDs and will upscale DVD output to 720p or 1080i, and to 1080p in the case of the HD-XE1. Since the DVD Forum is still making up its mind about region coding for HD DVD, the first two players will be region-free.

there was an article on crave cnet i would link but i need 5 posts lol

The available HD DVD players aren't region free, just see what happens with an SD DVD. It's HD DVD that's currently region free -- two different things.

The HD E1 here is AUD1099, full list price. No-one I know was giving discounts as stock is so limited. You can order direct from the Oz Distributors, Castel.

There is no date yet for the XE1 but given the E1 I imagine it will be available here within a week or so of the UK/EURO launch. Oz list price for this is AUD1599.

AND TO CLARIFY:

ALL HD DVD DISCS AND PLAYERS ARE REGION FREE FOR HD DVD DISCS

CURRENTLY ALL HD DVD PLAYERS ARE REGION LOCKED FOR SD BUT ONLY THE E1 XE1 MODELS WILL PLAY BOTH PAL AND NTSC AND AN SD REGION HACK FOR THESE MACHINES IS EXPECTED SOON.

THE A1, A2 XA1, XA2, ETC ARE NTSC ONLY AND CANNOT PLAY PAL FOR SD

hi flixy flox
is these e units here using the new chips the ax2 is using in the states
thanks

flixyflox, how does the HD-E1 operate with HD-DVDs for US compared to Australia/Europe?

Does it display at 720p/1080i 50Hz for AUstralian/European content and 720p/1080i 60Hz for US content, or does it always output at one scan rate e.g. 50Hz?

Or is the output scan rate settable e.g. 50Hz/60Hz / Auto (Oppo DVD players do this - which is great).

I checked through the manual and it doesn't even mention scan rate (that I could see).

Only just got mine so not certain but at least for upscaled DVD to 1080i while in Auto mode it outputs 50/60 Hz as appropriate.

I believe that all HD-DVD titles world wide are currently native 1080p24 so they are all converted to 1080i 60Hz.

The Tosh even mentions that it is not compatible with 1080p25 or 1080p50 HD-DVD discs until a firmware update is released (but as mentioned I don't think these discs exist yet).

Only just got mine so not certain but at least for upscaled DVD to 1080i while in Auto mode it outputs 50/60 Hz as appropriate.

I believe that all HD-DVD titles world wide are currently native 1080p24 so they are all converted to 1080i 60Hz.

The Tosh even mentions that it is not compatible with 1080p25 or 1080p50 HD-DVD discs until a firmware update is released (but as mentioned I don't think these discs exist yet).

So in that case, what is the difference between a US HD_DVD Player i.e. an HD-A2? There is no HD_DVD region coding...., output is 1080i/60Hz i.e. US standard.... only difference is DVD region coding (hopefully region coding will be hacked). In that case, why wouldn't people in Oz buy a US HD-A2 for $400 or so which would be cheaper overall? Only other differences I can think of are mains voltage, and PAL support (but don't know whether that is really relevant..?)

So in that case, what is the difference between a US HD_DVD Player i.e. an HD-A2? There is no HD_DVD region coding...., output is 1080i/60Hz i.e. US standard.... only difference is DVD region coding (hopefully region coding will be hacked). In that case, why wouldn't people in Oz buy a US HD-A2 for $400 or so which would be cheaper overall? Only other differences I can think of are mains voltage, and PAL support (but don't know whether that is really relevant..?)

because of the complications of shipping it back and forth for repairs replacements etc.. also when you ship something to europe from the US you need to pay toll and thats a quite bit of money... so all in all its not that more expensive than buying one in the US..

Does anyone know already about a SD-DVD Hack for the Tosh HD-XE-1?
Thanks for an answer

In case anyone is still intrested. BTW, this upgrade makes the XE-1 region free.

http://tesc.toshiba.co.uk/Web/ModelLis.nsf/DynamicStatic/HD%20DVD%20Firmware?OpenDocument (http://tesc.toshiba.co.uk/Web/ModelLis.nsf/DynamicStatic/HD%20DVD%20Firmware?OpenDocument)

In case anyone is still intrested. BTW, this upgrade makes the XE-1 region free.

http://tesc.toshiba.co.uk/Web/ModelLis.nsf/DynamicStatic/HD%20DVD%20Firmware?OpenDocument

Are you sure mate?

For I've tested it when it was released (over a week now) and it's the "regular" 2.501 UK firmware.
To get my XE1 region free, I had to update it with the aussie (leaked?) firm...

I think you're right. Here it is.
http://mathey.vincent.free.fr/ex1/XE1_FW251_RCF.iso

Here's where I got it.
http://www.avforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=643599&highlight=Toshiba+x-e1

if anyone can be so kind as to provide answers i'd really appreciate it.

how much is the xe1 in us dollars?

+shipping?

also has anyone confirmed the sd region hack?

anyone in the states have one of these? how complicated is changing the voltage to match us standard?

would you recommend?

i'd really be interested in having the best upconverting player on the market that can play any disc you throw at it.

i suppose the alternative is to get an xa-2 and an oppo for all region sd but not as elegant.

Some answers:

if anyone can be so kind as to provide answers i'd really appreciate it.

how much is the xe1 in us dollars?

+shipping?
...
Price in Germany still in the range EUR 500...700 ($700...$1000). There may be special offers with lower prices but I don't know.

...
also has anyone confirmed the sd region hack?
...
Confirmed. Download the iso as long as the link works if you consider buying an XE1. You'll also need the actual official firmware 2.5 from the Toshiba europe download side, which has to be installed prior to the RCF-firmware.

Important: RCE titles will not work with the RC free-firmware.

...
...
anyone in the states have one of these? how complicated is changing the voltage to match us standard?
...
You need a step-up power transformer (110->220Volts) for European XE1 to be on the safe side. For australian it may be different. Japanese will most likely work in the US as Japan has 100Volts. I've heard that some Toshiba models have worlwide universal power supplies but I would not bet on it.

Hi All

Does XE1 uses HQV Reon as per XA2 US version?

Thanks

Hi All

Does XE1 uses HQV Reon as per XA2 US version?

Thanks

Yes it does.