my epson lp250 died, so i replaced it with a mitsubish hd1000u. it's 1280 x 720 native. right now i use an xbox with svideo and optical out, but i feel it will not unleash the full potential of the projector. will i notice a difference with a sub 100 up converting player (hdmi or component). i've heard good things about the panasonic s52s, zenith dvb612, and toshiba sdk850. thanks

Yes. Please get a 720p upconverting, HDMI player like the Panasonic S52S (forget the Zenith DVB612) or Tosh SDK850 (forget Samsung 860. If you can splurge, get the refurbed Oppo 970HD for $119+shipping from their website and use 720p HDMI. It will be even better.

The oppo will fit the bill nicely.

i do realize that the oppo is really the best player, but will i honestly notice a tangible difference in picture quality between it and say a phillips 5960? the latter can be had for about $55, compared to $130-150 for the oppo. i understand the oppo has more FEATURES but i'm just asking about PQ. and i am upgrading from an xbox....

thanks

well, i caved, i sprung for a refurb oppo 970. thanks for your guys' help.