I currently have a panasonic RP62 going into my older 480p max resolution plasma via component cables. I have been having trouble lately getting it to read slightly scratched discs and it also doesn't play dvds burned at 4x (+r or -r). I also get some blocking on some scenes. I am looking for a low-cost replacement. I don't need upconversion or HDMI as I don't have any equipment capable of handling those features. My plasma does have a DVI input and I'd be open to using that if it doesn't cost a bunch to get an HDMI-DVI cable. I have mostly been looking at the panasonic S1 and S55. It seems that the S52 might be better in many ways tha t won't matter too much to me. Is there a reason I should get it anyway? When I eventually upgrade my display I will end up with some sort of HD/BluRay player so I am not too worried about future-proofing this purchase. I read one worrying bit of info in the S52 thread saying it would not output dvd-audio on the digital connections but only the HDMI, is this true? Do you think I'll be happy with the S1 or is it worth the extra $20 for the S52? Are there any other units I should be considering?

Bump. I am also considering a Sony that supposedly has special features to play warped or otherwise damaged discs. I play lots of rented and burned material so this may be a useful feature for me. Is it BS? Should I just go with the panny instead?

I still haven't made a decision on this but would like to place an order in the next couple of days. Does anyone have any input into choosing a 480P player? I am very concerned with how well the player will work with dvd-r discs and rented discs so that is one benefit for the Sony. On the other hand, the Panasonic is cheaper and I already have a panasonic that has worked fairly well for awhile (other than being really poor at playing burned discs).