hey guys,
I am a "regular" on the FP page, first timer here.
I am anxiously awaiting the arrival of my new (to me) Sanyo PLV-Z4.
I have a "cheapo" Panny HTiB which has served us well and works ok with our current FP, Infocus X1 (a 480P native projector).
Since the Z4 has an HDMi slot and 2 component slots, I am contemplating buying a "better" DVD player. But as with everything in electronics, I am at a crossroads. Do I pay more and buy an HD DVD player (HD or blue ray) or since I do not own any HD movies, buy a good standard def DVD player with HDMI capability.
My only other video component is a HD DVR from the cable company which also has a n HDMI output. Having 2 components with HDMI will prob result in another problem, I will need a new A/V receiver that can act as an HDMI swicth.
ARGHHH..does this ever end.
Anyways, what do you guys say?

Anyways, what do you guys say?

I would not say "pointless",. but if I were shopping I would look hard at the HD-DVD/Blu-Ray options. Some get good reviews for DVD playback, so you'll have that even if one or both formats fail.

Good SD-DVD players are still a bit cheaper (quite a bit for Blu-Ray) and play formats that the HD players do not. You still need an SD player for PAL and mutli-region, for example. Do you use burned media? Look carefully at compatibility.

-Bill

What most members are doing is buying an upscaling dvd player like the oppo 970-hd ,
And that's what I did and I am very impressed with the performance value with my oppo
and other friends of mine have done the same with very good results and on my PJ the difference is night and day..

I have a HD player but most of my movie watching is still old regular dvd movies. Considering how many great movies there are, HD releases are only a tiny percentage. Plus the hefty cost of the movies. Not a waste at all.

I think at this point, as far as video performance, I wouldn't spend more than $200 on a SD DVD player; I'd stick with the Oppo 981 or 970 (depending on needs, etc.). No point in spending $500+ anymore since you can get the Reon processor in HD DVD and (soon) Blu-ray in that price range.