I am just getting into scaling. I would be interested in opinions as to an entry level scaler ($800 to $1200) for my set up.

I have seen some backstock iScan HD+ deals on used equipment and Gefen HT Scalers but not exactly sure how they compare to the more mainstream VP-20, Extron, etc scalars. I am not looking for the Cadillac of scalers, more like the Honda - something to get me there but without all the bells and whistles.

Sony KDS-55A2000 SXRD LCOS TV
Toshiba XA2 HD-DVD player
Yamaha RX-V661
Energy RVS series LCR speakers
Energy Veritas 2.0 CM presence, surround LR, surround back
TiVo Series 3 w/ Comcast cablecards

Thanks!

Check out Lumagen scalers:

http://www.lumagen.com/testindex.php?module=hdp_details

Your setup is very similar to mine. I use a Sony XBR1 60" along with 6 Energy Reference Connoisseur floor standing, subwoofer, and an LCR for the center. I'm still using the Toshiba HD-A1 (also use the PS3 Blur-Ray), and Comcast HDDVR as a source. The only difference in brands is that I use a Pioneer Elite receiver, but otherwise we have the same brands. With this in mind I find the DVDO VP30 with ABT card a comfortable fit for my setup. I ended up spending $1250 for the combination and find it very valuable considering how many standard definition DVDs I own.

My favorite feature is the ability to correct for over/underscan. I use my Sony as a computer monitor which overscans a good 4%, which makes gaming very difficult. It also stretches XGA into 16:9. I also like the 4 HDMI inputs, and think that this extra in is worth the difference in price between the VP20 and VP30. Right now I'm torn between not using the OPPO or using component for Comcast. The other nice thing is the PAL to NTSC conversion which works really nicely when the OPPO outputs a PAL signal into the VP30. I believe that these are all standard features for more expensive units, but like you I didn't want to spend that much on a video processor.

If you are HQV teranex fan you should check out their Web site... HQV Teranex has high rating in video processing...
Some of their chips are used in vari product... example Algolith (Dragonfly) ~msrp 1500...

example Algolith (Dragonfly) ~msrp 1500...I thought the MSRP was about $3k. Was there a price reduction?

- Dale Adams

oops... mistake something else... :p