Tosh HD-A2 HD DVD - First End User Reports!

billymerritt · 12-07-06, 06:02 PM

Yes, got A2 From BB today! Had my A1 in to their repair facility for over a month and they said not repairable, so gave me exchange for A2. I tried to get A2 before lunch today but had not come in yet!

Behold, got phone call from BB at 1PM and UPS just delivered the first A2 shipment so dashed over and picked it up.

I know there are many questions, and I only had chance to do quick test but so far it's much better than A1 for performance. I checked out the first problem title for most folks with E.O.Days and played TrueHD track flawless not lag, pause or hiccups at all. Then checked out some of KK just to be sure it works and just fine with it.

First thing I noticed on my setup is even better blacks, at least to my eyes. Also much faster, how fast? just like Toshiba says about twice as quick as A1. Another plus is when movie does start don't get all the flashing and video noise like the A1, just starts smooth like it should.

Not a lot of time spent with it yet, so hope this helps take the edge of all you folks still waiting for it to get in your hands. I think it is well worth the wait, but of course my A1 was great for about 6 months before it got sick, hope our new A2's will have better results.

Andrew P · 12-07-06, 06:03 PM

Very nice. Can't wait to hear more about it!

newvue1256 · 12-07-06, 06:07 PM

Nice!

Hunter67 · 12-07-06, 06:09 PM

I was at my local BB today and asked them about the A2, they had 3 in stock, said they would sell one to me but without the 6 channel analog out I'm not interested since I don't have HDMI on my AVM-30 yet.

BTW, it was priced @ 499.99

Lodef · 12-07-06, 06:13 PM

Good to see someome has one in hand. Keep us posted with the reviews. I can't wait to get mine.

Cooper0103 · 12-07-06, 06:14 PM

How did it sound as compared to the A1?

hmurchison · 12-07-06, 06:14 PM

Right on! It's time to start a A2 Sticky thread!

JOHNnDENVER · 12-07-06, 06:14 PM

WooHooo, the players are out and 5 days early from the last release date? Nice...

What is the phrase? Wait for it?

"This is good for HD-DVD"

Hunter67 · 12-07-06, 06:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by hmurchison

Right on! It's time to start a A2 Sticky thread!

I agree,

"Toshiba HD-A2 HD DVD - First End User Reports!" Sticky thread!

Post some pics too

bfdtv · 12-07-06, 06:22 PM

Grats Bill. The HD-A2 is improved in too many ways to list.

If you don't require 5.1 analog output -- either because you have a HDMI receiver now or plan to upgrade to one next year --- you are going to be very happy with the A2. I could not say the same thing about the previous-generation A1 -- which was fine for enthusiasts, but perhaps not the best player for the masses. The A2 is far better suited for the average person who wants to get into high-definition media. As I have said before, the A2 is a second-generation player and it shows.

thebland · 12-07-06, 06:28 PM

Any BB coupons floating around the internet??

Cooper0103 · 12-07-06, 06:29 PM

I just got a 12% off in the mail the other day....it runs until the 11th

I just called my local BB and they didn't have them in stock but he went to check the sku# to find out when they would get them..and guess what. I got disconnected!

PeterS · 12-07-06, 06:30 PM

Sure are. 10% this weekend 12% for Reward Zone.

However, Robert's is the MUCH better deal for the same price, plus 2 HD-DVDs and no sales tax or shipping!

Cooper0103 · 12-07-06, 06:32 PM

Quote:

However, Robert's is the MUCH better deal for the same price, plus 2 HD-DVDs and no sales tax or shipping!

Where is he doing no shipping on his offer? I must have missed that.

PeterS · 12-07-06, 06:35 PM

Says Free Shipping right in the ad. I am pretty sure.

billymac · 12-07-06, 06:37 PM

questions for A2 owners:

1. colorspace issue over dvi fixed?
2. how about btb and black crush?

thanks

1loudsuv · 12-07-06, 06:38 PM

great news for blur ray

dlhoppe · 12-07-06, 06:48 PM

Bill is probably watching movies right now! Lucky dog!!!!

Suzook · 12-07-06, 07:01 PM

Just landed one myself. Got the three free movie print out as well and the 12% off even though it doesnt start tomorrow. And to think I was moving over officially to the Blu-Ray camp not too long ago

skriefal · 12-07-06, 07:02 PM

Does the A2 still transcode to DTS for those without an HDMI-capable receiver?

hmurchison · 12-07-06, 07:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Suzook

Just landed one myself. Got the three free movie print out as well and the 12% off even though it doesnt start tomorrow. And to think I was moving over officially to the Blu-Ray camp not too long ago

Great things come to those who wait. Looking forward to your commentary on the A2

Suzook · 12-07-06, 07:07 PM

Incidentally, the display model was thrown in with a bunch of tivo stuff and dvd recorders. No display nothing. Not even a price or info card was there. Sony Blu-Ray has a nice end cap. Funny because you pay for space on the sales floor and even with no placement HD dvd is outselling Blu-Ray

Dave Mack · 12-07-06, 07:08 PM

VE does charge for shipping if you get the discount.

trgraphics · 12-07-06, 07:17 PM

I thought Robert was getting a special shipment in before anyone else? Oh well, just have to wait for him to ship now.

mrkrispy · 12-07-06, 07:21 PM

congratulations!

sknight1 · 12-07-06, 07:37 PM

Could any A2 owner confirm the version of firmware?

Thanks!

ryoohki · 12-07-06, 07:40 PM

PHotoooooooooooooooossssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss ss

LOL

Somebody must do a official opening in photos... really, it's a new for every new products LOL

GmanAVS · 12-07-06, 07:51 PM

BB on Rte 17 North (Fashion Mall) in Paramus just received 4 A1s from FedEx 15 min. ago.
Ask for Roy (or is it Ray) in the TV/DVD area.... the 4 boxes are in the back and not on the floor.... he did say 1 is on pre-order so 3 are available.

Although I'd personally get it from Robert at VE, if you just can't wait until next week and "need" it now gget there fast and post pics and review even faster

ottscay · 12-07-06, 07:57 PM

This IS good news for HD DVD. Now we'll have to see how many ship, and how well they sell.

cliftonrouse · 12-07-06, 07:58 PM

I would love to see some photos.

12-07-06, 06:02 PM	#1 \| Link	<a href='http://rev.avsforum.com/phpAdsNew/adclick.php?n=a4ac4393' target='_blank'><img src='http://rev.avsforum.com/phpAdsNew/adview.php?what=zone:30&n=a4ac4393' border='0' alt=''></a>
billymerritt Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: Tampa, FL Posts: 282	Tosh HD-A2 HD DVD - First End User Reports! Yes, got A2 From BB today! Had my A1 in to their repair facility for over a month and they said not repairable, so gave me exchange for A2. I tried to get A2 before lunch today but had not come in yet! Behold, got phone call from BB at 1PM and UPS just delivered the first A2 shipment so dashed over and picked it up. I know there are many questions, and I only had chance to do quick test but so far it's much better than A1 for performance. I checked out the first problem title for most folks with E.O.Days and played TrueHD track flawless not lag, pause or hiccups at all. Then checked out some of KK just to be sure it works and just fine with it. First thing I noticed on my setup is even better blacks, at least to my eyes. Also much faster, how fast? just like Toshiba says about twice as quick as A1. Another plus is when movie does start don't get all the flashing and video noise like the A1, just starts smooth like it should. Not a lot of time spent with it yet, so hope this helps take the edge of all you folks still waiting for it to get in your hands. I think it is well worth the wait, but of course my A1 was great for about 6 months before it got sick, hope our new A2's will have better results. __________________ Bill

12-07-06, 06:09 PM	#4 \| Link
Hunter67 Advanced Member Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: St. Louis Posts: 591	I was at my local BB today and asked them about the A2, they had 3 in stock, said they would sell one to me but without the 6 channel analog out I'm not interested since I don't have HDMI on my AVM-30 yet. BTW, it was priced @ 499.99 Last edited by Hunter67; 12-07-06 at 06:16 PM..

12-07-06, 06:13 PM	#5 \| Link	<a href='http://rev.avsforum.com/phpAdsNew/adclick.php?n=a591f81a' target='_blank'><img src='http://rev.avsforum.com/phpAdsNew/adview.php?what=zone:36&n=a591f81a' border='0' alt=''></a>
Lodef AVS Special Member Join Date: Feb 2005 Location: Northshore, MA Posts: 2,372	Good to see someome has one in hand. Keep us posted with the reviews. I can't wait to get mine.

12-07-06, 06:22 PM	#10 \| Link	<a href='http://rev.avsforum.com/phpAdsNew/adclick.php?n=a591f81a' target='_blank'><img src='http://rev.avsforum.com/phpAdsNew/adview.php?what=zone:36&n=a591f81a' border='0' alt=''></a>
bfdtv AVS Addicted Member Join Date: Nov 2002 Posts: 13,322	Grats Bill. The HD-A2 is improved in too many ways to list. If you don't require 5.1 analog output -- either because you have a HDMI receiver now or plan to upgrade to one next year --- you are going to be very happy with the A2. I could not say the same thing about the previous-generation A1 -- which was fine for enthusiasts, but perhaps not the best player for the masses. The A2 is far better suited for the average person who wants to get into high-definition media. As I have said before, the A2 is a second-generation player and it shows.

12-07-06, 06:28 PM	#11 \| Link
thebland Nostradamus of HT AVS CLUB MEMBER Join Date: Jan 2001 Location: Detroit, Michigan USA Posts: 20,115 Classified Rating: 100% (3)	Any BB coupons floating around the internet?? __________________ Jeff

12-07-06, 06:03 PM	#2 \| Link
Andrew P AVS Special Member AVS CLUB MEMBER Join Date: Nov 2000 Posts: 2,521 Classified Rating: 100% (1)	Very nice. Can't wait to hear more about it!

12-07-06, 06:07 PM	#3 \| Link
newvue1256 Member Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: Oregon Posts: 28	Nice!

12-07-06, 06:14 PM	#6 \| Link
Cooper0103 Advanced Member Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: Texas Posts: 799	How did it sound as compared to the A1?

12-07-06, 06:14 PM	#7 \| Link
hmurchison HD Cat Herder Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: Seattle Posts: 3,965	Right on! It's time to start a A2 Sticky thread!

12-07-06, 06:14 PM	#8 \| Link
JOHNnDENVER AVS Addicted Member Join Date: Dec 2005 Posts: 10,414	WooHooo, the players are out and 5 days early from the last release date? Nice... What is the phrase? Wait for it? "This is good for HD-DVD"

12-07-06, 06:29 PM	#12 \| Link
Cooper0103 Advanced Member Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: Texas Posts: 799	I just got a 12% off in the mail the other day....it runs until the 11th I just called my local BB and they didn't have them in stock but he went to check the sku# to find out when they would get them..and guess what. I got disconnected!

12-07-06, 06:30 PM	#13 \| Link
PeterS AVS Special Member Join Date: Jun 1999 Location: Midwest USA Posts: 2,094	Sure are. 10% this weekend 12% for Reward Zone. However, Robert's is the MUCH better deal for the same price, plus 2 HD-DVDs and no sales tax or shipping! __________________ "Read Less, More TV." - Dr. Gregory House "That which can not be questioned, can not be trusted." - Me The Metropolis Home Theater Blue Smoke Entertainment Systems - Affiliated

12-07-06, 06:35 PM	#15 \| Link	<a href='http://rev.avsforum.com/phpAdsNew/adclick.php?n=a591f81a' target='_blank'><img src='http://rev.avsforum.com/phpAdsNew/adview.php?what=zone:36&n=a591f81a' border='0' alt=''></a>
PeterS AVS Special Member Join Date: Jun 1999 Location: Midwest USA Posts: 2,094	Says Free Shipping right in the ad. I am pretty sure. __________________ "Read Less, More TV." - Dr. Gregory House "That which can not be questioned, can not be trusted." - Me The Metropolis Home Theater Blue Smoke Entertainment Systems - Affiliated

12-07-06, 06:37 PM	#16 \| Link
billymac AVS Special Member Join Date: Aug 2004 Location: the mostest funnest place ever Posts: 2,251	questions for A2 owners: 1. colorspace issue over dvi fixed? 2. how about btb and black crush? thanks __________________ "the one who has the most fun wins."

12-07-06, 06:38 PM	#17 \| Link
1loudsuv AVS Special Member Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: long beach california Posts: 1,165	great news for blur ray

12-07-06, 06:48 PM	#18 \| Link
dlhoppe Senior Member Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: WI Posts: 352	Bill is probably watching movies right now! Lucky dog!!!!

12-07-06, 07:01 PM	#19 \| Link
Suzook AVS Special Member AVS CLUB MEMBER Join Date: Jun 2001 Posts: 3,709 Classified Rating: 98% (71)	Just landed one myself. Got the three free movie print out as well and the 12% off even though it doesnt start tomorrow. And to think I was moving over officially to the Blu-Ray camp not too long ago

12-07-06, 07:02 PM	#20 \| Link
skriefal Advanced Member Join Date: Jan 2000 Location: SLC, Utah Posts: 643	Does the A2 still transcode to DTS for those without an HDMI-capable receiver?

12-07-06, 07:07 PM	#22 \| Link
Suzook AVS Special Member AVS CLUB MEMBER Join Date: Jun 2001 Posts: 3,709 Classified Rating: 98% (71)	Incidentally, the display model was thrown in with a bunch of tivo stuff and dvd recorders. No display nothing. Not even a price or info card was there. Sony Blu-Ray has a nice end cap. Funny because you pay for space on the sales floor and even with no placement HD dvd is outselling Blu-Ray

12-07-06, 07:08 PM	#23 \| Link
Dave Mack Mack Daddy! Join Date: May 2003 Location: NYC Posts: 9,116 Classified Rating: 100% (1)	VE does charge for shipping if you get the discount. __________________ http://franbro.com/ http://www.myspace.com/franbro

12-07-06, 07:17 PM	#24 \| Link
trgraphics AVS Special Member Join Date: Feb 2005 Location: Houston, TX Posts: 1,893	I thought Robert was getting a special shipment in before anyone else? Oh well, just have to wait for him to ship now.

12-07-06, 07:21 PM	#25 \| Link
mrkrispy Advanced Member Join Date: Dec 2003 Location: San Diego, CA Posts: 820	congratulations!

12-07-06, 07:37 PM	#26 \| Link
sknight1 Advanced Member Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Wadsworth, OH Posts: 656	Could any A2 owner confirm the version of firmware? Thanks! __________________ Beer. So much more than just a breakfast drink!

12-07-06, 07:40 PM	#27 \| Link
ryoohki AVS Special Member Join Date: Oct 2002 Location: Repentigny, Québec, Canada Posts: 3,376	PHotoooooooooooooooossssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss ss LOL Somebody must do a official opening in photos... really, it's a new for every new products LOL __________________ 89+ Blu-ray Disc ;)

12-07-06, 07:51 PM	#28 \| Link
GmanAVS High Def uber alles Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Ridgewood, NJ Posts: 1,532 Classified Rating: 100% (2)	A1s at BB on rte 17 N. in Paramus BB on Rte 17 North (Fashion Mall) in Paramus just received 4 A1s from FedEx 15 min. ago. Ask for Roy (or is it Ray) in the TV/DVD area.... the 4 boxes are in the back and not on the floor.... he did say 1 is on pre-order so 3 are available. Although I'd personally get it from Robert at VE, if you just can't wait until next week and "need" it now gget there fast and post pics and review even faster

12-07-06, 07:57 PM	#29 \| Link
ottscay AVS Special Member Join Date: Apr 2006 Posts: 1,656	This IS good news for HD DVD. Now we'll have to see how many ship, and how well they sell.

12-07-06, 07:58 PM	#30 \| Link	<a href='http://rev.avsforum.com/phpAdsNew/adclick.php?n=a591f81a' target='_blank'><img src='http://rev.avsforum.com/phpAdsNew/adview.php?what=zone:36&n=a591f81a' border='0' alt=''></a>
cliftonrouse Member Join Date: Nov 2006 Posts: 107	I would love to see some photos.