RP91 to 5900-is it worth it?

You don't need DVI, and don't need SACD. Save the money and keep the RP91 its a great player, I doubt you'll notice a image change using components to components.

I disagree with stonepran about the difference in video quality. The only thing the Panasonic does better than the Denon is scaling of non-anamorphic material. Progressive component video from the 5900 would be a big step up from the RP-91. The question in your case is, does that alone justify spending $1500-$2000? You're not interested in SACD and have no need for DVI output, so there are two big strengths of the Denon you won't be taking advantage of. What about DVD-A? Redbook CD? The 5900 is an outstanding audio performer as well. But if you're not interested in these features either...


If it were me and I was looking at a new player for video use only, I'd save some money and buy a used XP30/XP50 or RP82, maybe even a Denon 1600. Their component video is pretty close to the 5900 at about 1/5 the price.

Quote:
Upgrade something else besides the DVD player.


larry

Thanks all for your input.


I am into DVD-A and CD. The RP-91 sounds good with both. I shouldn't say that I am not interested in SACD, but that I just don't have any experience with it. Hi-Quality sound is very important to me...that's the hook right now. I have heard that the 5900 is one of the best, but will I hear a difference worth the $1775.00 I can buy one for?

There is no question you'll see a better picture with the 5900. The RP-91 has been surpassed, for several years now, by Panasonic's own cheaper players. As to the sound, if you are using a digital coaxial cable, or optical cable, for your connection to the receiver, you will not hear a change (for DVD sound). Only if you listen to CDs through this player will you hear a change.


I think you should try one of these, the XP50, perhaps? or the newer model with the Faroudja chip.


P.S. I'm in exactly the same boat. I'd like to try the 5900, but I don't have DVI, and I'm not sure it's worth it (I've currently got the RP-82, though I don't know how long it will last).

HTf4un,

If you are "into" DVD-A, you want SACD. You won't be disappointed.


larry

The 82's only advantage over the 91 was de-interlacing, everything else was almost identical. The 91 had a slightly better analog stage though.


The 5900 has a far better analog stage then either of the two, plus far more features and flexibility.

Kris,


What are the benefits of a much better analog stage? More detail? better colors? etc


Thanks,

A better analog stage gives a flatter response which lends to a sharper image with better depth. You also have a lot less noise around objects.

You've all been a help...I'm going to put in an order for one! Better video, sound, and SACD all sound good to me. Once it's all set-up properly I will know for sure! Hopefully I won't have to kick myself.


Thanks,

Scott

Be patient as the Faroudja chip has some quircks in it that Denon is hopefully pressing out. I informed them of an issue with the NR filter in the Faroudja chip, hopefully they'll have a firmware solution soon.

Cain,


I also run the RP91 interlaced and let the Pioneer do the line-doubling. My thought was that the 5900 would be superior to my TV at doing the job...just based current technology. The "quirks" that I have been hearing about do make me wonder...for $2000 there shouldn't be any issues. How would I know what firmware updates have been done? I should probably wait awhile...but for how long?


Scott

I will announce on the forum when the updates are available.

Kris,


I'll keep an eye out for your post!


Scott

Kris,


You're a reviewer for "Secrets"! Cool! I just read your review of the 2900...well done!