View Full Version : High-end DVD players worth it?
gtogre
11-18-2004, 08:49 PM
How much better is a DVD player that costs more than $500-600? I know there are Denons from $600 to over $1000 with HDMI, and a couple Pioneer Elite models over $1000 MSRP. I have a Pioneer Elite 50" Plasma (PDP-1120), which already cost me a bundle. I have an older receiver & speakers, which I'm planning to upgrade soon. I really don't plan on listening to SACD or DVD-audio (or, at least I don't think I will).
Is it a mistake to buy a lower-end DVD player for my TV? Will any PQ improvement be noticeable only to a professional videophile? Should I forget the high-end players for now & save my money for something else? I could always just buy one, try it & return it, but wanted some input first. I'm not exactly Donald Trump, so $$$ is a factor, but I'd be willing to fork out the cash if was worth it.
gparris
11-18-2004, 09:35 PM
My suggestion is to get something with Faroudja processing like the Denon 1910 as it does upconverts, too and sells for about $249.
My Kenwood changers have it and do the Faroudja processing and it is so clear that is like close to, but (of course not) HD. :)
I also have the Pioneer with the "Pure Cinema Progressive" model 563-A with the SACD and DVD audio, which is a close second to my Faroudja DVD player's processing, for around $150.
So it is what you buy, not always how much...hope this helps you out...both are great...use decent (not always necessary Monster), cables for hookup, too! :D
brector
11-19-2004, 11:55 AM
I got the denon 1910 about a month ago and I love it! *To me* it was worth the extra cash.
gparris
11-19-2004, 02:56 PM
Thanks for the info, brector, I am getting my hands on one as soon as possible.
I am replacing my JVC DVD player and keeping my Pioneer player just as a DVD-A/SACD source or if I rent something and don't want to put it into the carousel system (when I buy them). The 910 was replaced by the 1910 and I hoped it was as good or better and at $249, a great buy...thanks again!
gtogre
11-19-2004, 05:02 PM
Great info. Well back to the stores for me. I thought I was set on the Sony NS975V upconverting player, but now will definititely check out the Denons. Anyone know the main difference between the Denon 1910 ($250) and Denon 2910 ($650)? I know the 2910 has both HDMI (which I'm looking for) and DVI outs, whereas the 1910 has DVI only. Anything else to justify the big price difference? Anyone have experience with Pioneer Elite DVD players?
Blaster
11-19-2004, 05:36 PM
that 1910 sure seems sweet, but wish it was a 5-holer...
the 1815 probably is great, to bad it has no DVI...
http://www.crutchfield.com/S-sOyZbponGa2/cgi-bin/ProdView.asp?g=54500&I=033DVM1815
just can't seem to find a 5 disc, Faroudja, w/ DVI (less than $500)
Number2
11-19-2004, 10:14 PM
Lookie lookie !!! http://www.gotapex.com/deals.php go 1/2 down and you'll see this !!
Panasonic DVDS97S Progressive Scan DVD Player with HDMI Output, Scaling to 720p/1080i, and the newest Faroudja Processing Chip for $266.41 plus delivery and after 1% OnePass discount. Great pricing from a reliable merchant on Panasonic`s hot new DVD-S97S DVD player with Faroudja processing and HDMI output. This is one of the most highly anticipated players on the market, with a top notch mpeg decoder and deinterlacer, and very good built in 720p/1080i upconversion. It plays DVD-Audio, DVD-Video, DVD-RAM, DVD-R, HDCD, CD, CD-R, and CD-RW too! Shipping comes out to just $10.67 and there`s no tax except for NY.
http://www.onecall.com/PID_22384.htm
Anybody has any comments about this one???
Price are set to expire 11/21/2004.
splinter
11-20-2004, 04:34 PM
the panasonic website doesn't say anything about Faroudja processing
mikehbkwm
11-20-2004, 11:02 PM
id personally get the denon 1910.... its got a great review from www.hometheaterhifi.com
gparris
11-20-2004, 11:33 PM
The 1910 vs. the higher number indicates SACD/DVD-A audio- See:
http://www.crutchfield.com/S-vU0yJ5bbtR2/cgi-bin/ProdView.asp?g=54400&I=033DV2910B
If this model appeals to you and you play (or intend to play) these audio discs, get the 2910, otherwise, get the Denon 1910 and I am certain you will be very happy!
ruadmaa
11-21-2004, 07:52 AM
You can get the Panasonic DVDS97S for $259.00 from J&R musicworld. www.jandr.com They are a highly reliable source for electronic equipment.
derekp
11-22-2004, 04:14 PM
the panasonic website doesn't say anything about Faroudja processing
The DCDi logo is on the box. I've seen pictures of the innards posted in other forums to verify. Minor flaws aside, sounds like a good value.
tehach
11-29-2004, 11:44 PM
The DCDi logo is on the box. I've seen pictures of the innards posted in other forums to verify. Minor flaws aside, sounds like a good value.
So the verdict is that it DOES have Faroudja processing?
