The world of DVD players is a different place than it was a decade ago. Back in those days, we were just glad that DVD players existed. At least we could go digital, and no longer be trapped in the world of VHS. Now we have various types of DVD players - HD, SD, Blu-Ray. The world is a more complicated place indeed.
So, knowing that, what DVD player should you get for someone (or maybe yourself) as a gift this holiday season? Well, there are hundreds of options out there, but I will give you five of my favorites...
Toshiba SD6000
If you are looking for a DVD player that does the job without the massive price tag, this is your pick. You can get it for $70 and it is well worth that. It has a High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) connection, which allows you to connect your DVD player to a digital TV, and with profound results. The SD6000 also features a video "upconversion" option, which can convert standard DVD quality video to a more crisp picture closely akin to HDTV quality (1080p, for the techies out there). Pretty nifty, and not too expensive.
OPPO DV-970HD
Although not really a HD-DVD player, if you have a HDTV you would like to watch movies on, this is your best bet, in my opinion. If you have millions of standard DVDs and aren't quite into the HD-DVD surge yet, this is probably your player of choice, because it upconverts the DVD video to HD quality. The Toshiba SD6000 does practically the same, but this one has a clearer picture (and is a bit more expensive at about $120). And the OPPO comes with frills, one being you can play most any video or audio format out there.
Toshiba HD-A30
Searching for an affordable genuine HD-DVD player? Search no more. Toshiba's HD-A3 is not only a high-definition compatible DVD player, it is also only about $320, which is quite reasonable for HD. The HD-A3 is also able to play standard DVDs and CDs, which is essential since it is still not the easiest thing to find HD-DVDs, and most haven't replaced or transferred all their standard definition DVDs yet. Its video output is at 1080p, which is pretty stinkin' sharp. And the product itself is aesthetically pleasing - making an attractive addition to your entertainments center. Rock on!
Samsung BD-P1400
Blu-Ray technology is truly amazing. Using a violet-blue laser rather than traditional red, Blu-Ray DVDs have a much sharper picture, and can provide more storage on the same amount of space. The Samsung BD-P1400 is an excellent Blu-ray player. Although a bit on the pricey side, it is no doubt a reasonable price for Blu-Ray capabilities ($370). This player gives you video and audio quality adjustment options, letting you make the ultimate call. With Dolby Digital Plus and Dolby True HD compatibility, you are going to be raving about the sound quality for some time to come. It also comes with HDMI version 1.3, bringing richer coloring and sharper resolution. If you are looking for an affordable Blu-Ray player which offers a lot, this is your choice.
Sony BDP-S500
This is for those can't-get-enough movie-lovers who just can't get enough of top-notch video and audio quality. If price isn't an issue, and you are one of those entertainment-gurus, this is for you. And what is nearly $700 when it comes to viewing perfection? This player's picture is clear - crystal clear. It is a notch above most of the rest. Its 24p True Cinema allows you to view the movie how it was meant to be seen. It's as if you are there. And the sound quality just adds to it all. It reads anything from Dolby Digital Plus to Dolby TrueHD. And the BRAVIA Theater Sync allows you to be in control of your entire viewing experience.
