I'm a sophisticated PC/multi-gadget consumer but this is only my second DVD player purchase. I'd really appreciate advice along the following lines.
- Are multi-territory DVD players available legally in the USA? I'd like to be able to play British-standard DVDs if possible. Do these players require dedicated monitors or can you run them through a regular TV, as usual?
- My PC can burn onto DVD+R and DVD+RW format disks. I edit DV on my PC. Is it worth finding a DVD player that can read the RW format? My last player could only handle DVD+R. Are the machines that can read multiple disk types much more expensive? Can anyone summarize the practical benefits of multiple formats?
- Are either of the above expectations (multi-territory/multi-format) unrealistic when looking for a DVD/VCR combo?
- Is any particular brand known tobe more robust than others? I have to factor in my childrens access to the DVD player. They are usually very careful but...
- Exactly what value is progressive scan?
- Do you recommend online purchase of DVD players or is it better to research online then buy it at a store?
1) Technically, if you facotr in the DMCA, then aquiring a multi-region player is not legal in the United States. If you do happen to get one, you will need a set that supports PAL (what the British discs will be) or get some kind of converter to go between the video cable to convert the signal for you.
2) Having a player that supports multiple formats means less headaches as DVD recording becomes more popular. Most players support at least DVD - R, while Philips Magnavox tend to only support +r in their low end consumer models. Companies like Sony , JVC, and Cyberhome go out and support both + and - R and RW.
3) I honestly have seen no combos of this nature, but admittedly haven't looked too hard.
4) Look for features more so than ease of use.
5) Progressive scan can only be taken advantage of when using a set capable of it (usually, a high definition TV, but sometimes, as with plasmas, edtv also) and you have it hooked up via digital hookups (DVI, HDMI) or component video wiring. Progressive scan reads the entire image at once as aboved to half and half using the standard interlaced method.
6) Buying online isn't bad if you know what you are getting.