Panasonic DVD-S29K DVD Player , Black
Goodbye Sony
Because of what Sony did with their horrendous XCP cds, I am cutting ALL ties to their products (they've been going downhill for years anyway). This is an interesting player I got to replace an old Sony single-disc player that, while solidly built, just wasn't reading newer dvds when loaded. So it was time to get a new one and this is it. Already I can tell you that it has successfully loaded every dvd I've put in it (that's especially good, particularly with adult XXX titles). Access times are lightning quick (again, unlike Sony). Picture quality is excellent. I really like the different \\"picture mode\\" settings; unlike Sony players, the differences between them are noticeable and effective at enhancing whatever you want to see. Unfortunately, if you want to change time mode (from elapsed to remaining) you have to enter a \\"Functions\\" menu, then select your time setting from there - not convenient. On my 4:3 television, the \\"Zoom\\" feature produces interesting results. It actually has the ability to zoom in on several different aspect ratios, including 1:66:1 / 1.78:1 / 2.20:1 / 2.40:1 / 2.55:1. So that's a nice thing to have for variety anyway. You need to be careful with the disc tray - it looks very flimsy and it doesn't have recessed edges on the sides so you'll have to remove the disc each time by sticking your finger in the center hole and lifting it out. WARNING: if you have this hooked up to a plasma set, MAKE SURE YOU DON'T LEAVE IT PAUSED - THERE IS NO SCREEN SAVER MODE. It's made in China, but so far it's a pretty good player.