Apex AD-800 Progressive-Scan DVD Player
Ups and Downs of Apex AD-800 DVD Player
I bought one from Sams Club last Christmas. I loved it, but it had some quirks. Took the first one back, and got another one with identical quirks. After many frustrating moments with it i finally found a site that had an unauthorized update for the firmware that worked WONDERS for this machine. Although not perfect, it fixed most of the quirks (upside of a Flash Upgrade):<BR>1. SVCD's didn't always work right now work almost perfectly (a few skips, and stalls, but will work most of the time - I believe this is due to the media, and not the machine, or possibly the burning software).<BR>2. DTS audio CD's didn't play in DTS, now work correctly.<BR>3. No more high-pitched squeaks when drop-outs occur.<BR>4. ALL functions still work correctly with Apex AD-600A remote.<BR>Current Problems (on the downside):<BR>1. Someone mentioned that they had red lines on the front display: So do I! Not sure what it is caused by.<BR>2. Some disks will say Error! Replace me. But will eventually work. I believe this is a problem of the dye, as it appears to be caused by certain Brand CD-R's and DVD-R's (DVD-RW, and CD-RW work too!! I have a DVD-R/RW - CD-R/RW burner in one - Pioneer A03 so I could test these formats).<BR>3. Had to wipe out the original firmware for a Hiteker software package that disabled the remote. But my Apex AD-600A remote works beautifully now with my AD-800! All functions are capable from remote, (albeit not exactly as originally designed for the AD-800). By the way. Someone said it didn't have a fast-forward/backward mode. IT DOES! press the forward button ( the big button on the right (or the left for reverse), and hold for a second or so. FAST Forward or Fast Reverse! Voila!! Zoom in and out is AWESOME! This player has MANY great options for the money!! <BR>4. Apex support is totally non-responsive to inquiries, so don't count on any help there. On-line (internet) help is abundant though...The player is still a great buy if it is still available! Remember this:Progressive Scan...