Coby TF-DVD7100 Portable DVD Player
Features, versatility, package and price can't be beat
I shopped around for 3-4 months for a portable DVD player before deciding on the Coby 7100. After owning it now for a few months and using in the car, on a plane, in a hotel and on the living room couch, my family and I are all quite happy with this purchase.    Here's why:  * The 7-inch screen is exactly the right size for a portable if what you're looking for is a car or personal player. Anything larger would be awkward in cramped quarters. If you don't need a car player and want anything larger, use your laptop. The display on this player is surprisingly solid and much better than I expected.  * If you want quality sound, buy a good set of headphones. Does anyone realistically expect the speakers on this portable to provide booming volume or surround sound? The included headphones are adequate for a second set and kids don't even notice the difference. For a second set, look at the Sony or Panasonic noise-reduction units, especially if you are going to be using them in an auto or on an airplane. And you'll be able to use them with your laptop, MP3 player, etc., as well.  * This package includes everything you'll need with the exception of a case. If you want something for the car, then look at the Targus cases as they include straps that allow you to hang the DVD player between or on the back of seats in your car. As I said, everything else is included such as the auto power cord that connects to the cigarette lighter, cables to hook up the unit to a large TV set at home or in a hotel, and even a small remote which is actually something you'll definitely need when using it in the car or attached to a TV monitor. In carefully comparing this DVD player package to others in this price segment I did not find any other that included such a complete range of accessories.    One potential limitation worth mentioning is that the TFDVD7100 is only certified to play standard production DVDs. While some reviewers have reported success playing DVD-R and DVD-RW discs, I havenot. Its worth noting that Coby does not specifically mention support of these formats in product documentation, either. However, if you purchase your DVDs at the store or rent from Blockbuster, you're fine. If this is something you require, you may want to keep shopping -- but be prepared to pay considerably more.    In another year or two I'll gladly upgrade my player, but I don't own a DVR at present so this is not a gating factor for me. And if my kids break this unit or scratch up the screen, I'm only out $150. Besides, when it is time to upgrade, the technology is going to be much improved, the price point lower, and I'll finally have that DVR and the ability to burn my own.    The bottom line is when you add up all the features of the Coby 7100, the versatility, the included accesssories, the smart ergonamic design, and the low price, I don't think you can find a better player. If you buy it you won't be disappointed. I recommended this player to a co-worker and he is quite happy with it, too.