Panasonic DVD-RV31K DVD Player, Black
A cautious and compromised choice for DVD-RV31K
In upgrading to digital sound, I did a lot of research and end up with PAN DVD-RV31K. This is certainly not the high-end of the product line, (I would say mid-end), but I got most I need with a good brand name famous for its quality. (I think Panasonic is on the conservative side -- personal view.)<BR>Instead of mentioning the features again, I would like to mention the features that it is missing, and the reason I don't need them.<BR>1) No progressive scan. But I don't have a digital video minitor anyway. I will wait another few years for HDTV.<BR>2) No digital coaxial output. But the optical output is enough, and I just have to be careful about the optical cable as to not break it. A digital coaxial output would give me a choice.<BR>3) No 5.1 channel output. This is useful when you have a 5.1 channel ready receiver. But I use a digital receiver instead.<BR>4) No front headphone jack. A HPJ might be useful sometimes, but usually not. I am an audio fan, so a headphone is not good for me. I don't do night viewing.<BR>5) The scanning frequency (27MHz) is not the best. But the picture is good enough for me (no HDTV).<br />The above points serve as a reference alert for prospecting DVD player buyers.<BR>In short, I made a good balanced choice for a reasonable amount of dollars.