Onkyo Dv-Sp800 multi-format playback CHEAP! opinions and experience appreciated

[spider_duggan]

I just set aside an Onkyo dv-sp800 at my local hifi shop. They're asking $333US. That's well below the orignial price of $1000US

http://www.us.onkyo.com/model.cfm?m=DV-SP800&class=DVD&p=i

I've read a few good reviews on it and it seems like a pretty good deal. Is there anything I should be know?

I have a DVD player by onkyo that works well. I use S-video connections between dvd-reciever-tv, so I'm not to interested in the video performance, and I don't have a revciever that can handle SACD or DVD-A, but it's on the agenda to get one.

So, initially I'll be using it for 2 channel CD, and later for SACD, DVD-A and better video.

Anybody have experience with this unit or one like it? How about DVD-A and SVCD, are they worth it? (Audiable difference compared to CD)

thanks in advace
Dan

[spider_duggan]

http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/volume_10_1/onkyo-dv-sp800-dvd-player-2-2003.html

Just found this review! It's top notch and explains a few details that I was interested in, so maybe you'll enjoy it too.

[nibhaz]

http://forums.audioholics.com/forums/showthread.php?t=9328

It's a good unit, but whether or not you'll hear an improvement from what you are currently using is dependent on a number of factors. If you are currently using a digital connection between player and receiver and plan to do so with the DV-SP800 you probably will not notice a difference and may not justify the cost. However, if you are using an analog connection you are more likely to hear a difference from your current setup. This might be an improvement especially if the DACs in the DV-SP800 are better than the ones in your receiver.

all in all, it's a well built player. i haven't had any problems in 2 years.

[aarond]

As a sacd/dvda player its a good player.
Its video is not so great.
http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/cgi-bin/shootout.cgi?function=search&articles=all&type=&manufacturer=3&maxprice=0&deInt=Pioneer&mpeg=0

[j_garcia]

Aaron beat me to it. Based on the secrets review, I wouldn't buy it, even on discount.