Down to Two

[Barrye]

I have narrowed my choice of a new DVD player down to a Samsung BDP1200 or a Denon 2930. The Samsung is 599 and the Denon is 549. My TV is not a 1080p, just a 720p/1080i and I am not going to upgrade it soon. I want to use the player for both movies and audio play back. I have a Yamaha RX-V757 as my receiver and it does not have HDMI and up conversion on it. I don't want to get one of the oppo's even though they may be a little cheaper. Is either of my choices a clearcut winner or is it just a matter of preference? (If so I thionk I will go with the less expensive Denon).

Thanks

PS is there a Denon 2930 and a 2930CI or are they the same? I checked the Denon site and it only lists the CI

 

[jcPanny]

HD Player

If you are going to spend >$500, get an HD source like BluRay (the Samsung) or HD-DVD ( Toshiba HD-AX2 or AX3).

An HD source will always look better than a good scaler and the HD-DVD and BluRay players also do a great job of upscaling regular DVDs. Also look for more discounts and promotions on HD players as the Christmas shopping season approaches.

 

[j_garcia]

There is only the CI, no other 2930. The Oppos would be a good choice if you weren't ready for real HD for some reason. Since you are, I completely agree with jcPanny, go with one of the HD formats; and between your two choices that would mean the Samsung. In terms of picture quality, Blu-ray will be the clear cut winner over upscaled DVD. In terms of upscaling, all of the players are at least decent at it these days, so an upscaling DVD player is kind of a waste at this point especially in this price range.

If you don't mind refurb, there is also THIS deal.

 

[mtrycrafts]

My TV is not a 1080p, just a 720p/1080i and I am not going to upgrade it soon.

How large is it and how far away do you watch it? Hi def may not be an improvement.

 

[goodman]

Best Buy is selling the Samsung BDP 1200 for $499.00.

 

[fmw]

Is there something these units will do that the HD players won't do?

 

[Barrye]

TV is 50" and I sit about 5' to 8' away

 

[mtrycrafts]

TV is 50" and I sit about 5' to 8' away

That Samsung looks very inviting and may get a better deal if you search the web.
At your distance you will have a benefit from Bluray discs over standard def, even at 720p down-conversion.

 

[Electone]

I guess since everyone is so pro-Blu around here, I'll voice-up for getting the Toshiba A2, A20, A3, or A30. Getting the Samsung BD-P1000 will limit you to a first generation BD player that only supports Dolby Digital and uncompressed PCM. Plus, HD DVD is a complete format unlike the current BD players (except the PS3) which may not be able to play upcoming interactive features.