Quote:
Originally posted by Obi-Wan
If I buy a player like the Panasonic RP62 or S35S will I see a huge difference in picture quality?
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It depends on how you define "huge".
If you prefer to stick with Toshiba DVD players, check out the
SD-4800 or the
SD-3900. I don't know if the chorma upsampling error is bothersome to you. If you've been happy with your current Toshiba player's performance, it probably doesn't bother you as Toshiba DVD players use a de-interlacer (I think it's the de-interlacer) that masks the error well (minimizes it).
If you're open to other brands, the
Denon-DVD-1600 (link to PDF file) would DEFINITELY be worth looking into. Do you need an optical digital audio connection or can you use an optical or coax digital audio connection?
The Toshiba's will have both and the Denon only has an optical digital audio output.
If you're keen on trying a Panasonic, see if you can find a RP82 or an XP30. Both offer about the same outstanding video performance. The RP82 has DVD-Audio support but the XP30 does not. "I have this very unit [XP30] in my home," to quote "Buck" from
Boogie Nights.
I'm currently checking out an XP30 along with a Sony DVP-NS715P and comparing them to my Pioneer V-656a. I've got a Toshiba 57HX81, which is one line above your H81 and the XP30 offers a VERY impressive video picture on my set. Even with only a THX Optimode calibration, the picture is great. Very detailed and smooth.
Of course, I'm
obligated to mention the
Pioneer DV-656a but if you've got $500 to spend see if you can find a Denon DVD-1600 or a Panasonic DVD-RP82 or XP30.
I've found my Pioneer to perform almost on par with the XP30, which says a lot sonsidering the XP30 uses GREAT de-interlacing components and great MPEG decoders.
Of ALL of the players I mention, the Toshibas tend to have the MOST features. I can't comment on the video performance as I haven't seen it (progressive scan at least) first hand.
Why not do this, go to Best Buy and find a Toshiba SD-4800 or SD-3900 and try it out. If you don't like it, return it within 30 days and seek out a Denon or Panasonic. The Pioneer is hard to find in a B&M store. I'm not sure about the Denon. The Panasonics I mention are getting harder and harder to find. I bought mine on eBay. When I'm done doing my testing, I'm going to sell the XP30 so check back with me in a month or two, if you still need a progressive scan DVD player.
As for the Panasonic S35, I've heard the NEW Panasonic DVD players do NOT use the Sage/Faroujda (now Genesis) de-interlacer and I've read where people are complaining about the video performance NOT being "up to snuff" as compared to the RP82 and XP30. The Panasonic CP72 is also worth investigating if you want a DVD/CD changer.
Peace...