Laserdisc players: New or Used?

[IG88]

I've decided to get a LD player since it is the only way to have a quality widescreen version of the original Star Wars, among others.

I've checked out some combo DVD/LD players new, and they are too much, especially since I already have a DVD player.

Does anyone know good places to check for new and used machines? Preferably web AND brick and mortar stores. Can I get a decent LD player in the $3-400 range? And lastly, are there any particular brands that stand out for quality and reliability?

Mucho gracias!

[This message has been edited by IG88 (edited 08-18-2000).]

[Jay M]

IG88,
I don't think you're gonna be able to find a new stand alone LD player. Manufactorers stopped making them over a year ago. Besides there is no reason to shell out that kind of dough for a dead format, even with SW being only on LD for quality presentation.

I got a slightly used LD player for $75 (the deal also included a half dozen discs). It is a VERY basic model which has no AC-3, S-video or digital sound outputs as well as lacking the automated side flipping capability. But it does provide for a Hell of a lot better source than VHS. You can probably find one with all the bells and whistles for around $200-300, but if AC-3 is important to you, be forewarned- you'll need a RF demodulator.

If the SW trilogy is the ONLY reason you're thinking about going with an LD player I'd highly reccommend you think about waiting- I think by this time next year we'll all have Episode I and that the original trilogy(I sure hope we'll have a seamless branched option for THE original and SE versions, but I'm not holding my breath) will likely be on it's way for Christmas 2001. If however there are other titles that you're interested in or if you have a few $$$ laying around that are just dying to be spent , then go for it.

As to brands, well, Pioneer pioneered the LD format. That's the brand player I'm using and I haven't had a single problem with it.

Good luck,
James(Jay)M.

[Dominik Pfleghaar]

I'd also go for a Pioneer player, or an older Sony model if you must.
Definitely stay away from "newer" Sony models (made after ~1995) and other brands.
Why not check on E-Bay?

------------------
Unca Dom
dvdfile.com Administrator
pfleghaar@dvdfile.com
My dvd collection

[Tyler Durden]

Hi IG88

I have a Pioneer CLD 925 Laserdisc player - one of the best, I promise. It's in mint and I mean mint condition. I also have a collection of Laserdiscs, including the Star Wars Special Edition box set. If you want it - let me know and I'll contact you.

T

[Dr. Evil]

For any who are interested, Pioneer still makes the CLD-D406 standalone laserdisc player. As for used models, they can be had on eBay ranging from $40 and up. In my case, I paid $193 delivered for a CLD-D502 that also came with 10 discs (including THX Jedi).

RD