Video Asylum

Posted by Justin (i) on April 11, 2001 at 01:32:52

In Reply to: 3 grand to spend- best true progressive setup 480p)?... posted by rob base on April 10, 2001 at 01:17:00:

The cheapest good true progressive scan DVD player is the Toshiba SD-6200. It lists for $1200 but can be had for around $600 I've heard. However, I had a Toshiba SD-3109 (a non-progressive player, but shared most of the 6200's components). The picture quality was excellent, but its ultra-cheap construction led it to break in less than a year. Also, it had a lot of bugs with certain DVDs. I got sick of the cheap built players and decided to get the Sony S9000ES. It weighs 36 lbs. compared to the Toshiba's 6. I didn't want to chance SD-6200, Pioneer DV-37 or the new Denon because of their cheap build quality. I'm very happy with the Sony ($1500 list, $1100 street) and its excellent construction, 5 year warranty, and superb (for the price) CD and SACD performance. If you can swing the extra cash and can't afford $4000+ for the high-end DVD players, I don't think the Sony S9000ES can be beat.

As far as displays, Mitsubishi, Toshiba, Pioneer, and Philips make the best RPTVs. On your budget, I'd recommend the Toshiba 16:9 40". Although the picture is small, it is gorgeous, properly calibrated. It can be had for about $2000 which leaves you $1000 for the Sony. Figure another $400 for calibration and $100 for decent interconnnects. Good luck!