The Best DVD Players

HOW TO CHOOSE = While Blu-ray is coming down in price, they may not be the best DVD players for you. Many standard models can up-convert to near-HD quality. DVD players are the better choice for those who don’t yet own an HDTV.

Reviewers say that the image improvement you’ll see with an up-converting model will depend on your TV. Since up-converting DVD players are not much more expensive than standard players, most say it’s a worthwhile feature.

If you understand the rest of this, you’re better than I am with the techno-babble. If you’re like me, I suggest writing it down and discussing it with the supplier (who should be the expert). Here we go – Use the HDMI output if possible. These should be standard on all up-converting models.

For TVs without an HDMI input, you can also use component video, S-Video or composite video, but those connections will only allow you to see video in standard definition. If your TV has a DVI port but not HDMI, you can get an adapter. HDMI is all digital, and protects signal quality as it passes from deck to the screen.

It also carries the audio, so you only need one cable, which usually doesn’t come with the unit and costs another $20 or so. For standard players, look for component video outputs, which give you better color accuracy. These can only be used with TVs that have corresponding inputs.

THE REVIEW = The Best Cheap DVD Player is the Sony DVP-SR200P/B, which sells for around $40. If you don’t have (or plan to have) an HDTV, you don’t need to spend more than this. This model is easy to use and gets high marks for performance. If you’re not hooking up to a home theater receiver or an HDTV, this is all you’ll need.

Other top performers include:

Best Value DVD for HDTVs = Onkyo DV-SP406 @ $115.

Best Multimedia DVD player = OPPO DV-980H @ $170.

Best 5-disc DVD Changer = Sony DVP-NC800H/B @ $125.

Best 400-disc DVD/CD Changer = Sony DVP-CX995V @ $275.

Best prices for the best DVD players (found in Dec., ’09) were seen at TigerDirect.com - especially for the Sony models.

For other models = Amazon.com & Buy.com were very close. It's best to compare all 3.

Anything else you'd like to ask regarding Best DVD Players, click here.

Find thousands of unbiased ratings on services for home improvements, and more. Try Angie’s List.