suggestions for DVD player

[dirtbag]

Can anyone suggest a DVD player in the $500 price range? Audio performance is not an issue as I will have a high end CD player.
It will be paired with a Panasonic 58 inch Plasma 1080i.
I def want HDMI output. I have looked at the Pioneer Elite and the Denon.
Any other suggestions?

[emoxley]

These are very good, from all I've read.
http://www.oppodigital.com/
Everyone that owns one, raves about them! :)

[uofmtiger]

In the $500 range, you could get a PS3 or Toshiba HD-A20 HD DVD. These would give you upscaling for regular DVDs and the benefit of playing high definition formats.

[slow_jazz]

I'd go with the PlayStation 3. They even play Blu-Ray discs.

[Dusty Chalk]

I've heard good things about the Oppo -- picture is supposed to be wonderful (from someone who's eyes I trust, as he has the best HT I've ever seen).

[HomerJ]

I vouch for the Oppo (http://www.oppodigital.com/dv981hd/dv981hd_index.html). I purchased the 981 in February and it is indeed not only, in my opinion (http://www.epinions.com/content_316542717572), an outstanding DVD player but a decent CD player as well. Upconverts to 1080p but only HDMI outs, no Component.
I bought this player because I don't want a Betamax, I'll wait till it's been decided Blu-Ray or HDDVD and then the rental shop will carry movies as I don't buy them.

[JerryM]

"Blockbuster Inc. will rent high-definition DVDs only in the Blu-ray format in 1,450 stores when it expands its high-def offerings next month, dealing a major blow to the rival HD DVD format..."

Interesing, but I wonder if will make much difference, when more and more movies will be downloaded on-line.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/19289649/

[Tom Brennan]

Sony 995 400 disc DVD jukebox. It's an upscaler (for what that's worth) and has an excellent picture.

The best thing about it is that it makes it so easy to scan your collection and actually use your DVDs. Ease of use means more use and to get more use from a device is always a good thing.

I need to get a second one; mine is about full and I still have scads of DVDs in wallets.

[EasyRiderNYC]

The Oppos look great.