Comments on: Get an upconverting JVC DVD player for $30

eCost has a great deal on a refurbished DVD player that upconverts standard DVDs.

[disco-legend-zeke]

If you have an analogue HDTV monitor, be careful. DVD rules prevent players from upscaling component outputs.

I did not test this JVC model, but it probably requires HDMI for the upscaling to work.

[Googy-g]

I have this DVD player and when it works, it works well. I have four main issues with it that someone should consider if they are planning on purchasing:
1. When the unit is turned on, it defaults to 480p. To change to 1080i, one has to go to the unit and push a button to switch from 480 to 720 to 1080. There is no way to do this from the remote, and you cannot do it when a DVD is playing (at least that is what the directions say).
2. This unit has frequently locked up on me to the point where no buttons work, and the only solution is unplugging the unit for a few seconds. Most people don't have their equipment in a place where this is practical.
3. When a DVD is stopped, I haven't found a way to get to the DVD menu. You have to play, wait, and then press the menu button.
4. If you put a DVD in and then walk off, the unit eventually starts playing the DVD instead of stopping on the menu. This is impractical if you like to set everything up in advance, go to get snacks, then come back and press play. Normally by the time I get back the DVD has started without me.

I would not recommend the unit for the reasons stated above. A DVD player should function and function well. The annoyances are not worth the discount.

[rickbroida]

Thanks for the very insightful comments! Good info to have for anyone considering the player.

[benjaminstraight]

Good DVD player, recommend.