Onkyo DV-SP1000 is hard to beat
Pros:
Ultra-solid construction, elegant looks, superb audio and video performance
Cons:
Lacks external video source input, European version has more bells & whistles
The Bottom Line:
Onkyo DV-SP1000 is a solid performer. You can't go wrong with this outstanding universal dvd player.
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Overall Rating:
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Author's Review
It's hard to find anything bad about this THX Ultra certified dvd player by Onkyo. For starters, it has an extremely solid construction and elegant good looks. The faceplate is classy and the side panels has bar type stabilizers that gives this unit a robust look. Don't even try thinking about lifting this beast if you have an existing back problem, it weighs a hefty 28 pounds.
Setting up is a breeze. OSD menu is simple and easy to navigate. It gave me NO headache trying to configure the player. It comes with an exceptional backlit learning remote control..very classy. It has jog shuttle for added for added convenience. This is where Denon could use a few lessons (the make such cheap looking remotes for their high-end dvd players).
DVD-Audio and SACD performance is mind-blowing using 5.1 channel analog output.
I tested Winelight (DVD-A) and Avalon (SACD), the player delivers effortlessly clean, smooth and crystal clear sound. The inclusion of extra pair of surround channels gives an option for 7.1 setup. I was not able to take advantage of the iLink connectivity since I don't have a compatible receiver. I can't let go of my old Onkyo TX-DS989ver2 just yet.
On the video side, this baby did not disappoint. I hooked it up to my Sony RP HDTV using HDMI-to-DVI Monster cable. (This is not a cheap piece of equipment, it deserves quality cables). Setting the resolution to 1920x1080i 16:9 60Hz, the picture is nothing short of amazing. I tested Desperado Superbit, North By Northwest, Disney's Jungle Book 2.The colors are vibrant and true. The images are film-like without the jagged edges. The player uses OPlus Flexscale video scaling. (The Denon 3910 has DCDi by Faroudja, oddly enough, its picture looks washed out). This player even features dedicated connections for each interlaced and progressive scan outputs. Movie soundtracks in DTS and Dolby Digital just blew me away. It'll take you to a new level of theater-like experience. (I used the optical digital connection).
Bonus features (lacking in most high-end dvd players) includes resume functions, a screen saver, and the ability to handle virtually any disc format. I threw in my movie backups recorded in DVD-+R/RW, they all played perfect. (Make sure your backups are completely finalized).
I give this dvd player a well-deserved perfect rating for its excellent build quality and unsurpassed audio and video performance.
