DVD Demystified

DVD at Home
Table 9.1
Checklist of Player
Features
397
Do I want selectable sound tracks and subtitles, This is the wrong question to ask
multiangle viewing, aspect ratio control, because all DVD players have
parental/multirating features, fast and slow all these features.
playback, digital video, multichannel digital
audio, compatibility with Dolby Pro Logic
and Dolby Digital receivers, on-screen menus,
dual-layer playback, and ability to play
audio CDs?
Do I want 96-kHz, 24-bit audio decoding? For high-end audio systems (analog
connection).
Do I want 96-kHz, 24-bit PCM digital out? For high-end audio systems (digital
connection).
Do I need an internal 6-channel Dolby Digital Important if you have a multichannel
or DTS decoder? (“Dolby Digital ready”) amplifier.
Do I want DTS audio output? Look for a player with the “DTS Digital
Out” logo.
Does my receiver have only optical or only Make sure the player has outputs to
coaxial digital audio inputs? match.
Do I want virtual surround? Useful if you only have two speakers.
Do I want progressive-scan video? Gives the best-quality picture, but
only if you have a progressive-scan
TV.
Do I want to play video CDs? Check the player specs for video CD
compatibility.
Do I want to play HDCDs? Check for the “HDCD” logo.
Do I need a headphone jack? Handy for late-night viewing.
Do I want on-screen player setup menus and Look for multilanguage setup feature.
displays in languages other than English? (Note: All players support multilanguage
menus when provided on the
disc.)
Do I want to play homemade CD-R audio discs? Look for the “dual laser” feature.
Do I want to replace my CD player? You might want a changer model that
can hold three, five, or even hundreds
of discs.
Do I want to control all my entertainment Look for a player with a
devices with one remote control? programmable universal remote, or
make sure your existing universal
remote will run the new DVD player.
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