Need a new DVD player

[BBSMOKE]

In the market for a new DVD player. It's been years since the last purchase. Looking in the $200-300 range (would prefer the lower end) and have been shopping Denon, Marantz, and Pioneer. Any advice on models or different manuf.? Thanks in advance!

[Ovation]

Do you need HDMI or upconversion? Is the TV an HDTV?

[BBSMOKE]

Yes, the TV is an HDTV with HDMI capability. This may be a silly question, but is the HDMI connection that much better than component? ops:

[Vinny]

If you got HDMI, Oppo's new 981 hands down

http://www.oppodigital.com/dv981hd/dv981hd_index.html

[Ovation]

Yes, the TV is an HDTV with HDMI capability. This may be a silly question, but is the HDMI connection that much better than component? ops:

Not a silly question, as there are situations where HDMI is not necessarily better (though, I believe, that was with HDMI 1.0). An HDMI connection is preferable as it keeps everything in the digital domain a lot longer AND there are so many HDMI options from which to choose. The Oppo is a good choice. Denon makes an HDMI model in your price range (and they have a good rep for DVD players). IIRC, Sony has one that got decent reviews. My suggestion for cables (Oppo includes HDMI cables in their box, everyone else does not) would be from Monoprice. Just my 2 cents.

[shades]

If you got HDMI, Oppo's new 981 hands down
http://www.oppodigital.com/dv981hd/dv981hd_index.html

I'm with Vinny on the Oppo981. I just purchased one and loving every minute of it. You just can't beat all that the oppo can do in it's price range. Search some the the reviews and you'll see what the possibilities are.

[shades]

Without jumping into the HD vs Blueray as of yet i'm sure the oppo will get you by.

[Azeke]

I concur with the others, that within your price range, the oppo is the optimum choice, it provides the best bang for the buck.

Peace and blessings,

Azeke