Sony DVP-S530D DVD Player

Many DVD consumers don't have a complete surround sound system, which is necessary to experience Dolby Digital 5.1 channel sound. Sony's Digital Cinema Sound System enhances the separation and sound quality of the audio for those with less-than-ideal acoustic environments. For example, the DVPS530D can play movies in an enhanced surround mode that simulates rear speakers in their absence.

For those who want to take the deep-end plunge into digital sound, the unit contains a built-in Dolby Digital 5.1-channel decoder that delivers surround sound with superior dynamics and frequency response. We were impressed with the easy to understand setup controls, which helped us correctly configure our speaker placement. The resulting Dolby Digital 5.1 channel sound rocked the room.

While the sound is something to shout about, it is the picture that really deserves a second look. The DVPS530D contains four-tap filters for its letterbox conversion. This achieves greater stability than two-tap filters because it reduces interline flicker and jagged edges in the picture.

The unit also includes several advanced modes that let you seek out specific DVD scenes with the touch of your remote. The clean digital picture quality stays intact when you freeze the frame, advance frame-by-frame, and use slow motion and smooth scan modes. As an added bonus, the player is compatible with both music and video CDs.

If you are ready to commit to DVD but don't want to empty your savings account, the Sony DVPS530D is a good bet.

Pros:

• Good quality sound and video
• Built-in Dolby Digital decoder
• Smooth picture during scanning and slow-motion

Cons:

• Does not allow slow forward and reverse
• Lacks quick-access drive feature found in higher-price Sony models