Looking for DVD player deal & advice

[Venner]

I'm giving my parents my old Toshiba SD2107 first generation DVD player and I'm looking for a new one.

Criteria for new player

Need:
- Play VCD/SVCD
- Reads CDRs
- Hi quality video (s-video and component)
- Well built (ie, no Apex players please)

Would Like, in order of importance:
- Region-free
- Play Mp3s
- Dolby Digital Decoder built in (My roommate has an
AWSOME Infinity sound system & 1000W sub, but his
receiver is only dolby surround.

I'm looking to spend <$300 after any rebates, etc. I'm currently looking at the Pioneer DV-434 as my best bet, although it doesn't have MP3 or Dolby Digital decoding. It is _potentially_ region-free (some seem to be and others not.)

If anyone can find a deal on that model, or has advice on a model better suited to the criteria, please help!

Thanks!

- Venner

[Leon]

Try:

Toshiba SD2700
http://www.toshiba.com/tacp/dvd/2001/SD2700.html

Panasonic DVD-RV30
http://www.prodcat.panasonic.com/shop/templates/rect_template.asp?ModelId=3255&show_all=false&product_exists=True&active=1

The Pioneer DV-434 isn't too shabby. Just realize that it isn't a true progressive player. But if you don't care about that, then it's all good.
http://www.audioreview.com/reviews/DVD/product_50631.shtml

I think those are all region-locked, though. You might have to get them hacked.

[azianguy99]

Hey, i know a way to make your computer a progressive scan dvd player. It's great. 3/2 pulldown with power dvd 3.0. VGA - component device. Any DVD player will do as long as you got a hdtv for progressive. if in, then it's not really worth it. E-mail me if you want to know more.+