Progressive scan DVD/TV?

[gerryg]

Hello thrill-seekers!

A few Q's for all you technophiles out there:

What is progressive-scan, and why would I want it?

Is it a DVD player feature only, or does it require a special TV, too?

Which players/TVs do you know of that have this feature and are reasonably priced(read: inexpensive but not bottom-of-the-barrel)?

I don't have DVD yet, so I want to buy the right player the first time. Well, I do have DVD on my laptop, but I've only used it to watch a couple movies, and it's harder for more than one person to watch, too. Also, I only have a 27" TV, and my entertainment center can hold up to about a 32" TV (tight fit in width). Anyway, I heard about progressive-scan and heard it produced a higher-quality image. My wife won't let me get/keep a DVD player if I hook it up and she can't tell enough difference between VHS and the DVD. Yeah yeah, short leash, but she's got a point. The only other thing that would change her mind is if DVD rentals were cheaper than or had titles that were unavailable on VHS, and the DVD player is $100 or less.

Thanks for you help!

[azianguy99]

If your looking for a progressive scan dvd player, you can plan to spend about 500 bucks for a generation 2 one. Also, your tv must be able to handle it, you basically need a HDTV. Sony wega XBR400 come in 32" and 36". But almost any HDTV will do.

From what i know abuot progressive scan, it makes the picture in one pass, rather than crossed, which interlaced does. However, 1080 interlaced is said to accomodate fast motion better than the other HDTV resolutions, (480p or 720p). If you're looking to spend little money, don't go progressive (unless you try my DVD comp idea =P). You will be able to tell between VHS and DVD...MOST DEFINETLY.

[caddelma]

Even my wife can see the difference between dvd and vhs and I have the toshiba 1600 bargain player. Best one for the price in my opinion. If you really won't to show off the differnce, pause a movie...no snow!

[Black Francis]

Unless you buy a high end television, you will not benefit from progressive scan. However, if you are willing to part with the cash, then a High Def television mated with a progresive scan DVD player produces an outstanding picture. Only true HDTV is better.

If you want to just spend a little now, and wait for the prices on things to come down, then buy a Toshiba SD1600 DVD player. It is cheap (about $150) and reliable. Your wife will definately be able to tell the difference.

If you do want to spend more money for the better stuff, then post how much you are willing to spend, and maybe we can make some suggestions.....but definately do alot of research first.

If you really want to know the difference between progressive and interlaced video in great detail, then I will find a link for you. However, it is really enough to know that at any given resolution, progressive is almost twice as good as interlaced.

Hope this helps.