While this player doesn't play HD-DVD or Blu-Ray, it is the next best thing providing "almost HD" video at $230 which is about half the price of a base model HD-DVD or Blu-Ray player.
The consensus of reviews done on this player that the Faroudja DSP works magic by making an amazing picture out of a standard DVD, but you should not expect the quality of HD-DVD. That being said, this player is a favorite amongst technophiles for its amazing uprezzing technology.
Outputs include HDMI for both audio and video, and your standard digital coax, S/PDIF, and analog audio/video outputs. It does not have component outputs, and you must use HDMI or DVI (with an additional HDMI->DVI converter) to benefit from its HD output. This player can very easily be modified in the setup menu to become a Region 0 (region free) player capable of playing European and Chinese DVDs. The DV-981HD also plays Xvid/Divx video, SACD, DVD-Audio, HDCD, mp3, and CD audio formats.
Released in December 2006 and retails for around $230. Consider the OPPO DV-980H released in August 2007 for $170 as a cheaper alternative.
